The Keychron Q16 HE 8K is wild. Instead of leaning purely on performance specs or enthusiast features, it goes after something more unusual: material luxury. This is a 65% board built with a ceramic case and ceramic keycaps, and it looks and feels incredibly unique. While it still features modern must-have gaming features, this keyboard pushes beyond. Here is my review.
Yes, it can game
As mentioned in the intro, the Q16 HE 8K is still very much a gaming keyboard. It runs at an 8000Hz polling rate, focusing on ultra-low latency and uses Keychron’s pre-lubed Ultra-fast Lime magnetic switches, designed for smooth travel and stable responsiveness. Thanks to Hall effect tech, actuation is adjustable per key from 0.1mm to 3.35mm, letting you tune the board for everything from feather-light inputs to more deliberate presses.
That Hall effect tech also means functions like Dynamic Rapid Trigger, Snap Click, and Analog Mode are all available to enable in the web application. Features like these can significantly enhance the gaming experience.
The ceramic effect
So the Q16 HE 8K can game, but that’s not really why potential buyers will be considering this keyboard. The main unique selling point here is the use of ceramic. Both the case and keycaps have a glossy, modern look that stands out immediately, and the surface feels uniquely smooth compared to standard PBT or ABS plastics. I think it looks fantastic on the desk.
Out of the box, the Q16 HE 8K feels cool to the touch while also attracting a number of tough-to-remove fingerprints. Keystrokes come out deep and punchy, but with a sharper ceramic character. I wouldn’t necessarily say it’s an improved sound, but it’s certainly different. It’s not unpleasant or distracting; it’s just different!
No wireless here
The main downside of the Q16 HE 8K is the lack of wireless. For those who have gotten used to “tri-mode” support, the lack of a 2.4 GHz or even a Bluetooth connection may be a dealbreaker.
Disclosure: Review sample provided by Keychron.
Final Verdict
At $229.99, the Keychron Q16 HE 8K is a distinctive 65% keyboard that blends modern gaming features with an unusual focus on ceramic materials. It offers high-end performance and a look and feel that stand out immediately, though the experience is clearly different rather than universally better. The lack of wireless support may be a drawback, but for those interested in something visually and materially unique, this keyboard takes a different approach than most.
Positives and Negatives
-
Unique ceramic case and keycaps
-
Distinctive glossy modern design
-
Smooth magnetic switch performance
-
Adjustable per-key actuation
-
Advanced Hall effect gaming features
-
Fingerprints easily visible on surface
-
Sound profile is different
-
No wireless connectivity options
