Jamesdonkey RS2 V3 vs RS2 4.0Screen vs Aluminum Build
Choose the RS2 V3 for its integrated display and clicky switch option, or the RS2 4.0 for its aluminum case, QMK firmware, and improved connectivity.
Which one should you get?
Get the
Jamesdonkey RS2 V3
Screen
- Features a multi-function color display screen for time, date, and system information.
- Available with Gateron G Pro 2.0 Silver or Kailh Box V2 Red switches, including a clicky option.
- Offered in a DIY Kit/Barebones configuration for custom builds.
- Case is constructed from ABS/PC plastic, not aluminum.
- Connectivity is listed simply as 'Wireless' without specifying modes like Bluetooth or 2.4GHz.
- Lacks explicit support for QMK or VIA firmware mentioned in its documentation.
Get the
Jamesdonkey RS2 4.0
Aluminum Build
- Constructed with an aluminum case for a more premium feel and durability.
- Explicitly supports QMK-based firmware for extensive customization.
- Features tri-mode connectivity: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, and wired USB-C.
- Does not include a display screen like the V3 model.
- Switch options appear limited to the linear Kailh Jam Ice Cream in available listings.
- Slightly heavier at 1150 grams compared to the V3's 1134 grams.
Your choice depends on which premium feature you value more. If you want a unique visual interface and the option for clicky switches or a barebones build, the RS2 V3 is the clear pick. If a sturdier aluminum build, advanced QMK programmability, and versatile tri-mode wireless are higher priorities, the RS2 4.0 is the better investment. Both are capable, feature-rich keyboards at a similar price point.
The differences that matter
Skip the 40-row spec sheet. These are the specs that change how each board feels, sounds, and fits your desk.
Jamesdonkey RS2 V3
Jamesdonkey RS2 4.0
Layout size
95%
96%
Connection
Wireless
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
Case material
ABS, Plastic
Aluminum
Switch options
Clicky
Linear
Display
Yes
None
- Jamesdonkey RS2 V3
- Jamesdonkey RS2 4.0
- Performance
- 4758
- Build quality
- 6171
- Productivity
- 6793
- Customizability
- 8582
- Portability
- 5153
- Hot-swappable
- Battery: 4,000 mAh
- Mount style: Gasket Mount
- Knob
- Sound dampening
- Keycaps: PBT
What will you mostly use it for?
The RS2 4.0 takes the lead for gaming and programming due to its claimed low latency and QMK firmware support. For modding and content creation, the RS2 V3's barebones kit option and integrated display screen are significant advantages. Office and travel use are a tie, as both keyboards share core productivity features and a similar, somewhat bulky form factor.
Pick the Jamesdonkey RS2 4.0
- The RS2 4.0 vendor page claims a low-latency connectivity of 1-2ms, which is specified as faster than the previous model.
- It offers tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, wired), providing a reliable wired option for competitive play.
- The linear Kailh Jam Ice Cream switches may be preferred for gaming due to their smooth, consistent actuation.
Jamesdonkey RS2 V3 vs RS2 4.0 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
9 of 22 specs differ
Jamesdonkey RS2 V3
Jamesdonkey RS2 4.0
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Knob
Display
Media keys
Connection
Battery
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Backlight
QMK
Mac & Windows
Released
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Jamesdonkey RS2 V3 vs RS2 4.0: your questions
The most prominent difference is the case material and the presence of a screen. The RS2 V3 has a plastic (ABS/PC) case and a multi-function color display. The RS2 4.0 features an aluminum case and does not have a screen, but adds QMK firmware support and tri-mode wireless connectivity.
The Jamesdonkey RS2 4.0 explicitly lists QMK support as a feature. Its vendor description also mentions a self-developed, QMK-based web driver for customization. The RS2 V3 listing does not mention QMK or VIA support.
The core specifications for the RS2 V3 list its connectivity simply as 'Wireless'. The vendor description mentions 'Versatile Three-Mode Connectivity' but does not specify if Bluetooth is one of those modes. For confirmed Bluetooth, the RS2 4.0 is the safer choice as it explicitly lists Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, and wired modes.
Yes, both the RS2 V3 and RS2 4.0 are listed as having hot-swappable sockets. The RS2 V3 description specifies 3-pin and 5-pin compatible sockets.
Based on the available listing, the RS2 4.0 comes with Kailh Jam Ice Cream linear switches. These are custom POM material switches with a 37gf actuation force and a 1.0mm trigger point, as per the manufacturer's specifications.
Yes. The RS2 V3 is listed with an 'Extra Feature' of 'Diy Kit/Barebones', indicating it is available as a kit without pre-installed switches and keycaps. The RS2 4.0 is listed as 'Pre-Built' without a barebones option mentioned.
Both keyboards focus on sound dampening. The RS2 V3 uses a three-layered sound-absorbing foam design between the PCB, plate, and switches. The RS2 4.0 uses a four-layer internal padding system including ASL sandwich foam, IXPE undershaft padding, and silicone bottom padding. The aluminum case of the 4.0 may also influence the acoustic profile.
Yes, both the Jamesdonkey RS2 V3 and RS2 4.0 list 'Mac/Win Support' as a feature, confirming compatibility with macOS and Windows operating systems.
Both models are equipped with a 4000mAh battery. The RS2 V3 vendor description claims a battery life of up to 4 weeks. A specific runtime for the RS2 4.0 is not provided in the available information.
Both the Jamesdonkey RS2 V3 and RS2 4.0 include a multimedia volume knob. The RS2 V3's description specifies it is a metallic knob.
The RS2 4.0 vendor claims it offers 'delay-free low-latency connectivity' of 1-2ms, which is promoted as faster than the previous RS2 3.0 model. Combined with its tri-mode connectivity (allowing for a reliable wired connection) and linear switches, it is positioned as a suitable keyboard for gaming.
Both the Jamesdonkey RS2 V3 and RS2 4.0 use PBT keycaps. The RS2 V3 description specifies they are dual-tone injection molded PBT, while the RS2 4.0 uses OEM-profile PBT keycaps.
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