Overall: The New Poker II is a forward thinking 60% keyboard perfect for travel. In this review I will explain why this is.
Pros
PBT keycaps
No gaudy sayings
Usb Type-C
Two braided cables
Good build quality; made in Taiwan
Basic programmability and macros
Debatable
Plastic case(Discussed later in the review)
Cons
No backlit option
No after market case compatibility(5/12/17)
Poker II vs New Poker II: I don’t know why IKBC went with such a confusing naming scheme, but it is what it is.
The main differences are:
More Dip Switches
Usb Type C
Re-designed case
Switches and Keycaps: This uses 1mm thick pbt lasered caps. The texture is very smooth, and produces a very nice clack sound with Mx Browns.
Build Quality and Case: The build quality seems to be improved in this iteration of the Poker II. It is a little bit heavier, and feels very solid in the hand. Due to the placement of the USB-C connector, this keyboard will not be compatible with standard 60% cases. The plastic case is a blessing and a curse. It is not as sturdy as a metal case, but it also makes it lighter and easier to travel. The New Poker II has become my new travel board 60% for a few reasons: USB-C compatibility(with my phone), plastic case is sturdy and I don't have to worry about it getting dented, it's light and compact.
Competition: This keyboard comes in around the same price as the Vortex Pure Mk, which does have a metal case. But it has a non standard 60% layout and does not have USB-C or the same level or programmability.
The New Poker II is just a modern iteration on an existing design, a lot like how apple updates the iphone. With the onset of USB-C on new consumer devices such as apple's macbook pro. It puts the IKBC in a position to expand on USB-C and be ahead of the industry standard Mini USB.
Verdict: Go get it!
Pros
PBT keycaps
No gaudy sayings
Usb Type-C
Two braided cables
Good build quality; made in Taiwan
Basic programmability and macros
Debatable
Plastic case(Discussed later in the review)
Cons
No backlit option
No after market case compatibility(5/12/17)
Poker II vs New Poker II: I don’t know why IKBC went with such a confusing naming scheme, but it is what it is.
The main differences are:
More Dip Switches
Usb Type C
Re-designed case
Switches and Keycaps: This uses 1mm thick pbt lasered caps. The texture is very smooth, and produces a very nice clack sound with Mx Browns.
Build Quality and Case: The build quality seems to be improved in this iteration of the Poker II. It is a little bit heavier, and feels very solid in the hand. Due to the placement of the USB-C connector, this keyboard will not be compatible with standard 60% cases. The plastic case is a blessing and a curse. It is not as sturdy as a metal case, but it also makes it lighter and easier to travel. The New Poker II has become my new travel board 60% for a few reasons: USB-C compatibility(with my phone), plastic case is sturdy and I don't have to worry about it getting dented, it's light and compact.
Competition: This keyboard comes in around the same price as the Vortex Pure Mk, which does have a metal case. But it has a non standard 60% layout and does not have USB-C or the same level or programmability.
The New Poker II is just a modern iteration on an existing design, a lot like how apple updates the iphone. With the onset of USB-C on new consumer devices such as apple's macbook pro. It puts the IKBC in a position to expand on USB-C and be ahead of the industry standard Mini USB.
Verdict: Go get it!
Where to buy the New IKBC Poker II: