SGK50 S2, S3, and S4 Wood PBT: Sharkoon Builds Three Real Wood Keycaps 31 comments
Image: Sharkoon
Sharkoon is reinventing the entire SGK50 series. The minimalist form factor, compact layout, and (almost) full-size model are now available with a real wood case. However, the SGK50 S2, S3, and S4 are significantly more expensive as “Wood PBT.”
The basis for the new keycaps is the respective top models in the series, namely the Sharkoon SGK50 S2 & S3 PBT (review). The keycaps combine two-layer silicone insulation with a polycarbonate switch deck to generate smooth attacks and a subtle, muted sound profile, in this case. For the first time, this updated and contemporary structure is also given to the S4, after which the addition “Gen2” indicates. Until now, the compact keycap only had thin foam insulation (S4 review). The keyboards‘ housings are similarly constructed, but made of thin plastic.
The new models are different: the chassis is made of wood and is much more solid. You can already read this on the datasheets; all keyboards are 1.5 centimeters thicker in each direction. This not only makes it more elegant, but benefits can also be expected for the acoustics, as the sound can be isolated much better.
Good Basic Equipment
As before, Gateron’s Linear G Pro 3.0 yellow is responsible for signal capture. These are good mid-range switches with a smooth pad. They sit in hot-swap sockets and are illuminated. However, the PBT keycaps don’t let light through.
The keyboards can be expanded and made independent of manufacturer software thanks to open source firmware. This is also possible thanks to browser-based support, regardless of the operating system and on two levels: the WebApp is perfectly structured and easy to use.
Wood costs twice as much
The S2 in the 96% layout, the S3 in the 80% format, and the new S4 Gen2 in the 60% form factor are already available in stores. The three models are priced at around 150, 160, and 170, making them about twice as expensive as the “normal” PBT version of the respective keyboard. In principle, wooden keyboards are almost in the price range of full metal keyboards in the usual ranges. In addition to the fully stocked models, all three versions are also available as numbers without buttons and keycaps. Prices start at 120 euros. Topics: Input Devices Sharkoon Keyboards Source: Sharkoon
Victor explores mechanical, ergonomic, and gaming keyboards to combine comfort, precision, and responsiveness.
