Jamesdonkey RS2 3.0 vs RS2 4.0Screen vs Enhanced Features
Choose the RS2 4.0 for its superior software, lower latency, and extra features, or the RS2 3.0 only if you prioritize its unique LED screen.
Which one should you get?
Get the
Jamesdonkey RS2 3.0
Screen
- Features a unique multi-functional LED screen for displaying custom images and system info.
- Built with an aluminum case and a gasket mount structure for a premium feel.
- Uses Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switches rated for 80 million keystrokes.
- Lacks RGB backlighting, offering only the LED screen for visual feedback.
- Does not include advanced features like a volume knob or QMK software support.
- Appears to be priced higher than the newer RS2 4.0 model.
Get the
Jamesdonkey RS2 4.0
Enhanced Features
- Offers QMK-based web driver support for extensive software customization.
- Vendor claims a low-latency wireless mode of 1~2ms for faster response.
- Includes a multimedia volume knob and 22 RGB lighting effects.
- Does not include the LED screen found on the RS2 3.0.
- The Kailh switches have a rated lifespan of 50 million keystrokes, lower than the Gateron switches in the 3.0.
- Available in limited color options (Red or Green) according to the vendor page.
For almost all users, the Jamesdonkey RS2 4.0 is the better choice. It provides significant upgrades in software, claimed latency, and practical features like a knob and sound dampening, often at a lower cost. Only consider the RS2 3.0 if the novelty of its customizable LED screen is your absolute top priority and you are willing to forgo the other enhancements.
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 3.0
Jamesdonkey RS2 4.0
Knob
No
Yes
Display
Yes
None
Weight
1,140 g
1,150 g
QMK
No
Yes
Sound dampening
No
Yes
- Jamesdonkey RS2 3.0
- Jamesdonkey RS2 4.0
- Performance
- 5058
- Build quality
- 7271
- Productivity
- 5793
- Customizability
- 5982
- Portability
- 5253
- Layout size: 96%
- Connection: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
- Hot-swappable
- Battery: 4,000 mAh
- Case material: Aluminum
- Switch options: Linear
What will you mostly use it for?
The RS2 4.0 is the decisive winner for most use cases, particularly gaming, office work, programming, and content creation, due to its feature set and claimed performance improvements. It ties with the RS2 3.0 only for travel, as their portability specs are virtually identical. For modding, the RS2 4.0's QMK support and detailed internal padding give it a clear edge. The RS2 3.0's primary advantage is its unique LED screen, which isn't a deciding factor in any specific productivity category outlined here.
Pick the Jamesdonkey RS2 4.0
- The RS2 4.0 vendor page claims a low-latency connectivity of 1~2ms, which is stated to be faster than the previous model.
- It includes 22 different RGB lighting effects, while the RS2 3.0 has no RGB.
- Both share the same triple-mode wireless connectivity for flexibility.
Jamesdonkey RS2 3.0 vs RS2 4.0 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
10 of 21 specs differ
Jamesdonkey RS2 3.0
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
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Backlight
QMK
Mac & Windows
Released
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Jamesdonkey RS2 3.0 vs RS2 4.0: your questions
The RS2 3.0 has a multi-functional LED screen but lacks RGB and advanced software. The RS2 4.0 removes the screen but adds QMK support, a volume knob, RGB lighting, and the manufacturer claims improved low-latency wireless performance.
Both use gasket-mounted aluminum cases. The RS2 4.0 has a potential advantage for sound and feel, as its vendor description specifically mentions four layers of internal padding including ASL Sandwich Foam, IXPE undershaft padding, and silicone bottom padding.
Yes, both the Jamesdonkey RS2 3.0 and RS2 4.0 list Mac and Windows support in their specifications and can switch between systems using key combinations.
Yes, both models feature hot-swappable sockets, allowing you to easily replace the switches without soldering. They are compatible with 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches.
Based on the vendor description, the RS2 4.0 claims to have faster speeds and a low-latency connectivity of 1~2ms compared to the previous RS2 3.0 model. Both support Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, and wired USB-C connections.
The RS2 3.0 comes with Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switches. The RS2 4.0 comes with custom Kailh Jam Ice Cream linear switches, which are made from POM material and have a lighter actuation force.
Yes, the RS2 4.0 supports QMK via a web-based driver, allowing for deep key remapping, macro creation, and layer programming. The RS2 3.0 does not list this feature.
The RS2 4.0 vendor page details a four-layer internal padding system with specific foams for sound and shock absorption. The RS2 3.0 description mentions a gasket structure but does not specify similar internal dampening layers.
Both keyboards use PBT keycaps, which are more durable and resistant to shine than ABS. The RS2 3.0 keycaps are described as two-colour, while the RS2 4.0 uses OEM-profile PBT keycaps.
Based on the listed prices, the RS2 4.0 is available at a lower cost than the RS2 3.0, making it a more budget-friendly option for the enhanced feature set.
The RS2 3.0 includes the keyboard, a USB cable, and a user manual. The RS2 4.0 includes the keyboard, a 2.4GHz receiver, a USB Type-C cable, and a user manual.
Yes, both the Jamesdonkey RS2 3.0 and RS2 4.0 are equipped with a 4000mAh rechargeable battery, suggesting similar wireless usage times.
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