Review: Ducky’s One 3 Pro Nazca Line Keyboard Features Impressive 8K Polling and Quality Design

Following my recent Ducky 6108 review, I’m excited to present an exclusive preview of the new Nazca Line colorway for the One 3 Pro—a model variant first announced in May 2024. This review features a retail sample generously provided by our friends at Overclockers UK, with availability set for Wednesday, September 18th.

This time, Ducky has taken a wired-only approach to connectivity, omitting Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless profiles. The One 3 Pro is exclusively a USB wired keyboard, which is a logical choice as it boasts an impressive 8000Hz polling rate. This feature isn’t enabled by default, but more on that later—spoiler alert: it’s not just a gimmick!

I appreciate Ducky keyboards for their simplicity; there’s no need for software to customize settings. Everything can be configured directly through keystrokes. Upon connecting the Nazca Line, I noticed an immediate change in some key combinations. Rather than the familiar FN+SPACE used in the 6108 to set a fixed RGB color, you now need to press FN+ALT+SPACE for the One 3 Pro. This adjustment could be a minor inconvenience, especially since FN+SPACE doesn’t serve any other purpose, making the change feel unnecessary.

Specifications

Design & Construction

Weighing in at 1250g, the One 3 Pro is slightly heavier than the 6108, likely due to the inclusion of Webby Mat and Poron Film technology, as well as acoustically engineered layers for excellent typing and gaming performance. The exterior is crafted entirely from plastic, yet it feels premium compared to the 6108. The triple-tone colorway adds a nice aesthetic touch while the side rails are ergonomically shaped.

The top panel has a slightly rougher texture, enhancing tactile feedback. The keycap printing quality is on point as well; whether in dim or normal lighting, the keycaps remain legible without the need for RGB lighting. It’s worth noting that the lighting under the keycaps reflects off a white layer beneath them, adding to visibility.

The One 3 Pro’s underside retains Ducky’s classic cable routing trenches for optimal cable management. However, the deeply recessed USB port may require users to lift the keyboard to connect the cable, which could be cumbersome for those with multiple workstations.

It features three adjustable height levels, although the rubber feet could feel slightly loose. The DIP switches on the underside offer control over various functions, including enabling or disabling N-key rollover—though only a 6-key rollover function is available.

Switches

The keyboard comes standard with Cherry’s new MX2A switches, which I’ve used extensively. Even as newer switch technologies emerge, I’ve found no faults with the MX2A, whether using Speed Silver for light touch or MX Red for more feedback.

For those curious about the acoustics of the One 3 Pro, here’s a video showcasing its sound profile:

Performance

The standout feature of the One 3 Pro is its 8K polling rate—does it enhance performance, or is it a case of diminishing returns? Understanding polling rate (how often a keyboard sends input to a computer) and scan rate (how frequently it checks for inputs) can clarify this point. According to Games Radar, a 4,000Hz scan rate coupled with an 8,000Hz polling rate means the keyboard checks for inputs 4,000 times per second and relays data to your PC at a rate of 8,000 times per second.

A 4,000Hz scan rate / 8,000Hz polling rate keyboard will check for new inputs 4,000 times per second and transmit any finds to your PC 8,000 times per second. Latency can still occur despite these high speeds—should your input fall in between those checks.

I am awaiting confirmation on the scan rate for the One 3 Pro, and an update will be provided once I have this information.

Switching between polling rates (1000Hz, 2000Hz, 4000Hz, and 8000Hz) can be done by holding FN+ALT+7/8/9 or 0 for three seconds. The keyboard will blink three times as an indicator of the mode switch:

I tested both 1000Hz and 8000Hz during gameplay and observed no definitive drop in performance. For instance, in Cyberpunk 2077 (4K, DLSS, Path Tracing, Ultra settings), the results were:

The results showed negligible differences, and further tests across various games yielded similar findings. Consequently, using 8K polling on modern hardware doesn’t significantly impact gaming performance.

However, I did notice visual benefits when recording high-framerate footage. In games with tight timing, a slight edge can be beneficial, especially noted in the following slow-motion tests:

1000Hz:

8000Hz:

In comparison, I also tested the Logitech MX Keys, which polls at around 160Hz:

In conclusion, while the 8K polling rate may not be crucial for casual gaming, it could lend slight advantages for competitive gaming or timing-sensitive gameplay. Ultimately, having the option to enable it without affecting performance is a positive aspect of the One 3 Pro.

If you’re gaming on modern displays, particularly those above 240Hz, the minor distinctions offered by 8000Hz may yield more noticeable benefits due to the near-instant pixel response times.

Customization

The Nazca Line also includes a set of orange keycaps for additional customization. These spare caps match the quality of the pre-installed ones:

I opted to use the orange return keycap for a pop of color and paired it with a Ducky-branded escape key:

Further customization options are available through RGB controls, allowing specific keys or groups to have individual colors, which can be beneficial for gamers. Advanced macro recording capabilities are also present. While I didn’t extensively explore these features, they function as intended.

A switch puller is included, enabling you to replace any of the Cherry MX2A switches. Unlike the 6108, the switches on the One 3 Pro are fitted more loosely, allowing easier extraction.

Additionally, users can adjust the brightness of the accessory LEDs located on the right-hand side of the keyboard, avoiding distractions that can arise from overly bright indicators.

Conclusion

The Nazca Line One 3 Pro has exceeded my expectations. While there are a few quirks—such as the backspace key occasionally sticking when pressed slowly—this issue may be unique to the review model. I’m in contact with Ducky regarding this matter, as it requires further investigation before the retail release. It’s important to note that if this problem persists, my score would reflect this.

In light of its price, I wish Ducky had included a proper coiled cable with aviator connectors, which enhances both functionality and aesthetics. I utilized a third-party Mambasnake cable that paired seamlessly:

Despite some minor shortcomings, the Nazca Line is an excellent keyboard that only lost a point or two due to potential production faults. Communication with Ducky is ongoing to ensure that buyers won’t face this issue with retail models.

Update – 2024.09.18

While Ducky is investigating the sticking backspace key issue, Overclockers UK tested multiple units and could not replicate the problem. This indicates I might have encountered a one-off build error, providing some reassurance for potential buyers that this is unlikely to be a widespread issue. Accordingly, the verdict score has been updated.