Welcome to my comparison of the Keychron K2 and Royal Kludge RK84, two popular wireless 75% mechanical keyboards under $100 with hot-swappable function. In this article, I will dive into their design, build, switches, tactility, Bluetooth connectivity, battery life, and software to help you make an informed decision on which keyboard is the right fit for you.
- The Keychron K2 and Royal Kludge RK84 are wireless 75% mechanical keyboards under $100 with hot-swappable function.
- Both keyboards have a solid build quality, but the RK84 feels slightly sturdier due to its extra weight.
- The Keychron K2 comes with Gatoron switches, while the RK84 features RK branded ttck switches.
- Both keyboards offer a pleasant typing experience, with the K2 having a better sound and the RK84 offering a more tactile feel.
- Both keyboards have Bluetooth connectivity and long battery life, with slight differences in their specifications.
- The RK84 comes with software for customization, while the K2 functions well without it.
- Ultimately, the choice between the Keychron K2 and the Royal Kludge RK84 depends on your personal preferences and priorities.
Design and Build
Both the Keychron K2 and the Royal Kludge RK84 feature a 75% TKL form factor, offering a compact size with 84 keys. The Keychron K2 boasts a dedicated lighting effect key, allowing users to easily customize their keyboard’s illumination. On the other hand, the Royal Kludge RK84 does not have this feature, providing a more minimalist aesthetic.
When it comes to weight and dimensions, the RK84 weighs approximately 0.3 pounds more than the Keychron K2. However, both keyboards have similar overall dimensions, with the removable frame on the RK84 providing an equivalent size. This makes them both portable and suitable for on-the-go use.
Both keyboards are equipped with double shot ABS plastic keycaps, ensuring durability and longevity. The legends on the keycaps play a crucial role in usability, and here, the Keychron K2 and the Royal Kludge RK84 differ slightly. The K2’s black keycaps have barely visible legends, even with backlighting, while the RK84’s keycaps feature clear and legible legends, enhancing visibility during use.
In terms of build quality, both the Keychron K2 and the Royal Kludge RK84 are well-built keyboards. However, due to its slightly heavier weight, the RK84 feels marginally more sturdy and substantial. This added weight can contribute to a more satisfying typing experience, providing a sense of stability and confidence.
Switches and Tactility
When it comes to switches, the Keychron K2 and the Royal Kludge RK84 each have their own unique offerings. The Keychron K2 is equipped with Gatoron switches, while the RK84 comes with RK branded ttck switches.
Both keyboards provide a delightful typing experience, thanks to their pre-lubed switches that offer smooth and responsive keystrokes. However, there are noticeable differences between the two.
The Keychron K2 stands out with its exceptional sound, delivering a satisfying auditory experience with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Royal Kludge RK84 focuses more on providing a heightened tactile feel, allowing users to enjoy a greater sense of feedback while typing.
Bluetooth and Battery Life
Both the Keychron K2 and the Royal Kludge RK84 are equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to use them wirelessly with ease. In addition to Bluetooth, the RK84 also comes with a 2.4 GHz dongle, providing an alternative wireless connection option.
The Keychron K2 features Bluetooth 5.1 technology, ensuring a stable and fast connection to your devices. On the other hand, the RK84 is equipped with Bluetooth 5.0, which also offers reliable wireless connectivity.
When it comes to battery life, both keyboards offer impressive performance. You can enjoy over 200 hours of usage without backlighting on both the Keychron K2 and the RK84. It’s worth noting that the Keychron K2 may have a slightly longer battery life, thanks to its slightly larger 4000 mAh battery compared to the RK84’s 3750 mAh battery.
Key Points:
- Both the Keychron K2 and Royal Kludge RK84 feature Bluetooth connectivity.
- The RK84 also includes a 2.4 GHz dongle for wireless connection.
- The Keychron K2 utilizes Bluetooth 5.1, while the RK84 uses Bluetooth 5.0.
- Battery life exceeds 200 hours on both keyboards, with the K2 potentially offering slightly longer battery life due to its larger battery capacity.
