Yaber has introduced its latest K3 series of projectors, featuring the K3 and K3 Pro models. These new additions build on the success of the previous K2 lineup, presenting technological enhancements that aim to elevate the home viewing experience.
This series boasts two innovative technologies: CoolSwift cooling, designed for long and stable use, and NovaGlow optical enhancement, which ensures improved brightness and image quality. These upgrades highlight Yaber’s drive to push the limits of home entertainment technology.
With an impressive brightness of 1,600 ANSI lumens and 1080p full HD resolution, the K3 series delivers vivid images across a projection range of 40 to 200 inches, perfect for creating a cinema-like atmosphere even in bright rooms. The NovaGlow technology enhances visuals, making colors pop and details sharp for a genuinely lifelike viewing experience.
Sound matters in movie nights, and the K3 series shines here as well, featuring built-in dual 15W JBL speakers and Dolby Audio. So whether it’s booming action scenes or quiet moments of dialogue, the audio experience is designed to fill the room. The K3 Pro model takes it a step further with a dedicated subwoofer, ensuring that every bass drop resonates.
Yaber has also made strides in performance reliability with its CoolSwift technology, which includes an advanced cooling system to manage heat, helping the projector run smoothly over extended periods. Users will appreciate features like Auto Focus, Auto Keystone Correction, and Intelligent Screen Alignment, which make setup easy and hassle-free. An Intelligent Obstacle Avoidance feature ensures that projections remain clear by automatically adjusting the image when obstructions are detected.
In terms of design, the K3 series is sleek and functional. It comes with a built-in TV dongle, providing access to over 7,000 apps, including popular streaming services. Voice command functionality adds convenience, and users can even transfer content from their phones via NFC with a simple tap.
Special features like a blue light-filtering coating help reduce eye strain, while the all-glass lens prevents focus drift, ensuring the picture remains sharp over time. Yaber has clearly considered user comfort and convenience in every aspect.
The K3 is available for $499 in the USA (€599 in Europe), while the K3 Pro, which includes the extra subwoofer, retails for $599 in the USA (€649 in Europe). Both models can be purchased directly from Yaber’s official website.
QCY introduced its latest open-ear wearable – the Crossky C30 earbuds. The earbuds feature an innovative C-shaped open-ear design that aims to offer unparalleled comfort for all-day wear. The Crossy C30 is crafted from flexible nickel-titanium memory alloy and coated in soft silicone materials.
The ergonomic C-shaped arm design ensures a perfect fit on most ears. The earbuds are equipped with 10.8mm dual-magnet drivers, delivering vibrant and crystal-clear audio with powerful bass and crisp trebles. QCY also incorporated advanced directional audio technology and auto sound beam adjustment, ensuring minimized sound leakage, and transmitting sounds precisely into the ear canal for an immersive listening experience.
Unfortunately, there is no active noise cancellation support here. But, the QCY offers a noise-reduction microphone that effectively filters out wind and background noise, offering a great calling experience on the go. Furthermore, it has dynamic EQ support which allows you to tweak the sound, enhance bass performance, and adjust high-frequency for an enhanced listening experience.
The Crossky C30 earbuds are rated at IPX4 water resistance, protecting them from normal water splashes and sweat, making them suitable for various activities. It offers up to 5.5 hours of battery life on a single charge and a total of 25 hours with the charging case. Other features include dual device connectivity, transparency mode, 12° non-symmetry design for easy one-handed wear, Bluetooth v5.4 for fast and reliable pairing, and QCY companion app support.
Pricing starts at just $37.99, the Crossky C30 comes in Purple, Black, and White color options. The earbuds are now available for purchase via the QCY website, Amazon, and other authorized retailers.
Hisense has introduced the C2 Series, an exciting range of 4K Laser Mini Projectors that promise to take home cinema to new heights. This lineup consists of three models—the C2 Ultra, C2 Pro, and C2—each boasting innovative features, stylish designs, and performance that caters to various home entertainment needs.
Central to the C2 Series is the Tri-Chromatriple laser technology, a game-changing feature that provides exceptional picture quality. With the ability to cover 110% of the BT.2020 color space, these projectors deliver colors so vivid that they might as well leap off the screen. And for those who enjoy an extra dimension, all three models support 3D functionality, perfect for either a movie night extravaganza or an intense gaming session.
