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Compare Jamesdonkey A3 3.0 vs A3 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two generations of Jamesdonkey's 75% wireless keyboards. The choice is difficult because both share a gasket mount, hot-swappable design, and triple-mode connectivity. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize advanced firmware customization with the newer model or a more cost-effective option with a proven layout.

72
JAMESDONKEY A3 3.0 QMK Gasket Mechanical Keyboard
82
JAMESDONKEY A3 Gasket Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Released in 2024
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Equipped with a 3750 mAh battery
  • Sized at 42 x 148 x 329 mm
  • Released in 2022
  • Has Clicky, Linear, Tactile switch options
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • 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: 53.2
  • Build Quality: 60.4
  • Productivity: 80.1
  • Customizability: 82.5
  • Portability: 75.9
Scores
  • Performance: 62.1
  • Build Quality: 71.8
  • Productivity: 92.2
  • Customizability: 87.8
  • Portability: 82.2
Name
Jamesdonkey A3 3.0
Name
Jamesdonkey A3
Release year
2024
Release year
2022
Switch Options
-
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
Bluetooth, 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
-
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
-
Weight
1000g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If deep customization via QMK, maximum battery life, and the latest switches are critical, the Jamesdonkey A3 3.0 is the clear upgrade. If you seek a more budget-friendly entry into the 75% gasket-mount form factor with core wireless features, the original Jamesdonkey A3 remains a competent option, especially if found at a lower price.

Jamesdonkey A3 3.0

  • +Supports QMK firmware for advanced key remapping and macro creation.
  • +Larger 3750mAh battery capacity for longer wireless use.
  • +Comes with TTC Iron V2 switches featuring a light 42gf actuation force.
  • +Vendor claims an ultra-low 1-2ms response time in wireless modes.
  • +Features five-layered sound-absorbing padding for a quieter typing experience.
  • −Slightly larger and potentially heavier than the original A3 (no weight specified).
  • −Currently listed at a higher single price point.
  • −Lacks the explicit mention of screw-in stabilizers found in the A3's spec list.

Jamesdonkey A3

  • +Available at a lower starting price from some vendors.
  • +Has a confirmed weight of 1000g and slightly smaller footprint.
  • +Listing includes screw-in stabilizers, which are preferred for modding.
  • +Comes with Jamesdonkey x Gateron custom switches as an option.
  • +Features an EVA sound-absorbing padded structure.
  • −Smaller 3000mAh battery compared to the A3 3.0.
  • −Does not have stated support for QMK programmability.
  • −Some user reviews mention concerns about build quality and wireless signal lag.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The A3 3.0 takes the lead for gaming, programming, and content creation due to its claimed low latency and QMK programmability. The original A3 is a better fit for office use and travel, given its potentially lower cost and slightly more compact dimensions. For modding, both are equally capable with their hot-swap sockets and gasket mounts.

GamingJamesdonkey A3 3.0
  • •The vendor description claims an ultra-low latency response of 1-2ms for the A3 3.0.
  • •It features full-key conflict-free operation for simultaneous key presses.
  • •The A3 3.0 comes with TTC Iron V2 switches, which have a short 1.4mm trigger distance.
OfficeJamesdonkey A3
  • •The original A3 is listed at a lower starting price point.
  • •Both have a compact 75% layout with a multimedia knob for volume control.
  • •Both support multi-device connectivity via Bluetooth and 2.4GHz.
ProgrammingJamesdonkey A3 3.0
  • •The A3 3.0 explicitly supports QMK, allowing deep key remapping and macro programming.
  • •Its web-based driver supports Windows, Mac, and Linux systems.
  • •Full-key programmability is listed for both, but QMK offers greater flexibility.
TravelJamesdonkey A3
  • •The original A3 has slightly smaller dimensions (321x136x40mm vs 329x148x42mm).
  • •It is listed with a specific weight of 1000g, indicating a known, portable mass.
  • •Both have a built-in battery for wireless use.
ModdingTie
  • •Both keyboards feature full-key hot-swappable sockets for easy switch changes.
  • •Both utilize a gasket mount structure for a softer typing feel.
  • •The original A3 listing mentions screw-in stabilizers, a modder-friendly feature.
Content CreationJamesdonkey A3 3.0
  • •The A3 3.0's QMK support allows for custom shortcuts and macros for editing software.
  • •Its multimedia knob can be reprogrammed for timeline scrubbing or brush size control.
  • •The larger 3750mAh battery may support longer wireless editing sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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