Vortex New POK3R Black Aluminum 60% Double Shot PBT Mechanical Keyboard

Really liked this board, the weight is nice and the layout is useful once I got used to it. Unfortunately, several keys just randomly stop working every now and then for a few seconds. Don't know if it's a one off thing, because it's happening with both boards I bought. I use them at two different computers with two different operating systems, and they're both having the same issues, with keys I use a lot. Two stars because it's a great keyboard otherwise.

I got the blue keycaps

I had read many good things about the POK3R keyboards, and I liked the idea of a 60%, having used tenkeyless for many years. (Dropping the numpad did make me more adept at Nethack...) I am no expert on mechanical keyboards, having only perused web forums and Reddit for some insights. I don't build my own, even if I build my own PC... so I looked for a pre-built that didn't disappoint.

This one doesn't at all. Some 60% keyboards I tried seemed to be "close" together in the layout (either pyschologically or just my weird finger movements). The POK3R did not, and it was a breeze to type on. I am a fast, undisciplined typist, who learned how to type using my 8-bit computers as a teen. I don't have orthodox hand placement (other than 'finding the dots' when I start), and this keyboard is a pleasure to type on. The build is solid, and I like the metal base. It gives the keyboard a sense of "staying put" and not drifting on my desk like some rubber-foot keyboards have done over the years. Its size is a perfect complement to my mouse, as my pull out drawer is rather tight (and full-sized keyboards are problematic to use without elevating my mouse.)

The Fn layer oddities are taking a bit more time than I first thought to get used to, but after a couple of weeks of solid typing, the muscle memory is working in my favor. This won't be my last 60%, nor will it be my last purchase from Mechanical Keyboards.com. Wonderful keyboard. Great price. Solidly built and a joy to type on.

To keep it short, this keyboard is awesome! In fact, it's exactly what I desired when I was on the hunt to purchase a new keyboard. My only grudge is towards the choice to use FedEx SmartPost as the method of shipping. Come on now, I spent over a hundred dollars and you use the most inferior and cheapest method of shipping? Not to be harsh, but I expect better.