Flexibility is key in shaping your viewing environment with the C2 Series. Users can project images in sizes ranging from 65 to 300 inches, making it suitable for anything from a cozy living room to an expansive outdoor movie night. The projectors offer 360-degree horizontal rotation and a 135-degree vertical adjustment, allowing you to easily project onto walls, ceilings, or any suitable surface without breaking a sweat.
Setting up these projectors is simple. Features like auto keystone correction and auto focus mean that users can bypass the usual technical gymnastics. The models even come equipped with auto obstacle avoidance, ensuring the clearest image possible—no more juggling with furniture to find the right spot!
Now, let’s meet the lineup:
C2 Ultra: Visual Brilliance and Audio Excellence
At the top tier is the C2 Ultra, designed for the ultimate cinematic experience. With 3,000 ANSI lumens of brightness and a contrast ratio of 2,000:1, no detail goes unseen—even in bright rooms. Sound enthusiasts will appreciate the built-in JBL 2.1 channel audio system, complete with a subwoofer. With certifications for IMAX Enhanced and Dolby Vision, it’s the Swiss Army knife of home cinema.
C2 Pro: Install Anywhere, Enjoy Everywhere
Next up is the C2 Pro, crafted for those who prioritize picture quality and versatility in installation. It boasts 2,600 ANSI lumens and delivers stunning visuals with IMAX Enhanced and Dolby Vision. Fast action scenes are smoothed out with HDR10+ and MEMC technology. Its optical zoom and flexible mounting options make it ideal for a variety of setups.
C2: Accessible, Versatile Excellence
The C2 model is compact yet powerful, perfect for smaller spaces like bedrooms or home gyms. With 2,000 ANSI lumens, it still offers a vibrant 4K image. Like its siblings, it packs in Dolby Vision and HDR10+ for a great viewing experience, whether people are binging their favorite series or enjoying downtime with casual TV shows.
No matter which model is chosen, seamless access to streaming services is part of the package, thanks to Hisense’s VIDAA Smart OS. Popular platforms like Netflix and Disney+ are just a click away, eliminating the need for extra devices—unless you enjoy the thrill of tripping over cables.
The C2 Series is set to hit select retailers in the fourth quarter, with prices starting at $2,299.99 for the C2, $2,499.99 for the C2 Pro, and $2,999.99 for the C2 Ultra.
For anyone eager to elevate their home entertainment experience, Hisense’s C2 Series delivers a winning combination of advanced features, user-friendly options, and impressive performance, bringing cinematic magic right into the living room.
GoPro has introduced two exciting new cameras: the HERO13 Black and the budget-friendly HERO, catering to both performance junkies and those who want something user-friendly without breaking the bank. Priced at $399, the HERO13 Black is the flagship model, while the HERO is a lighter and more wallet-friendly option at $199.
HERO13 Black: Packed with Features for High Performance
The HERO13 Black is crafted for individuals who want the best of the best in performance and flexibility. This camera boasts the capability to record in 5.3K at 60 frames per second, while GoPro’s HyperSmooth stabilization ensures that your footage is steady—even if you’re on a rollercoaster ride.
A particularly noteworthy feature is the 13x Burst Slo-Mo, which can capture eye-popping 400 fps at 720p and 5.3K at 120 fps. It comes paired with a revamped Enduro battery that promises better efficiency and a 10% increase in capacity, so you can keep filming for longer without recharging.
Snap and go with HERO13 Black’s new Magnetic Latch Mounting system. This joins built-in mounting fingers and 1/4-20 mounting threads for three ways to mount HERO13 Black.
Mounting options have taken a great leap forward with the Snap and Go Magnetic Latch Mounting system, making it easier than ever to attach the camera securely. With WiFi 6, content transfers are quicker by up to 40%, and integrated GPS + Performance Stickers let users add a touch of flair to their videos by overlaying data like speed and altitude.
For audio enthusiasts, the HERO13 Black features Customizable Audio Tuning—choose between a balanced sound profile or one that enhances voice clarity while still capturing ambient sounds. It also supports Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG) HDR Video for professional-quality color and dynamic range.
