Not sure which keyboard to choose? Try the Keyboard Finder now!

Compare Dareu A104 Pro vs Jamesdonkey R2 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between raw performance and premium construction. The Dareu A104 Pro is a pre-built, wired keyboard focused on ultra-low latency with an 8000Hz polling rate and a TFT screen. The Jamesdonkey R2 is a wireless DIY kit featuring an aluminum case, gasket mount, and extensive sound dampening. The decision is difficult because each excels in fundamentally different areas, with minimal overlap in their core strengths.

67
DAREU A104PRO Wired 8KHZ Mechanical Keyboard
77
JAMESDONKEY R2 Aluiminum Wireless DIY Kit

Select a keyboard to compare

0.0 (0)
0.0 (0)
  • Has Linear switch options
  • Includes a Yes, TFT display
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Enables rapid trigger functionality
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Runs at a 8000 Hz polling rate
  • Weighs about 1185 g
  • Sized at 30 x 138 x 448 mm
  • Made with a Plastic case
  • Has Clicky switch options
  • Includes a No display
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 6000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 2205 g
  • Sized at 45 x 401 x 146 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
Scores
  • Performance: 88.5
  • Build Quality: 48.7
  • Productivity: 66
  • Customizability: 76.5
  • Portability: 42.2
Scores
  • Performance: 57.4
  • Build Quality: 65
  • Productivity: 88.3
  • Customizability: 82.7
  • Portability: 65
Name
Dareu A104 Pro
Name
Jamesdonkey R2
Release year
2023
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Linear
Switch Options
Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
100%
Layout Size
100%, 96%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
TFT
Display Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
8000 Hz
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
-
Battery capacity
6000 mAh
Hall Effect Support
 
Hall Effect Support
 
QMK Support
 
QMK Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIAL Support
 
VIAL Support
 
N-Key Rollover
 
N-Key Rollover
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Mount Style
-
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Plastic
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
30 x 138 x 448 mm
Dimensions
45 x 401 x 146 mm
Weight
1185g
Weight
2205g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you are a competitive gamer where every millisecond counts, the wired Dareu A104 Pro with its 8000Hz polling rate is the logical pick. For everyone else—especially those who value a clean wireless setup, premium materials, and the joy of building a custom keyboard—the Jamesdonkey R2 offers a significantly more refined and versatile foundation.

Dareu A104 Pro

  • +Ultra-high 8000Hz polling rate for minimal input latency.
  • +Includes a customizable TFT display screen.
  • +Pre-built with linear switches and rapid trigger functionality.
  • +Features screw-in stabilizers for improved key stability.
  • +Full 104-key layout with N-key rollover.

  • Wired-only connectivity limits placement and adds cable clutter.
  • Plastic case construction, compared to the aluminum alternative.
  • Lacks the internal sound dampening layers found in the other option.

Jamesdonkey R2

  • +Premium 6063 aluminum alloy case with CNC machining.
  • +Versatile tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, wired).
  • +Gasket mount design with multi-layered internal padding (IXPE, Poron, silicone).
  • +Large 6000mAh battery for extended wireless use.
  • +Sold as a DIY kit, ideal for customization enthusiasts.

  • No screen or display is included.
  • Heavier weight (2205g) due to the aluminum construction.
  • Comes with clicky switches by default, which may not suit all preferences.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Dareu A104 Pro is the clear choice for competitive gamers who prioritize the lowest possible latency. The Jamesdonkey R2 wins for office use, travel, and modding due to its wireless versatility, compact form, and DIY-friendly construction. For programming, both are capable, and for content creation, the R2's wireless operation and customizable knob give it an edge.

GamingDareu A104 Pro
  • The Dareu A104 Pro has a specified 8000Hz polling rate for minimal input latency.
  • It includes a Rapid Trigger feature, which is often favored for gaming.
  • It is a pre-built unit with linear switches, which are commonly preferred for gaming.
OfficeJamesdonkey R2
  • The Jamesdonkey R2 offers versatile Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity for a cleaner desk.
  • Its 6000mAh battery provides extended use between charges.
  • The compact 100-key layout saves desk space while retaining essential keys.
ProgrammingTie
  • Both keyboards feature a full set of keys, with the Dareu using a standard 104-key layout and the Jamesdonkey using a compact 100-key layout.
  • Both have hot-swappable sockets for customizing switch feel.
  • Both include a multifunction knob for controlling volume or other functions.
TravelJamesdonkey R2
  • The Jamesdonkey R2 supports wireless operation, eliminating the need for a cable.
  • Its compact 100-key layout is more space-efficient than a full 104-key board.
  • The vendor description lists it as a kit, which may allow for lighter travel if switches and keycaps are packed separately.
ModdingJamesdonkey R2
  • The Jamesdonkey R2 is sold as a DIY kit/barebones unit, designed for customization from the start.
  • It features a gasket mount design and multiple internal padding layers (IXPE, Poron, silicone) for tuning sound and feel.
  • It has an aluminum case and an FR4 plate, which are popular materials in the custom keyboard community.
Content CreationJamesdonkey R2
  • Wireless connectivity on the Jamesdonkey R2 reduces cable clutter for a cleaner workspace setup.
  • The multifunction knob can be customized for media control or timeline scrubbing.
  • The premium aluminum build and damped typing feel may provide a more satisfying long-term user experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


Discover similar products

You might also like similar products in that price range:

71
$169
Block Mechanical Keyboard
Lofree Block
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Screen,
White LEDs,
Knob,
Gasket Mount

69
$166
JAMESDONKEY R4 Gasket QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
Jamesdonkey R4
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

77
$178
Keydous NJ98-CP V3 Rapid Trigger Three Mode HE Keyboard
Keydous NJ98 CP V3 HE
98%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Screen,
RGB,
Knob,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
Alu case

98
$167
Keychron Q14 Pro (Alice Layout) QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q14 Pro
96%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

68
$169
Nubia REDMAGIC K100J Mechanical Keyboard
REDMAGIC Nubia K100J
96%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Screen,
RGB,
Knob,
Rapid trigger,
Metal case,
Gasket Mount

-28% off
94
$221$159
Keychron Q6 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q6 Pro
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

96
$149
Keychron Q3 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q3 Pro
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

95
$159
Keychron Q5 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q5 Pro
96%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

90
$188
Qwertykeys QK101 Keyboard
Qwertykeys QK101
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Screen,
RGB,
VIA,
Alu case,
Top Mount

76
$139
Nuphy Air100 (ISO-DE) White
Nuphy Air100 V3
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount