Recently, large-scale new products are being introduced one after another, but at this time when the end of the year is approaching, the long-awaited product for keyboard lovers will appear.
It is REALFORCE’s new generation model “R3 keyboard” series announced by Topre. There is only one reason why I introduced it as long-awaited.finallyA Bluetooth connection version of REALFORCE will be releasedBecause.
In addition to being wireless, REALFORCE’s representative “variable input height function” APC has a minimum length of 0.8 mm and is installed in all models.
In addition, two types of keymaps can be recorded on the main unit side (firmware side), and can be switched at any time by operating the main unit. In addition, it boasts a degree of fulfillment that only bears “R3”, which means the third generation, in terms of functionality, such as the installation of “Simple mode” that ensures compatibility with some USB switching machines that occurred in the R2 generation.
Regarding the product composition, it may be a complete renewal that is suitable for calling it a generation change, and this time the Japanese layout version of the PC series has been completely remodeled. 20 models of 10 types x 2 colors will be released at the same time, including models dedicated to wired (USB).
The release date is November 1, and the product price ranges from 23,980 yen to 34,980 yen (tax included). There are two main body colors, “Super White” and “Black”.
Please note that the sales channels are open only to the company’s direct sales website “REALFORCE Store”, Amazon.co.jp, and Rakuten Ichiba. Currently, there is no announcement of over-the-counter sales.
Related article:
“Wireless rear fo” REALFORCE R3 review.Great enhancement of trust, achievements, and a sense of security
Impressions of using the new REALFORCE R3 keyboard on Win, Mac, and iPad
The REALFORCE series is a high-end keyboard that uses a non-contact key switch called the capacitive contactless system (this time, is it intended to distinguish it from the capacitive contactless system that came out from other companies?Nicknamed “Topre Switch”）。
With high durability that can withstand a nominal 50 million inputs, from the structure of the key top to the firmware, a device to prevent missed keystrokes and prevent input mistakes, and a bit different from other mechanical switches This series has gained enthusiastic support from users who value the keyboard as an input device due to the feeling of keystrokes, which is also called “I can’t get out”.
The feature of the R3 series announced this time is that 16 out of 20 models (8 out of 10 excluding different colors) are hybrid (wired / wireless) models of Bluetooth 5.0 and USB.
Up to 4 hosts can be registered for Bluetooth connection, and explicit switching by key combination including USB is also possible.It also covers the functions expected of Imadoki’s Bluetooth keyboard.
The power supply is a discerning AA battery x 2 specifications. Furthermore, “use of Bluetooth connection while supplying power from USB” is also possible.
And for REALFORCE users so far, there is a point that may be even more happy.“The keyboard cable can now be replaced on the Bluetooth model.”It will be a point.
It goes without saying that the keyboard cable can be removed because it is wireless, but on the other hand, the REALFORCE series is integrated with the main body and is very thick, so it is easy to handle when storing it. It was something to be careful about.
Being able to remove it makes it much easier to handle and allows you to use cables of any length you like. If you are a heavy user of the REALFORCE series, you may be convinced how happy this is.
Of course, the terminal on the main unit side is USB Type-C. The attached cable is a Type-C to Standard-A type with an L-shaped Type-C terminal that is easy to handle.
Furthermore, as a point that cannot be overlooked, we took advantage of the structural advantages of the electrostatic capacity non-contact method.“Variable input height mechanism” “APC” is installed in all modelsThe points that have been made are mentioned.MoreoverThe height itself is also 4 levels with the addition of a very “sensitive” specification of 0.8 mm.(3 stages up to the current R2 series).
This is a system that allows you to select the height at which the key switch is turned on from four levels. Nowadays, some keyboards for high-end games are also installed, but it was originally a function that was widely used in the REALFORCE series.
All keys can be changed at once by operating the main unit, but the dedicated software “REALFORCE CONNECT” allows you to change the settings for each key. In addition, up to two types of this setting can be saved in the onboard memory on the keyboard itself. Since it is easy to switch to the initial state, the point is that the keys you want to enter quickly are shallow, the keys that are easy to enter by mistake are deep, or you can easily change them according to your physical condition and fatigue level.
In addition to the APC settings, the dedicated software “REALFORCE CONNECT” is also equipped with a “key map replacement function” that allows you to change the function assignments of all keys. Not only the keys that are in high demand such as Ctrl key, CAPS Lock, and Japanese related keys, but also alphabets and numbers can be changed.
Another point is that two types can be saved in the onboard memory on the main unit side and can be switched at any time by operating the main unit (the above-mentioned APC is treated as “two types common to all customizations”).
Even if you use a keyboard shared by several people, or if you change the host device, you can immediately use the settings customized for you.
In addition, there are new features that cannot be overlooked at the firmware level.“Simple mode”.. Instead of disabling N-key rollover and media control keys (play, stop, volume control, etc.)“Recognize as HID keyboard device” mode。
This will reduce the functionality, but it will improve compatibility with older keyboard switchers and macOS, which were problems with the R2 series. The switching operation can be done with the power switch on the main unit, so you can change the settings immediately.
Especially for KVM (keyboard switch) etc., the opinions from users who were in trouble with the R2 generation were appropriate, so it is a very big topic for users using such devices.
And another feature is the optional “Panel Design Kit”. This replaces the main body top plate (frame between keys) with the clear panel on the kit side. By printing your favorite design on the panel sheet that also comes with the kit and sandwiching it, you can customize the top plate design with a high degree of freedom.
In addition, 8 color variations of the keycap are available as an option. We have introduced a taste that you can enjoy the color of the keys to your liking.
The price of the panel design kit is 2420 yen to 3300 yen, and the price of the key spacer kit is 1540 yen to 2090 yen. The keycap set costs 6600 yen for the 48-key version and 11,000 yen for the 118-key version (the panel design kit will be released at the same time as the main unit, and the keycap set will be released on December 20).
In this way, the REALFORCE R3 keyboard inherits and enhances the traditional merits of the REALFORCE series, such as the feeling of keystrokes with the Topre switch and the APC function, while finally achieving official wirelessness and enhanced customizability.
The overall body design has changed significantly from the “square” R2 generation, and the impression has changed to leave the original image, the width of the space bar has become narrower, and the key position at the bottom (front) is the R2 series. There are some points where the pros and cons are likely to be divided, such as the point that has changed significantly, but for many users, it seems that it will be a generational change that has a greater impact on the enhancement points.
The current R2 series Japanese layout model will be discontinued on October 29th. If you like the design of the R2 series, you may want to reserve a spare machine alongside the R3.
Related article:
First-class is sticking to here “Keyboard Talking Party + α” Engadget Live 10/25 23:30 ~
REALFORCE (Amazon.co.jp) REALFORCE (Rakuten Ichiba)
.
