Wooting 80HE quick review

I recently got my hands on the Wooting 80HE, and after spending some time with it, I’ve got a lot to say. This is Wooting’s first major release since the 6HE, and it’s clear they’ve been hard at work refining what already made them great.

First off, the 80% layout is a smart move. I’ve used 60% keyboards in the past, but having those extra physical keys without taking up too much space is a real win for me. It feels like a perfect balance between compactness and functionality. I opted for the special edition Transparent Ghost model, and honestly, it looks fantastic. The plastic feels sturdy, but if you’re into something heavier, you can always go for the zinc alloy frame. The plastic version is priced at $199, and the metal version bumps it up to $290. Even at that price, it feels like you’re getting your money’s worth.

Plastic and zinc alloy mechanical Wooting 80HE keyboards with prices.

Now, I’ll be honest—at $199 for the plastic and $290 for the metal, this keyboard is quite expensive. Don’t get me wrong, the build quality and features justify the price, but there are some great budget alternatives out there. For example, the Drunkdeer G75 offers Hall effect switches in a 75% layout, and it’s much more affordable. So, if you’re on a budget, it might be worth looking into.

Unboxing the 80HE, Wooting includes a good selection of extras – some massive stoppable feet, a USB-C cable, extra switches, keycaps, and screws for modding. And speaking of modding, it’s surprisingly easy to swap cases. You unscrew a few parts, disconnect the PCB, and you’re in. I appreciated the little details like the Wooting team’s signatures inside the case and the breakdown of the internals, which shows they really care about the user experience.

One thing I love about the 80HE is its Hall effect switches. Wooting introduced the new Leeker V2 switches, which are smoother and less wobbly than the original. You can choose between the heavier L60 or the lighter L45 switches, but I personally prefer the L60s. They give you more control, especially with the adjustable actuation point. And speaking of actuation, Wooting’s rapid trigger feature lets you adjust the actuation as low as 0.1mm, which is a game-changer for fast-paced gaming.

Another standout feature is the SOCD (Simultaneous Opposing Cardinal Directions) or Snap Tap. It makes strafing in games like Counter-Strike incredibly smooth. Essentially, when you press two opposing movement keys (like A and D), the keyboard switches between them instantly, instead of canceling them out. This allows for faster movements and better control in competitive games.

Overall, the Wooting 80HE is an impressive piece of hardware. It’s on the pricey side, but for those who want a top-tier keyboard with customizable actuation and premium build quality, it’s hard to beat. However, if the price gives you pause, you might want to consider alternatives like the Drunkdeer G75.

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