The Vulcan II TKL keyboard from Turtle Beach retains a classic look that dates back to the ROCCAT days. Although this may lack originality, I like the industrial, stripped-back appearance and the excellent RGB display. Furthermore, the slender casing gives this device a sleek, modern appearance. I accept that this design may not be everyone’s cup of tea, and Turtle Beach has steered clear of Magnetic Hall Effect switches. This has been reserved for the Pro version. As such, you may wish to consider that if that is a deal breaker.
This wired-only option removes the requirement of a battery or charging. However, it does reduce versatility and may drive wire freaks a little insane. Yet, this has never bothered me, and I prefer not running out of juice mid-game or work session. Alongside the interesting design choice is a dedicated media knob. This keeps things streamlined and keeps you focusing on gaming, TV shows, or your favourite song.
What’s in the box of the Vulcan II TKL keyboard?
- The packaging is durable, attractive, and interesting to look at. Additionally, it can be recycled.
- The Vulcan II TKL keyboard has a detachable USB cable. Moreover, it has a soft typing experience, low low-keycap profile, and the ability to adjust the underside stands.
- A braided USB-C cable is provided.
- Use the keycap puller to remove the keys.
- Spare switches are supplied.
- Learn the basics with the user manual.
Technical aspects.
The Vulcan II TKL keyboard is a mechanical keyboard that uses Titan HS mechanical pre-lubed switches. These smooth and comfortable switches work particularly well with the unusual profiled keycaps. Moreover, they look great when the RGB is in full flow. If you don’t like this option, you can hot swap them with any compatible alternative. In theory, this should be a walk in the park, but I found the to be a little tricky when compared with other major keyboard brands.
These switches offer a softer typing experience and a 1.8mm actuation distance. The result is reduced fatigue and accurate keystrokes. This makes this an ideal device for gamers and office workers. Furthermore, the quiet switches are superb if you need to work without disturbing your colleagues.
The dedicated media knob is ideal if you love to watch films, YouTube, or listen to music. This tool has push functionality to increase usability. Additionally, the option to adjust your audio and pause what you’re doing without playing with the settings was fantastic.
Build quality.
The Vulcan II TKL keyboard has an industrial look that stands out from its peers. Although I mentioned a lack of originality, I like the exposed switches and the amazing RGB. This design is complemented by the slim keycaps. These can be swapped to something more generic, but you’ll lose that RGB vibe. The keycaps were comfortable to use, and I like the low-profile typing. I tested a cherry profile keycap, and both felt great to use. However, I like the original aesthetic and will stick to this for now.
The case has a solid black finish and a slim-line design. Furthermore, this TKL option is great for small workstations. Due to the wired-only approach, this keyboard feels lighter than its competitors. However, even though it is light, it doesn’t slide or move on your desk or workstation.
If you like large numbers to reassure you of build quality, you’ll be impressed by the 50 million keystroke guarantee. You’d have to work and play incredibly hard to get anywhere near this number. Consequently, this keyboard will outlive many of us. Creating the right audio profile is essential. The Vulcan II TKL keyboard has a nice, classic mechanical sound without being obnoxious. A layer of sound-dampening material is housed within the case to generate a pleasant typing soundscape.
Is the Vulcan II TKL keyboard worth it?
This keyboard will appeal to a niche but passionate audience. Its exposed design, vibrant RGB, smooth switches, and quieter mechanical typing are big positives. Yes, I struggled with hot-swapping the switches, but that may have been user error. Additionally, the chance to use other keycaps was a good idea, but it also undermines one of the key design choices.
I like the wired-only approach and the clean black finish. Moreover, the inclusion of a media knob for convenience was a great idea. Subsequently, if you have used a ROCCAT keyboard or the previous Vulcan models, you will love this one, and I recommend buying it here!
(More information on Turtle Beach can be found here!)
(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)
