Cherry’s XTRFY MX 8.2 Pro gaming keyboard introduces an innovative feature that’s long overdue.

Cherry teamed up with XTRFY to launch its own line of gaming keyboards in 2022, but nothing really caught my attention until the Cherry XTRFY MX 8.2 Pro TMR arrived. This magnetic keyboard stands out as one of the first mainstream gaming boards to incorporate TMR sensing technology, but that’s not the only feature that piqued my interest.

The XTRFY MX 8.2 Pro TMR boasts full hot-swappability for both magnetic and mechanical switches, a rarity among even the top gaming keyboards out there. This feature fills a significant gap in the competition, and Cherry’s new TKL model comes with a hefty price tag of $249.99.

The Cherry XTRFY MX 8.2 Pro TMR is now available for $249.99. While delivery times may be a bit extended, February 8 isn’t too far off.

I’ve been following these keyboards for a while, and I often find myself puzzled as to why previous Cherry models weren’t hot-swappable. Given that Cherry is a leading switch manufacturer, it makes sense for their keyboards to support a variety of switches.

Cherry has made significant strides here; most hot-swappable magnetic keyboards only allow for a limited selection of Hall effect options. While you’ll need to stick with the Cherry MK collection for adjustable actuation, the ability to use any MX mechanical switch offers a level of flexibility that’s hard to beat. This finally positions a magnetic model among the best hot-swappable keyboards, something I’ve been eager to see.

Another noteworthy aspect of the $249.99 price tag is that the MX 8.2 Pro TMR is wireless, featuring an impressive 8,000Hz polling rate. This capability is attributed to the enhanced energy efficiency of the TMR sensors in its PCB. Many Hall effect keyboards are wired due to the processing demands, so it’s refreshing to see a wireless option. For comparison, even a wired model like the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 retails for $229.99.

While the wireless feature may not be a game-changer if you keep your keyboard on your desk, it does help maintain a cleaner setup and is convenient for travel.

After spending a few days with the MX 8.2 Pro TMR, I’m overall impressed. The $250 price point is still on the higher end for a magnetic keyboard, but considering the Asus ROG Falcata is priced at $429.99, it could be worse.

Typing on this keyboard is a notably soft experience. The deep, rich sound profile, combined with smooth matte keycaps and superior sound dampening, creates a satisfying typing experience. It certainly feels premium, but the value of the Cherry XTRFY MX 8.2 Pro TMR will ultimately depend on your specific needs.

The typing feel is reminiscent of the Cherry MX 3.1, a full-sized keyboard currently priced at $89.99, but it lacks many features. It also sits above the Cherry K5V2, which is priced at $139.99 but disappointed in terms of build quality and overall feel.

At $249.99, the MX 8.2 Pro TMR is competing with some heavy hitters. After using it for a bit, I can say it makes sense over the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96—my current top pick—if you value a soft typing feel and need a compact design.

It’s definitely an upgrade over most Hall effect keyboards I’ve tried. Unlike the stuffy, woolly feel of models like the NZXT Function Elite Mini TKL and Logitech G Pro X TKL Rapid, this keyboard represents the next generation of magnetic options.

However, it’s still a pricey choice, and the added wireless capability and hot-swappability may not be enough to convince everyone to join Cherry’s ranks.