The gaming peripherals market is constantly evolving, and today we have two new offerings from ROCCAT to discuss—the Vulcan II MAX and the Vulcan II Mini. Both keyboards come with impressive features and innovations tailored to meet the needs of gamers. In this detailed comparison, we’ll explore their differences, strengths, and drawbacks which will help you choose the best keyboard.
ROCCAT Vulcan II MAX
The ROCCAT Vulcan II MAX and Vulcan II Mini are two new keyboards from ROCCAT, each with its unique features and capabilities. The Vulcan II MAX and Vulcan II Mini both is available in white or black while Max will cost you $149.99 and Mini will cost you $179.99. The Vulcan II MAX features red switches, which are linear and quieter, making them ideal for fast typing and gaming. On the other hand, the Vulcan II Mini offers brown switches, providing a more tactile feel and a longer actuation distance, making them suitable for those who prefer a sure-footed keystroke.
The Vulcan II MAX offering a more refined design compared to its predecessor. The Vulcan II MAX includes a stiffer backplate, improved stabilizers, and an overall better typing experience, making it a reliable choice for those seeking durability and performance.
ROCCAT Vulcan II Mini
The Vulcan II Mini is a wireless 65% keyboard, offering the convenience of a wireless setup with both a detachable USB-C cable and Bluetooth connectivity. It has three Bluetooth profiles, which will allow you to connect with multiple devices and switch between them ideally. The keyboard’s battery life varies based on usage and RGB settings, with approximately 90 hours in “party mode” with RGB enabled and up to 750 hours with occasional use and RGB disabled.
The Vulcan II Mini has a proximity sensor that detects hand position and adjusts the keyboard’s RGB illumination accordingly. The keyboard also includes dedicated arrow keys and a traditional function row, providing versatility despite its compact size. The ROCCAT Swarm software allows users to customize the RGB lighting, assign macros, and set up game profiles for a personalized experience.
ROCCAT Vulcan II MAX vs Vulcan II Mini Major differences
- Size and Form Factor: Vulcan II MAX is a full-sized keyboard with a number pad, while Vulcan II Mini is a 65% compact keyboard without a number pad.
- Switch Options: Vulcan II MAX offers both Brown and Red switch options and Vulcan II Mini, at the time of filming, only had the Red switch option, but the Brown switch might become available later.
- Connectivity: Vulcan II MAX is a wired keyboard with a detachable USB-C cable and Vulcan II Mini is a wireless keyboard with a built-in transmitter and Bluetooth connectivity.
- Battery Life: Vulcan II Mini’s battery life varies depending on usage and RGB settings, offering up to 90 hours in “party mode” and up to 750 hours in a more conservative usage scenario.
- Keycap Material: Both keyboards use ABS keycaps, but Vulcan II Mini offers brighter RGB lighting due to its design.
- Dedicated Arrow Keys: Vulcan II Mini retains dedicated arrow keys, while Vulcan II MAX does not have dedicated arrow keys due to its compact size.
- Status LEDs: Vulcan II MAX has separate status LEDs for Caps Lock, Num Lock, etc., while Vulcan II Mini has integrated status LEDs on the chin of the keyboard.
- Edge Design: Vulcan II MAX has a diamond-cut chamfered edge, while Vulcan II Mini has a rolled-off corner for a more comfortable feel.
- Proximity Sensor (Mini only): Vulcan II Mini features a proximity sensor that dims the keyboard when hands are away from the keys, conserving battery life.
- Sound and Feel: Vulcan II MAX has Titan Optical switches rated for 80 million keystrokes, offering a quieter and more pleasant typing experience. Vulcan II Mini has Titan Optical switches rated for 150 million keystrokes, providing faster response and better reliability.
| Specifications | ROCCAT Vulcan II MAX | ROCCAT Vulcan II Mini |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | white or black | white or black |
| Switch Type | Titan Optical switches | Titan Optical switches |
| Actuation Force | 45 grams | 45 grams |
| Switch Options | Brown and Red | Red |
| Switch Feel | Browns have a tactile bump; Reds are linear | Linear |
| Keystroke Lifespan | 80 million keystrokes | 150 million keystrokes |
| Connectivity | Wired | Wireless |
| Battery Life | N/A | 90 hours (varies with usage and RGB settings) |
| Keycap Material | ABS | ABS (brighter RGB lighting) |
| Dedicated Arrow Keys | No | Yes |
| Media Keys | No | Yes |
| Status LEDs | Yes, integrated on chin | Yes, integrated on chin |
| Proximity Sensor | N/A | Yes |
| Price | CHECK ON AMAZON | CHECK ON AMAZON |
Design and Form Factor
The Vulcan II MAX is a full-sized mechanical gaming keyboard available in both black and white color options. It boasts a sleek and professional design with a slightly elevated keycap design that allows RGB lighting to shine brightly, creating an eye-catching effect. The edges of the keyboard are diamond-cut chamfered, providing a premium feel and added comfort during extended gaming sessions. The Titan Optical switches offer a keystroke actuation distance of 1.4 millimeters, making it an ideal choice for those seeking the fastest possible response time.
