One of the keyboard makers with the largest product range has been a little quiet of late, but Keychron has now opened preorders for its new V6 Ultra Hybrid on Kickstarter . The new keyboard is a full-size hybrid design combining the precision of magnetic switches with the tactile feel of a regular mechanical keyboard that can be fully customized for work, gaming and everyday use.

For a couple of years, anyone who wanted a premium keyboard had to choose between a mechanical keyboard suitable for office typing or magnetic keyboards designed for competitive gaming. Keychron’s V6 Ultra Hybrid was developed to end that tradeoff by bringing both technologies together in a 100% layout, enabling users to move between productivity and gaming without changing keyboards.

The V6 Ultra Hybrid ships with magnetic switches pre-installed and supports compatible mechanical switches for users who want to customize their setup. Powered by next-generation TMR sensing technology, the keyboard also offers Rapid Trigger, Dynamic Keystrokes and Simultaneous Opposite Cardinal Direction customization for more responsive gaming inputs.

“Mechanical keyboards continue to define the typing experience many users prefer, while magnetic switches have introduced new possibilities for gaming performance,” says Fab Chan, co-founder at Keychron. “With the V6 Ultra Hybrid, our goal was to bring both technologies together in a single platform without asking users to choose between work and play.”

The V6 Ultra Hybrid keyboard continues Keychron’s focus on open customization. Users can reconfigure the mapping of individual keys, set up macros and update firmware. Other customizable features include RGB lighting and adjustable actuation distances.

Rapid Trigger, Dynamic Keystrokes and SOCD can be adjusted directly in the Keychron browser-based QMK Launcher. Because it works with a browser like Google Chrome, there’s no need to install separate software.

Keychron is also expanding its software ecosystem with Keychron AI, which is currently available in beta within Keychron Launcher for the V6 Ultra Hybrid. Support will eventually be expanded to other Keychron devices, including the upcoming Keychron Nape Pro trackball mouse.

The built-in AI assistant lets users perform most configuration tasks by using plain language. With simple commands, keys can be remapped, lighting effects changed, macros created and keyboard and mouse settings. By turning natural language requests into Launcher actions, advanced keyboard and mouse customization becomes easier using the flexibility of the underlying QMK platform.

“Powerful hardware is only part of the experience,” continues Chan. “We also want advanced customization to be easier to use. Keychron AI is one example of how we’re simplifying everyday setup while continuing to build tools for enthusiasts who want deeper control.”

Pricing and Availability:

Keychron’s Kickstarter campaign is now live with prices starting at $149 for early backers.

  • Interchangeable use of magnetic and mechanical switches, enabled through the coordinated design of the MCU, firmware, algorithm, TMR sensing technology and hybrid PCB.
  • 0.1 mm adjustable actuation, Rapid Trigger, Dynamic Keystrokes, and SOCD customization.
  • 8K polling in both wired and ultra-low-latency 2.4 GHz wireless modes.
  • Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity.
  • Gasket-mounted construction with multi-layer acoustic tuning and double-shot OSA-profile PBT keycaps for a refined typing experience.
  • Hot-swappable switch support for easy customization without soldering.
  • QMK-powered web launcher for browser-based key mapping, macros, firmware updates, RGB lighting, and magnetic switch configuration.
  • Cross-platform compatibility with both macOS and Windows.
  • Up to 200 hours of wireless battery life with backlighting off, plus a detachable battery designed for long-term serviceability.