Since I started using MKs, I've been drooling on 60% MKs but at the same time, I can't loose the default 4 arrow keys on the full size keyboards. So, I went for a full 108 key MK first. While the experience is phenomenal, it is taking too much realestate on my desktop. And I tried to downsize to a TKL. The TKL has it own pros and cons, cons mainly not able to remap the keys whatsoever made me disappointed a lot. And my wife also complained a lot about the noisy clicky Gateron Blues.
I've been researching quite a bit to do a DIY 60% MK and then a YouTube review on this keyboard caught my attention. The AnnePro II. So, I ended up ordering one for myself from Aliexpress. Now I've been using this for a week and it actually throw many of my concerns away. Not a perfect keyboard, but suited for me quite well.
Here are the pros and cons I think this keyboard has.
Pros:
- 61 Keys layout with full size enter and shift keys and 1.25u modifier keys.
- Tap function for right modifier keys ( the FN1, FN2, Ctrl and Shift keys can act as up/ down/ left/ right arrow keys when u just tap on them instead of pressing and holding. No need to hold FN key for this.)
- Bluetooth connecivity to up to 4 devices at the same time and switchable between these devices on the fly.
- fully customizable RGB lights.
- fully customizable key-mapping and macro functions.
- able to download customize functions to the keyboard and can use offline without the software.
- USB-C port
- Gateron Red keys
Cons:
- No stand-feet on the keyboard case. I cannot raise the keyboard.
- Switches are non hot-swappable. Soldered on PCB.
- Gateron Red Keys
- the included red USB-C wire.
The included USB-C cable is red color and it is not braided wire. So, it's a bummer. I replaced it with my own braided blue USB-C cable.
I have my own soldering station so i can swap any switch i want anytime, but not quite easily.
And that Gateron Red keys ended up both being pros and cons. Pros being they are quiet and cons being they are too mushy fluffy and soft. I accidently hit the space bar too many time. If the keys were hot-swappable, I'd definately swap it with heavier switch.
So, I think that's my feels about the keyboard. Right now, it is pretty much stock. I'll mod it later by replacing XDA or DSA keycaps, lubing the switches and maybe replacing few keys with heavier switches.