I don't usually carry a shoulder bag. I have a Case Logic bag that I've occasionally taken out for street photography, but it always feels front-heavy. That put me off using this kind of bag very often.

Then I saw the Flow Satchel in Multicam Black with the little metal ALPAKA patch. I liked it enough to give shoulder bags another go.

ALPAKA sent me this bag for review. They haven't paid me, and they haven't seen this review before publication. I've been using it for about a month.

I also put the review and all eight photos on my site: https://wannabeshepherd.com/reviews/alpaka-flow-satchel-4l-clogtwo/

The site article contains clearly labelled affiliate links.

What I managed to fit

The biggest surprise was getting my Canon R6 Mark II and two lenses into a 4-liter bag, with room for the other things I wanted to take along.

Here's the camera setup I packed:

• Canon EOS R6 Mark II with the EF 40mm f/2.8 STM attached via an EF–RF adapter
• Canon EF 24–70mm f/2.8L II USM, with the hood in its shooting position
• Kindle
• MagSafe power bank
• Keys and AirTag
• Godox iM20 iFlash
• SD card reader
• Small Manfrotto tripod in the external bottle sleeve
• Sunglasses in an ALPAKA HUB Sunglasses Pouch, clipped to the side

All of that came with me at the same time, and the main compartment zipped all the way shut. It felt about right for that amount of gear. I wasn't forcing the zipper closed, and some of the little pockets still had room for small items.

I packed the camera gear directly into the bag, without an insert. Adding one would leave less room.

Getting the camera out and putting it back is easy while the bag is on my shoulder. For lens changes, I prefer to put the bag down.

On my shoulder

With that kit inside, the Flow stays balanced on my shoulder. It doesn't keep tipping forward or backward, which was exactly what bothered me about the Case Logic.

I've carried it for two to three hours at a time while taking photos. The padded shoulder strap has been fine for those outings, although I'm not sure I'd want all that weight on one shoulder for an entire day. A walk with a prime, a zoom and a few accessories is about what I want to use it for. I can even bring my Kindle.

The bag itself feels light when empty. ALPAKA lists this CLOGTWO version at 470g, so most of what I'm feeling once it's packed is the camera equipment.

The shoulder strap is easy to remove. Carrying the loaded bag by the thin rear handle is much less pleasant: it tips forward, and the webbing digs into my hand. I'd only use it for a quick lift. That rear webbing also serves as a luggage pass-through, although I haven't tried it on a suitcase.

The bottle sleeve became a tripod pocket

The side sleeve opens out with a zipper, and it's a useful spot for my small Manfrotto tripod.

I don't particularly like carrying a water bottle there. For me, a small 330ml or 500ml drink is about what I'd consider putting in it, although ALPAKA says the sleeve fits bottles up to 8.5cm in diameter. I prefer using that space for the tripod.

On the other side, having somewhere to attach HUB accessories is great. My sunglasses can stay outside the bag in their pouch, where I can reach them easily. The HUB accessories are separate from the bag, so the pouch in my photos isn't part of the Flow Satchel package.

Two magnetic systems on one keychain

The front pocket has a detachable magnetic MOD Key Tether. It isn't compatible with the HUB fitting I already use for my keys.

To use the included tether, I clipped its fitting onto the small loop on my AirTag holder. That leaves both the MOD fitting and the HUB fitting on my keychain. When I disconnect the keys from the bag's tether, those two fittings stick to each other.

It's a small annoyance, but it feels odd to have two incompatible magnetic systems from the same company on the same set of keys. The bag has HUB attachment points on the outside, so I'd much rather the tether inside worked with the HUB fitting I already use.

That's the first thing I'd change. A wider, more comfortable grab handle would be next.

The CLOGTWO details

I love the colors. The Multicam Black exterior and bright orange lining look good together, and the orange goes nicely with my Elements Backpack Pro.

The little ALPAKA patch is my favorite detail. It's CLOGTWO's A16 titanium patch, and it catches the light differently as you move the bag. Sometimes it looks quite blue. I liked it in the product photos, and I like it just as much in person.

This edition uses X-Pac X50 and comes with a padded shoulder strap. Those details matter if you're comparing it with reviews of the regular Flow Satchel, because the different versions don't all have the same fabric or strap.

I've also been happy with the zippers. After about a month, I haven't noticed any wear or the shoulder strap loosening. I haven't had a chance to use it in rain, so I can't say much about how well it keeps water out.

Leaving the camera at home

My 11-inch iPad Pro fits in the main compartment with its folding magnetic folio case on, and I can close the zipper fully. This is with the camera gear removed, and the iPad sits in the main compartment rather than a dedicated tablet sleeve.

That makes the Flow useful for a trip to the library with my iPad, Kindle, a small notebook and a pen. I don't always need a backpack for that.

I'm still not sure I'd choose a loaded shoulder bag for a full day out. For a few hours of street photography, though, this has worked well for me. It stays balanced, the camera is easy to reach, and I can bring the larger zoom without giving up the smaller things I want with me.

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KUXIU K1 Ultra

Disclosure: KUXIU sent me the K1 Ultra. They did not tell me what to write or see this before publication. Everything below is based on my own experience and testing.

I’ve been using the KUXIU K1 Ultra 10,000mAh for the past couple of weeks, and I think this is one of those products where the idea makes a lot of sense as soon as you travel with several Apple devices.

It is basically a magnetic iPhone power bank, Apple Watch charger, AirPods charger and small phone stand combined into one device.

The main reason it interested me was actually the Apple Watch part. Traveling with an Apple Watch is slightly annoying because even when almost everything else in my bag uses USB-C, I still have to remember a separate Watch charger.

With this, I essentially have an Apple Watch power bank, which is surprisingly useful.

There are some rough edges, though, and after testing it I think the concept is great but could still be refined in a future version.

For context, I tested it with an iPhone 12 Pro in a thin MagSafe-compatible case, an Apple Watch Series 10, and my AirPods Pro 2.

Build quality and design

This is probably the strongest part of the K1 Ultra.

The aluminum body feels extremely solid and much more premium than I expected from a power bank. The front and rear glass panels have a matte/frosted finish with a texture that actually reminds me a little of a MacBook trackpad.

And I really like this orange.

It stands out without looking cheap, and the combination of orange aluminum and the frosted surfaces looks great in person.

The rotating mechanism is also strangely satisfying. There is a nice mechanical click when opening and closing it, and there is basically no looseness or wobble in the hinge.

The small kickstand deserves some credit too. It is tiny, but once opened it feels rock solid.

The magnets are strong as well. I never felt like my phone was about to accidentally slide off.

But this thing is THICK

This is probably the biggest compromise of choosing the 10,000mAh version.

The K1 Ultra is very thick.

With it attached, I personally don’t find the phone particularly comfortable to use in my hand. It works, obviously, but this is not something I would leave attached while walking around and using my phone normally.

I see it more as a portable charging station that also happens to be a power bank.

Attach it when you need power, put the phone down on a table, or open the stand and use it on a desk.

The thickness also creates a weird limitation with the kickstand. When the K1 Ultra is closed, the geometry doesn't really allow the phone to lean backwards enough, so the stand is much more useful once the power bank itself is opened.

If I were choosing again specifically for travel, I think I might actually go for the slimmer 5,000mAh version instead.

I would lose some capacity, but the smaller size would probably fit my personal use better.

iPhone charging test

I wanted some actual numbers instead of just saying that it "feels fast" or "feels slow".

I tested the K1 Ultra against my normal wired charging setup and another wireless charger with active fan cooling.

I focused mainly on 0–80%, because that is the part of the charging curve that matters most to me in everyday use.

iPhone 12 Pro – 0 to 80%

Charger	Time to ~80%
Wired charging	62 min
Active-cooled wireless charger	~79 min
KUXIU K1 Ultra	144 min

So there is no way around it: with my iPhone 12 Pro, the K1 Ultra is considerably slower.

At 60 minutes:

• Wired: 79%
• Active-cooled wireless: 63%
• KUXIU: 40%

At 120 minutes the KUXIU was at 71%, and it reached 80% at around 144 minutes.

However, there are two important things to keep in mind here.

First, I am using an old iPhone 12 Pro, so this is absolutely not a test of the maximum charging speed the K1 Ultra is capable of with newer iPhones.

