The Ducky One III SF mechanical keyboard is a vibrant and feature-rich option, but does its performance live up to its aesthetics? This review dives into the design, features, typing experience, and problematic software (or lack thereof) to determine if this keyboard is worth your investment.
Ducky, a well-regarded name among keyboard enthusiasts, has a reputation for producing high-end mechanical keyboards. The One III SF, a 65% variant of their flagship design, comes packed with premium components and dazzling LEDs, all housed in a striking, angular case available in a variety of colors. This review focuses on the eye-catching yellow model.
ducky keyboard detail
Design and Build Quality
The One III SF immediately grabs your attention with its bold color choices. Beyond the aesthetics, the keyboard boasts high-quality PBT double-shot keycaps, ensuring durability and a pleasant typing feel. Ducky includes extra keycaps in white and red, a branded keycap puller, and a matching braided cable, adding to the premium feel. The attention to detail extends to the internal components, with yellow foam beneath the metal deck and even yellow stabilizers. The case itself features unique angled sides and a printed metal plate on the bottom, along with double-stage keyboard feet. The keyboard also offers hot-swappable switch sockets, interior sound dampening foam, and hardware-based macro programming.
Ducky keyboard alternate keycaps
Typing and Gaming Performance
While the keycaps are undeniably excellent, the underlying Cherry MX Brown switches feel underwhelming. While serviceable, they lack the refinement found in competing keyboards at this price point. Gamers, in particular, might prefer linear switches for faster actuation. Other manufacturers, like Razer and Corsair, offer custom-tuned and lubricated switches, while smaller brands like Keydous offer more exotic options. Even budget-friendly keyboards often feature smoother switches, like the Kailh BOX switches found in the 8BitDo Retro Keyboard and G.Skill KM250.
Ducky keyboard switches and sockets
Although the One III SF allows for switch swapping, the stock switches feel like a missed opportunity for a keyboard in this price range.
Ducky keyboard side
Software and Programming: A Major Drawback
A keyboard at this price point should offer software customization. The Ducky One III SF relies solely on hardware-based programming, a complex and frustrating system. The manual, which is only available online as a PDF, provides convoluted instructions for macro creation and key remapping. These instructions are often unclear and don’t always function as described, a common complaint among users. While hardware-based programming offers some advantages, it’s no substitute for user-friendly software, especially when the implementation is flawed.
Ducky keyboard manual screenshot
Ducky keyboard with hand
Conclusion: Is the Ducky One III SF Worth It?
The Ducky One III SF impresses with its striking design and premium keycaps. However, the average switches and the convoluted, hardware-based programming significantly detract from the overall experience. While the keyboard has potential, it requires considerable effort and potentially additional expense to reach its full potential. With numerous excellent alternatives available, the Ducky One III SF falls short of expectations for a keyboard in its price range.
