Ecarke Upgrade Black 5 Keys Mini Macro Mechanical Keyboard Gaming Keypad Hot Swap Game Keyboards USB Data Cable for Windows Mac OSU HID Standard Keyboard Cherry Shaft & RGB LED
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AI Verdict
This is a 5-key hot-swappable mechanical macro pad with RGB, best for OSU! players and specific macro tasks on a budget.
This 5-key macro pad with hot-swappable Red Cherry MX switches and RGB is a specialized tool. It fits specific use cases like OSU! gaming or simple macro programming, especially with its onboard storage. However, the Micro USB connection and reported software complexities make it a situational choice.
If this doesn't quite cut it, look for macro pads with USB-C connectivity and open-source, community-supported configuration software for a smoother experience.
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Pros
- Features hot-swappable switches, allowing users to customize key feel without soldering.
- Onboard storage saves programmed key functions directly on the device, eliminating the need for software on other computers.
- RGB LED backlighting provides customizable visual effects.
- Plug-and-play functionality via USB interface for immediate use on most systems.
- Supports multiple operating systems including Windows, Linux, Mac OS, Android, and Raspberry Pi.
- Compact size and 3.98 ounces weight make it suitable for limited desk space.
Cons
- Uses an older Micro USB connection, which is less durable and secure than USB-C.
- Software for programming macros is reported to be complicated or raise malware concerns by some users.
- Mac OS compatibility requires initial setup on a Windows 7 or above PC.
- Some users report input response times not consistently reaching the advertised 1ms.
- Non-slip pads on the bottom may not provide sufficient grip on all surfaces.
Dimension Scores
The keypad comes with Red Cherry MX switches, which offer a linear and smooth keypress, generally well-regarded for gaming, but it's a 5-key device not intended for extensive typing.
It uses a standard USB interface for plug-and-play functionality, but the Micro USB port is an older standard that can be less robust than USB-C.
The keypad includes RGB LED backlighting with customizable options, which is a strong feature for a budget macro pad.
Constructed from Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), the material is standard for budget devices, though some users report the non-slip pads are not very effective.
Best For
- OSU! gamers seeking a dedicated, customizable input device.
- Users needing programmable macros for specific, repetitive tasks in applications.
- Individuals with limited desk space who require a compact input solution.
- Enthusiasts wanting to experiment with different mechanical switches due to hot-swap capability.
Not Recommended For
- Users who require a simple, driverless setup directly on Mac OS without a Windows PC.
- Competitive gamers where every millisecond of input response time is critical, given reported inconsistencies.
- Anyone who prefers a more robust and modern USB-C connection.
Watch Out For
- The programming software is often described as complicated, not straightforward, and some users express concerns about potential malware.
- The Micro USB port is an older standard, which can be less durable and prone to wear compared to USB-C.
- Despite advertising a 1000Hz polling rate, some users reported actual input response times of 10ms or higher.
- Setting up the keypad for Mac OS requires first configuring it on a Windows 7 or higher operating system.
- The non-slip pads on the base are reported by some users as not being very sticky, potentially allowing the keypad to slide during use.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B09TPJ42BP |
| Brand | Ecarke |
| Color | 5-key |
| Style | Modern |
| Material | Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene |
| Item Weight | 3.98 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Ecarke |
| Special Feature | Non-slip |
| Compatible Devices | PC |
| Package Dimensions | 6.6 x 4.3 x 1 inches |
| Keyboard Description | Gaming |
| Connectivity Technology | Micro USB, USB |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Gaming |
| Keyboard backlighting color support | RGB |
What Buyers Say
Many users specifically purchase this Ecarke 5-key macro pad for rhythm games like OSU!, appreciating its compact form factor and the ability to customize key functions. The hot-swappable switches are a frequently praised feature, allowing for personalized key feel. However, a recurring complaint centers on the programming software, which users describe as clunky, difficult to use, and sometimes raising concerns about malware. Additionally, some individuals have reported that the actual input response time does not consistently meet the advertised 1ms, showing higher latency in tests.
“Got this for OSU! and it works, but the software is a total pain to figure out, and I swear the cable feels like it's gonna break every time I move it. Still, red switches feel okay.”
Common Praise
- Hot-swappable switches allow for easy customization of key feel without needing to solder.
- Onboard memory stores programmed settings, so the keypad works on different devices without re-setup.
- Compact size and lightweight design are ideal for limited desk space or portability.
- RGB backlighting adds an aesthetic appeal and can be customized.
- Default Red Cherry MX switches are often found responsive enough for rhythm games.
Common Complaints
- The programming software is often described as complicated, unintuitive, or raising malware concerns.
- The Micro USB connection is considered outdated and less durable compared to USB-C.
- Reported input response times can be higher than expected, with some users observing 10ms instead of 1ms.
- Mac OS users must configure the keypad on a Windows PC first before it works on their system.
- The non-slip pads on the bottom may not effectively prevent the keypad from moving during intense use.
Ownership Tips
- The included 1.5m Micro USB cable might be too short for some desk setups, requiring a longer replacement.
- The non-slip pads on the base may not be very effective, leading to the keypad shifting during use.
- Customizing the RGB lighting patterns typically requires interacting with the often-criticized programming software.
- While advertised as hot-swappable, the default Red Cherry MX switches are generally considered adequate for the keypad's primary use cases like rhythm games.
- The device is recognized as a standard HID keyboard, which helps with its plug-and-play nature across various operating systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this keypad compatible with Mac computers?
Yes, it is compatible with Mac OS, but you need to set up the key functions on a Windows 7 or above PC first before using it on your Mac.
Can I change the switches on this keypad?
Yes, the keypad features hot-swappable shafts, meaning you can easily replace the default Red Cherry MX switches with other compatible mechanical switches without soldering.
How do I program the keys for custom functions?
You program the keys using a special setting program, which saves the configurations directly onto the keyboard's onboard storage. The software can be downloaded from dl.sayobot.cn/setting.zip.
What type of USB cable does this keypad use?
The keypad connects via a 1.5-meter Micro USB cable.
Does the keypad have customizable lighting?
Yes, it features RGB LED backlighting, which can be customized through the programming software.
Buying Guide
When you're looking at a mini macro keyboard like this, you're buying a specialized tool, not a full keyboard. The key things to focus on are how many keys it has, the type of mechanical switches for the feel you want, and how easy it is to program those keys. Since it's small, think about its connection type (like Micro USB vs. USB-C) and if it has onboard storage so your custom settings travel with the device.
Hot-swappable switches
This means you can easily swap out the mechanical switches (the actual clicky or linear parts under the keycaps) without any soldering. It's like changing the tires on a car – you can customize the 'feel' of each key press to be lighter, heavier, clickier, or smoother, depending on your preference.
Onboard storage
This feature saves all your programmed key functions directly onto the device itself. Imagine it as a tiny brain inside the keypad; you set up your macros once, and then you can plug it into any computer, and your custom keys will still work exactly as you configured them, without needing to install software again.
Micro USB connectivity
This refers to the type of port and cable used to connect the keypad to your computer. Micro USB is an older standard, which means the cable might be less durable and the connection less secure compared to newer, more robust USB-C ports found on many modern devices.
Alternatives
If this one doesn't quite fit your needs, search for macro pads with USB-C connectivity for better durability and look for devices that explicitly mention open-source or highly-rated, user-friendly configuration software.
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