Keychron Launches K4 HE Tri-Mode Magnetic Switch Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron has officially introduced the K4 HE tri-mode magnetic switch mechanical keyboard to the global market. Announced today (Beijing time), this latest addition to Keychron’s lineup features a compact 96% layout and leverages the Gateron dual-track Nebula magnetic switch technology based on the Hall effect. The keyboard is fully compatible with open-source QMK firmware and allows for web-based key remapping, offering users extensive customization options.
Design and Build Variants
The Keychron K4 HE is available in three different configurations:
l Standard Edition - Black
l Special Edition - Black
l Special Edition - White
The Standard Edition features an aluminum alloy frame paired with original double-shot PBT translucent keycaps, ensuring durability and resistance to wear. The Special Edition models, on the other hand, elevate the design with solid wood side panels—dark wood for the black variant and light wood for the white variant—complementing their aluminum frames. These Special Edition models come equipped with OSA-profile, double-shot PBT non-translucent keycaps, providing a premium typing experience.
Advanced Magnetic Switch Technology
The K4 HE keyboard supports hot-swappable switches, allowing users to change switches without soldering. It comes pre-installed with pre-lubricated Gateron Nebula magnetic switches, offering the following specifications:
l Initial force: 40gf
l Bottom-out force: 60gf
l Adjustable actuation distance: 0.2mm to 3.8mm
l Precision adjustment: 0.1mm increments
l Lifespan: 150 million keystrokes
The magnetic switch technology enables a variety of advanced features, including Rapid Trigger (RT), multi-actuation per key (one key with four trigger points), analog input mode, last-key priority, and key-depth priority. These enhancements cater to gamers and productivity users alike, offering greater responsiveness and flexibility in key actuation.
Tri-Mode Connectivity and Battery Life
The Keychron K4 HE supports three connection modes:
1. Wired USB-C
2. Wireless 2.4GHz (low-latency gaming mode)
3. Bluetooth 5.2 (multi-device connectivity)
Both the USB-C and 2.4GHz modes offer a 1000Hz polling rate, ensuring ultra-responsive performance for gaming and typing tasks. The keyboard is powered by a 4000mAh lithium-polymer battery, which delivers up to 110 hours of usage with the backlight turned off.
Pricing and Availability
The Keychron K4 HE is positioned as a competitive offering in the premium mechanical keyboard market. Pricing details are as follows:
l Standard Edition: $135 USD
l Special Edition: $145 USD
With its robust build, cutting-edge magnetic switch technology, and flexible connectivity options, the Keychron K4 HE is poised to be a top choice for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, professionals, and gamers alike. The keyboard is expected to be available through Keychron’s official website and select international retailers soon.
