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Compare Jamesdonkey R2 V2 vs R4 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two aluminum, gasket-mounted keyboards from Jamesdonkey. The choice is difficult because both share core features like QMK support, hot-swap sockets, and three-mode connectivity. The decision ultimately hinges on whether you prioritize the R2 V2's larger 96% layout with a numpad or the R4's more portable 75% form factor and its unique multi-structure compatibility.

68
JAMESDONKEY R2 2.0 Aluminium Alloy Gasket Mechanical Keyboard
69
JAMESDONKEY R4 Gasket QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Available in a 96% layout
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Weighs about 1950 g
  • Sized at 31 x 151 x 414 mm
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Comes with a knob
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Weighs about 1900 g
  • Sized at 45 x 150 x 329 mm
Scores
  • Performance: 64.7
  • Build Quality: 65.6
  • Productivity: 62.9
  • Customizability: 76
  • Portability: 51.9
Scores
  • Performance: 54.9
  • Build Quality: 67
  • Productivity: 62.9
  • Customizability: 80
  • Portability: 76.7
Name
Jamesdonkey R2 V2
Name
Jamesdonkey R4
Release year
2024
Release year
2024
Switch Options
-
Switch Options
-
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
96%
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
4000 mAh
Battery capacity
4000 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, South-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
31 x 151 x 414 mm
Dimensions
45 x 150 x 329 mm
Weight
1950g
Weight
1900g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you require a numpad daily for spreadsheets, accounting, or data entry, the Jamesdonkey R2 V2 is the logical pick despite its larger size. If desk space is limited, you travel often, or you enjoy tinkering with different mounting styles, the more compact and versatile Jamesdonkey R4 is the better option. Both offer excellent core features like aluminum builds, gasket mounts, and QMK support.

Jamesdonkey R2 V2

  • +Includes a full numpad in a 96% layout for efficient data entry.
  • +Uses an FR4 plate, which is listed in the specifications.
  • +Vendor cites a specific 1-2ms response time for low-latency input.
  • +Features a slotted FR4 positioning board and five-layered internal padding.
  • +Explicitly lists Mac/Win support and N-key rollover as features.
  • −Larger and heavier dimensions (414mm long, 1950g) reduce portability.
  • −Lacks the structural versatility and knob featured on the R4.
  • −The 96% layout consumes more desk space.

Jamesdonkey R4

  • +More compact 75% layout (329mm long) saves desk space.
  • +Vendor states compatibility with multiple internal structures (gasket/top-mounted).
  • +Includes a multimedia volume knob for quick audio control.
  • +Features a geometric metallic counterweight for aesthetic and stability.
  • +Lists multi-media keys as a feature.
  • −No integrated numpad, requiring a separate keypad or layer use for data entry.
  • −The vendor description does not cite a specific response time figure.
  • −Plate material is not specified in the provided metadata.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The R2 V2 is the clear choice for office work and data-heavy tasks due to its integrated numpad, and it also has an edge for gaming with its cited low latency. The compact R4 wins for travel and offers more intrigue for modders with its advertised structural flexibility. For programming, both are equally capable thanks to shared QMK and hot-swap foundations.

GamingJamesdonkey R2 V2
  • •The manufacturer cites a 1-2ms response time for lag-free input.
  • •Full-key N-key rollover is listed as a feature.
  • •The larger 96% layout provides dedicated macro keys without layer switching.
OfficeJamesdonkey R2 V2
  • •The 96% layout includes a full numpad for data entry.
  • •Explicit Mac/Win support is listed in the features.
  • •The vendor description highlights its suitability for work systems.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both keyboards support QMK for extensive key remapping.
  • •Both feature hot-swappable sockets for switch customization.
  • •Both use south-facing RGB LEDs, which are compatible with Cherry-profile keycaps.
TravelJamesdonkey R4
  • •The R4 has a significantly smaller footprint (329mm vs 414mm in length).
  • •It is slightly lighter at 1900g compared to 1950g.
  • •The 75% layout is more space-efficient for tight desks or bags.
ModdingJamesdonkey R4
  • •The R4 vendor page states it is compatible with multiple structures (gasket/top-mounted).
  • •It includes a multimedia volume knob, adding a modifiable component.
  • •Both share a five-layered internal padding and hot-swap sockets.
Content CreationJamesdonkey R2 V2
  • •The dedicated numpad on the R2 V2 is useful for timeline scrubbing and numerical inputs.
  • •Its larger frame may offer more stability during aggressive typing.
  • •The listed multi-media keys on the R4 are not detailed, while the R2's numpad function is clear.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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