If you crave more goodies, the HERO13 Black Creator Edition is available for $599.99 and includes extras like the Volta Power Grip, Media Mod, and Light Mod—perfect for those who want to level up their content creation. Preorders are open, and shipping starts on September 10.
Neutral density (ND) filters are one of four HERO Black (HB) Series Lens Mods with auto detection designed to work exclusively with HERO13 Black. Easily create cinematic motion blur with ND4 / ND8 / ND16 / ND32 filter options. Simply attach a filter and your HERO13 Black automatically detects it, toggles into Auto Cinematic video mode, and dials in the best settings based on your environment.
HB-Series Lenses: Custom Creativity
Accompanying the HERO13 Black are the new HB-Series Lenses, designed to optimize shooting experiences. The lenses include an Ultra Wide Lens Mod for sweeping POV shots, a Macro Lens Mod for those close-up, nitty-gritty details, and an Anamorphic Lens Mod that gives your videos a chic cinematic vibe. Plus, an ND Filter 4-Pack helps achieve that dreamy motion blur. Preorders are available, though the Anamorphic Lens Mod won’t make an appearance until 2025—talk about keeping things suspenseful!
HERO: Simplicity Meets Capability
If simplicity is more your style, the HERO is the camera for you. Weighing in at just 86g, this little powerhouse is rugged and waterproof up to 16 feet, perfect for adventures where you might encounter a splash or two.
The HERO offers 4K video recording and 12MP photos, with an easy-to-use touch screen and 2x slo-mo capabilities at 2.7K resolution—plus, it’s got HyperSmooth stabilization, all without the need for a complex setup.
Preorders are available, and this compact companion will start shipping on September 22.
GoPro Quik App: Your Media Sidekick
With the GoPro Quik app, both cameras get even more fun. Users can enjoy automatic highlight reels, handy editing tools straight from their mobile devices, and unlimited cloud backup for all those precious moments, with a subscription starting at $49.99 a year for premium features.
With these latest releases, GoPro continues to appeal to everyone from professional creators looking to capture epic footage to casual users wanting a straightforward camera. Whether it’s the HERO13 Black’s high performance or the HERO’s uncomplicated charm, there’s something for everyone—so happy filming!
A well-known rugged phone brand, Ulefone is launching its first flagship rugged smartphone – the Armor 28 Ultra. Alongside the flagship rugged phone, the company also plans to bring its first small rugged phone to the market: the Armor Mini 20T Pro. Have a look at the detailed specs of the Ulefone’s flagship smartphone.
The Ulefone Armor 28 Ultra features a MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ flagship processor paired with a massive 16GB of RAM and 512GB internal storage, which is further expandable via microSD card. Ulefone packs a 50MP 1-inch Sony IMX989 main sensor which is complemented by a 50MP ultrawide shooter, and a 64MP night vision camera with an 80° field of view. There’s also a thermal camera, allowing you to capture video at 256 x 192px via the ThermoVue Pro app. On the front, it has a 50MP shooter for capturing selfies and video chats.
The Armor 28 Ultra rugged smartphone has a 6.67-inch OLED FHD+ display with 120Hz refresh rate and 2,200 nits peak brightness support. It also has a secondary circular-shaped cover display on the back, which shows the notifications, time, and much more. The device is rated IP68 for water and dust resistance (up to 6.6ft for 33 minutes) and IP69K (hot water jets). It easily withstands drops of up to 6.6ft, thanks to the drop resistance.
Speaking of the battery, Ulefone packs a massive 10,600mAh battery in the Armor 28 Ultra rugged smartphone with 120W wired fast charging support. It also has 50W wireless charging Support too. Other features include an integrated antenna, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, a 3.5mm headphone jack, IR blaster.
The Ulefone Armor 28 Ultra will be unveiled at IFA 2024. The smartphone will be available for pre-orders starting in November.
HYPER has just introduced its latest line of HyperJuice Qi2 wireless charging stands, setting out to make life easier for Apple device users. These stands focus on portability and speed, targeting those who are always on the move with their iPhones and other Apple gadgets. Well, to be fair, they also work with a wide variety of Android devices, too.
With the ability to deliver up to 15W of power, these chargers double the speed of the earlier 7.5W Qi protocol. This is music to the ears of anyone who prefers to spend less time tied up with cords and more time enjoying their device. The magnetic alignment feature helps keep devices perfectly positioned for optimal charging efficiency, which not only saves energy but also eases worries about battery health—no one wants a hot-headed device!
