In the bustling world of PC gaming peripherals, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices. On one end, you have premium keyboards with eye-watering price tags, and on the other, a sea of budget options that often feel cheap and unreliable. Finding a keyboard that strikes a perfect balance between performance, features, and cost can feel like a quest. This is where the Redragon UCAL K673 PRO enters the picture, promising a feature-rich experience without breaking the bank.
Redragon has built a solid reputation for delivering capable gaming gear at accessible prices, and the UCAL K673 PRO seems to be their latest attempt to pack as much value as possible into a single, sleek frame. It boasts a 60% compact layout, hot-swappable switches, and vibrant RGB lighting, all of which are features typically found on more expensive models. But how does it actually perform when you’re in the middle of an intense gaming session or trying to meet a work deadline? Let’s take a closer look at what this keyboard brings to your desk.
First Impressions and Build Quality
Unboxing the Redragon UCAL K673 PRO, the first thing you notice is its compact form factor. The 60% layout means it forgoes the number pad, function row, and navigation cluster, resulting in a much smaller footprint that frees up valuable desk space for wider mouse movements. The build is primarily plastic, which is expected at this price point, but it feels surprisingly sturdy with minimal flex. It has a decent weight to it, thanks to a metal plate inside, which helps it stay firmly planted during enthusiastic typing or gaming.
The keycaps are double-shot ABS, which is a fantastic feature to find on a budget keyboard. Unlike cheaper pad-printed legends that can wear off over time, double-shot molding means the characters are made from a separate piece of plastic, making them incredibly durable and ensuring the backlight shines through brightly and clearly. The keyboard also comes with a braided USB-C cable, which is a nice touch and adds to the overall premium feel.
The Heart of the Keyboard: Hot-Swappable Switches
Perhaps the most significant feature of the UCAL K673 PRO is its hot-swappable socket. For those new to the custom keyboard scene, “hot-swappable” means you can pull out the existing mechanical switches and plug in new ones without any soldering required. This is a game-changer because it turns a pre-built keyboard into a customizable platform for your personal preference.
The keyboard typically comes with Redragon’s own linear red switches, which are quiet, smooth, and require a light actuation force—ideal for both gaming and fast typing. If you prefer a tactile bump or a louder, clicky sound, you can easily purchase a set of compatible switches (like Gateron or Outemu) and swap them in within minutes. This feature future-proofs your investment and allows you to experiment with different feels without buying an entirely new keyboard.
Typing and Gaming Performance
When it comes to the actual experience, the UCAL K673 PRO holds its own. The linear red switches provide a consistent and smooth keystroke with very little noise, making it a good neighbor in shared spaces. The actuation is quick and responsive, which is exactly what you want in fast-paced games where every millisecond counts. The compact layout does have a learning curve, especially if you rely heavily on arrow keys or the function row. However, the keys are programmable via software, allowing you to remap them to your liking.
The anti-ghosting and N-key rollover features ensure that every keypress is registered accurately, even when you’re pressing multiple keys simultaneously. This is crucial for complex gaming commands or fast typing. While it may not have the same heft and acoustics as a high-end custom board, the typing experience is confident and satisfying for its price class.
A Symphony of Light and Sound
No gaming keyboard is complete without RGB, and the UCAL K673 PRO delivers a vibrant light show. The RGB lighting is bright, colorful, and can be customized through a variety of pre-set modes directly on the keyboard using function key combinations. For more granular control, you can use Redragon’s dedicated software to create your own lighting profiles, assign macros, and adjust the polling rate.
One of the more unique features is the built-in rotary knob. This multifunctional dial can be used to adjust the volume, scroll web pages, or cycle through the RGB lighting modes. It’s a small but incredibly useful addition that adds a layer of convenience you don’t always find on compact keyboards. The keyboard also includes two-level feet for adjusting the typing angle to a more comfortable position.
Who Is the Redragon UCAL K673 PRO For?
This keyboard is an excellent fit for a few specific types of users. First and foremost, it’s for the budget-conscious gamer who wants premium features like hot-swappable sockets and double-shot keycaps without the premium price. It’s also a fantastic entry point into the world of custom keyboards. If you’ve been curious about modifying your keyboard but are intimidated by soldering, the UCAL K673 PRO offers a safe and easy way to start.
Finally, it’s perfect for anyone with a minimalist desk setup or those who travel to LAN parties. Its small size makes it highly portable and space-efficient. However, if your work heavily depends on a number pad or dedicated function keys, the 60% layout might be more of a hindrance than a help.
Final Thoughts on This Budget Powerhouse
The Redragon UCAL K673 PRO is a compelling package that punches well above its weight. It successfully brings high-value features like hot-swappable switches and durable double-shot keycaps into an extremely affordable product. While the build materials and sound profile remind you of its budget nature, its performance and customization options are anything but cheap.
It manages to be more than just a tool for gaming; it’s a versatile peripheral that can grow and change with your preferences. For its price, the value proposition is incredibly strong. If you’re looking for a capable, compact, and highly customizable mechanical keyboard that won’t strain your wallet, the Redragon UCAL K673 PRO deserves a very close look. It proves that you don’t always have to spend a fortune to get a quality and feature-rich typing experience.