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Compare Jamesdonkey R2 vs RS2 4.0 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two high-value Jamesdonkey keyboards. The choice is difficult because both share an aluminum case, gasket mount, and triple-mode connectivity. The core decision hinges on whether you prefer a barebones DIY project or a ready-to-use keyboard, and how you value weight versus specific firmware features.

77
JAMESDONKEY R2 Aluiminum Wireless DIY Kit
81
JAMESDONKEY RS2 4.0 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Released in 2023
  • Has Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Equipped with a 6000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 2205 g
  • Sized at 45 x 401 x 146 mm
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Linear switch options
  • Available in a 96% layout
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1150 g
  • Sized at 34 x 405 x 138 mm
Scores
  • Performance: 57
  • Build Quality: 64.9
  • Productivity: 88.2
  • Customizability: 82.3
  • Portability: 64.8
Scores
  • Performance: 58
  • Build Quality: 71.2
  • Productivity: 93.2
  • Customizability: 82.6
  • Portability: 53.3
Name
Jamesdonkey R2
Name
Jamesdonkey RS2 4.0
Release year
2023
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Clicky
Switch Options
Linear
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
100%, 96%
Layout Size
96%, 95%
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
6000 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
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
45 x 401 x 146 mm
Dimensions
34 x 405 x 138 mm
Weight
2205g
Weight
1150g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your choice depends primarily on your desired involvement level. Opt for the Jamesdonkey R2 if you enjoy building keyboards from a kit and prioritize maximum battery life. Choose the Jamesdonkey RS2 4.0 if you want a lighter, pre-assembled keyboard with robust QMK software support for key remapping.

Jamesdonkey R2

  • +Sold as a customizable DIY kit for hands-on builders.
  • +Larger 6000mAh battery capacity for extended wireless use.
  • +Includes a custom FR4 positioning plate.
  • +Features multi-layered internal padding (IXPE, Poron, silicone).
  • +Heavier 2205g construction may provide a more substantial feel.
  • −Requires assembly, as it's a DIY kit, not pre-built.
  • −Significantly heavier at 2205g, reducing portability.
  • −Lacks the explicit QMK firmware support mentioned for the RS2 4.0.

Jamesdonkey RS2 4.0

  • +Comes pre-built and ready to use out of the box.
  • +Explicitly supports QMK and a web-based driver for customization.
  • +Much lighter at 1150g, making it easier to move.
  • +Features four layers of internal sound-dampening foam.
  • +Includes Kailh Jam Ice Cream linear switches pre-installed.
  • −Smaller 4000mAh battery compared to the R2.
  • −Vendor description does not mention a specific plate material like FR4.
  • −Pre-built nature offers less of a foundational project for hardcore modders.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The RS2 4.0 wins for programming due to QMK support and for travel due to its much lighter weight. The R2 is the clear choice for modding enthusiasts as a DIY kit. For gaming, office use, and content creation, the keyboards are closely matched, sharing core features like connectivity, layout, and acoustic design.

GamingTie
  • •Both offer low-latency 2.4 GHz and wired modes.
  • •Both feature gasket-mounted designs for a soft typing feel.
  • •The R2 has a larger 6000mAh battery for longer wireless sessions.
OfficeTie
  • •Both have compact 96% layouts with multimedia keys and a volume knob.
  • •Both support Bluetooth for multi-device connectivity.
  • •Both include sound-dampening foam for a quieter environment.
ProgrammingJamesdonkey RS2 4.0
  • •The RS2 4.0 explicitly supports QMK and a web-based driver for deep key remapping.
  • •Its lighter weight (1150g) may be preferable for long sessions.
  • •The pre-built nature means it's ready to code on immediately.
TravelJamesdonkey RS2 4.0
  • •The RS2 4.0 is significantly lighter at 1150g compared to the R2's 2205g.
  • •Both are similar in footprint, but the RS2 4.0's lower weight is a clear advantage for portability.
ModdingJamesdonkey R2
  • •The R2 is sold as a DIY kit, intended for custom assembly.
  • •It includes a custom FR4 plate, a feature not mentioned for the RS2 4.0.
  • •Its multi-layered internal padding (IXPE, Poron, silicone) offers a foundation for sound tuning.
Content CreationTie
  • •Both feature customizable multimedia knobs for controlling volume or other parameters.
  • •Full layouts provide dedicated navigation and number pads for efficiency.
  • •RGB backlighting is available on both for aesthetic setups.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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