The lineup features three distinct models, each with its own charm:
HyperJuice Next Qi2 4-in-1 Magnetic Charging Stand: This one is like the Swiss Army knife of charging stands. It can charge your iPhone, Apple Watch, AirPods, and other Qi-compatible gadgets—all at once! It’s perfect for the multi-device owner who likes to keep things neat.
HyperJuice Qi2 3-in-1 Magnetic Charging Stand: This model is a bit more streamlined, capable of charging your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods simultaneously. A solid choice for those who want to keep their essential tech powered without all the extra bells and whistles.
HyperJuice Qi2 2-in-1 Magnetic Charging Stand: The most compact option is aimed at iPhone and AirPods users seeking simplicity and power in a small package. Ideal for a tidy bedside arrangement or convenient for tossing into a bag when jetting off to new adventures.
All three models embody the same core features: Qi2 wireless charging at up to 15W, magnetic alignment for charging efficiency, and a keen focus on portability. Whether at a desk, by the bed, or on a trip, these stands provide a handy solution for keeping devices charged up.
For those immersed in the Apple universe or anyone seeking a fast and reliable charge, HYPER’s latest options might just bring a bit of convenience to your tech life.
OXS has rolled out a dazzling new entry in gaming audio with the Thunder Pro + True Dolby Atmos 7.1.2CH Gaming Sound System. This innovative system is designed to bring gamers an immersive sound experience that can elevate any game. Key among its features is the world’s first Satellite Neck Speaker, alongside dynamic RGB lighting, three tailored gaming modes, and the OXS custom app for all your personalization needs.
At the heart of the Thunder Pro + is True 7.1.2 Dolby Atmos technology, which adeptly positions sound within a 3D space—truly essential for gamers who depend on sound for spotting foes or dodging virtual explosions. The setup includes two tweeters, two woofers, and four full-range drivers, meticulously arranged to deliver stunningly clear sound with remarkable power.
The Satellite Neck Speaker is quite literally a game changer. Worn directly around the neck, it adds depth and directionality to audio, crucial for gamers who rely on precise sound cues. Thanks to 5.8G ultra-low latency technology, audio and video sync seamlessly, eliminating any lag that could hinder gameplay. Its ergonomic design, wrapped in soft, stain-resistant fabric, caters to those marathon gaming sessions that often last far longer than one’s initial intention.
Gamers will enjoy the OXS Audio App, compatible with Windows PCs, which syncs the soundbar’s RGB lighting with visuals from games and allows for the tweaking of volume across channels, EQ settings, and enchanting lighting effects. This means users can design their own audio adventure, one click at a time.
Three dedicated gaming modes make it easy to optimize sound for specific genres. Players of first-person shooters will appreciate the FPS mode, which sharpens the sound of footsteps. Racing aficionados can revel in RAC mode, enhancing the roar of engines. MOBA players get a distinctive edge with improved clarity for skill sounds and voice communication in intense battles, while those who prefer a more traditional experience can rely on the standard mode, delivering balanced sound without rear surround effects.
Despite packing such advanced features, the Thunder Pro + boasts a surprisingly compact design, thanks to unispace acoustic architecture. Coaxial drivers stack the tweeter over a full-range driver, keeping everything sleek and efficient—a smart choice for gamers with limited space.
From a connectivity standpoint, the Thunder Pro + shines with Bluetooth 5.0, HDMI IN, HDMI eARC for full Dolby Atmos experience, AUX-in capabilities, and USB ports. This versatility ensures compatibility with numerous devices, including gaming consoles like the PS5, Xbox, and Switch, along with PCs and Hi-Fi audio systems.
Control is user-friendly, featuring remote options and easy toggle adjustments for volume and EQ modes. Just a few clicks are all it takes to access the optimal sound levels tailored to your gaming needs.
The OXS Thunder Pro + is now making its debut at a retail price of $699.99/£699.99 on Amazon in the US and the UK, as well as on the OXS website. Gamers eager to grab this tech can take advantage of an introductory offer on the OXS site, which provides $100 off using the code ‘PRO+’. European customers will find it on Amazon in France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, with slightly varying prices.