Second, my comparison wireless charger has active cooling.

And that leads to something that actually surprised me.

Heat was not a problem

Despite the long charging session, neither the phone nor the charger became annoyingly hot.

I’ve used other passive wireless chargers where heat bothered me much more than the actual charging speed.

Here, it really wasn't an issue.

The aluminum body probably helps with dissipating heat, and while charging isn't particularly fast on my old 12 Pro, thermals were completely acceptable.

I also deliberately tested it with the thin case I normally use rather than removing the case just to get better benchmark numbers.

This is supposed to be a real-world test, after all.

Apple Watch charging

This was the part I was most curious about.

And despite not being as fast as the chargers I compared it against, I think the result is surprisingly decent.

Apple Watch Series 10

Time	Apple charger	Licensed third-party charger	KUXIU K1 Ultra
10 min	30%	28%	22%
20 min	59%	51%	31%
30 min	80%	69%	46%
40 min	91%*	83%	68%
50 min	96%	93%	82%
60 min	99%	97%	91%

*My measurement for the original charger was taken at 41 minutes: 91%.

The original Apple Watch charger reached 100% in 66 minutes.

The licensed third-party charger reached 99% in 70 minutes, although I missed the exact moment it reached 100%.

The KUXIU reached 97% at 73 minutes. I unfortunately didn't catch the exact 100% point there either.

So yes, the KUXIU is slower, particularly during the first half of the charge.

But for something that is built directly into a battery pack, I'm completely fine with this.

If I'm traveling and realize my Watch is nearly dead, being able to put it directly on my power bank without finding another cable is much more important to me than shaving 15–20 minutes off the charging time.

One weird usability problem: the Watch charger doesn't start automatically

This is probably the strangest behavior I found.

When I attach my iPhone, the K1 Ultra automatically wakes up and starts charging it.

Perfect.

But when I put my Apple Watch on the Watch charger, nothing happens until I press the button on the power bank.

Even stranger: if the iPhone is already charging from the K1 Ultra and I then place the Watch on it, the Watch still doesn't start charging automatically.

I still have to press the button.

This feels unnecessarily unintuitive.

If placing the phone on the charger can wake the power bank, I think placing a Watch on the Watch charger should do exactly the same thing.

This would be very high on my list of things to change in a future revision.

The LED is also not bedroom-friendly

When charging the Watch, the status LED on the front keeps flashing.

During the day I don't care.

On a bedside table in a dark room, I definitely do.

There doesn't seem to be any reason for it to continuously flash throughout the charging session, so I would love either:

• an option to turn it off,
• a much dimmer LED,
• or for it to simply light up briefly and then switch off.

Interestingly, when I put my iPhone on the K1 Ultra and it starts charging automatically, the front LED doesn't continuously flash.

And I actually prefer that behavior.

AirPods work too

My AirPods Pro 2 can also be charged from the K1 Ultra.

Because my AirPods case supports charging from an Apple Watch charger as well, it magnetically attaches to either the main magnetic charging area or the smaller Watch charging area.

It sounds like a small detail, but it makes this even more useful as a travel charger.

Phone, Watch and AirPods can all be handled by one battery pack.

I wish the USB-C port were on the other side

This is another very small design detail that only became obvious after actually using it.

When the K1 Ultra is being used as a stand while connected to USB-C power, the cable plugs into what becomes the top of the device.

So instead of the cable naturally going down towards the desk, it sticks out from the top.

It works perfectly fine, but visually and practically it feels backwards.

I think putting the USB-C port on the opposite edge would make cable management much cleaner when using the K1 Ultra as a desktop stand.

An actively cooled version could be really interesting

One thing I kept thinking about during testing is how much internal volume this 10,000mAh model already has.

The active-cooled wireless charger I compared it against was significantly faster on my iPhone 12 Pro.

That made me wonder whether a future K1 Ultra could fit a very thin fan behind the charging surface.

Yes, a fan would consume some battery power.

But with a 10,000mAh battery, I don't think the impact would necessarily be huge, while better thermal management could potentially allow the phone to sustain a higher wireless charging rate for longer.

I wouldn't necessarily want this on the thinner model.

But on something already as substantial as the K1 Ultra, I think an optional active-cooled version could be very interesting.

What I like

• Excellent aluminum construction
• Frosted glass surfaces feel surprisingly premium
• Strong magnets
• Great orange finish
• Extremely solid hinge/rotating mechanism
• Satisfying mechanical click when opening it
• Kickstand itself is very sturdy
• Built-in Apple Watch charging is genuinely useful when traveling
• AirPods can be charged as well
• No uncomfortable overheating during my iPhone test
• 10,000mAh battery makes it much more than just a desk charger
• Can effectively replace several separate charging accessories while traveling

What I would change

• It's very thick
• Apple Watch charging should start automatically
• The Watch charging LED shouldn't continuously flash
• USB-C port placement is awkward when using it as a stand
• The kickstand isn't particularly useful in every closed configuration because of the thickness
• Wireless iPhone charging was quite slow with my iPhone 12 Pro
• A future actively cooled version could be interesting

Final thoughts

I think the idea behind the K1 Ultra is excellent.

Rather than carrying a MagSafe power bank, Apple Watch charger and travel stand separately, this combines all three into one extremely solid piece of hardware.

The build quality is probably my favorite thing about it. The aluminum construction, glass surfaces, strong magnets and rotating mechanism all feel genuinely premium.

And the fact that I can now charge my Apple Watch directly from a power bank without carrying another charger is something I appreciate much more than I expected.

The biggest question is whether you are willing to accept the thickness.

For me, the 10,000mAh K1 Ultra feels more like a portable 3-in-1 charging station than something I would permanently keep attached to my phone.

And that's not necessarily a bad thing.

For a desk, hotel room, train, airport or anywhere else where I can put the phone down while charging, the design makes a lot of sense.

If maximum portability were my priority, I'd probably choose the thinner 5,000mAh version next time.

There are also a few details I hope KUXIU improves in the next generation: automatic Watch charging, the flashing LED, the ticking noise and the USB-C port placement.

But the fundamental concept is very good.

It feels like a product that is already useful now, but could become genuinely excellent with another round of refinement.

I'm definitely curious to see where KUXIU takes the next version.

KUXIU K1 Ultra

Disclosure: NuPhy sent me the Air75 V3 for review purposes. I was not paid, there are no affiliate links or commissions involved, and NuPhy did not review, edit or approve this post before publication.

I tested the NuPhy Air75 V3 in Nova White with a UK ISO layout and Brown switches.

I used it with a MacBook Pro for writing, browsing, photo editing and general work, and with a Windows PC mainly for gaming. Counter-Strike 2 was my main gaming test.

Design and build quality

The Nova White color scheme is probably my favorite part of the design. The white case, light keycaps and small turquoise, yellow and orange accents make the keyboard look cheerful without becoming distracting.

The extra colored keycaps are also genuinely fun. NuPhy included a small animal face keycap, which I placed where the right Option key would normally be. It gives the keyboard a little more personality and fits the rest of the design surprisingly well.

Build quality is excellent. The keyboard feels dense, rigid and very solid. There is no flex, creaking or movement on the desk. It is heavier than I expected for a low-profile wireless keyboard, but that weight makes it feel extremely stable while typing.

It is less convenient when carrying it around, although the compact size still makes it much easier to travel with than a full-size keyboard.

The keyboard has some built-in angle even in its lowest position. It cannot sit completely flat, which took a little adjustment because I normally prefer flat keyboards. This is a personal preference rather than a comfort problem. I did not experience hand or wrist fatigue during longer sessions, even without a wrist rest.

Size and layout

I originally thought the Air75 V3 would fit exactly across the width of my 14-inch MacBook Pro. Based on the product images, it looked almost perfect for that setup.

In reality, it extends slightly beyond both sides of the laptop. It still works well when placed on top of the MacBook keyboard, but it is not as perfectly matched to the width as I expected. The smaller Air60 would probably fit more closely.

The 75% layout is a good balance for travel and gaming. It leaves much more space for mouse movement than a full-size keyboard, which is especially useful in Counter-Strike 2.

I did miss the numpad several times during normal work, though. If I were choosing again primarily for desktop use, I would probably consider the full-size version. For gaming, university, working from different locations or travelling with a laptop, I would still prefer the Air75.

