Meletrix Boog75 Review: Better than Wooting?
The Boog75 from Meletrix is a unique keyboard experience, especially for someone like me who’s tried various layouts, switches, and keycaps. This keyboard boasts the latest innovation – Hall effect switches. These differ from traditional mechanical switches by using magnets to detect key presses, allowing for ultimate customization.
Design and Build (Pros)
- Solid Construction: The Boog75 features a sleek 75% layout with a premium 6063 aluminum case. Unlike some competitors, it boasts a gasket mount for a more comfortable typing experience.
- Clean Aesthetics: The design is clean and functional, offering dedicated navigation keys (F13, Home, Delete, etc.) and a blocker above the right arrow key for a touch of style.
- Pre-built Convenience: Unlike many custom-like keyboards, the Boog75 comes ready to use out of the box, complete with keycaps, a cable, and a carrying case.
Hall Effect Switches (Pros & Cons):
- Unmatched Customization: Hall effect switches are the real star of the show. They allow for precise adjustments to the actuation point (how far you press the key) and break stroke distance (how far you release it). This level of control is unmatched by traditional MX switches.
- Snappier Gaming: In fast-paced games like Destiny 2, the Boog75’s responsiveness truly shines. The ability to set a lower actuation point makes character movement feel snappier and more precise.
- Limited Options: Currently, only Gateron KS-37B switches are compatible with the Boog75, limiting options for those who prefer different feels (tactile, clicky).
Other Features (Pros & Cons):
- High-Quality Keycaps: The included Wuque Studios PBT keycaps are crisp, clear, and complement the keyboard’s theme well.
- Excellent Stock Sound: The keyboard has a satisfying, “marbly” sound thanks to the use of foam layers. This might not appeal to everyone, especially those who prefer a deeper “thock.”
- Software with Potential: The Boog75’s software allows for remapping keys, creating macros, and adjusting RGB lighting. While not the most feature-rich software, it’s functional and shows promise for future improvements. However, features like chorded macros are still missing.
- Limited Customization Options: The Boog75 offers a static layout and doesn’t come with extra keycaps, switches, or different plate options for personalization.
Value and Recommendation:
At $229.99, the Boog75 offers excellent value for a pre-built Hall effect keyboard with premium build quality. The biggest competition, the Wooting 60HE, is cheaper but lacks the Boog75’s build quality and features like dedicated navigation keys.
Overall:
If you’re looking for a high-performance keyboard with the latest Hall effect technology and a focus on gaming, the Meletrix Boog75 is a strong contender. It offers excellent build quality, impressive stock sound and feel, and the potential for unmatched customization thanks to its Hall effect switches. While the software is still under development and customization options are limited, it’s a fantastic pre-built option for gamers and enthusiasts alike.