With the Thunder Pro +, OXS sets a new standard that blends premium sound quality and cutting-edge design, catering to the demands of serious gamers. Whether seeking a competitive edge or an immersive audio experience, this sound system is ready to impress.
Qualcomm today introduced its Snapdragon X Plus 8-core platform. This new eight-core giant promises multiday battery life, outstanding performance, and AI-driven experiences that could make anyone wonder if they’ve accidentally wandered into a sci-fi film.
At the heart of the Snapdragon X Plus is the Qualcomm Oryon CPU, boasting an impressive 61% increase in CPU performance. In a cheeky jab at competitors, Qualcomm pointed out that to match its peak performance, rival chips require a staggering 179% more power. Talk about running on empty!
Gaming, content creation, and even video conferences are taken to a whole new level with integrated graphics that support up to three external monitors. The platform is also equipped with a 45 TOPS NPU, ready to handle AI-powered tasks without guzzling too much energy. Whether users are working on the latest blockbuster edit or just zipping through emails, the Snapdragon X Plus has their productivity goals covered—while ensuring their devices remain sleek and portable.
Perks of Snapdragon X Plus: Why Your Laptop Feels Like a Superhero
Battery That Won’t Quit: Powered by Snapdragon, your laptop can last for days (yes, plural) without recharging. Your Netflix binge session can go on uninterrupted.
Smooth Graphics: Want to connect up to three monitors and have all of them running at 4K? Snapdragon’s on it, ensuring everything stays as smooth as butter.
AI Magic: The built-in AI (thanks to the Qualcomm Hexagon NPU) will make multitasking a breeze and boost your creativity. Plus, it’ll keep you looking great in video calls, with fancy camera features like auto-framing and background blur.
Super Fast Connectivity: No More Lag, Just Speed
Snapdragon X Plus is ready to handle Wi-Fi 7, 5G, and even more gadgets with ease. Whether you’re downloading, streaming, or juggling multiple devices, everything stays quick and jitter-free.
Security on Lockdown
With built-in security features like Qualcomm’s Secure Processing Unit and Microsoft’s Pluton TPM, hackers are going to have a hard time messing with your device. You can relax, knowing your data is safe, from chip to cloud.
Need All the Ports? Check.
You’ve got all the latest USB options, plus lightning-fast transfer speeds. So whether you’re hooking up extra drives or monitors, you’re covered.
With select PCs featuring the Snapdragon X Plus 8-core platform now available, consumers and enterprises alike can dive headfirst into the future of portable computing. It’s hard to say whether these devices are genuinely capable of transforming the way one works, but we suspect Qualcomm might just have another winner on its hands.
Lenco is kicking things off nicely at IFA with the introduction of three new belt-drive turntables that cater to vinyl lovers, whether they’re just starting or already deep into their collection. The lineup includes the LBTA-165, LBT-215BK, and L-455BK, each packed with appealing features and price points to suit different preferences.
The LBTA-165 leads the trio, targeting those who appreciate accessibility and quality. This fully automatic turntable takes the guesswork out of playing records with its auto-start and auto-return functions, ensuring records stay scratch-free. It’s equipped with the reliable Audio Technica AT3600L Moving Magnet cartridge, famous for delivering that classic vinyl sound.
Modern listeners will find Bluetooth transmission handy as it allows for wireless connections to headphones or speakers. The LBTA-165 is available in stylish Black Wood or Wood finishes, making it a great fit for any home. With a price tag of £199/€219/$260, it’s a fantastic entry point into vinyl.
LBTA-165
Key features of the LBTA-165 include:
Fully automatic operation
Bluetooth transmission
Plays at 33⅓ and 45 RPM
Switchable pre-amplifier
Audio Technica AT3600L cartridge
Metal platter with removable dust cover
Available in Black Wood (LBTA-165BK) and Wood (LBTA-165WD) finishes
The LBT-215BK appeals to those who enjoy both analog warmth and digital convenience. Cloaked in a sleek black gloss finish, this model features the higher-end Audio Technica AT-VM95E cartridge, ensuring clarity in every groove. Its standout feature is a USB port for digitizing vinyl, allowing collectors to preserve their records in a digital format. Retailing at £299/€329/$390, it strikes a solid balance between traditional and contemporary audio experiences.
