A Closer Look & Build Quality
The first time you lift the SKILLER SGK50 S2 from its box, the unique character of the keyboard is undeniable. The solid wood chassis is the undoubted star of the show. It’s not a veneer or a sticker; it’s a solid, treated piece of wood with a smooth, lacquered finish that feels substantial and premium in the hands. This 96% layout condenses a full numpad and arrow keys into a compact form factor, saving precious desk space without sacrificing functionality. However, the slightly condensed key arrangement takes a day or two to fully acclimate to.
The build quality is robust. The board feels dense and has no noticeable flex or hollow echo, thanks in part to its respectable weight of 1,332 grams. The keycaps are made from high-quality PBT plastic using a double-shot injection process, ensuring the legends will never wear off. They have a subtle, textured finish that feels great to the touch and resists the shiny greasiness that plagues cheaper ABS keycaps over time. My unit came pre-installed with Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches, which are linear, smooth, and require a light 50g actuation force. They provide a consistently quiet and satisfying typing experience right out of the box.
However, a few inconsistencies emerge upon closer inspection. The spacebar, for instance, sounds noticeably louder and less dampened than the other keys, producing a distinct “thock” that stands out from the more muted tones of the alphanumeric keys. Furthermore, the glossy lacquer on the wood, while protective, can, under certain lighting conditions, give the chassis a slightly plastic-like appearance, which somewhat detracts from the authentic “wooden” vibe. A matte finish would have been a more natural choice. The USB-C port on the keyboard is reinforced with a nice metal ring, but it’s exceptionally tight, making you feel like you might damage something when plugging in the cable.
