Ducky One X Keyboard Review: A Deep Dive into the World of Gaming Keyboards
Gaming keyboards have come a long way in recent years, evolving from simple slabs of keys and LEDs to sophisticated devices tailored for the modern gamer. With new types of key switches, features like rapid trigger and adjustable actuation have become standard. Ducky, a renowned player in the keyboard market, has now entered the arena with the Ducky One X—a keyboard that promises innovation with its inductive switches.
A Unique Approach to Switches
Unlike many competitive gaming keyboards that rely on the Hall effect for their switches, the Ducky One X introduces a ‘world’s first’ inductive switch. This unique design caught the attention of keyboard enthusiasts back at Computex 2024 when it was first showcased. The switch, featuring a yellow colorway and bearing Ducky’s name, stands out for its unconventional mechanism.
Upon unboxing the Ducky One X, one immediately notices the distinctive design of the switches. Actuating a key reveals a metal prong extending from the bottom, which is used to measure actuation through sensors on the PCB. While this technology may seem reminiscent of the late ’80s, it represents a fresh take on switch design in the gaming keyboard market.
Impressive Specs and Features
The Ducky One X boasts a range of features that cater to both gamers and typists. With adjustable actuation settings from 0.1 to 3.5 mm, users can customize the keyboard to their preferred sensitivity levels. However, finding the right balance between typing and gaming can be a challenge due to the lack of profile switching functionality—a notable drawback of the keyboard.
The keyboard’s web-based software, Ducky Hub, offers customization options for function layer shortcuts, macros, lighting, and more. While the software is user-friendly, it lacks detailed explanations of its features, making it daunting for first-time users. Additionally, the absence of spare switches in the box raises concerns about long-term maintenance and durability.
User Experience and Performance
In terms of performance, the Ducky One X excels in providing a stable and smooth typing experience. The pre-lubed switches, combined with multiple layers of foam and sound dampening, result in a responsive and quiet operation. However, the hot-swappable nature of the switches can be a double-edged sword, as they tend to detach easily from the PCB—a potential point of concern for users.
The keyboard’s battery life, while adequate for moderate daily use, falls short compared to other wireless gaming keyboards. With approximately 11.5 hours of usage on a single charge, heavy users may find themselves reaching for the charging cable frequently. Despite this limitation, the Ducky One X offers a blend of quality construction and minimalist design that appeals to users seeking a reliable and visually appealing gaming keyboard.
Verdict
The Ducky One X presents a compelling option for gamers and typists looking for a unique keyboard with innovative features. While the keyboard’s inductive switches and adjustable actuation settings offer a customizable experience, the lack of profile switching and spare switches may deter some users. With a price point of $179/£180 for the full-size model, the Ducky One X competes with other gaming keyboards in its class, offering a balance of performance and aesthetics.
Ultimately, the Ducky One X showcases Ducky’s commitment to quality and innovation in the gaming keyboard market. As the company continues to refine its software and address user feedback, the Ducky One X has the potential to become a top contender in the competitive gaming keyboard space.