One unusual layout decision is the missing right Option key in Mac mode. There is an Option key on the left, but its physical size is different. Both Alt keys are included for the Windows layout.

The right Alt key can be remapped to Option in the web configurator, so the function itself is easy to restore. The physical keycap and size still do not match the left Option key, which makes the Mac layout feel slightly less complete.

Typing feel

The Brown switches feel different from the low-profile Brown switches I have used in Keychron keyboards.

The NuPhy switches have a softer and slightly more rubbery tactile feeling. At times they remind me a little of a good rubber-dome keyboard. That description may sound negative, but I actually enjoy typing on them.

I seem to make fewer mistakes on the Air75 V3 than on my other low-profile keyboard. The keys feel controlled, and the tactile response makes it easy to tell when a press has registered without requiring much force.

The larger stabilized keys also feel solid. There is no distracting rattle, looseness or inconsistent movement. The space bar changes tone slightly depending on whether I press it in the center or closer to one side, but it works consistently and does not feel poorly stabilized.

I also love the sound.

It is not a quiet keyboard, but I did not want it to be silent. The sound has a soft mechanical character that somehow brings back memories of the Commodore 64 keyboards I used as a child. It does not sound exactly like a C64, but there is something familiar about it.

The volume knob

The volume knob is awesome.

It feels solid, turns smoothly and is much more satisfying than repeatedly pressing volume keys. Pressing it to mute also became natural very quickly.

NuPhy includes two different knob heights. The lower knob looks cleaner and fits the shape of the keyboard better, but I found it almost impossible to grip and turn comfortably.

I ended up using the taller orange knob. It is much easier to find and rotate without looking down, and I now use it far more often than I expected.

Mac and Windows switching

Switching between Mac and Windows layouts is simple using the physical control on the keyboard.

I also like that the two side light strips change depending on whether the keyboard is in Mac or Windows mode. I switch between the two systems frequently, so being able to confirm the active mode with a quick glance is genuinely useful.

Wireless connections are organized well too. Fn plus 1, 2 or 3 selects one of the Bluetooth devices, while Fn plus 4 selects the 2.4 GHz receiver.

The transition between connections is quick, and I did not have to wait long before typing again.

Wireless performance and gaming

I used the 2.4 GHz connection on both my MacBook Pro and Windows PC.

The connection was completely stable. I experienced no dropouts, repeated keys or noticeable latency.

In Counter-Strike 2, it felt immediate and reliable. I never felt that the wireless connection was affecting movement or input timing.

Bluetooth also worked well during normal use. There may occasionally be a very small wake-up delay after the keyboard has been inactive, but it was not frequent or annoying enough to become a problem.

For gaming, I would use the 2.4 GHz receiver. For general Mac use, both options were usable.

Web configurator

The browser-based configurator is very good.

There is no separate software package to install, and changing the layout or lighting directly from the browser is straightforward. Keys can be remapped easily, and complete configurations can be exported to a JSON file and imported again later.

This is especially useful when experimenting with different layouts, because it is easy to save a working setup before making more changes.

The save and load controls could be easier to find. I spent some time looking through the settings before noticing where they were located.

I also only managed to access the configurator while the keyboard was connected by USB. Bluetooth and the 2.4 GHz connection did not appear to provide access.

I may have missed an option, but wireless configuration would be useful because I normally use the keyboard without a cable.

I like that Mac and Windows lighting profiles are handled separately. On the Mac, I use a more decorative lighting setup. On Windows, where I mainly play games, I configured the lighting around the WASD keys and arrows.

RGB lighting

The RGB lighting looks good through the spaces around the white keycaps, although the selected colors are not especially accurate.

Some shades look noticeably different on the keyboard from how they appear in the configurator. This is common with RGB peripherals and not a major problem, but the difference is visible.

The included keycaps are not shine-through, so the legends themselves remain dark. I would like to see an ISO shine-through keycap option in a future version, or keycaps where at least the outlines of the characters allow light through.

Brightness can be adjusted using Fn and the arrow keys, so there is no need to open the configurator for basic lighting changes.

The two side light strips are a good design feature, but they could do much more.

It would be useful if they could be controlled independently and used for things such as:

• Battery level
• Volume
• Media progress
• A timer or progress bar
• Connection status

I would also like the Caps Lock key to light up in a different color when active, rather than relying on the full lighting profile.

These are ideas for future development rather than missing essential functions. The current lighting system already offers plenty of customization.

Battery life

I used the keyboard for roughly one week with the RGB lighting at maximum brightness.

My average use was around eight hours per day, although some days were longer and others shorter. During that period, the battery dropped by approximately 50%.

This should be treated as a rough real-world estimate rather than an exact battery test. I did not start from a carefully measured full charge, and my daily usage was not identical.

Even with the lighting at maximum brightness, battery life never felt like something I had to worry about. I did not need to interrupt my normal work to charge it.

Dongle and cable

The included braided USB cable is long and feels high quality.

The 2.4 GHz receiver uses USB-A. That works well with most desktop PCs, but I would appreciate a native USB-C receiver for modern laptops and tablets.

One of my favorite practical details is the dedicated storage space for the receiver inside the keyboard.

When travelling, I often use Bluetooth with my MacBook and do not need the receiver. Being able to store it inside the keyboard means it is much less likely to disappear into a bag or get left behind.

The storage compartment is easy to access and holds the receiver securely.

Packaging and accessories

The packaging is excellent.

The colors match the cheerful design of the keyboard, and everything inside is neatly arranged and protected with good-quality materials. Opening the box feels carefully considered.

The package includes the braided cable, USB receiver, extra keycaps, two knobs, keycap and switch tools, and a screwdriver.

The extra caps make it easy to adapt the keyboard for Mac or Windows, and the two knob options are a nice touch even though I strongly prefer the taller one.

The screwdriver is useful, but a magnetic tip would make handling the small screws easier.

The overall presentation feels polished and consistent with the keyboard itself.

What I liked

• Excellent build quality
• Extremely stable on the desk
• Comfortable Brown switches
• Fewer typing mistakes than on my other low-profile keyboard
• Satisfying sound
• Excellent volume knob
• Reliable 2.4 GHz connection
• No noticeable gaming latency
• Quick switching between devices
• Browser-based configuration
• Separate Mac and Windows profiles
• Easy JSON export and import
• Useful side indicators for Mac and Windows mode
• Dedicated storage for the wireless receiver
• Long braided cable
• High-quality packaging and accessories
• Cheerful Nova White color scheme
• Good size for gaming and travelling

What could be improved

• No matching right Option key in the Mac layout
• Slightly wider than a 14-inch MacBook Pro
• Cannot sit completely flat
• Heavy for a portable low-profile keyboard
• No native USB-C receiver
• Keycap legends are not shine-through
• RGB colors do not always match the selected shades accurately
• Web configuration appears to require a wired connection
• Save and load controls could be easier to find
• Side light strips could offer more customization
• The included screwdriver could have a magnetic tip
• The lower knob is difficult to grip

Overall

The Air75 V3 has become one of my favorite keyboards to type on.

The Brown switches feel softer and more rubbery than the other low-profile Browns I have used, but the result works very well for me. I type accurately, longer sessions remain comfortable, and I enjoy the sound every time I use it.

It also handles gaming without any noticeable wireless compromise. The 2.4 GHz connection was stable in Counter-Strike 2, and the compact layout leaves plenty of room for mouse movement.

The volume knob, web configurator, internal receiver storage and easy Mac/Windows switching are all features I use regularly rather than extras I forgot about after the first day.

I still miss having a numpad during some work tasks, and the lack of a matching right Option key is strange on the ISO Mac layout. I would also like wireless configuration, shine-through ISO keycaps and more control over the side lighting.

The Air75 V3 feels carefully made, looks genuinely fun and has a typing character that reminds me of the keyboards I grew up with. That combination makes it very easy to enjoy.

Disclosure: NuPhy sent me the Air75 V3 for review purposes. I was not paid, there are no affiliate links or commissions involved, and NuPhy did not review, edit or approve this post before publication.

I tested the NuPhy Air75 V3 in Nova White with a UK ISO layout and Brown switches.

I used it with a MacBook Pro for writing, browsing, photo editing and general work, and with a Windows PC mainly for gaming. Counter-Strike 2 was my main gaming test.

