According to the source review from Wired, the Turtle Beach Vulcan II XP offers a compelling blend of mechanical switches, customization features, and a sleek aesthetic, but it falls short in a few key areas that impact its overall gaming performance and feel.
- Solid mechanical switches with customizable RGB lighting
- Sturdy build on top but cheap plastic underside
- Effective macro and profile support for various gamers
Product angle
The source review reports that the Turtle Beach Vulcan II XP emphasizes a blend of style and functionality within a competitive-priced wired gaming keyboard. Its Titan HS mechanical switches provide a pleasant typing experience enhanced by a low-profile design and a premium brushed-aluminum top plate. Customization via the Swarm II software allows extensive RGB lighting controls and remappable keys, offering gamers a personalized setup tailored to different games and applications.
Despite its polished top, the keyboard displays compromises such as a cheap plastic underside shell that diminishes the overall feel. The included wrist rest adds comfort, although its foam composition may lose cushioning over time. The absence of wireless connectivity and some minor quirks with key responsiveness also qualify it more as a dependable mid-range option rather than a flagship model.
Best for / avoid if
This keyboard is best suited for gamers and typists who value extensive customization options and a tactile mechanical feel without requiring premium price points or wireless convenience. Users who enjoy macro programming or demand on-the-fly key remapping will appreciate the versatility the Vulcan II XP provides through its Swarm II software.
Conversely, buyers looking for a keyboard with superior build quality on all surfaces or those who prefer silent or smoother linear switches might find this offering less ideal. Additionally, gamers who prioritize wireless freedom may want to wait for the upcoming Vulcan II XP Air model or explore other brands that currently offer wireless mechanical keyboards.
Pricing and alternatives to check
The Vulcan II XP carries a $150 price tag and operates exclusively via a wired USB-C to USB-A connection, ensuring zero input latency favored by competitive gamers. Turtle Beach plans a wireless variant, the Vulcan II XP Air, priced about $50 higher, catering to users who want cable-free convenience albeit at an elevated cost.
Interested buyers might also consider alternatives from brands specializing in mechanical keyboards with wireless options or premium build elements, such as Logitech’s G-series or Razer’s BlackWidow variants. These competitors often include more refined chassis materials and additional features like hot-swappable switches or integrated USB pass-throughs, broadening the choice spectrum for dedicated gamers and typists.