Ever since the Keychron K2 HE, keyboards with a wooden look have enjoyed enormous popularity. Now Sharkoon is also entering this segment and is reissuing the Skiller SGK50 S3, which was released in 2023, with a wooden look. The new Sharkoon SGK50 S3 Wood PBT not only changes the material of the frame, but also noticeably improves in terms of performance and features. The result is a classy and impressive gaming keyboard, as our test proves.
Technical data
| Product designation | SKILLER SGK50 S3 Wood PBT |
| Switch type | Mechanical |
| Button switch type | Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow |
| Switch types offered | Linear |
| Switch interchangeable | Yes |
| Keycaps interchangeable | Yes |
| material | Plastic, wood |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 325 mm x 135 mm x 45 mm |
| weight | 1.084 g |
| Onboard memory | 5 profiles |
| Cable connection | USB Type-C |
| Rollover technology | N-Key Rollover |
| Keycaps | PBT Double-Shot |
| Operating modes | Typing; Gaming |
| Sampling rate | 1,000 Hz |
| price | € 159.90 * |
Sharkoon Skiller SGK50 S3 Wood Review: Elegant design, good workmanship
- Elegant wood design
- Compact 75 percent layout
- PBT keycaps
The Sharkoon SGK50 S3 Wood PBT stands out from the usual grid of classic gaming keyboards from the very first glance. Instead of relying on cool, technical designs with lots of black and RGB lights, it combines functionality with a warm, almost homely look.
The special feature is the housing with a real wood frame, which is available in a light wood look. This design element is neither artificial nor playful, but gives the keyboard an absolutely elegant, high-quality character that fits perfectly into both a minimalist office setup and a stylish gaming environment.
The wooden look not only extends to the frame, but is also evident in the escape and space bar. If you don’t want that, matching black keycaps are included in the scope of delivery. This is because the SGK50 S3 Wood PBT is hot-swappable and allows the keycaps and mechanical switches to be replaced.
Overall, the case leaves a robust impression. The workmanship of the wooden frame is precise, the edges are cleanly milled and the gaps between the wood, frame and keyboard body are even. The material feels pleasantly warm, which is rare in this product class. The keyboard feels solid in the hand without being overly heavy. A sign of high-quality manufacturing. The underside is fitted with non-slip rubber feet that provide a secure grip.
The keycaps also deserve praise. Sharkoon relies on high-quality PBT caps with dye-sub lettering. In other words, characters that are baked into the material and not simply printed on. This means: no fading, no glossy film, no worn letters after months of use. The caps have a slightly textured and non-slip feel, which makes them ideal for frequent typists or gamers who appreciate a precise typing experience.
The combination of natural wood look, clear lines and the modern 75 percent layout results in a successful overall picture. The SGK50 S3 Wood PBT manages to combine elegance and function. Only the USB-C port on the top of the frame looks a little wobbly and has quite a lot of play.
Features of the SGK50 S3 Wood PBT
- Hot-swappable
- Successful Gateron switches
- Attractive RGB lighting
Technically, the SGK50 S3 Wood PBT is a compact 75% keyboard, i.e. a format between tenkeyless and 60% layout. This means that it does away with the numeric keypad, but retains the F-keys, arrow keys and the most important function groups, which provides a very good balance between space saving and functionality.
Modern technology is at work under the hood. The keyboard allows you to replace the switches without soldering. You have the option of inserting mechanical switches of your choice with 3 and 5 pins into the keyboard, which increases flexibility. This is a huge advantage, especially for enthusiasts, as you can try out different switch types or easily replace defective switches.
In the tested version, Sharkoon uses Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow Switches. These linear switches are characterized by a soft stop without tactile feedback, with a trigger point at around 2 mm and a total travel length of 4 mm. The actuation force is around 50 g, which makes them suitable for both fast gaming and smooth typing.
Another plus is the aforementioned PBT keycaps, which are not only more durable, but also have a more pleasant sound. The typing feel is firmer and more precise, the sound slightly duller than with ABS caps, which reduces annoying rattling.
The SGK50 S3 Wood PBT is of course RGB-illuminated. The lighting can be adjusted in numerous effects and colors. From soft color gradients to reactive lighting effects that respond to keystrokes, everything is possible. The brightness and speed of the animations can also be adjusted. Thanks to the high-quality illumination of the keycaps, the colors appear vibrant without being overly bright.
