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Compare Jamesdonkey A3 V3 vs A3 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two generations of Jamesdonkey's 75% gasket-mounted keyboard. The choice is difficult because both share a core layout and hot-swap design, but diverge on key features like case material, firmware, and wireless protocols. The A3 V3 introduces an aluminum case and QMK support, while the original A3 retains Bluetooth for multi-device use and offers more stock switch types.

82
JAMESDONKEY A3 3.0 QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
82
JAMESDONKEY A3 Gasket Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Released in 2024
  • Has Linear switch options
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 3750 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1200 g
  • Sized at 42 x 148 x 329 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Released in 2022
  • Has Clicky, Linear, Tactile switch options
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 3000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1000 g
  • Sized at 40 x 136 x 321 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Polycarbonate, Plastic, PBT case
Scores
  • Performance: 70.9
  • Build Quality: 79.1
  • Productivity: 89.7
  • Customizability: 83
  • Portability: 82
Scores
  • Performance: 62.1
  • Build Quality: 71.8
  • Productivity: 92.2
  • Customizability: 87.8
  • Portability: 82.2
Name
Jamesdonkey A3 V3
Name
Jamesdonkey A3
Release year
2024
Release year
2022
Switch Options
Linear
Switch Options
Clicky, Linear, Tactile
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
Display Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
Connection
2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
3750 mAh
Battery capacity
3000 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
Gasket Mount
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
ABS, Polycarbonate, Plastic, PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
42 x 148 x 329 mm
Dimensions
40 x 136 x 321 mm
Weight
1200g
Weight
1000g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you value a metal build, deep programmability with QMK, and potentially better gaming latency, the Jamesdonkey A3 V3 is the clear pick. If connecting to phones and tablets via Bluetooth or having a choice of stock switch types is more important, the original Jamesdonkey A3 remains a versatile option, especially if found at a lower price.

Jamesdonkey A3 V3

  • +Aluminum case construction for a premium, solid feel.
  • +QMK/VIA firmware support for extensive, easy key programming.
  • +Larger 3750mAh battery capacity for longer wireless use.
  • +Features a five-layered sound-absorbing padding structure.
  • +Includes upgraded TTC Iron V2 linear switches with a durable POM shell.
  • −Lacks Bluetooth connectivity, limiting wireless multi-device use.
  • −Heavier at 1200g and slightly larger than the A3.
  • −Only available with linear switch type in the provided listing.

Jamesdonkey A3

  • +Tri-mode connectivity includes Bluetooth 5.1, 2.4GHz, and wired USB-C.
  • +Wider initial switch selection includes linear, tactile, and clicky types.
  • +Lighter weight (1000g) and marginally more compact dimensions.
  • +Vendor listing confirms compatibility with iOS and Android devices.
  • +Includes screw-in stabilizers, which are favored for modding stability.
  • −Case is constructed from ABS and polycarbonate plastic, not aluminum.
  • −Smaller 3000mAh battery compared to the A3 V3.
  • −Uses a proprietary software driver instead of open-source QMK.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The A3 V3 takes the lead for gaming and programming due to its aluminum build and QMK support. The original A3 is better suited for office and travel use, thanks to its Bluetooth connectivity and slightly more portable form factor. For modding and content creation, the keyboards are evenly matched, sharing core features like hot-swap sockets, gasket mounts, and a control knob.

GamingJamesdonkey A3 V3
  • •The A3 V3's aluminum case may provide a more solid foundation.
  • •Its vendor description mentions 'ultra-low latency performance' and 'delay-free response'.
  • •The TTC Iron V2 linear switches are specifically noted for a 1.4mm pre-travel, which can benefit fast actuation.
OfficeJamesdonkey A3
  • •The A3 includes Bluetooth 5.1 for connecting to multiple devices like laptops, tablets, or phones.
  • •Its vendor listing states compatibility with Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
  • •The compact 75% layout with a volume knob saves desk space while retaining essential keys.
ProgrammingJamesdonkey A3 V3
  • •The A3 V3 supports QMK/VIA firmware for deep, flexible key remapping and macro creation.
  • •Its vendor page states the QMK driver is web-based and requires no installation for customization.
  • •The full-key programmability allows for creating layers and shortcuts tailored to coding workflows.
TravelJamesdonkey A3
  • •The A3 is slightly lighter at 1000g compared to the A3 V3's 1200g.
  • •Its dimensions are marginally smaller (321x136x40mm vs 329x148x42mm).
  • •Bluetooth connectivity means one less dongle to carry for use with mobile devices.
ModdingTie
  • •Both keyboards feature full-key hot-swappable sockets supporting 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
  • •Both use a gasket mount design and include sound-dampening foam.
  • •The A3 V3 has an aluminum case, while the A3's listing mentions screw-in stabilizers, which are often preferred for modding.
Content CreationTie
  • •Both have a dedicated multimedia control knob for volume and playback.
  • •Both offer a 75% layout that balances functionality with a compact footprint for a clear desk setup.
  • •RGB backlighting with multiple effects is present on both models for visual customization.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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