LBT-215BK
Highlights of the LBT-215BK include:
Fully automatic operation
Bluetooth transmission
USB output for vinyl-to-digital conversion
Plays at 33⅓ and 45 RPM
Switchable pre-amplifier
Audio Technica AT-VM95E cartridge
Metal platter, tonearm, and adjustable counterweight
Black gloss finish with a dust cover
At the top end, the L-455BK is for those who demand the best. It boasts a brushed aluminium frame, exuding a minimalist elegance that turns heads. With the award-winning Ortofon 2M Red Moving Magnet cartridge, this model is designed for true audiophiles who crave sonic precision.
One of its key features is automatic rotation speed checking and correction, ensuring records play at the correct pitch. Like the LBT-215BK, the L-455BK offers a USB output for vinyl digitization. Priced at £449/€499/$650, it caters to audio enthusiasts who seek premium features and aesthetics.
L-455BK
Key features of the L-455BK include:
Belt drive with brushed aluminum frame
USB output for vinyl-to-digital conversion
Plays at 33⅓ and 45 RPM
Automatic rotation speed checking
Switchable pre-amplifier
Ortofon 2M Red cartridge
Metal platter, tonearm, and adjustable counterweight
Brushed aluminum finish with removable dust cover
All three turntables—LBTA-165, LBT-215BK, and L-455BK—will be available starting in October. Lenco has certainly crafted a lineup that caters to diverse audio tastes and budgets, making it a fantastic time for vinyl aficionados to explore new options. Here is a list of the hyperlinks found in the provided text:
Mechanical keyboards have become mainstream these days, and the main obvious reason behind this is that they are super responsive and offer a more precise and comfortable typing experience. There are some famous brands out there that offer premium-class mechanical keyboards at reasonable prices, and Akko is one of them.
The infamous peripheral brand Akko is quite popular for its unique, high-build quality, and feature-loaded classy keyboards. Its latest Year of Dragon MOD007 V3 HE Limited Edition is no exception.
Priced at $179.99, the Year of Dragon MOD007 V3 HE keyboard brings dozens of customizations to the table, from plate swapping to mapping keys. However, this is a very common quirk every mechanical keyboard possesses, but it has something that most of the mainstream mechanical keyboards don’t offer. More on that later.
I’ve been testing the Year of Dragon for the last few weeks to find out how well it performs and whether it’s worth standing against some of its immediate rivals, such as the Asus ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless and the Drop CSTM80.
Price and Availability
Akko MOD007 V3 HE Year of Dragon starts at $179.99 and comes in a Cyan Chinese Dragon theme. You can snag the keyboard directly from Akko’s official website.
Pros
Sturdy Aluminum build
Mesmerizing Year of Dragon design
Hall Effect Magnetic Switches
Impressive 8k Hz polling rate
Solid PBT keycaps
Stunning RGB lighting
Cons
No wireless connectivity
Slightly pricey
Unboxing
Design and Build
When unboxing the Akko MOD0007 V3 HE Year of Dragon Limited Edition, my reaction was, “This keyboard is a work of art.” The CNC aluminum frame feels incredibly sturdy and premium in the hand. Finished in a Cyan Chinese Dragon theme design, the keyboard looks absolutely stunning. The Year of the Dragon-inspired perfectly carved elements, such as a Cyan Dragon, Chinese letters, and symbols on several keycaps, truly reflect the rich stories of Chinese mythology.
The keyboard underwent a three-tone anodization process, making it highly durable, scratch-resistant, and enhancing tactile sensation. The combination of Cyan, matte Black, teal colors, and light turquoise accents makes the keyboard even more mesmerizing. The shiny gold-finished strip on the four sides of the keyboard gives it a striking look.
Image Credit – Abhinav Fating
On the back side, there are Chinese letters meticulously engraved on the golden finished plate, translating to “Year of the Dragon Limited Edition”. The carved Chinese letters are not only visually eye-catching but also feel very premium to the touch. Additionally, four rubber strips at the bottom offer a steady grip on the desk without any sliding.
Akko went with the compact 75% layout for the Year of Dragon which is indeed a great choice. The TKL compact layout offers considerably more desk space compared to the full-sized keyboard. While I loved the TKL (tenkeyless) layout keyboard which is very compact, comfortable, and easy to use.
The board’s default FR4 and Brass plate has some flex but Akko also offers an extra copper plate which gives a stiffer feel while typing. The keyboard brings a decent amount of heft, weighing over 1.9 Kg, making the board a lot heavier than the likes of Asus’s Azoth, Strix Scope II 96 wireless, and Drop CSTM80. Keep in mind that the keyboard isn’t designed to be portable and don’t even try it because its weight makes it hefty for a board of its size, and when you hold it in your hand, you’re going to feel it.
Image Credit – Abhinav Fating
The keycaps Akko offers here justify the price tag itself. You get Akko’s PBT keycaps in Cherry profile, meaning that they are highly durable and hard-wearing plastic than the cheaper ABS, and should last a long time.
The Dye-sublimated PBT keycaps have a great textured finish that feels excellent under the finger. There is also a multifunction knob for controlling volume and brightness levels, which brings great convenience. Some keycaps have 5-sided Dye-Sub including Spacebar, Tab, Caps, Shift, and Esc, which is very intriguing. There are no adjustable feet here, instead, you get a taper-shaped 5-degree fixed typing angle.
Image Credit – Abhinav Fating
According to Akko, the magnetic switches aren’t hot-swappable, but since there’s no electric contact between the switch and PCB, it indirectly makes it hot-swappable. However, I wouldn’t suggest doing so. One thing to note here is that the Year of the Dragon doesn’t support mechanical switches, which is slightly disappointing. However, Akko offers a dedicated MOD007 Flex Cut PCBA separately that supports 5-pin mechanical switches, which you can directly add to your order while purchasing the Year of the Dragon keyboard.
In terms of its connectivity and interface, the Akko Year of the Dragon Limited Edition has only a wired connectivity option. You’ll find the USB-C port on the top side of the keyboard for wired connectivity. It’s a shame that a $180 keyboard isn’t wireless; even its immediate rival, the Asus ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless, offers a tri-mode connection – a 2.4GHz receiver, and wired and wireless options at similar pricing.
Performance
Inside the Year of Dragon Limited Edition, Akko has incorporated its in-house Akko Cream Yellow Magnetic switches with bottom-out 50g force. The soft linear switches are extremely smooth and responsive and offer a total 4mm travel distance and 2mm actuation point, which feels supremely snappier, making them a superb switch for gaming as well as typing.
Image Credit – Abhinav Fating
The Year of Dragon is also gasket mounted, which gives a softer and more comfortable typing experience. Inside the casing, there are plenty of sound-dampening foam layers — a 3mm Poran plate foam and 1mm poram bottom case foam — which helps it to offer excellent acoustics.
The Year of Dragon keyboard features solid linear Akko Cream Yellow Magnetic switches with Hall-effect sensors inside, making it super comfortable to use with smooth actuation. Competitive gamers will also be pleased to know that the Year of Dragon MOD007 V3 HE has an 8000Hz ultra-high polling rate, meaning you get near-zero latency (0.125ms) control, which is hard to find in mainstream mechanical keyboards. Combining the ultra 8K Hz polling rate with a rapid trigger immediately activates and deactivates the key with a shorter travel distance of 2mm actuation point, making it ideal for FPS gaming.
They have adjustable actuation points, yes you heard right. This means you can easily customize the actuation distance to trigger the key, ranging from 2.5mm to 0.1mm for fine-tuning and setting up rapid actions which is especially useful during gaming. Gamers will surely appreciate the Hall-effect magnetic switch features which are enough to take the gaming experience to the next level. During my testing, I was quite comfortable with this well-built 75% layout, and the smooth PBT matted keycaps were great to type on.
The keyboard only has a sole wired connectivity which means you won’t have to worry about charging. During my testing period, I didn’t notice any connectivity issues whatsoever. It worked perfectly while gaming and typing, the switches were extremely responsive and snappy with zero lags. The Year of Dragon is compatible with both Macbook and Windows laptop/PC. You get premium quality USB-C to USB-A flexible cable with good length, which is a nice touch.
