This hall effect gaming keyboard is so fast it should be illegal

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Hall effect switches are the newest innovation in mechanical keyboards. Unlike traditional switches that use physical pins, these use magnets. A key benefit is that you can adjust exactly how much pressure it takes to register a keystroke.

This technology improves gaming by allowing keystrokes to register without fully pressing the keys. Several keyboard brands, including Keychron and Glorious, specialize in this type of keyboard, and even larger companies like Corsair are beginning to offer them.

Syntech is a recently launched brand aiming to compete in the keyboard market. It’s one of many Chinese companies that have quickly become popular, and like most of them, Syntech focuses on products for keyboard hobbyists.

How much does the Syntech Chronos 68 cost?

Syntech, famous for its portable gaming console and VR accessories for the Meta Quest, is now entering the mechanical keyboard market with the Chronos 68. This keyboard is a compact 65% size, featuring 68 keys total. It’s available in white or black and costs $139.

I have the white keyboard, which has bright yellow details that make it look more appealing. Its compact size is great because it doesn’t take up much space on my desk. The keyboard’s frame is made of aluminum, but it still only weighs around 850 grams. This weight, combined with the rubber feet on the bottom, keeps it stable and prevents it from sliding around.

The Chronos 68, like many keyboards in its class, uses two layers of foam to improve how it feels to type on – and it really does make a noticeable difference. While it doesn’t have the flexible ‘bounce’ of some other keyboards, the keys press smoothly and the sound is good. I used it for two months and was very impressed with how well it’s built – I didn’t find any flaws.

I especially appreciate that the keycaps have clear lettering, letting the RGB lighting really stand out. The LEDs are bright, and there are plenty of fun lighting effects to choose from. The keycaps themselves are made of high-quality PBT plastic, and the matte finish prevents fingerprints, so they still look brand new even after two months of use.

I was really impressed with the Chronos 68’s hall effect switches. What’s cool is you can actually change them to suit your preferences. While the keyboard comes with Outemu Magnetic Sealed Switches, Syntech also offers Gateron Magnetic Jade Pro linear switches, which are fantastic. Just be aware that upgrading to the Gateron switches will cost you an extra $40.

I’ve been trying out the Outemu Magnetic switches, and they’re not bad. However, I still like Gateron Jade Pros better – they feel smoother and more comfortable for everyday typing. The Outemu switches are a good option, especially considering they’re much more affordable.

Being able to change when the keys register is a really cool feature, and it definitely improves the gaming experience. While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of keyboards from brands like Razer and Corsair-such as lots of RGB lighting options or control knobs-the Chronos 68 does the essential things very well. I still like the Glorious GMMK 3 Pro, but the Syntech keyboard costs significantly less-less than a third of the price-and still offers high-quality hall effect switches.

If you’re looking for a gaming keyboard with customizable keys and a solid build, the Chronos 68 is a great choice. It competes with top-tier keyboards, and I don’t have many criticisms to offer.

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2025-09-30 17:10