A high-quality sheathed USB-C to USB-A cable with a coiled design is included in the scope of delivery. The detachable cable is not only practical, but also contributes to durability. An onboard memory is also integrated, which can be used to save up to five profiles directly in the keyboard. A detail that is particularly interesting for users who frequently switch between devices or use their keyboard at different workstations.
Overall, the SGK50 S3 Wood PBT offers a well-rounded equipment package that will appeal to both beginners and advanced keyboard fans. It combines high-quality materials, hot-swap flexibility, attractive lighting and solid ergonomics in an elegant format.
Software connection
When it comes to software, Sharkoon remains true to its concept: functional, clear and without unnecessary ballast. The SGK50 S3 Wood PBT is QMK and VIA compatible, which is a real plus point. This allows the keyboard to be customized with the powerful open source tools that many enthusiasts prefer. However, most of the keyboard’s functions can also be easily set using FN key combinations.
Only those who want to assign individual keys or create macros have to resort to software solutions. Here, keys can be completely reprogrammed and macros created, which are then saved directly in the keyboard’s internal memory. This means that the profiles are retained even if the keyboard is used on a different computer.
One small point of criticism concerns the depth of customization: if you want to create very complex macros with multiple layers or interactive timings, you will reach your limits. Nevertheless, what is on offer is perfectly adequate for 99% of users – especially for those who value clear, functional software without getting lost in overloaded menus.
Practical test
- Convincing switches
- Pleasant typing feel
- Grinding keys; mixed stabilizers
The SGK50 S3 Wood PBT really comes into its own in everyday use. The pleasant, precise typing feel is noticeable from the very first tap. The Gateron switches run smoothly and evenly, while the PBT keycaps provide stability and control. The sound is pleasantly muted. A rich but not loud “thock”, although the sound is not quite as high-quality compared to other keyboards in this price range.
The SGK50 S3 also has to contend with unpleasant grinding noises on some larger keys, such as the space bar or Enter. Especially as the stabilizers do not allow a completely fixed return spring travel. More could have been achieved here, especially considering the price.
Professionals can improve the quality of the keyboard considerably by soldering the switches and replacing the stabilizers.
When typing for long periods of time, the keyboard impresses with a clearly defined pressure point and even spring force. Even after several hours, the typing feel remains pleasantly fluid. The ergonomics benefit from the slight slope and the compact layout, even though the keyboard does not have fold-out feet.
The keyboard proves to be reliable and responsive in office applications and in everyday creative work. Keystrokes are recognized without delay, ghosting does not occur and the input remains precise even with fast combinations. Gamers benefit from the linear characteristics of the switches: the SGK50 S3 Wood PBT responds promptly and flawlessly, especially in fast games with many consecutive inputs (such as FPS or MOBA titles).
Overall, the Sharkoon SGK50 S3 Wood PBT is a real pleasure in everyday use: It combines a first-class typing feel, appealing acoustic feedback and an exceptional design with high functionality and flexibility. Whether for working, writing or gaming – it delivers a convincing performance in all areas.
Sharkoon SGK50 S3 Wood PBT Review: Conclusion
With the SGK50 S3 Wood PBT, Sharkoon has created an impressive keyboard that clearly stands out from the crowd with its elegant wood look. While many gaming keyboards vie for attention with flashy RGB designs and aggressive shapes, this keyboard focuses on a combination of classic elegance and modern technology.
The wooden cladding gives it a natural, warm appearance and the PBT keycaps stand for durability and value. Technically, it impresses with its hot-swap function, reliable Gateron switches, RGB lighting, onboard profiles and QMK/VIA compatibility. The software is simple but effective, and the typing feel is also impressive.
However, the Sharkoon SGK50 S3 Wood PBT is not free of criticism. The somewhat abrasive keys and the average stabilizers do not quite match the rather high price. If this doesn’t bother you or if you want to make manual improvements here, you’ll get a convincing and elegant keyboard for many purposes – optionally also significantly cheaper as a barebone.
- Noble wood look
- Good workmanship
- Convincing switches
- QMK/VIA
- Hot-swappable
- Grinding keys
- Stabilizers average
- Software rather simple
Sharkoon SGK50 S3 Wood PBT
Workmanship
Features
Ergonomics
Software
Value For Money
88/100
High-quality and beautiful keyboard with convincing functions and successful features.
