In this review, I’ll be examining the Genesis Thor 404 TKL keyboard, available in two variants—one featuring Kailh Box Brown V2 switches and the other equipped with Gateron Yellow Pro switches. How do they perform, and are they up to the task? Let’s dive in and find out.
Unboxing the Genesis Thor 404 TKL
The unboxing of the Genesis Thor 404 TKL keyboards is a delight. Each variant, whether equipped with Kailh Box Brown V2 or Gateron Yellow Pro switches, comes in a sleek, sturdy box that hints at the quality within. The packaging is minimalist yet informative, with clear labeling and a visual representation of the keyboard. Inside, the keyboard is snugly fitted in protective foam, ensuring it arrives in perfect working order. Alongside the keyboard, you’ll find a keycap puller, a switch puller, and a user manual, all neatly arranged.
Design and Build Quality
The Genesis Thor 404 TKL keyboards boast a compact, tenkeyless design that saves desk space without compromising functionality. The build quality is impressive, with a robust plastic chassis that feels durable and premium. The non-floating key design adds to the keyboard’s stability and gives it a sleek, modern look. The RGB backlighting is vibrant and customizable, allowing you to personalize your setup to match your gaming rig or mood.
Key Switches and Typing Experience
The Genesis Thor 404 TKL offers two key switch options: Kailh Box Brown V2 and Gateron Yellow Pro. Each switch type provides a distinct typing experience, catering to different preferences.
- Kailh Box Brown V2 Switches: These switches are tactile and quiet, making them ideal for both gaming and typing. The tactile bump is noticeable but not overly pronounced, providing satisfying feedback without being too loud. The actuation force is moderate, making it easy to type for extended periods without fatigue.
- Gateron Yellow Pro Switches: These linear switches are smooth and fast, perfect for gamers who prefer a swift, uninterrupted keystroke. The actuation force is slightly lighter than the Brown V2, making rapid key presses effortless. The lack of tactile bump means these switches are quieter, which is great for late-night gaming sessions.
Sound Profile
The sound profile of the Genesis Thor 404 TKL varies significantly between the two switch types.
- Kailh Box Brown V2: The sound is muted and subtle, with a gentle click that is not disruptive. This makes it suitable for shared spaces or streaming, where excessive noise can be a distraction.
- Gateron Yellow Pro: These switches produce a soft, consistent sound that is almost inaudible. The smooth keystrokes ensure that the sound remains low, even during intense gaming sessions.
Weight and Portability
Weighing around 842 grams, give or take a gram here or there, the Genesis Thor 404 TKL is a solid yet portable keyboard. The weight adds to its stability on the desk, preventing any unwanted movement during use. Despite its heft, the keyboard is easy to carry around, making it a great option for LAN parties or gaming on the go.
Specifications and Features
The Genesis Thor 404 TKL is packed with features that enhance its functionality and user experience:
- Hot-Swappable Switches: Both variants support hot-swapping, allowing you to easily change switches without soldering. This feature is a boon for enthusiasts who like to customize their keyboards.
- RGB Backlighting: The keyboard features full RGB backlighting with multiple effects and customization options. The lighting is bright and evenly distributed, adding a touch of flair to your setup.
- Anti-Ghosting and N-Key Rollover: These features ensure that every key press is registered accurately, even during the most intense gaming sessions. This is crucial for games that require precise and rapid inputs.
- Durability: The Kailh Box Brown V2 switches are rated for 80 million keystrokes, while the Gateron Yellow Pro switches can withstand up to 60 million keystrokes. This ensures that the keyboard will last for years, even with heavy use.
User Experience
Using the Genesis Thor 404 TKL keyboards is a delight. The compact design and ergonomic layout make it comfortable to use for extended periods. The keycaps are made of high-quality ABS plastic, with a slightly textured surface that provides a good grip. The stabilizers are well-lubricated, ensuring smooth and consistent key presses. I just wish there some better cable management.
Gaming Performance
When it comes to gaming, the Genesis Thor 404 TKL excels. I tested the keyboards with a variety of new releases, including “Space Marine 2” and “Visions of Mana.” The Kailh Box Brown V2 switches provided excellent tactile feedback, making it easy to execute precise movements and commands. The Gateron Yellow Pro switches, on the other hand, offered a smooth and fast response, perfect for fast-paced action games.
The anti-ghosting and N-key rollover features ensured that every key press was registered accurately, even during the most intense battles. The customizable RGB lighting added to the immersive experience, allowing me to set the mood for each game.
Multimedia Experience
The Genesis Thor 404 TKL keyboards are not just for gaming; they also excel in multimedia use. The tactile feedback of the Kailh Box Brown V2 switches made typing long documents a breeze, while the smooth keystrokes of the Gateron Yellow Pro switches were perfect for casual browsing and chatting.
Listening to music and watching movies was a pleasant experience, thanks to the quiet operation of both switch types. The RGB lighting can be adjusted to a subtle glow, creating a relaxing ambience for movie nights.
Conclusion
The Genesis Thor 404 TKL keyboards are a fantastic choice for gamers and typists alike. The combination of high-quality switches, robust build, and customizable features make them a versatile and reliable option. Whether you prefer the tactile feedback of the Kailh Box Brown V2 or the smooth keystrokes of the Gateron Yellow Pro, the Thor 404 TKL has something to offer.
The compact design, vibrant RGB lighting, and hot-swappable switches add to the overall appeal, making it a worthy addition to any setup. If you’re in the market for a new keyboard that delivers on both performance and aesthetics, the Genesis Thor 404 TKL is definitely worth considering.
If I was to score thjis
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I reviewed it and edited it with my partner.
