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Redragon K742 specifications and in-depth review

Redragon K742

Manufacturer: Redragon

The Redragon K742 is a versatile gaming keyboard designed for performance and style. Featuring a full-size layout and mechanical switches, it offers a smooth and responsive typing experience. The keyboard includes RGB lighting for customizable aesthetics, and it comes in a sturdy plastic and aluminum casing for durability.

Key technical specifications include linear mechanical switches, with a 2mm actuation distance and 40g actuation force. The K742 also supports Bluetooth 5.0 and 2.4GHz wireless connectivity, along with a detachable cable for easy storage. With a 53-hour battery life and a polling rate of 1000Hz, it delivers reliable performance for gamers and professionals alike.

Pros
  • The keyboard supports both wireless and wired connectivity options, providing flexibility for different use cases.
  • Hot-swappable switches allow for easy customization without the need for soldering.
  • The inclusion of RGB lighting enhances the visual appeal, with south-facing LEDs for better key visibility.
  • The keyboard features a durable plastic and aluminum construction, ensuring longevity and a solid feel.
  • The rotary dial provides convenient control over volume and other customizable functions, improving user accessibility.
Cons
  • The keyboard does not include a wrist rest, which may reduce comfort during extended use.
  • It lacks a USB passthrough port, limiting the convenience of additional device connections.
  • The keyboard does not support ZMK or VIA, limiting customization options compared to other programmable keyboards.
Who is this for?

The Redragon K742 is ideal for users who enjoy customizable mechanical keyboards for gaming or general use. With hot-swappable switches and RGB lighting, it offers a personalized experience, allowing users to easily switch out switches and customize their setup. Its wireless and wired connectivity options make it versatile, catering to both stationary and mobile setups. The inclusion of a rotary dial also makes it great for users who prefer physical controls for volume or other customizable functions.

Who is this NOT for?

This keyboard may not be the best choice for users who require advanced features like dual actuation or adjustable actuation for highly specialized gaming or work applications. Additionally, the lack of a wrist rest and USB passthrough may make it less comfortable or practical for long sessions and may limit connectivity options for peripheral devices. It also lacks support for advanced software like ZMK or VIA, which may be a limitation for users looking for deep programmability.

General info:

Keyboard type Gaming, Mechanical
Keyboard layout size Full (98%)
Profile Standard
connectivity Wireless & wired
connection type Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, USB
polling rate 1000 Hz
Mount type Gasket mount
Battery life 53 hours
designed for Mac ✕
has a detachable cable ✓
height 144 mm
width 394 mm
thickness 39 mm
weight 850 g
Bluetooth version 5
release date September 2025
warranty period 1 years

The Redragon K742 offers a full-size mechanical keyboard design with a standard profile and a 98% layout. It supports both wireless and wired connectivity with Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, and USB options. With a 53-hour battery life, it is built for long-lasting use and includes a detachable cable for convenience. The keyboard has a 1000Hz polling rate, ensuring smooth and responsive performance, and it is equipped with a gasket mount for added stability. Measuring 144mm in height, 394mm in width, and 39mm in thickness, it weighs 850g and is backed by a 1-year warranty.

Design:

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

The Redragon K742 features a sleek design with a plastic and aluminum case and a durable aluminum plate. It offers vibrant RGB lighting and a backlit keyboard, with the backlight facing south for optimal visibility. The keyboard comes in three color options: Black, White, and Gray. Additionally, it includes adjustable feet for customized typing angles, though it does not include a wrist rest.

Switches:

Switch type Mechanical
Switch feel Linear
Hot-swappable switches ✓
Switch name RPC Linear Switches
Actuation distance (min) 2 mm
Actuation distance (max) 2 mm
Actuation force 40 g
Total travel distance 3.6 mm

The Redragon K742 features RPC Linear Switches, offering a smooth and responsive linear feel. These mechanical switches provide an actuation force of 40g with a minimal actuation distance of 2mm and a total travel distance of 3.6mm. The keyboard also supports hot-swappable switches, allowing users to easily replace the switches without soldering, providing flexibility for customization.

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 Redragon K742 includes several key features designed for enhanced performance, including NKRO for anti-ghosting and accurate key registration. It also supports QMK support for easy customization of key functions. However, it does not offer analog input, rapid trigger, dual actuation, or adjustable actuation. Additionally, the keyboard lacks USB passthrough, display functionality, and ZMK or VIA support.

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 Redragon K742 features an ANSI (United States) layout with PBT, Double-shot keycaps for durability and a premium feel. The keycap profile is OEM, providing a comfortable typing experience. This keyboard uses a standard key layout, and media controls can be accessed via the Fn key. Additionally, the K742 includes a rotary dial for convenient volume control and other customizable functions.

Final Verdict

The Redragon K742 is a versatile and feature-packed mechanical keyboard, ideal for users looking for customization and flexibility. Its hot-swappable switches and RGB lighting enhance the user experience, offering both style and performance for gaming or everyday use. While it lacks some advanced features like dual actuation and a wrist rest, it excels in providing solid build quality, wireless connectivity, and the ability to tailor the keyboard to personal preferences. Overall, the K742 is a strong choice for those seeking a customizable, reliable keyboard with a user-friendly design.