Page 3 - Conclusion
The "less is more" sentiment may not be applicable for all things, but it does apply with the ROCCAT Vulcan II Mini, at least for the most part. The Vulcan II Mini takes everything we appreciated about their previous keyboards and cuts it down to a 65% form factor. Its island style keys and design still stand out from the competition, and we have other nice features like a removable USB Type-C cable and full N-key rollover support. Secondary functions are placed even more at the forefront with this cut-down size, with media controls, Easy-Shift game mode to remap keyboard actions, and lighting control to quickly change the brightness. Under each key is an updated Titan II Optical switch, which operates well, feels smooth in actuation, and offers a long lifespan. The lighting on the Vulcan II Mini is brilliant as always with the lights leaking out from the short keycaps. I appreciate their dual LEDs, which better illuminate the secondary functions when needed. I also like the dual set of kickstands provided underneath to let users choose the incline on their keyboard. However, with these slight changes, we have some things that could be improved upon. For one, the stabilizers on the Vulcan II Mini rattle about when pressed and take away from the satisfaction of typing. Physically, the lack of durable PBT keycaps is a bummer for me, while others may still want a wrist rest included. I also would ask ROCCAT to stiffen the body of the Vulcan II Mini for less flexing. Finally, even though the ROCCAT Swarm software is capable, it is in need of an overhaul. At the time of the review, the ROCCAT Vulcan II Mini launches at a retail price of $150 USD, which is quite the hit on the wallet. While I think the Vulcan II Mini is a generally well executed product, there are still one or two areas that could be ameliorated for their next iteration.
ROCCAT provided this product to APH Networks for the purpose of evaluation.
APH Networks Review Focus Summary:
8/10 means Definitely a very good product with drawbacks that are not likely going to matter to the end user.
7/10 means Great product with many advantages and certain insignificant drawbacks, but should be considered before purchasing.
-- Final APH Networks Numeric Rating is 7.5/10
Please note that the APH Networks Numeric Rating system is based off our proprietary guidelines in the Review Focus, and should not be compared to other publications.
ROCCAT brings a strong compact 65% mechanical keyboard experience to the forefront with the Vulcan II Mini.
Page Index
1. Introduction, Packaging, Specifications
2. A Closer Look - Hardware and Software
3. Conclusion
