The Wooting 60HE v2 is making waves as a top-tier gaming keyboard, boasting innovative features like adjustable SOCD and smooth, responsive Lekker switches.
One of its standout, albeit controversial, features is Simultaneous Opposing Cardinal Direction (SOCD) customization. This allows for key overrides, which is a game-changer for tactical shooters like Counter-Strike 2 and Valorant, enabling quicker peeks and more consistent directional movement. However, this edge has led to it being banned in some competitive circuits due to its near-instantaneous directional input.
Beyond the SOCD, the 60HE v2 offers an impressive gaming experience with its incredibly smooth and consistent switches. Unlike earlier Hall Effect keyboards from competitors, Wooting's Lekker switches deliver a tactile feel that rivals traditional mechanical keyboards, providing granular control and low-latency inputs.
The keyboard isn't just about performance; it also looks the part. The RGB lighting is vibrant and highly customizable through the Wootility software. While the default LEDs might lean slightly blue, users can easily tweak the colors for a perfect white or any other shade they desire.
Repairability is another win for the 60HE v2. Its simple internal design allows for quick disassembly, making repairs a breeze. The internal components are well-secured, featuring a plate, switches, silicone layer, PCB, and optional sound dampening within a sturdy case.
Switch compatibility is a major advantage here. The 60HE v2 supports a wide range of switches thanks to its KS-20 design, far exceeding the limited options typically found on competing analog keyboards. This opens up a growing world of customization for users.
The only minor drawback is the USB-C port's placement on the left side of the PCB, a consequence of adhering to the standard GH60 form factor. While a centered port on a separate daughterboard might be more convenient, the benefits of standardization likely outweigh this small design choice.
Overall, the Wooting 60HE v2 excels across the board with its robust build quality, smooth switches, and extensive customization options. Despite the lack of wireless connectivity, it's a highly recommended choice for serious gamers, even with its $240 price tag and current backordered status.