Arbiter Studio Polar 65 Keyboard Review

Name: Arbiter Studio Polar 65
Switch Type: Fuji – 36g Linear Hall Effect Magnetic Switches, Hot swappable
Keycaps: 1.3mm Thick Dual-shot PBT, KOP Profile
Wireless: No
Material: CNC Aluminium, PCBA Silicone, Bottom Case Silicone, Anodize Aluminium
Colour: 9 Colour Options
LED Colour: RGB – 16 Modes of Pre-set Lighting Effect
Polling Rate: 1,000 Hz
Cable: Detachable Wired USB 2.0 (USB-C to A)
Software Support: No
Dimensions: 315 x 109 x 40 mm
Weight: 990 g
Warranty: 2 Years

Arbiter Studio Polar 65 Packaging

The hefty cardboard box of the Polar 65 arrived on my doorstep a couple of days ago, and I eagerly tore into it. The packaging itself instilled confidence – thick, sturdy cardboard with clean printing that matched the keyboard’s sleek design. It felt reassuringly protective, like a fortress for my new gaming companion. With a satisfying snip of the packing tape, I lifted the lid. The first thing that struck me was the presentation. Nestled within a bed of protective foam sat the Polar 65 itself, wrapped in a soft fabric pouch. It felt luxurious, a far cry from the flimsy plastic packaging of some tech products and brands.

Lifting the keyboard out, I was met with a weight that spoke of quality. It felt solid and well-built, a reassuring sign for a keyboard that’ll see many hours of gaming (and maybe the occasional frustrated desk slam). Underneath the keyboard lay the goodies – a braided USB-C cable, a keycap and switch puller tool, some extra keycaps, and a clear, concise instruction manual. Everything felt well-made and purposeful, a great first impression for the Polar 65.

Overview

The Arbiter Studio Polar 65 arrived a few days ago, and after putting it through its paces with both gaming and typing, I can confidently say it’s a fantastic keyboard. First off, the sound is incredible. Out of the box, the pre-lubed magnetic Hall Effect switches have a smooth, thock-free keystroke that’s a joy to hear. It’s a noticeable difference from traditional mechanical keyboards, offering a quieter and more satisfying typing experience.

But the beauty goes beyond the sound. The magnetic switches translate into a ridiculously smooth feel. Every keypress feels precise and responsive, which is a gamer’s dream. Whether you’re strafing in an FPS or hammering away at a report, the Polar 65 keeps up flawlessly. The actuation distance is also adjustable, letting you fine-tune the keyboard to your exact preference.

One of the features I appreciate most is the hot-swappable switches. This means I can easily swap out the pre-installed linear switches for clicky or tactile ones, depending on my mood or the game I’m playing. It’s a great level of customization that caters to individual preferences. Overall, the Polar 65 has exceeded my expectations. It’s a premium keyboard that delivers in both sound and performance, making it a great choice for both gamers and typists alike.

Our Thoughts

We’ve been putting the Arbiter Studio Polar 65 through its paces, and it’s safe to say we’re impressed. The star of the show is undoubtedly the magnetic Hall Effect switches. These innovative switches deliver a buttery-smooth keystroke with a satisfying thock that’s a welcome departure from the clack of traditional mechanical keyboards. The pre-lubed switches not only sound great, but also feel incredibly responsive – a gamer’s dream come true. The adjustable actuation distance adds another layer of customization, letting you fine-tune the keyboard to your exact needs.

Beyond the sound and feel, the Polar 65 boasts features that cater to both gamers and typists. The hot-swappable switches allow for easy customization, letting you swap between linear, tactile, or clicky options depending on your preference. This level of flexibility ensures you can tailor the keyboard to perfectly suit your gaming or typing style. The overall build quality is top-notch as well, with a solid construction that feels built to last.

In conclusion, the Polar 65 is a strong contender in the world of mechanical keyboards. Its innovative magnetic switches, smooth feel, and hot-swappable functionality make it a compelling choice for gamers and typists alike. While we haven’t explored every aspect of the keyboard yet, our initial impressions are overwhelmingly positive.

Battlerigs gives the Polar 65 a solid reccomendation.

George Howitt

Hailing from Lincoln, England, George isn't your average tech user. A self-proclaimed computer enthusiast, he thrives on building and fixing machines, especially those featuring the eye-catching aesthetics of water cooling. George's passion extends beyond the build process, as he enjoys sharing his knowledge and experiences with various tech products.