Design and build quality

The Nova White color scheme is probably my favorite part of the design. The white case, light keycaps and small turquoise, yellow and orange accents make the keyboard look cheerful without becoming distracting.

The extra colored keycaps are also genuinely fun. NuPhy included a small animal face keycap, which I placed where the right Option key would normally be. It gives the keyboard a little more personality and fits the rest of the design surprisingly well.

Build quality is excellent. The keyboard feels dense, rigid and very solid. There is no flex, creaking or movement on the desk. It is heavier than I expected for a low-profile wireless keyboard, but that weight makes it feel extremely stable while typing.

It is less convenient when carrying it around, although the compact size still makes it much easier to travel with than a full-size keyboard.

The keyboard has some built-in angle even in its lowest position. It cannot sit completely flat, which took a little adjustment because I normally prefer flat keyboards. This is a personal preference rather than a comfort problem. I did not experience hand or wrist fatigue during longer sessions, even without a wrist rest.

Size and layout

I originally thought the Air75 V3 would fit exactly across the width of my 14-inch MacBook Pro. Based on the product images, it looked almost perfect for that setup.

In reality, it extends slightly beyond both sides of the laptop. It still works well when placed on top of the MacBook keyboard, but it is not as perfectly matched to the width as I expected. The smaller Air60 would probably fit more closely.

The 75% layout is a good balance for travel and gaming. It leaves much more space for mouse movement than a full-size keyboard, which is especially useful in Counter-Strike 2.

I did miss the numpad several times during normal work, though. If I were choosing again primarily for desktop use, I would probably consider the full-size version. For gaming, university, working from different locations or travelling with a laptop, I would still prefer the Air75.

One unusual layout decision is the missing right Option key in Mac mode. There is an Option key on the left, but its physical size is different. Both Alt keys are included for the Windows layout.

The right Alt key can be remapped to Option in the web configurator, so the function itself is easy to restore. The physical keycap and size still do not match the left Option key, which makes the Mac layout feel slightly less complete.

Typing feel

The Brown switches feel different from the low-profile Brown switches I have used in Keychron keyboards.

The NuPhy switches have a softer and slightly more rubbery tactile feeling. At times they remind me a little of a good rubber-dome keyboard. That description may sound negative, but I actually enjoy typing on them.

I seem to make fewer mistakes on the Air75 V3 than on my other low-profile keyboard. The keys feel controlled, and the tactile response makes it easy to tell when a press has registered without requiring much force.

The larger stabilized keys also feel solid. There is no distracting rattle, looseness or inconsistent movement. The space bar changes tone slightly depending on whether I press it in the center or closer to one side, but it works consistently and does not feel poorly stabilized.

I also love the sound.

It is not a quiet keyboard, but I did not want it to be silent. The sound has a soft mechanical character that somehow brings back memories of the Commodore 64 keyboards I used as a child. It does not sound exactly like a C64, but there is something familiar about it.

The volume knob

The volume knob is awesome.

It feels solid, turns smoothly and is much more satisfying than repeatedly pressing volume keys. Pressing it to mute also became natural very quickly.

NuPhy includes two different knob heights. The lower knob looks cleaner and fits the shape of the keyboard better, but I found it almost impossible to grip and turn comfortably.

I ended up using the taller orange knob. It is much easier to find and rotate without looking down, and I now use it far more often than I expected.

Mac and Windows switching

Switching between Mac and Windows layouts is simple using the physical control on the keyboard.

I also like that the two side light strips change depending on whether the keyboard is in Mac or Windows mode. I switch between the two systems frequently, so being able to confirm the active mode with a quick glance is genuinely useful.

Wireless connections are organized well too. Fn plus 1, 2 or 3 selects one of the Bluetooth devices, while Fn plus 4 selects the 2.4 GHz receiver.

The transition between connections is quick, and I did not have to wait long before typing again.

Wireless performance and gaming

I used the 2.4 GHz connection on both my MacBook Pro and Windows PC.

The connection was completely stable. I experienced no dropouts, repeated keys or noticeable latency.

In Counter-Strike 2, it felt immediate and reliable. I never felt that the wireless connection was affecting movement or input timing.

Bluetooth also worked well during normal use. There may occasionally be a very small wake-up delay after the keyboard has been inactive, but it was not frequent or annoying enough to become a problem.

For gaming, I would use the 2.4 GHz receiver. For general Mac use, both options were usable.

Web configurator

The browser-based configurator is very good.

There is no separate software package to install, and changing the layout or lighting directly from the browser is straightforward. Keys can be remapped easily, and complete configurations can be exported to a JSON file and imported again later.

This is especially useful when experimenting with different layouts, because it is easy to save a working setup before making more changes.

The save and load controls could be easier to find. I spent some time looking through the settings before noticing where they were located.

I also only managed to access the configurator while the keyboard was connected by USB. Bluetooth and the 2.4 GHz connection did not appear to provide access.

I may have missed an option, but wireless configuration would be useful because I normally use the keyboard without a cable.

I like that Mac and Windows lighting profiles are handled separately. On the Mac, I use a more decorative lighting setup. On Windows, where I mainly play games, I configured the lighting around the WASD keys and arrows.

RGB lighting

The RGB lighting looks good through the spaces around the white keycaps, although the selected colors are not especially accurate.

Some shades look noticeably different on the keyboard from how they appear in the configurator. This is common with RGB peripherals and not a major problem, but the difference is visible.

The included keycaps are not shine-through, so the legends themselves remain dark. I would like to see an ISO shine-through keycap option in a future version, or keycaps where at least the outlines of the characters allow light through.

Brightness can be adjusted using Fn and the arrow keys, so there is no need to open the configurator for basic lighting changes.

The two side light strips are a good design feature, but they could do much more.

It would be useful if they could be controlled independently and used for things such as:

• Battery level
• Volume
• Media progress
• A timer or progress bar

I would also like the Caps Lock key to light up in a different color when active, rather than relying on the full lighting profile.

These are ideas for future development rather than missing essential functions. The current lighting system already offers plenty of customization.

Battery life

I used the keyboard for roughly one week with the RGB lighting at maximum brightness.

My average use was around eight hours per day, although some days were longer and others shorter. During that period, the battery dropped by approximately 50%.

This should be treated as a rough real-world estimate rather than an exact battery test. I did not start from a carefully measured full charge, and my daily usage was not identical.

Even with the lighting at maximum brightness, battery life never felt like something I had to worry about. I did not need to interrupt my normal work to charge it.

Dongle and cable

The included braided USB cable is long and feels high quality.

The 2.4 GHz receiver uses USB-A. That works well with most desktop PCs, but I would appreciate a native USB-C receiver for modern laptops and tablets.

One of my favorite practical details is the dedicated storage space for the receiver inside the keyboard.

When travelling, I often use Bluetooth with my MacBook and do not need the receiver. Being able to store it inside the keyboard means it is much less likely to disappear into a bag or get left behind.

The storage compartment is easy to access and holds the receiver securely.

Packaging and accessories

The packaging is excellent.

The colors match the cheerful design of the keyboard, and everything inside is neatly arranged and protected with good-quality materials. Opening the box feels carefully considered.

The package includes the braided cable, USB receiver, extra keycaps, two knobs, keycap and switch tools, and a screwdriver.

The extra caps make it easy to adapt the keyboard for Mac or Windows, and the two knob options are a nice touch even though I strongly prefer the taller one.

The screwdriver is useful, but a magnetic tip would make handling the small screws easier.

The overall presentation feels polished and consistent with the keyboard itself.

What I liked

• Excellent build quality
• Extremely stable on the desk
• Comfortable Brown switches
• Fewer typing mistakes than on my other low-profile keyboard
• Satisfying sound
• Excellent volume knob
• Reliable 2.4 GHz connection
• No noticeable gaming latency
• Quick switching between devices
• Browser-based configuration
• Separate Mac and Windows profiles
• Easy JSON export and import
• Useful side indicators for Mac and Windows mode
• Dedicated storage for the wireless receiver
• Long braided cable
• High-quality packaging and accessories
• Cheerful Nova White color scheme
• Good size for gaming and travelling

What could be improved

• No matching right Option key in the Mac layout
• Slightly wider than a 14-inch MacBook Pro
• Cannot sit completely flat
• Heavy for a portable low-profile keyboard
• No native USB-C receiver
• Keycap legends are not shine-through
• RGB colors do not always match the selected shades accurately
• Web configuration appears to require a wired connection
• Save and load controls could be easier to find
• Side light strips could offer more customization
• The included screwdriver could have a magnetic tip
• The lower knob is difficult to grip

Overall

The Air75 V3 has become one of my favorite keyboards to type on.

