Jamesdonkey RS2 4.0 vs RS2 V2Aluminum vs Plastic Build
Choose the RS2 4.0 for its premium aluminum build and included linear switches, or the RS2 V2 if you prefer a DIY kit with clicky switches.
Which one should you get?
Get the
Jamesdonkey RS2 4.0
Aluminum
- Aluminum case construction for a premium feel and stability.
- Larger 4000mAh battery capacity for extended wireless runtime.
- Comes pre-built with custom Kailh Jam Ice Cream linear switches.
- Heavier at 1150g, making it less portable.
- Only available with linear switches in the pre-built configuration.
- May be priced higher than the V2 model.
Get the
Jamesdonkey RS2 V2
Plastic Build
- Sold as a DIY kit/barebones, ideal for custom switch and keycap choices from the start.
- Lighter weight of 950g improves portability.
- Listing confirms compatibility with both 3-pin and 5-pin hot-swap sockets.
- Plastic (ABS+PC) chassis, which may feel less premium than aluminum.
- Smaller 3000mAh battery.
- The listing describes it with clicky Gateron switches, which may not suit quiet environments.
Your primary build material preference dictates the choice. Opt for the Jamesdonkey RS2 4.0 if you want a premium, heavy, and complete keyboard with linear switches and a larger battery. Choose the RS2 V2 if you plan to build your own keyboard from a barebones kit, prefer a lighter plastic build, or want to install your own switches immediately. Both are capable boards centered around a 96% layout.
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 4.0
Jamesdonkey RS2 V2
Battery
4,000 mAh
3,000 mAh
Case material
Aluminum
ABS, Plastic
Switch options
Linear
Clicky
Weight
1,150 g
950 g
QMK
Yes
No
- Jamesdonkey RS2 4.0
- Jamesdonkey RS2 V2
- Performance
- 5864
- Build quality
- 7156
- Productivity
- 9385
- Customizability
- 8283
- Portability
- 5355
- Layout size: 96%
- Connection: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
- Hot-swappable
- Mount style: Gasket Mount
- Knob
- Sound dampening
What will you mostly use it for?
The RS2 4.0 takes the lead for office use and gaming, thanks to its larger battery, claimed low latency, and pre-built convenience. The RS2 V2 is the better choice for modders seeking a barebones kit and has a slight edge for travel due to its lower weight. For programming, both keyboards are equally capable due to their shared layout and hot-swap features.
Pick the Jamesdonkey RS2 4.0
- The RS2 4.0's vendor page claims a low-latency connectivity of 1~2ms.
- Its aluminum case may provide a more stable typing platform.
- It comes pre-built with linear switches, which are often preferred for gaming.
Jamesdonkey RS2 4.0 vs RS2 V2 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
7 of 22 specs differ
Jamesdonkey RS2 4.0
Jamesdonkey RS2 V2
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
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
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Jamesdonkey RS2 4.0 vs RS2 V2: your questions
The most significant difference is the case material. The RS2 4.0 features an aluminum case, while the RS2 V2 uses a plastic (ABS+PC) chassis. This makes the 4.0 heavier and likely more rigid.
No. The Jamesdonkey RS2 4.0 is a pre-built keyboard that includes Kailh Jam Ice Cream linear switches and PBT keycaps. The RS2 V2 is listed as a DIY kit or barebones, which typically means it does not come with switches or keycaps, though its vendor description mentions it includes PBT keycaps and Gateron switches, suggesting some configurations may be pre-built.
The RS2 4.0 has a larger 4000mAh battery compared to the 3000mAh battery in the RS2 V2. Based on capacity alone, the RS2 4.0 should offer longer wireless usage between charges.
Yes, both the Jamesdonkey RS2 4.0 and RS2 V2 feature hot-swappable sockets. The RS2 V2's vendor page specifically notes compatibility with both 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
The RS2 4.0 comes with Kailh Jam Ice Cream switches. According to the vendor, these are linear switches made from POM material with a 37gf actuation force and a 1.0mm pre-travel.
The vendor description for the RS2 V2 mentions it uses Gateron G Pro 2.0 mechanical switches and lists them as clicky. It also references Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switches, indicating switch options may vary.
The RS2 4.0 is advertised with a new web-based online driver based on QMK for remapping and adjustments. The vendor description for the RS2 V2 does not mention specific software, though it supports firmware customization like QMK.
The RS2 4.0 is likely better for quiet environments as it comes with linear switches and has four layers of internal sound-dampening foam. The RS2 V2's listing describes it with clicky switches, which are inherently louder.
Yes, both keyboards offer triple-mode connectivity. You can use them via a wired USB-C connection, a 2.4GHz wireless dongle, or Bluetooth.
Both the Jamesdonkey RS2 4.0 and RS2 V2 use a 96% layout (also listed as 98% or 99-key). This compact layout includes a numpad but removes some navigation keys to save space.
Yes, both keyboards include a multimedia control knob, which can be used for adjusting volume and other functions.
The RS2 4.0 is more suitable as it comes pre-assembled and ready to use straight out of the box. The RS2 V2, being a DIY kit, requires you to source and install your own switches, which adds complexity for a beginner.
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