Drop Unveils Exciting V2 Upgrades for Beloved CTRL, ALT, and SHIFT Keyboards

Drop, the renowned community-driven e-commerce company, has unveiled its latest offerings in the form of the CTRL, ALT, and SHIFT V2 keyboards. These keyboards, originally introduced in 2018 and inspired by feedback from the Drop community, have quickly become best-sellers due to their exceptional customization options and top-notch quality. The new V2 variants of these keyboards take things up a notch, combining a sleek aluminum design with eye-catching RGB lighting performance, improved features, and enhanced performance. This results in an unparalleled typing experience that is sure to elevate any desk setup.

Jef Holove, the CEO of Drop, expressed his excitement about the upgraded keyboards, stating, “The new and improved CTRL, ALT, and SHIFT V2 keyboards represent a significant leap forward in design, performance, and functionality while retaining the beloved qualities that made their predecessors so popular within our community. By incorporating highly requested features such as stabilizer upgrades, new switch options, and enhanced RGB LED capabilities, we are offering our community an upgraded and unparalleled typing experience that will reignite their love for these reinvented classic keyboards.”

The CTRL, ALT, and SHIFT V2 keyboards come with several noteworthy improvements that build upon their predecessors. One of the most highly requested upgrades is the inclusion of plate-mounted Drop Phantom Stabilizers, which optimize the sound emitted from the larger modifier keys and enhance the overall keyboard experience. Additionally, these keyboards feature improved sound dampening thanks to multiple layers of premium foam strategically placed throughout the keyboard. This includes Poron top case foam, IXPE switch foam, Poron hotswap socket foam, and bottom case Poron foam, all of which contribute to a highly satisfying typing experience.

Drop has also listened to its community when it comes to switch options. The CTRL, ALT, and SHIFT V2 keyboards now offer two popular switch options: Gateron Yellow KS3 Linear switches or Drop Holy Panda X Clear tactile switches. For enthusiasts and users interested in building their own keyboards, a barebones version is also available for purchase.

Personalization is a key aspect of these keyboards, and Drop has made it even easier with their new Keyboard Configurator software. This user-friendly interface allows for increased LED customization, giving users the ability to truly make their keyboards their own. Furthermore, the integration of the STM32 chipset enables faster and easier support for the latest QMK features, along with 50 new LED patterns that can be easily selected using hot keys on the keyboard.

The CTRL, ALT, and SHIFT V2 keyboards also boast expanded compatibility options. With VIA and QMK support, users have more flexibility in customizing their keyboards to suit their preferences (VIAL support will be added later this year). Additionally, a new black colorway option has been introduced for the SHIFT V2 keyboard, adding to the range of choices available.

Despite these exciting new features, the CTRL, ALT, and SHIFT V2 keyboards retain the classic qualities that have made them so popular. Constructed with aircraft-grade aluminum materials machined from a solid block of aluminum, these keyboards are built to last and meet high manufacturing standards. The north-facing LEDs ensure exceptional RGB capabilities, making them ideal for users who prefer bright, shine-through keycap sets. The keyboards are also multi-functional, featuring dual USB-C ports that simplify cable management and serve as a USB hub for connecting additional devices. This enhances the overall functionality and versatility of the keyboards, resulting in a seamless setup with minimal visual clutter.

The CTRL, ALT, and SHIFT V2 keyboards are now available for purchase on the Drop website in both barebones and fully assembled configurations. The barebones versions range from $140 to $190, while the fully assembled keyboards range from $180 to $250. Existing customers who own the original versions of these keyboards can also opt for the PCBA + foam kit and Phantom Stabilizers, starting at $105. This provides a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to purchasing a brand-new keyboard, particularly for those interested in restoring and upgrading their own gear.

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