The Brown switches feel softer and more rubbery than the other low-profile Browns I have used, but the result works very well for me. I type accurately, longer sessions remain comfortable, and I enjoy the sound every time I use it.

It also handles gaming without any noticeable wireless compromise. The 2.4 GHz connection was stable in Counter-Strike 2, and the compact layout leaves plenty of room for mouse movement.

The volume knob, web configurator, internal receiver storage and easy Mac/Windows switching are all features I use regularly rather than extras I forgot about after the first day.

I still miss having a numpad during some work tasks, and the lack of a matching right Option key is strange on the ISO Mac layout. I would also like wireless configuration, shine-through ISO keycaps and more control over the side lighting.

The Air75 V3 feels carefully made, looks genuinely fun and has a typing character that reminds me of the keyboards I grew up with. That combination makes it very easy to enjoy.

Disclosure: ALPAKA sent me the Elements Backpack Pro and the HUB accessories for review purposes. I was not paid, there are no affiliate links or commissions involved, and ALPAKA did not approve or edit this review.

Product link:

https://alpakagear.com/products/elements-backpack-pro?variant=45203687375010

What I carried

• ALPAKA Elements Backpack Pro, Olive Green X-Pac X42
• ALPAKA HUB Keychain
• ALPAKA HUB Sunglasses Pouch
• ALPAKA HUB Carabiner
• ALPAKA HUB ModPanel Mini
• Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro
• Apple iPad Pro
• NuPhy Air75 V3 mechanical keyboard
• Keychron M7 8K Wireless Mouse
• Amazon Kindle
• Canon EOS R6 Mark II
• Canon EF 40mm f/2.8 STM
• Godox V480 flash
• 1-liter water bottle
• Apple AirTag
• Sunglasses, keys, chargers and cables

Design and materials

The first thing I noticed was how light the backpack felt.

I currently use a Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 20L. This is not meant to be a direct comparison, since the two bags are designed differently, but the ALPAKA feels noticeably lighter both empty and fully packed.

That lower starting weight makes a real difference once the laptop, tablet, camera gear and everything else are inside.

I really like the Olive Green X-Pac material. The color works well with the black details, while the diamond pattern gives it a technical look without being too loud. Together with the bright orange interior, the whole backpack has a tactical, techwear style that I personally love.

The materials, stitching and zippers all still look perfect. I have not noticed loose threads, scratches or early wear.

One detail looks slightly strange to me. The stitched ends of the lower shoulder strap adjustment sections face outward instead of toward the back. It does not affect comfort or function, but visually it feels like the seam should be facing the other way.

Shape and size

The Elements Backpack Pro is rated at 24 liters, so I expected it to look larger and deeper than my 20-liter Peak Design based on the product photos.

In person, the difference is much smaller than I expected.

When it is not fully packed, the profile stays surprisingly slim. Even when filled, it does not turn into a bulky box on my back.

Internal reinforcement gives the backpack enough structure to keep its shape, but it still feels less rigid than my Peak Design. I prefer that for normal city use, university, cafés and shorter trips.

One of the biggest practical surprises is that it stands on its own.

I constantly struggle with backpacks falling over at university unless I lean them against a table or wall. The ALPAKA stays upright when normally packed and does not immediately tip to either side.

It can also stand while empty, although it is less stable that way.

Comfort and weight distribution

The weight distribution is excellent.

The shoulder straps feel more comfortable to me than those on my Peak Design, and the padded back panel sits nicely against my spine. I also feel like my posture is slightly better while wearing it.

I carried it for several hours with a fairly heavy load. Eventually I could feel the weight, which is unavoidable with a laptop, tablet, camera gear and other accessories, but it remained wearable and balanced.

The lower empty weight helps a lot here. I am carrying my equipment rather than wasting part of the load on a heavy backpack structure.

The magnetic sternum strap is one of my favorite details.

It is incredibly easy to connect with one hand. You just bring the two sides together and the magnet guides them into place. Opening it is equally quick.

The strap can also be removed completely if you do not use it.

Laptop and tech organization

My 14-inch MacBook Pro fits easily in the padded laptop compartment, with enough room for a 16-inch model as well.

The compartment in front of the laptop sleeve is also useful. Depending on the day, it can hold:

• An iPad
• A Kindle
• A compact travel keyboard
• Documents or a notebook

There is also a narrow internal organizer that happens to fit an Apple Pencil perfectly.

The bright orange lining is not only visually interesting. It also makes small black accessories, cables and adapters much easier to find than they would be inside a dark interior.

There are plenty of pockets, and you can organize the same load in several different ways.

The downside is that the internal pockets share the same overall volume. When everything is full, items stored in one section push into the space of another. The backpack can become tighter sooner than the number of compartments might suggest.

External pockets

The small top pocket is ideal for things that need to be reached quickly, such as:

• Sunglasses
• Passport
• Earbuds
• Small everyday items

The lower front pocket works well for a power bank, compact mouse or other flat accessories.

Both external bottle pockets hold their contents tightly. My 1-liter bottle stayed secure, even when the backpack was tilted sideways.

That is a meaningful improvement over my Peak Design, where the bottle can slide out much more easily when the bag is laid on its side.

I do miss having a side handle. It would make it easier to lift the backpack from a car seat, overhead compartment or luggage rack.

Camera use

The Elements Backpack Pro can carry camera equipment, but I would not use it as a dedicated camera bag without an insert.

I tested it with my Canon R6 Mark II, EF 40mm f/2.8 and Godox V480 flash. They all fit, but smaller pieces can get lost inside the large main compartment.

For one camera with a compact lens, it works well enough. There is still plenty of room for clothes, a laptop and other essentials, which makes it a good option for a weekend trip where photography is only part of the plan.

For carrying several lenses or frequently changing equipment, I would still prefer a proper padded camera organization system.

Travel features

The main zipper pulls can be brought together and locked, which is useful when travelling with a laptop, camera or other valuable items.

The luggage pass-through works, but the backpack has to be placed horizontally on the suitcase handle.

I understand the likely reason. The backpack might sit too high if mounted vertically. Still, I would prefer having both options.

When the backpack is horizontal, there is more chance of something falling from an open side pocket. The bottle pockets are tight enough to reduce that risk, but vertical mounting would feel safer.

HUB accessories

The HUB system is a genuinely clever idea.

The magnetic clips are satisfying to use, but the mechanical locking part keeps the accessories secure. They do not feel like they will detach accidentally.

I used the HUB system with:

• Sunglasses
• Keys
• Small accessories
• The HUB Carabiner

The HUB Sunglasses Pouch works well on the shoulder strap and keeps the glasses easy to reach without taking up pocket space.

The HUB Carabiner is sturdy and useful for keys or anything else I want to attach temporarily. The quick-release mechanism is much easier than repeatedly opening a normal carabiner.

I would like to see more HUB attachment points on the outside of the backpack.

At the moment, the main options are on the shoulder straps. Adding several obvious loops could make the exterior too busy, but I think one or two could be hidden without damaging the clean design.

For example, the lower front zipper is covered by an extra fabric flap. A discreet attachment point could probably fit underneath it.

HUB ModPanel Mini

The separate HUB ModPanel Mini may be my favorite part of the accessory system.

I attached it to my refrigerator and now use it as a fixed place for my keys, sunglasses and whatever is currently connected to the carabiner.

I am very absent-minded and usually drop these things wherever I happen to be. Then I have to search for them in the morning when I am already in a hurry.

I am trying to build a habit of putting them on the ModPanel every time I get home. It is a simple idea, but it solves a real everyday problem for me.

Weather resistance

I was not able to test the backpack in rain.

As the photos probably make obvious, Central Europe is currently going through a very dry period, so there was hardly any chance of getting caught in proper rain.

Hopefully autumn will provide a better opportunity to see how the X-Pac material and covered zippers handle wet conditions.

