The Keychron K8 HE takes one of the most popular layouts, tenkeyless / 80%, and kits it out with Hall Effect switches. For those who love the tenkeyless design, with its F-row and dedicated arrow keys, but who want the latest must-have switch technology for gaming, on paper the K8 HE looks like a worth contender. How has it fared during my testing? Here is my review.
Tried and tested
If you’ve read any of my other Keychron HE reviews, you know the story by now: the company takes one of its already great keyboards, incorporates Hall Effect switches, and then sells it on at a still-reasonable price. Those that pay a little more can get the “Special Edition” which has some nice wooden accents.
The Keychron K8 HE only has one switch choice: the Gateron Double-Rail Magnetic Nebula Switch. This is the switch that the company is relying upon as it upgrades its lineup. Thankfully, it has worked flawlessly well for me so far, across multiple Keychron keyboards. It’s a smooth linear with a solid sound and feel, though the priority is obviously the Hall Effect functionality and the typing experience will be a step down for those used to top-tier tactiles or some of the creamier linears out there. With that said, they more than do the job as a subtle gaming switch.
Tune it up
Fine-tuning the switches is done in the Keychron Launcher, a browser-based app that works very well. Users can set the actuation point of each key, offering an unprecedented level of fine-tuning. Hall Effect is no doubt the future when it comes to gaming keyboards, especially for fans of first-person shooters. FPS users can make great use of the Snap Click function, and there are other features to play around with.
Connecting the keyboard to a PC or other device is achieved through either USB-C, Bluetooth 5.1, or 2.4 GHz wireless, which is great to see. All connections work well, though for wireless use while gaming, users will want to stick to 2.4 GHz. Bluetooth is great for normal use, however, as it sips power.
Disclosure: Review sample provided by Keychron.
Final Verdict
Starting at $129.99, the Keychron K8 HE is well-priced for what it offers, especially compared to more mainstream options. For those looking for that tenkeyless layout combined with the latest must-have Hall Effect switch tech, this keyboard is well worth adding to your shortlist. It does the job well and sounds and feels solid while doing it.
Positives and Negatives
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Hall Effect switch support
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Popular tenkeyless layout
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Solid build and feel
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Great wireless connectivity options
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Typing experience is limited compared to other switches, but worth the trade-off for gaming