Software
One of the key differences between the Keychron K2 and the Royal Kludge RK84 lies in their software capabilities. The RK84 comes with software that allows users to customize their keyboard experience to their liking. With the software, users can easily change the RGB effects, assign specific keys to perform different functions, and even save profiles for different use cases.
On the other hand, the Keychron K2 does not come with software. However, this does not diminish its functionality. The K2 is still capable of delivering an exceptional user experience without the need for software customization. Both keyboards offer a range of customizable features and functionality to cater to the preferences of different users.
My Take on the Keychron K2
In my review of the Keychron K2, I found that it offers an exceptional typing experience that is hard to beat. The sound and feel of the mechanical switches are satisfying and responsive, making it a joy to type on this keyboard.
However, it’s important to note that the Keychron K2 does have a few drawbacks. One of them is the placement of the USB port. It is positioned on the left side of the keyboard, which can be inconvenient if you prefer a wired connection. Additionally, the included cable is on the shorter side, which may restrict your movement or limit where you can place the keyboard.
To overcome these issues, you can invest in a longer USB cable or consider using the Keychron K2 in wireless mode. The keyboard supports Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to enjoy the freedom of a wireless setup without the need for a cable.
Keep in mind that the Keychron K2 is available with white backlighting for $80. If you desire RGB lighting, you can opt for the RGB version, which comes at a slightly higher price of $90. The choice between the two depends on your personal preference and budget.
My Take on the Royal Kludge RK84
As I reviewed the Royal Kludge RK84, I was impressed by the loaded features and functionality it offers at an affordable price point. Priced at $80, this keyboard is packed with impressive features that cater to the needs of tech enthusiasts.
One standout feature of the RK84 is its RGB lighting. The vibrant and customizable RGB backlighting adds a touch of personalization to your typing experience. Whether you prefer a calming blue or a fiery red, the RK84 allows you to choose from a wide range of colors to suit your mood and style.
In addition to its striking aesthetics, the RK84 provides both Bluetooth and USB wireless connection options. This flexibility allows you to switch seamlessly between devices or use the keyboard wirelessly for a clutter-free workspace. The wireless connectivity, coupled with a 2.4 GHz dongle, ensures reliable and lag-free performance.
Another notable feature is the RK84’s removable frame. This unique design element allows for easy customization and maintenance. Whether you prefer a compact layout or want to swap out switches, the removable frame provides the flexibility to tailor your keyboard to your liking.
Furthermore, the RK84 comes equipped with software that allows for further enhancements and configuration. With the software, you can tweak RGB effects, assign custom functions to keys, and save profiles tailored to your specific needs. This level of customization adds a layer of versatility to the keyboard, making it a standout choice in its price range.
While the RK84 may not offer the same typing experience as the Keychron K2, it compensates with its loaded features and functionality. If you prioritize a keyboard that provides versatility, customizable options, and a budget-friendly price tag, the Royal Kludge RK84 is definitely worth considering.
Conclusion
In the comparison between the Keychron K2 and the Royal Kludge RK84, it is evident that both keyboards offer impressive features and functionality. The Keychron K2 shines with its exceptional typing experience, providing a satisfying sound and feel. On the other hand, the Royal Kludge RK84 stands out with its loaded features and customization options.
As a wireless 75% mechanical keyboard, both the Keychron K2 and Royal Kludge RK84 are equipped with the sought-after hot-swappable function, allowing users to easily switch out switches without soldering. This feature provides flexibility and convenience for users who prefer a more personalized keyboard.
Ultimately, when it comes to making a decision between the two keyboards, it all boils down to personal preferences and priorities. If you prioritize a superior typing experience, the Keychron K2 is an excellent choice. However, if you value a keyboard with a wide range of features and functionality, the Royal Kludge RK84 won’t disappoint.
Overall, whether you opt for the Keychron K2 or the Royal Kludge RK84, you are getting a top-notch wireless mechanical keyboard that caters to different needs and preferences. So, take your time, consider your requirements, and select the keyboard that aligns perfectly with your typing style and feature preferences.
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