What I liked

• Very good weight distribution
• Lower empty weight than my Peak Design backpack
• Comfortable shoulder straps and padded back panel
• Magnetic sternum strap is extremely easy to use
• Slim profile when lightly packed
• Does not look excessively bulky when full
• Stands upright on its own
• Excellent X-Pac material and Olive Green color
• Bright orange interior makes items easy to find
• Plenty of organization options
• Spacious laptop compartment
• Tight bottle pockets that securely hold a 1-liter bottle
• Lockable main zipper pulls
• HUB accessories are practical and well designed
• HUB ModPanel Mini gives the system a useful life outside the backpack

What could be improved

• No side handle
• Luggage pass-through only works horizontally
• Internal pockets take space from each other when fully packed
• Not ideal as a camera bag without a padded insert
• More discreet external HUB attachment points would be useful
• The outward-facing shoulder strap adjustment seams look slightly odd
• I would also like a slimmer version with the same external bottle pockets

The slimmer version I would like to see

For full-day use, travel and mixed tech carry, the 24-liter size works well.

For quick trips to a library, university or café, it can be more backpack than I need. I would love a slimmer version designed around:

• Laptop
• Water bottle
• Charger
• Mouse
• Kindle or iPad
• A few daily essentials

ALPAKA already makes slimmer bags, but the external bottle pocket is essential for me. A narrower Elements-style backpack that kept the same bottle pockets, materials, orange lining and HUB compatibility would be very appealing.

Overall

The Elements Backpack Pro feels much lighter and less bulky than I expected from a structured 24-liter backpack.

Its strongest points are the comfort, weight distribution, organization and slim profile. It carries a large amount of equipment without looking oversized, and the lower empty weight is especially noticeable compared with my Peak Design Everyday Backpack.

It works best for my everyday tech carry, university, cafés, city use and weekend trips. It can handle a small camera setup too, although dedicated camera users will probably want an insert.

The magnetic sternum strap and HUB system are more than small gimmicks. Both became useful parts of how I use the backpack, and the ModPanel Mini has even improved how I organize my keys and sunglasses at home.

There are a few things I would change, especially the missing side handle, horizontal-only luggage pass-through and limited external HUB mounting points. None of them have stopped me from enjoying the backpack.

It feels technical and distinctive without being flashy, carries weight comfortably, and stays much slimmer than the 24-liter capacity suggests.

I originally shared this review in r/MouseReview, but since crossposting is not available here, I am posting the full review natively for the Keychron community as well.

You can find the photos there: https://www.reddit.com/r/MouseReview/comments/1vep32v/keychron_m7_8k_wireless_mouse_and_desk_mat_after/

Disclosure: Keychron provided the M7 8K Wireless Mouse and Desk Mat at no cost for this review after I published my previous review of the K5 QMK V2 keyboard. I was not paid, there are no affiliate links or commissions involved, and Keychron had no editorial control or pre-approval. All opinions and testing results below are my own.

Product links:

Keychron M7 Wireless Mouse: https://www.keychron.com/products/keychron-m7-wireless-mouse

Keychron Desk Mat: https://www.keychron.com/products/keychron-desk-mat

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3TzNCLO

Quick context

• Model: Keychron M7 8K, black, PixArt 3950 sensor
• Measured weight: 67 grams
• Hand size: medium
• Grip: mostly palm grip
• Previous mouse: A4Tech Bloody A9 wired mouse
• Main use: macOS productivity, Photoshop retouching, travel with a MacBook, and casual Windows gaming
• Testing time: approximately one week
• Daily use: around 8 to 10 hours
• Connection during testing: approximately 90% Bluetooth and 10% 2.4 GHz

The weight is difficult to understand until you actually hold it

The first thing that surprised me was the weight.

I had already read the specifications before receiving the mouse, but reading a number and actually lifting it are two completely different experiences. My unit measured 67 grams on my scale.

That feels almost unreal for a comfortably sized wireless mouse with a built-in rechargeable battery. It is even lighter than my previous wired mouse.

Coming from the A4Tech Bloody A9, picking up the M7 sometimes feels as if there is almost nothing in my hand. This is not a small difference that only appears on a scale. It changes how the mouse feels during every movement.

What makes the M7 especially interesting to me is that it achieves this weight without feeling small.

I have previously tried Logitech MX Master mice, but the models I used felt a little too short for my hand and did not support my palm in the way I wanted. The M7 fits me better because the rear section feels higher and fuller. My palm can rest comfortably on it, which makes the mouse feel much more substantial than its weight would suggest.

For my medium-sized hand and palm-style grip, the shape has been very comfortable.

Design, buttons, wheel, and build quality

I really like the minimal design.

There are no colorful accents, unnecessary lighting effects, or large visible logos on the top. The black version looks clean enough to fit next to a MacBook, a productivity setup, or a gaming PC without looking out of place.

The matte surface feels pleasant and provides some grip without feeling rubbery or sticky. However, it is also something of a fingerprint magnet. Marks from my hand are relatively easy to see, and the surface takes a little effort to keep completely clean.

I have not noticed any coating wear or shiny spots so far.

The main buttons are light to press while still providing clear tactile feedback. I personally prefer this over silent mice, which often feel slightly soft or mushy to me.

The main clicks are noticeably louder than those on my previous mouse. This does not bother me, but anyone specifically looking for a quiet office mouse should keep it in mind. The M7 is not a silent mouse.

The two regular side buttons are easy to reach and also have a satisfying click. I used them frequently without accidentally pressing them.

There is also a third button farther forward on the left side. It is assigned to Page Down by default. I have not decided what I want to use it for yet, partly because it does not fall under my thumb as naturally as the two standard side buttons.

The scroll wheel feels well balanced:

• It is neither too stiff nor too loose
• The individual steps are clear without feeling harsh
• It does not feel excessively clicky
• The middle click is comfortable
• Scrolling feels predictable and controlled

Build quality has been solid. I have not noticed any creaking, rattling, shell flex, loose buttons, or unwanted movement.

The feet on the bottom did pick up visible scratches relatively easily. This appears to be only cosmetic, and I have not noticed any negative effect on how the mouse glides.

Connectivity and real-world tracking

I used the M7 approximately 90% over Bluetooth and 10% with the 2.4 GHz receiver.

Bluetooth pairing with my Mac was seamless. Holding the left mouse button and the Forward button placed it into pairing mode, after which it appeared normally in macOS. The Mac also displays the remaining battery level.

The Bluetooth connection remained stable and felt responsive enough for normal productivity, browsing, and Photoshop work.

There is a very small delay when waking the mouse on my Mac. It lasts only for a moment and has not caused any real inconvenience. I cannot say whether it comes from the mouse, Bluetooth, or macOS itself.

Apart from that small wake-up delay, tracking has been completely reliable:

• No cursor jumps
• No random interruptions
• No noticeable instability
• No strange movement after lifting and repositioning the mouse
• No issues during slow, precise movements
• No issues during faster movements

One of the biggest surprises was that the mouse also worked perfectly on a glass table.

This makes it much more useful as a travel mouse than I expected. When using a MacBook away from home, I do not always know what kind of table or surface will be available. The fact that the M7 worked on glass means I can use it in far more places without carrying a separate mouse pad.

It also glides well directly on my wooden desk, although the movement feels even smoother on the Keychron Desk Mat.

A surprisingly useful detail on the bottom

One of my favourite small details is located on the underside of the mouse.

When I lift the M7 and turn the bottom toward myself, the status LEDs light up. This makes it easy to see the selected connection and performance mode, even in a dark room.

If I only raise the mouse slightly above the desk, the LEDs remain off. They appear to activate when the mouse is properly lifted and turned over.

I am not sure exactly how the detection works, but it is a genuinely thoughtful detail. It makes checking the current mode much easier without adding visible lighting to the top of the mouse.

Cable, receiver, and adapters

The included braided USB-C to USB-C cable feels high quality. It is similar in quality to the cable that came with my Keychron keyboard.

The included adapters make the package flexible enough for both modern USB-C setups and more traditional USB-A systems. The receiver can also be positioned through the cable and adapter instead of being connected directly to the computer.

This is useful if a desktop PC is under the desk or if the receiver needs to be placed closer to the mouse.

The package works well across both my Mac and Windows environments, but I still think a native USB-C wireless receiver would make sense.

The current USB-A receiver and adapter solution works, but a small USB-C receiver would be more convenient for MacBook users and would reduce the number of separate pieces needed while travelling.