In contrast, the Vulcan II Mini is a compact 65% wireless gaming keyboard. It comes in black and white variants and earns its name “air” due to its wireless capabilities. The mini keyboard features a detachable USB-C cable to use as a wired keyboard, along with integrated Bluetooth technology, which will give you connectivity options to multiple devices. The unique selling point of this keyboard is its wireless flexibility without sacrificing essential features. The Vulcan II Mini uses Red Titan Optical switches, offering the same 1.4-millimeter actuation distance as its larger sibling.
Winner: The choice between the two keyboards largely depends on your preference for form factor. The Vulcan II MAX provides a full-sized keyboard experience, while the Vulcan II Mini offers portability and wireless freedom.
Battery Life and RGB Customization
The Vulcan II MAX is a wired keyboard and does not require battery power. However, it shines in the RGB customization department. With the ROCCAT Swarm software, users have access to an array of RGB lighting options, including wave, snake, heartbeat, breathing, and custom modes. The lighting can be synchronized with other ROCCAT peripherals to create a cohesive lighting setup.
The Vulcan II Mini is designed for wireless convenience, featuring a rechargeable battery. The battery life varies depending on usage and RGB settings. In “party mode,” where RGB lighting is more frequently used, you can expect around 90 hours of battery life. However, using it occasionally with RGB disabled can extend the battery life up to an impressive 750 hours.
Winner: The Vulcan II MAX offers extensive RGB customization, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts who enjoy creating personalized lighting setups. However, the Vulcan II Mini’s wireless capabilities and extended battery life make it a compelling option for gamers on the go.
Key Switches
The Vulcan II MAX features the Titan Optical switches, which boast a remarkable durability of 80 million keystrokes. These switches are incredibly fast and responsive, perfect for competitive gaming scenarios. The linear nature of the Red Titan Optical switches provides a smooth keystroke experience without a tactile bump.
Like its larger counterpart, the Vulcan II Mini also uses the Red Titan Optical switches. These switches offer the same 80 million keystroke durability and linear actuation, making them ideal for gamers who prioritize speed and responsiveness.
Winner: Both keyboards use the same switches, so there’s no clear winner in this category. The Red Titan Optical switches cater to gamers seeking fast response times and consistent performance.
Read – How to Lubricate Keyboard Switches
Software Customization
Both the Vulcan II MAX and the Vulcan II Mini are compatible with the ROCCAT Swarm software. The software offers extensive customization options, including key assignments, macros, and lighting effects. With easy shift functionality, you can assign secondary functions to keys, greatly expanding the versatility of the keyboard.
Winner: Both keyboards utilize the ROCCAT Swarm software, providing a similar level of customization and personalization.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between the ROCCAT Vulcan II MAX and the Vulcan II Mini depends on your gaming needs and preferences. The Vulcan II MAX is perfect for gamers who prefer a full-sized keyboard with extensive RGB lighting customization and a wired connection. On the other hand, the Vulcan II Mini is designed for those seeking a compact, wireless keyboard with impressive battery life and portability.
Both keyboards boast the same durable and responsive Red Titan Optical switches, providing an excellent gaming experience. With the ROCCAT Swarm software supporting both models, you can tailor the keyboard settings to your liking.
Ultimately, whether you prioritize RGB lighting and a wired connection or wireless convenience and portability, ROCCAT has crafted two impressive keyboards to cater to your gaming needs.
Alternative Keyboard Options for ROCCAT Vulcan II MAX and Vulcan II Mini
SteelSeries Apex Pro
- Switch Type: OmniPoint adjustable mechanical switches (100 million keystrokes)
- Actuation Force: Adjustable from 45g to 90g
- Connectivity: Wired
- Keycap Material: Premium ABS with textured surface
- Other Features: OLED Smart Display, dedicated media keys, customizable RGB lighting
Logitech G915 Lightspeed
- Switch Type: GL Clicky, GL Tactile, or GL Linear (70 million keystrokes)
- Actuation Force: 50g
- Connectivity: Wireless (Lightspeed) or Wired (USB)
- Battery Life: Up to 30 hours with RGB lighting, up to 135 hours without RGB lighting
- Keycap Material: ABS
- Other Features: Dedicated media keys, low-profile design, customizable RGB lighting, programmable macros
Razer Huntsman Elite
- Switch Type: Razer Optical Switches (100 million keystrokes)
- Actuation Force: 45g
- Connectivity: Wired
- Keycap Material: Doubleshot PBT
- Other Features: Dedicated media keys, customizable RGB lighting, detachable wrist rest
Corsair K100 RGB
- Switch Type: Cherry MX Speed or OPX Optical-Mechanical (100 million keystrokes)
- Actuation Force: 45g
- Connectivity: Wired
- Keycap Material: Doubleshot PBT
- Other Features: Elgato Stream Deck integration, customizable RGB lighting, dedicated media keys
James Smith has always been intrigued by electronic products since his childhood. After his post graduation in electronics from a popular university, he decided to pursue a career in the electronics sector. But his calling for writing about these marvellous pieces of work got the better of him. That is how UBG was started. With a writing career spanning more than 12 years, James has worked on several hundred product reviews. During his free time, he like to spend time with his pet dog and relax in the swimming pool.