Image Credit – Abhinav Fating
A small note: The Hall sensors of the board are sensitive to temperature variations, resulting in potential changes to the magnetic field of the keyboard during transportation. For an optimal typing experience, Akko recommends upgrading the keyboard to the latest firmware as soon as you receive it via its companion app. Once the keyboard is updated, manually calibrate the keyboard by gently pressing every key through the app – about > Maximum Key Travel Calibration > Start calibration’. The keyboard auto-calibrates every second, but manual calibration is only needed initially and after resets or updates.
Software and Lighting
The Year of the Dragon has Akko Cloud Driver support to further activate the keyboard’s advanced features. Unfortunately, it doesn’t come with VIA and QMK firmware support, which is slightly disappointing. But Akko’s Cloud Driver fills that void, offering a range of impressive advanced features including Roar Mode, Rapid Trigger, Remap, Dynamic Keystrokes, Toggle Key, custom activation, GamePad Mapping, and Curve, Mod-Tap, and 20+ RGB lighting effects.
You can customize pretty much everything with the Akko Cloud Driver.
Roar Mode – Roar mode enhances the keyboard speed by ensuring the fastest response from each key after activation. You can set up to four keys for the Roar Mode activation. However, keep in that the backlight will be disabled automatically by switching to the Roar mode for overall optimized performance.
Toggle Key (TGL) – Toggle Key transforms a key into a toggle switch, which means when you press a toggle switch, you can either continuously hold down the key/function or trigger the key/function multiple times at a high frequency.
Dynamic Strokes (DKS)– With the DKS you can assign four different operations to a single key. It’s quite similar to the Macro but without all the automation. The DKS works on the keypress force system: a light press triggers action 1, a deeper press activates action 2, and releasing the key also supports a two-stage key setting.
Mod Tap – Mod-tap is pretty much similar to the DKS. It allows you to set a maximum of two different functions in a single keypress – holding down the key for one function and pressing the key for another.
You also get a dedicated GamePad Mapping and GamePad Curve with six different presets to further optimize the keyboard for the ultimate gaming experience. It offers two function layers here, so power users have a great advantage here.
Image Credit – Abhinav Fating
The Year of Dragon has a per-key RGB backlighting with over 20+ preset animation modes. In addition to that, you can also create your own custom RGB light effects with Akko Cloud Driver. The south-facing RGB lights are quite vibrant and sharp, elevating the overall look of the keyboard. Gamers will surely fall in love with this RGB lighting.
Overall, I really loved Akko’s Cloud driver software. It has particularly every feature that we can expect from proprietary software.
Should you buy the Akko Year of Dragon MOD007 V3 HE?
You should buy it if…
You want a sturdy CNC Aluminum finished keyboard
You want a highly customizable keyboard
You need snappy Hall-Effect magnetic switches
You want a compact 75% layout
You want a keyboard with a unique design
You shouldn’t buy it if..
You want a keyboard with wireless connectivity option
You want swappable switches
You prefer a full-sized layout
Pinnacle Selection represents our highest honor, one reserved for products that stand out in design, performance, and overall value.
Products earning this distinction exemplify excellence across the board, delivering an experience that truly rises above the rest.
When you see the badge, you’re looking at the best of what’s available in its category.
Final Thoughts
Image Credit – Abhinav Fating
The Akko Year of Dragon MOD007 V3 HE keyboard is geared towards gamers and casual typers. It stands out with its class-leading design, catering to both casual and gaming users with enthusiast-level features. The unique Cyan Chinese Dragon Theme design sets it apart from the competition.
This mechanical keyboard features highly responsive Hall-sensors powered durable PBT magnetic switches. It boasts a solid, well-built CNC Aluminum finish, a compact 75% layout, advanced features, powerful software with a high level of customization, and vibrant RGB lighting. The Year of Dragon Limited Edition demonstrates that a highly customizable keyboard doesn’t have to carry an expensive price tag.
The attention to detail in the Year of Dragon is unmatched. However, its only drawback is the lack of wireless connectivity. In comparison, similarly priced competitors like the Asus ROG Strix II 96 Wireless offer a wireless option but lack advanced customizations available with the Year of Dragon.
For those seeking a keyboard that perfectly balances unique design, exceptional customizability, comfortable typing experience, and seamless wired connectivity, the Akko Year of Dragon MOD007 V3 HE Limited Edition keyboard is an ideal choice.