I also wish the mouse had an internal storage compartment for the receiver. Since the M7 is so light and portable, it feels natural to use it as a travel mouse. A dedicated place for the small dongle would make it much harder to lose.

Keychron Launcher and customization

The Keychron Launcher offers far more customization than I will probably ever need.

Importantly, I could access the mouse settings while using the 2.4 GHz wireless receiver. I did not need to connect the mouse with a cable every time I wanted to change something.

The available settings include:

• Button remapping
• DPI adjustment
• Polling-rate adjustment
• Lift-off distance
• Scrolling direction
• Left-click lock
• Sensor performance settings
• Trajectory smoothing and stability options
• System mouse settings

The sensor-related options allow a surprising level of fine-tuning. The Launcher includes settings designed to reduce small hand jitters, smooth linear or circular movements, and improve cursor stability.

The manual was not completely clear to me about what every position of the polling-rate selector on the bottom represented. In the Launcher, however, the current settings and available options are displayed much more clearly.

My priorities are productivity first and casual gaming second, so most of these advanced sensor options are more than I personally need.

I mostly want the mouse to be comfortable, accurate, stable, and easy to switch between devices. The M7 already did all of those things without requiring extensive configuration.

Still, it is good to know that the deeper options are available for people who want to fine-tune DPI, polling rate, lift-off distance, or sensor behaviour.

macOS, Windows, and Photoshop

There was one unusual difference between macOS applications.

The default Back and Forward functions worked correctly in Chrome, but they did not navigate backward and forward in Safari or Finder.

On Windows, both buttons worked normally without any additional configuration.

I do not know whether the Safari and Finder behaviour is a limitation of macOS, an application-specific issue, or something related to how the buttons are interpreted.

I already use BetterTouchTool, so I was able to solve the problem by configuring the buttons manually.

BetterTouchTool also made the side buttons especially useful in Photoshop. I assigned them to switch between:

• Clone Stamp Tool
• Spot Healing Brush

This worked very well during retouching. Switching between the two tools directly with my thumb was faster and more convenient than repeatedly reaching for the keyboard or clicking the toolbar.

The M7 was comfortable during longer Photoshop sessions. Its low weight made repeated small movements feel effortless, and the sensor was precise enough for detailed retouching, selections, and brush work.

I still really like the MacBook trackpad for general navigation and gestures. However, for retouching and other precise movements, a proper mouse remains much more practical for me.

This is one of the main reasons I plan to use the M7 as both a home mouse and a travel companion for my MacBook.

Casual gaming

I also tested the M7 in Counter-Strike.

Compared with my previous mouse, it felt more responsive and easier to control. Fast corrections and smaller aiming movements felt more precise.

I suspect that the extremely low weight made a bigger difference to me than the more advanced polling-rate options. Moving and stopping the mouse required noticeably less effort than with my previous heavier mouse.

I am not a competitive professional player, and gaming is not my primary use case. Still, the M7 performed very well for casual gaming:

• Stable 2.4 GHz connection
• No tracking problems
• No cursor jumps
• Responsive movement
• Comfortable buttons
• Easier fast corrections than with my previous mouse

For my mixed setup, I like that I can use Bluetooth for normal Mac productivity and then switch to the receiver for gaming on Windows.

Battery experience

After approximately one week of use:

• Daily use was around 8 to 10 hours
• Approximately 90% of the use was over Bluetooth
• Approximately 10% was with the 2.4 GHz receiver
• I did not switch the mouse off between sessions
• The remaining battery level was around 50%

This was not a controlled battery benchmark, so I would not use it to calculate an exact total runtime.

It is simply a representation of my normal mixed use. For that kind of productivity-focused usage, the result has been reassuring so far.

The mouse can also be used while connected to the included cable, so charging does not need to interrupt work or gaming.

Keychron Desk Mat

The Desk Mat is genuinely huge.

There is enough room for both my Keychron K5 keyboard and the M7 without making the setup feel crowded. The large surface also gives me plenty of space for wider mouse movements.

The main things I liked about it:

• Smooth surface with very good mouse glide
• Comfortable under the wrists
• Not rough or irritating
• Large enough for both a full-size keyboard and mouse
• Stitched edges that I do not notice during normal use
• Rubber base keeps the setup firmly in place
• No unpleasant rubber or chemical smell
• Flattened completely after approximately one day

The surface feels smooth without being excessively slippery. The M7 moves across it easily, but I still feel in control of the movement.

It is also comfortable where my wrists and arms rest on the desk. The stitched edges do not dig into my arm or become distracting.

The mat did not lie completely flat immediately after being removed from the packaging, but after around one day it had smoothed out properly.

Interestingly, the Desk Mat comes with a surprisingly nice storage pouch, while I could not find any protective pouch for the mouse itself.

Considering how suitable the M7 is for travel, I think a simple mouse pouch would have been useful. Luckily, I now have the Desk Mat pouch, so I can improvise when carrying the mouse with my MacBook.

What I liked

• Extremely low 67 gram measured weight
• Lighter than my previous wired mouse
• Comfortable shape for my medium-sized hand and palm grip
• High and supportive rear section
• Clean and minimal design
• Crisp buttons with clear feedback
• Comfortable side buttons
• Balanced scroll wheel
• Stable Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz connections
• Precise tracking
• Works on glass
• Deep customization through the Keychron Launcher
• Launcher settings are accessible through the wireless receiver
• Useful for both Photoshop work and casual gaming
• Good compatibility with both Mac and Windows setups
• Excellent pairing with the large Desk Mat

What could be improved

• No internal storage compartment for the wireless receiver
• No protective carrying pouch for the mouse
• A native USB-C receiver would be more convenient for MacBook users
• Main clicks may be too loud for quiet environments
• Matte black surface attracts fingerprints
• Bottom feet scratch relatively easily
• Back and Forward did not work by default in Safari or Finder
• The forward-most side button is less comfortable for me to reach
• Small wake-up delay on my Mac
• The polling-rate selector was clearer in the Launcher than in the manual

Overall

The M7 surprised me more than I expected.

Its biggest strength is not simply that it weighs 67 grams. It is that it manages to feel incredibly light without also feeling tiny, flat, or uncomfortable.

The raised rear section supports my palm properly, the buttons provide clear feedback, the scroll wheel feels balanced, and the sensor has been reliable on every surface I tried, including glass.

For productivity, it works well with my Mac and has already improved my Photoshop workflow through custom side-button assignments. For casual gaming, it feels faster and easier to control than my previous wired mouse.

The Keychron Launcher provides far more customization than I personally need, but that also means the M7 can serve users with much more specific preferences. It can remain simple for productivity use or be adjusted in much greater detail for gaming.

The Desk Mat is also a very good match. It is large, smooth, comfortable under the wrists, and keeps both the keyboard and mouse firmly in place.

My plan is to use the M7 partly as my main home productivity and gaming mouse, and partly as a travel mouse for my MacBook. That combination is probably where it makes the most sense for me.

After switching from a heavier wired mouse, picking up the M7 still feels strange in the best possible way. It is difficult to believe that something this light contains a battery and a complete wireless system.

If you have any questions or would like me to test something specific, feel free to ask.

Disclosure: Keychron sent me this keyboard for review purposes. I was not paid, and Keychron did not tell me what to write or ask to review the post before publishing. This is the normal production model, not a prototype. These are my own thoughts after using it for about a week.

I wanted to try the Keychron K5 QMK Version 2 because I was looking for a low-profile mechanical keyboard that would still feel familiar coming from MacBook keyboards.

My previous main keyboard was a Razer Ornata. That is not a real mechanical keyboard, it is a mecha-membrane board, so it has some clicky/tactile feeling, but underneath it is still membrane-based. I liked the feedback of it, but I wanted something cleaner, slimmer and more flexible, especially for Mac use.

I also did not want a huge full-height mechanical keyboard. I like the MacBook Pro keyboard more than most people seem to, so low-profile was very important to me.

The version I tested is the Keychron K5 QMK Version 2, ISO layout, Brown switches.

I used it with:

• Mac mini M4
• MacBook Pro
• iPad
• Windows gaming PC

Mostly for writing, browsing, normal Mac work, some Lightroom/Photoshop use, and casual gaming on Windows.

