Cherry XTRFY has launched the K63W Pro Compact Ultra-Wideband, a 70% mechanical keyboard aiming to stand out with its slim design and innovative connectivity. Priced at $169.99, the keyboard combines a lightweight plastic chassis with a compact layout that saves desk space. However, some design choices, such as the absence of Bluetooth and limited customization software, may divide gamers.
Price and competitive positioning
At around $170, the K63W Pro sits in the mid-to-high range for a compact keyboard. Compared to models like the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75, it offers fewer features but maintains solid build quality. For a more budget-friendly alternative, the Monsgeek FUN60 Ultra provides analog switches and strong performance. The K63W Pro is available now and includes a USB cable and the UWB receiver.
Slim design and sturdy construction
Despite the plastic, the keyboard feels robust and well-assembled. The low profile (1.2 inches thick) makes it comfortable even without a wrist rest, which is not included. Keys are generously spaced with a textured surface that improves grip. RGB backlighting is bright and shines through well, though secondary legends on function keys are too small. A curious detail is a blank key in the top-right corner, which could have housed a Home key.
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Mod Tap arrow keys and plate flexibility
The most distinctive feature is the Mod Tap system for the arrow keys. Each direction has a dual binding: besides the arrow function, it assigns control, shift, menu, and Fn. Pressing Fn+M cycles through three modes: arrows only, secondary bindings only, or both (tap for arrow, hold for secondary). The M key changes color to indicate the active mode. This solution offers flexibility but requires an adjustment period. Additionally, the gasket-mounted plate exhibits pronounced flex: keys give slightly under pressure, an effect that may disorient at first but does not compromise responsiveness.
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Ultra-Wideband connectivity: promise vs. reality
Cherry promotes Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology to reduce interference compared to traditional wireless. The receiver is a large puck that connects via USB cable, taking up valuable desk space. In practice, the difference from other wireless keyboards is noticeable only in high-interference environments; for most users, the benefits do not justify the bulk. Bluetooth support is also missing, limiting versatility.
Writing and gaming performance
The Cherry MX Low Profile 2.0 switches offer a longer travel than expected for a low-profile design, delivering a snappy feel suitable for both gaming and typing. The spacebar is excellent, with a solid response. However, the sound leans toward clicky rather than thocky, a personal preference. The Cherry Utility software disappoints: key remapping is cumbersome, requiring a "create" click for each key, and the layout graph does not show remapped bindings. The Fn layer cannot be altered. Performance settings are limited to polling rate and basic SOCD mode.
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For those seeking a compact keyboard with a unique layout, the K63W Pro is an interesting investment, but compromises must be accepted. If software customization is crucial, look elsewhere. For more on Cherry products, visit the company's Wikipedia page.
Source: https://www.techradar.com/computing/keyboards/cherry-xtrfy-k63w-pro-compact-ultra-wideband-review
