Introduction
I got curious about magnetic switches and brought the Keychron H2 HE to the table. I did a short unboxing and put it face to face with my Lofree Flow, which I have been using every day to code. Is there a real upgrade for devs or is it pure gamer hype?
What caught my attention the most
Hall Effect in real life
* Magnetic switches let you adjust the actuation point per key. You can set it super low for speed or higher to avoid ghosting while typing.
* Rapid Trigger: the key “resets” as soon as you lift your finger, ideal for repetitive actions. In programming, if you calibrate it well, it helps you be more agile with shortcuts and combos (although if you make it extreme, you can eat some extra letters).
Construction and sensations
* The H2 HE feels solid and more “full” than the Lofree Flow. They are different worlds: the H2 goes for the performance side/linear keys with full travel; The Flow is low, super comfortable and silent, with a very fine “travel keyboard” vibe.
* If you come from a low profile, the change to full route is noticeable. Less fatigue if you raise the actuation point a little; more speed if you lower it. I ended up somewhere in the middle to avoid typos.
Software and modes
* Brings options for:
+ Adjust per-key actuation.
+ Activate Rapid Trigger.
+ Build layers/macros and remap like a champ.
* Connectivity: wired and 2.4 GHz for low latency; and if you prioritize comfort, you can use BT. For coding, 2.4 was the best balance between response and stability.
Program with magnetics?
* Yes, but calibrate it. To write and program without messing up, it worked for me:
+ Performance between 1.6 and 2.0 mm in alphas.
+ A bit higher in modifiers (Ctrl, Alt, Cmd) so they don't trigger accidentally.
+ Rapid Trigger only on keys where I really need it (escape, navigation, some of the home row for layers).
* The Flow continues to gain in portability and silence. For long sessions and focus, the H2 HE gave me a more “precise” feel once properly adjusted.
Pros and cons that I have left
* Pros:
+ Fine per-key configurability.
+ Solid feel and fuller sound.
+ Very low latency at 2.4 GHz.
* Cons:
+ Learning curve: you have to tune it.
+ If you go to the extreme with the performance, typos appear.
+ Autonomy suffers with 2.4 and activated effects (obvious).
Watch the video
Closing
Real upgrade or hype? If you come from a low profile like the Lofree Flow and want to play with precision, speed and crazy configuration options, the H2 HE feels like a leap. If your priority is portability and absolute silence, the Flow is still a goal.
For now I'm just testing the H2 for everyday use and fine-tuning the key performance. What would you do? Magnetic yes or no? I read you in the comments.
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> Original article in Spanish: ¿Teclado magnético para programar? Keychron H2 HE