Known for its mechanical keyboard switches and other office accessories, Cherry just released its new KW X ULP mechanical keyboard.
The “ultra low profile” keeb sports Cherry MX Ultra Low Profile (ULP) switches and costs a somewhat high-profile price of $250.
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Cherry KW X ULP slim mechanical keyboard
In its press materials, Cherry placed the all-capped word “ULTRA” in front of a lot of other words when describing the new KW X ULP keyboard: low profile, stylish, versatile, satisfying and lasting. It also said the new keeb features optimized ergonomics and has already won an award.
Here’s the company’s description of its main specialty, the switches, which are also used in other low-profile keyboards:
At the heart of the remarkably slim KW X ULP are CHERRY MX Ultra Low Profile switches. This specially developed switch type has a height of just 3.5 millimeters, which is 70 percent less than standard MX switches, and thus facilitates keyboards that offer the full mechanical typing feel despite their ultra-slim form factor. Additionally, the discreet cupping of the polycarbonate keycaps offers optimal grip.
The keyboard’s casing features a black finish with an anodized and milled aluminium plate on top and edges in silver designed to look good with the device’s monochrome backlighting. Cherry said the keyboard “delivers the precision and durability previously reserved for much thicker mechanical keyboards.”
Cherry XM Ultra Low Profile switches
Developed and manufactured in Germany, Cherry MX Ultra Low Profile switches offer a precise and comfortable typing feel, the company said.
“Perfect anti-ghosting and full-N key rollover ensure that every press is registered — even when things get very busy,” it noted. “Thus, the keyboard is just as much fun to use for writing or programming as it is for an evening of gaming.”
4 ways to connect
Flexible connectivity options include four options, which Cherry called channels. Wireless devices can connect via two Bluetooth 5.2 channels. The included USB-A/USB-C cable connect and charge devices like desktop PCs or gaming consoles.
And here’s the fourth method:
The fourth channel relies on USB as well but works wirelessly. Simply connect the included USB dongle to the device to establish a 2.4 GHz radio connection (with AES 128 encryption). When the dongle is not needed, it can be stowed in the keyboard housing, where it is magnetically secured.
Users can easily switch between the different connection modes by pressing F1-F4. Color LEDs indicate which device is currently active. You can adjust the keyboard’s backlighting through 10 levels or turn it off completely.
Durability and long battery life
Three slip-resistant feet provide stability for the keyboard on a surface. Abrasion-resistant key button labels resist wear. And the Cherry MX Ultra Low Profile switches guarantee up to 50 million actuations per button.
And the rechargeable battery enables long use, as well. Depending on the mode of operation and the selected illumination, users can work in cordless mode for several weeks, Cherry said.
Award-winning
The MX Ultra Low Profile switch received the German Innovation Gold Award ’22 for pioneering excellence. The ultra slim switch topped the “Excellence in Business to Business” and “Office Solutions” categories.
The Cherry KW X ULP also received the Red Dot Design Award 2023.
You can pick up the new keyboard on Amazon for $249.
Where to buy: Amazon
Cherry's new ultra-slim mechanical keyboard benefits from the company's ultra-slim mechanical switches.
