Pulsar XBOARD QS specifications and in-depth review

Pulsar XBOARD QS

Manufacturer: Pulsar

The Pulsar XBOARD QS is a tenkeyless mechanical gaming keyboard designed for high-performance gaming. Featuring hot-swappable Kailh BOX Ice Mint V2 switches, this keyboard offers a responsive typing experience with a linear feel and low actuation force.

It includes a range of technical features, such as a high 8000 Hz polling rate, RGB backlighting, and support for QMK and VIA customization. The durable build combines plastic and aluminum materials, and the keyboard offers adjustable feet and a detachable cable for convenience.

Pros
  • Hot-swappable switches allow for easy customization without soldering.
  • RGB lighting with south-facing backlight enhances the keyboard's visual appeal.
  • Durable PBT, double-shot keycaps ensure long-lasting use and improved typing feel.
  • Adjustable feet provide customizable typing angles for enhanced ergonomics.
  • USB passthrough adds convenience for connecting other devices directly to the keyboard.
Cons
  • No wrist rest included, which may impact comfort during long sessions.
  • Does not support analog input, rapid trigger, dual actuation, or adjustable actuation.
  • Does not support ZMK, limiting some customization options compared to other keyboards.
Who is this for?

The Pulsar XBOARD QS is ideal for gamers who require quick, responsive inputs, thanks to its 8000 Hz polling rate and hot-swappable switches. Its tenkeyless design makes it a good choice for users seeking a compact setup, while the RGB lighting and adjustable feet provide personalization and comfort during long gaming sessions. The keyboard's customizable keycaps and support for QMK and VIA also make it a great option for users who enjoy fine-tuning their setup.

Who is this NOT for?

This keyboard may not be suitable for users who need features like dual actuation or adjustable actuation, as it lacks support for these advanced inputs. It also does not include a wrist rest, which could affect comfort for users who spend extended hours typing or gaming. Additionally, those looking for a Mac-specific layout or compatibility may find it less ideal due to its non-Mac design.

General info:

Keyboard type Gaming, Mechanical
Keyboard layout size Tenkeyless (80%)
Profile Standard
connectivity Wired
connection type USB
polling rate 8000 Hz
Mount type Gasket mount
designed for Mac
has a detachable cable
height 163 mm
width 360 mm
thickness 35 mm
weight 1480 g
release date June 2024
warranty period 2 years

The Pulsar XBOARD QS is a tenkeyless mechanical gaming keyboard with a standard profile and a polling rate of 8000 Hz for quick, responsive inputs. It features a detachable cable for easier storage and transport, and its gasket mount provides a unique typing experience. The keyboard is wired for connectivity, with a USB mouse interface, and measures 163 mm in height, 360 mm in width, and 35 mm in thickness, weighing 1480 g. It comes with a 2-year warranty, and is not designed for Mac users.

Design:

has RGB lighting
Has a backlit keyboard
Case material Plastic, Aluminum
Plate material Aluminum
Case colors Black, White
has adjustable feet
includes a wrist rest
Backlight facing direction South-facing

The Pulsar XBOARD QS features a sleek design with RGB lighting and a south-facing backlight, enhancing both aesthetics and visibility. The case is built with durable plastic and aluminum, available in black or white, while the aluminum plate adds sturdiness. It also includes adjustable feet for a customizable typing angle, though it does not come with a wrist rest.

Switches:

Switch type Mechanical
Switch feel Linear
Hot-swappable switches
Switch name Kailh BOX Ice Mint V2
Actuation distance (min) 2 mm
Actuation distance (max) 2 mm
Actuation force 38 g
Total travel distance 4 mm

The Pulsar XBOARD QS uses mechanical Kailh BOX Ice Mint V2 switches with a linear feel, offering a smooth and quiet typing experience. These switches have an actuation distance of 2 mm and a total travel distance of 4 mm, requiring an actuation force of just 38 g. The keyboard also features hot-swappable switches, allowing for easy customization without soldering.

Features:

has analog input
has rapid trigger
has dual actuation
has adjustable actuation
has NKRO
has USB passthrough
Has a display
has QMK support
has ZMK support
has VIA support

The Pulsar XBOARD QS offers a range of features designed for versatility and performance, including NKRO (N-Key Rollover) for reliable input during fast typing or gaming. It also supports USB passthrough for convenient connectivity, and offers full customization with QMK and VIA support. However, it does not include analog input, rapid trigger, dual actuation, or adjustable actuation.

Keys & layout:

Keyboard layout ANSI (United States)
Keycap type PBT, Double-shot
Keycap profile OEM
uses a standard key layout
Media keys Via Fn key
has a rotary dial

The Pulsar XBOARD QS features an ANSI (United States) layout with PBT, double-shot keycaps for durability and a premium feel. The keycaps follow an OEM profile, providing a comfortable typing experience. The keyboard supports a standard key layout and includes a rotary dial, offering extra functionality, while media controls are accessible through the Fn key.

Final Verdict

The Pulsar XBOARD QS is a solid mechanical gaming keyboard designed for users who value customization and responsive performance. With its 8000 Hz polling rate and hot-swappable Kailh BOX Ice Mint V2 switches, it caters well to gamers seeking smooth inputs and flexible switch options. While it lacks advanced features like dual actuation and a wrist rest, its compact tenkeyless layout, RGB lighting, and support for QMK and VIA customization make it a strong contender for enthusiasts looking for a highly customizable and performance-driven keyboard.