Finding an "orthodox" keyboard in the world of mechanical keyboards can be a bit difficult. But the all-new Shift V2, a recent addition to Drop's burgeoning lineup of great keyboards, is an ideal middle ground that will satisfy many.

New phantom stabilizers for better acoustics, more foam inside, new switches, a new and improved chipset for RGB lighting, 5-pin switch support with a new PCB, and a brand new black colorway. In the world of mechanical keyboards, the little things add up to a lot of power, and together they make the Shift V2 a truly great keyboard.

The new black colorway contrasts sharply with the two-tone black and gray keycaps that have graced Drop keyboards in the past. The machined aluminum casing is also gorgeous, and the Shift V2 shows no deck flex at all. At the bottom of this machined casing is a translucent bar that transforms the Shift V2 into a sea of RGB when plugged in, sandwiched between the black casing.

If you have never seen this layout before, you may be scratching your head. It looks like someone stole the nav cluster and moved it onto the number pad. Shift V2 is exactly the same. It is a 96%, or 1800 layout, named after the Cherry G80-1800 keyboard that has been around for at least the past 25 years, if not longer.

This layout offers the full benefit of the normal keys on a 105 keyboard, but they are pushed in a bit to provide more space. It is a comfortable layout once you get used to the key layout, but at first you may find yourself pressing the right-hand arrow keys when looking for the zero key on the number pad. I noticed within the first few days of using the Shift V2 that the keys are double the size and one unit wide.

It also has some useful measures, such as removable magnetic feet to raise the keyboard to a more comfortable angle. These are common on Drop keyboards, as they are also included on the Ctrl and Alt models, and make a difference in the comfort of the Shift V2. There are two USB-C ports on the back, one for connecting a keyboard and one pass-through for connecting other low-power USB-C devices, such as a mouse cable or USB DAC.

The Shift V2 also features PBT keycaps, emphasizing that it is an enthusiast-grade keyboard. However, for such an expensive keyboard, it is probably more a matter of course than a matter of pleasure to have them.

The Shift V2 has a choice of two types of switches: the soft-touch Holy Panda X Clears and the linear Gateron Yellows. Both of these switches are new to this keyboard; previous models offered a wider selection, including Cherry, Kalih, and Halo. My sample is equipped with Gateron Yellows, with 50g linear switches, which are heavy enough compared to the more standard 45g Red option to make the keyboard suitable for typing in daily tasks.

I often have a complicated relationship with Gateron switches. The company's tactile switches were inconsistent across various keyboards, and some of the linear switches were missing something; the yellows on the Shift V2 did not suffer from such inconsistencies or feel issues. The switches were buttery smooth, never stuck, and felt great in everyday use. I'm not a huge fan of linear switches, but this is the best option I've used in a while.

But if neither switch option tickles your fancy (or if you don't care about anywhere else), the Shift V2 is hot-swappable. This second-generation model has a new PCB and supports 5-pin switches as well as 3-pin, so there are many options to choose from. I swapped the Cherry MX Clear Top Black for the Shift V2.

Swapping switches is very easy, as Drop includes keycaps and a switch puller. Simply remove the keycap and use the puller to pull out the old switch. Align the hooks on the puller with the nibs on the top and bottom of the switch. Then pull straight up and the switch should pull out. To add the new switch in its place, align the pin on the switch with the relevant hole on the PCB and push it in until it clicks. If the pins are bent, the key will not work and the switch must be re-set. When replacing the switch, it is possible to bend the pins, but it is easier than using a soldering iron.

Acoustically, the Shift V2 is also impressive, with layers of case foam and new stabilizers making this keyboard sound like a dream. There are no unwanted noises such as rattles or popping noises, and the Shift V2 is a keyboard that can be used happily for a long time without opening or poking.

RGB lighting flashes brightly both under the individual keys and in the RGB sandwich between the case; Drop's keyboards often impress with their RGB, and the Shift V2 is no exception, radiating vibrant colors throughout (no pun intended). QMK and VIA support has been added, making it convenient to remap keys and change RGB lighting using the online Drop Keyboard Configurator. Using this online system requires flashing firmware to the keyboard, a somewhat tedious process, but its presence is welcome.

The big question, however, is whether all these changes and additions are worth the $250 (currently on sale for $199). Existing Drop Shift owners are advised to purchase the new PCBA for the much lower price of $75.

For the rest of us, however, it is a different proposition. However, the Drop Shift V2 is a great choice if you value acoustics, a great typing experience, bright lighting, and a well-sized layout.

However, there is another 96% competitor in the form of the Asus ROG Strix Scope II 96% that adds wireless connectivity along with many features similar to the Shift V2. Frankly, the Shift V2 is a little harder to sell, but there is no denying that this is a really good keyboard. However, it falls just a little short against some of its competitors.