Setup

I updated the firmware before using it properly. The process was simple and did not feel intimidating, even as someone who is still new to proper mechanical keyboards.

The web-based Keychron Launcher is probably the part that impressed me the most early on. I expected keyboard customization to feel more technical, but the Launcher is actually very easy to understand. It opens in the browser, detects the keyboard, and lets you change keys and layers without installing a large desktop app.

That is a big plus for me on macOS.

Before this, I used Karabiner for some key remapping. It worked, but it always felt like an extra layer sitting on top of the system. With the Keychron, a lot of that can be handled directly on the keyboard, which feels much cleaner.

One of the first things I tried was recreating parts of the Hungarian PC-style layout I am used to. After many years on Windows, I still expect some special characters to be in their old places. I used AI to help generate a custom layout file, loaded it, and now I can use those characters on my Mac without relying on an extra remapping app. That is genuinely one of my favorite things about this keyboard.

Typing feel

The first few minutes felt strange, but not in a bad way. I was just used to a taller keyboard, and the K5 is very slim.

After a short adjustment period, I started typing quickly on it. I still make a few more mistakes when I first sit down, mostly because my fingers are still learning the spacing and height, but after a few minutes it feels natural.

The Brown switches were a good choice for me. They have enough feedback to feel more satisfying than a laptop keyboard, but they are not aggressively tactile. If I could change one thing, I might make them very slightly more tactile, but I also know I would not want a loud or very clicky switch for daily use.

The travel distance feels right. It is not laptop-short, but it is also not the big full-height mechanical feeling I was trying to avoid. For me, this is a good middle ground.

Coming from the Ornata, the difference is noticeable. The Ornata gives you a clicky sensation, but the K5 feels more controlled and more refined. It does not feel like a gaming keyboard trying to imitate a mechanical switch. It feels like a proper low-profile mechanical keyboard.

Build quality and keycaps

The build quality is really good.

I was slightly worried that a low-profile full-size keyboard might feel a bit light or toy-like, but it does not. It feels solid on the desk, and the overall finish is better than I expected.

The keycaps have an interesting texture. The top surface feels slightly soft, almost a little rubbery, but in a pleasant way. It gives a nice grip under the fingers. The only downside is that it seems to pick up smudges a bit. Not a major issue, but I noticed it.

Part of me would prefer the surface to be a little smoother, closer to the MacBook Pro keyboard. But this might also change with use. Keycaps often feel a bit different after some time.

The larger keys feel fine to me. I am not going to pretend I can deeply analyze stabilizers, but nothing felt cheap, rattly or annoying in normal use.

Lighting

The RGB looks good. I usually do not use crazy rainbow effects, but the lighting itself is nice and clean.

There is some light leak around the keys. I noticed it, but it does not bother me. With a low-profile board, I think this is pretty understandable.

I like the colored Escape key. It adds a bit of character without making the keyboard look too gamer-ish. I would have liked a colored Enter key in the box too.

One small thing I would change is the Caps Lock indicator. There is a bright blue LED at the top of the keyboard. It works, but I would prefer if the Caps Lock key itself changed color when active. That would look cleaner and would be easier to notice without adding another bright indicator.

Mac, Windows and iPad

This is where the keyboard makes the most sense for my setup.

I like that it has a Mac/Windows switch. On Windows, I want normal F1 to F12 behavior. On macOS, I want the media keys and system controls to behave like an Apple keyboard. The K5 handles this well.

The media keys worked properly on macOS from the beginning.

Bluetooth pairing was also easy. I tested it with my Mac mini, MacBook and iPad, and switching between them has been smooth. The iPad paired without any issue, and moving between desktop, laptop and tablet feels surprisingly seamless.

I use it wired a lot on the Mac mini, mostly because it is sitting on the desk anyway. But Bluetooth has also been stable for me. I have not had dropouts or random connection problems so far.

I do still wish this model had a 2.4 GHz dongle option like the K5 Max. Not because Bluetooth has been bad, because it has been completely fine for me, but because extra connection options are always useful. For a mixed Mac, Windows and gaming PC setup, Bluetooth plus 2.4 GHz plus USB-C would make the keyboard feel more complete.

Windows gaming

I tried it on my Windows gaming PC too.

For casual gaming, it feels good. I am not a competitive player and I did not do latency measurements, so I am not going to overstate that part. But for normal gaming, I had no issue with it.

If I were playing something where I really cared about consistency, I would use it wired. That is also where the missing 2.4 GHz option comes in. The keyboard works fine as it is, but a dongle would make more sense for people who want wireless on a gaming PC.

Still, I like the fact that it does not feel like a Mac-only keyboard. It fits nicely into a mixed setup.

Keychron Launcher

The Launcher is a big part of why I like the keyboard.

It is easy to use, and the fact that it runs in the browser makes it feel lightweight. I changed keys, checked layers and experimented with layouts without feeling like I had to learn a whole new ecosystem first.

I did run into one issue on macOS.

The Quick Launch Application feature did not show apps that are inside subfolders in the Applications folder. Adobe apps are a good example. Photoshop and Lightroom create their own folders, and I could not select them the way I expected.

It would be useful if the Launcher could scan subfolders, or if there were a manual file picker.

The other thing I noticed was the battery indicator shortcut. When I moved it to another key on Layer 1, it did not seem to work for me. Maybe I set something wrong, but I could not get it to behave the way I expected.

These are not dealbreakers, but they feel like software things that could be improved.

Cable

The included cable feels good. It is braided and looks/feels better than a random cheap cable.

But I would have preferred USB-C to USB-C.

The included cable is USB-A to USB-C. I understand why they include it, but as a Mac user, almost everything on my desk is USB-C now. Ideally, I would like to see both cables in the box, or at least a small adapter.

Small suggestion about switches

I think it would be very useful if Keychron included one sample switch of each available type in the box.

For example: one Red, one Brown and one Banana.

Choosing switches as a first-time mechanical keyboard user is difficult. You can read descriptions and watch videos, but it is still mostly guesswork until you actually press them. Including one of each would probably not add much cost, and it might even encourage people to buy a full switch pack later if they discover they prefer another type.

I chose Brown and I think I chose correctly, but I would still love to physically try the other options.

After a week

After a week, I am already sure this keyboard will stay on my desk.

That is probably the simplest summary. I wanted something that felt like an upgrade from my Ornata, but not something so tall and mechanical that it would feel alien after years of MacBook keyboards. The K5 QMK V2 fits that very well.

It feels slim, fast and comfortable, but still more satisfying than a laptop keyboard. The full-size layout is also important for me. I know a lot of people like compact boards, but I still use the numpad, and I am glad I did not give that up.

As a photographer and creative user, I also like how it looks. It is clean enough for a normal desk setup, but the lighting and accent key give it a bit of personality.

It also made me curious about Keychron’s mice. If their mouse experience is as polished as this keyboard, I would definitely be interested in trying one in the future.

Things I liked

• Very good build quality
• Comfortable low-profile typing feel
• Brown switches feel like a good middle ground
• Full-size layout with numpad
• Easy firmware update
• Keychron Launcher is actually useful
• Key remapping without relying on Karabiner
• Works well across Mac, Windows and iPad
• Bluetooth switching between devices has been smooth
• Bluetooth connection has been stable
• Media keys worked properly on macOS
• RGB looks good
• Nice braided cable
• Good for casual Windows gaming when wired

Things I would change

• Quick Launch should detect apps inside subfolders on macOS
• Battery indicator shortcut did not work for me after remapping it
• I would prefer Caps Lock to change the key color instead of using the bright top LED
• USB-C to USB-C cable would be better for Mac users
• The keycaps can look a little smudgy
• A colored Enter key would be nice
• Including sample switches in the box would be very helpful
• A version with Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz dongle and USB-C would be even better

Final thoughts

The K5 QMK Version 2 is a very suitable keyboard for me to like.

It does not feel like a niche enthusiast board that I have to adapt my whole setup around. It feels like a practical, well-built low-profile keyboard that happens to be much more customizable than the usual Apple or Logitech-style productivity keyboards.

If you are coming from a MacBook keyboard, Apple Magic Keyboard, Logitech MX Keys or a mecha-membrane keyboard like the Razer Ornata, and you want to try a proper mechanical keyboard without going full chunky mechanical keyboard mode, I think this is a very strong option.