What you need to know
- HyperX and Ducky have teamed up again for a 60 percent mechanical linear keyboard.
- Limited to a run of just 6,500 editions, this will sell out fast.
- This collab drops November 18th at 8 AM PST for $110.
Updated: As expected, this keyboard sold out in an hour. In case you missed it, I'm sure both companies wll do this again sometime.
There are gaming keyboards, and then there is Ducky. Considered to be one of the best and most sought-after brands around, the Ducky One 2 Mini got our recommended award this summer as one of the best "60 percent" keyboards you can get.
HyperX, the gaming division of Kingston Technology, is known for its excellent headphone lineup and accessories, is dropping its second collab with Ducky this week.
This super special keyboard goes on sale November 18th for $110 (US), but I have a sneak peek of what it looks like now (and why it's unique). Here is what you need to know.
HyperX Ducky One Mini 2 looks and features
Limited to just 6,500, this is the second effort by HyperX and Ducky. Their last collaboration sold out in one day, and that is likely to happen here too.
The big difference with this keyboard compared to a regular Ducky is the switch: instead of Cherry MX, this edition features HyperX's Red linear mechanical switches "built for performance, longevity and an 80 million lifetime click rating per switch."
While Cherry's are legendary, the HyperX silent Reds have many claiming to be even better. HyperX Reds have a shorter travel distance (3.8mm) and actuation point (1.8mm) than Chery MX at 2.0 mm and 4.0mm, respectively. Both have 45 grams of operating force. The consensus seems to be that HyperX's switches are smoother and, for some, more comfortable than Cherry's.
The 60 percent design is becoming increasingly popular as both gamers and PC minimalists prefer the reduced size footprint (which omits the number pad, arrows, and dedicated media keys). It takes some time to get used to, but it's often worth it for a cleaner desk once you do.
All the other typical Ducky Mini 2 features are here too, including:
- Exposed LED designs of HyperX switches with Ducky PBT double-shot seamless keycaps (secondary functions printed on the sides)
- Ducky Macro 2.0 support for personalization, custom macros, and more
- Ducky keycap puller
- Additional colored keycaps (including Ducky Year of the Rat Key) and an exclusive HyperX-designed spacebar
- Removable USB C to USB A cable (1.6m)
- All black colorway
- 3-stage risers for height adjustment
- Individually number, laser marked with a unique edition number (xxxx/6500) on the base of the keyboard
This keyboard is my first Ducky, and the design, build quality, features, and look is undoubtedly one of the best I have used. The HyperX Red switches are different from my usual "tactical" preference, so it has taken some time to get used to silent and linear. One thing I can vouch for is smoothness – it's like these things are greased with butter. That's something touch typists and gamers can appreciate, and I now understand why HyperX and Ducky teaming up makes so much sense.
Only 6,500 are being made, so don't sit on this drop for this coveted keyboard.
The overall looks are also remarkable. The all-black, matte chassis, which is high-quality plastic, looks the part. The HyperX branding is minimal, with the distinctive logo on the rear and the spacebar. The secondary laser-engraved spacebar, filled with various gaming emoji, looks dazzling with the RGB.
Speaking of the lighting on this keyboard is next-level, being exceptionally vivid and smooth in its overall glow – something easily captured in my photos. That effect is due to the exposed LED design, which lets the light bleed out from underneath the keycaps with even brighter luminosity. It's spectacular.
For those allergic to installing third-party apps, there is no concern here. Everything on the Ducky is controlled via the keyboard itself with no extra software ever needed. It's a plug-n-play. On the other hand, changing things like RGB lighting patterns a bit more complicated, which is why the included manual is something you do not want to toss in the bin.
Should you buy the HyperX Ducky One 2 Mini?
Heck, yeah, you should buy one.
For casual consumers, the appeal of a limited-edition HyperX and Ducky keyboard collab will be a bit of a mystery. But for hardcore gamers and fans of both companies, this keyboard is something of a gem. It is both beautiful, but also rare as there will only be 6,500 ever made. There's also the near-fanatical mechanical keyboard crowd that will likely latch onto this drop.
Priced at $110 US ($150 in Canada), the asking price is quite fair as there is no markup for it being a limited model. Razer recently entered the "60 percent" fray with its Huntsman Mini, which some may prefer for its optional clicky keys. But for those who want the "it" factor and bragging rights, it is hard to ignore this special edition.
The HyperX DuckyOne 2 Mini goes on sale Wednesday, November 18th, at 8 AM PST (11 AM EST) from HyperX directly.
The last time these two released a keyboard was back in May, and at the time, only 3,700 were made, but all sold out within hours. This time, 6,500 will be produced, but this is not a purchase you will want to sit on as these too will likely sell out exceptionally fast.
So, set your alarm and get ready to hit F5 if you want in on this top-tier 60 percent Ducky.
For a more in-depth look at the Ducky One 2 Mini, our full review has some more details and history. Need some other ideas? Check out our Best Gaming Keyboards 2020 for more recommendations.
One of the best small keyboards you will ever touch
Take the already highly coveted Ducky One Mini 2 keyboard and slap in some HyperX's famed Red switches, and you get this special edition collab. With outstanding RGB lighting, smooth, linear typing, and one of only 6,500 being made, don't sit on this drop.
Sadly, there are several counterfeit Ducky keyboards sold through even mainstream stores like Amazon by resellers. The buy links here are approved Ducky Channel resellers, and it's worth checking the approved list and how to spot a fake before you part with your cash.
