Three years ago, the Wooting 60HE introduced groundbreaking innovation to the gaming keyboard market, setting a new standard with its analog Hall effect switches and ultra-responsive input. Now, the Wooting 60HE V2 arrives with refined build quality, all-new switches, and an incredible 8000Hz polling rate that further elevates the gaming and typing experience. This article explores what makes this keyboard a ‘final boss’ in its category and whether upgrading to the V2 is worth it.
Revolutionary Analog Technology and Switch Enhancements
At the core of the 60HE V2 is Wooting’s latest analog technology, enabled by their proprietary Lekker Tikken Hall effect switches. These new switches feature a full 4mm travel distance, a closed bottom to reduce stem wobble, and pre-lubrication for a smooth and quieter operation. Compared to their original Leica switches, these feel noticeably tighter and more refined, delivering a satisfying tactile response that appeals to both gamers and typists.
This analog technology allows for adjustable actuation points, instant switch reset, and last input priority — features that revolutionize game responsiveness. For instance, it enables ultra-responsive strafing in FPS games, although some aspects have even been banned in competitive titles due to their advantage. The V2 switches contribute to a typing and gaming experience that feels almost like a custom-tuned keyboard out of the box.
Premium Build Quality and Sound Dampening
One of the first things users notice is the V2’s optional CNC aluminum case, a substantial upgrade from the original’s primarily plastic body. This metal chassis not only adds heft and durability but also sports a sleek anodized finish reminiscent of premium devices like MacBooks. For those on a budget, an improved plastic case option remains available.
Wooting has gone above and beyond in sound design and dampening. Internally, a composite of high-density Poron foam, silicone blocks, and ultra-thin isolation films prevent the common hollow or pinging sounds typical of gaming keyboards. The keyboard’s PCB is mounted friction-fit without screws, avoiding direct contact with the case to minimize resonance. The result is a firm yet cushioned typing sound profile—much more muted and refined than typical mainstream gaming keyboards.
Ergonomic Innovations: The Split Spacebar
Another unique design choice is the split spacebar layout on one variant of the V2. This unconventional approach replaces one large spacebar with three smaller keys, effectively tripling functionality within the same footprint. While it may feel unusual at first, many users adapt quickly and appreciate the added utility, especially in gaming scenarios where the thumb often remains underutilized.
Smaller stabilizers used in this layout also enhance the sound quality and reduce rattle, common issues with traditional large spacebars. However, choosing this layout commits the user to a specific PCB design, as it is not interchangeable with the traditional spacebar variant.
Ultra-Fast 8000Hz Polling Rate: Does It Matter?
The 60HE V2 boasts an 8000Hz polling rate, a first for mechanical keyboards, achieved through Wooting’s Tachyon Mode scanning each analog switch continuously. This means input is registered every 0.125 milliseconds, drastically reducing latency compared to the typical 1000Hz or 4000Hz rates in most keyboards.
Laboratory testing with high-speed cameras demonstrates about a 1ms improvement in rapid trigger delay over the original 60HE. While this may seem marginal, it could make a difference in ultra-competitive FPS gaming. Unlike wireless peripherals, the V2’s polling rate does not cause increased battery drain or CPU overhead, so users get the speed benefits without common wireless drawbacks.
Comparing Value: Wooting 60HE V2 vs. Budget Analog Keyboards
The analog keyboard market has expanded in recent years with offerings like the Fun 60 from MonGeek, costing as little as $35. While such keyboards bring analog features to a wider audience, they cannot match the Wooting 60HE V2’s build quality, switch refinement, software ecosystem, and ergonomic design.
The V2 outperforms budget units in key latency by roughly 5ms on average, and the typing experience is generally superior due to premium materials and advanced sound dampening. However, for gamers on a tight budget, these more affordable keyboards represent excellent value and a good entry point into analog input technology.
Conclusion: Is the Wooting 60HE V2 Worth It?
The Wooting 60HE V2 is arguably the ultimate 60% analog gaming keyboard available today, an out-of-the-box premium experience with unparalleled responsiveness, build quality, and innovation. If you already have the original 60HE, upgrading may be more about refining the experience with a metal case or aftermarket switches rather than necessity.
For those coming from conventional or budget analog keyboards, the 60HE V2 offers a significant leap in performance and quality, solidifying Wooting’s position as an industry leader. The 8000Hz polling rate, while offering diminishing returns for many users, adds a new performance benchmark that may benefit hardcore competitive gamers.
In summary, the Wooting 60HE V2 continues the company’s legacy of pushing keyboard technology forward, blending analog innovation with premium tactile and acoustic design to create a definitive keyboard for gamers and enthusiasts alike.
