ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 7 มิ.ย. 2024
- Welcome to this “face-off” between two 96% layout budget keyboards from two popular brands in the sub-$100 segment: the #RoyalKludge RK96 and the #Womier K98.
⭐⭐⭐This video is sponsored by PCBWay⭐⭐⭐
When you're ready to produce your next custom keyboard's PCB, plate, metal or injection molded case, PCBWay can bring your designs to life! 👉Get $5 off your first PCBWay order by using my affiliate link: www.pcbway.com/setinvite.aspx...
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
As usual, we’ll go through their design, features, quality, software and sound. Then, we’ll make a few quick and easy mods to both boards to see how we can improve their sound and typing experience.
In the sound test chapters, you’ll be able to hear how much of a difference these relatively simple mods did to them (spoiler alert: a lot!).
Can you get the same practicality of a full size mechanical Keyboard in a more compact layout with these 96% boards? Can you get good quality in this $80 to $90 USD value oriented segment of the market?
Join me on another I/O Sam “chill-out voyage" into the ever expanding world of #MechanicalKeyboards!
🟣 MAIN FEATURED PRODUCTS:
Royal Kludge
RK96 (mono):
(Amazon)👉 amzn.to/3OBgKuS (get 10% off with code RK96SZZZZ10 )
(RKgamingstore)👉 bit.ly/3rtBRWe (get 10% off with code RK10 )
RK96 RGB:
(Aliexpress) 👉 fave.co/3u8bRRu
Womier K98:
(Amazon)👉amzn.to/3xPcv9j
Wowstick Electric Screwdriver:
(Bangood)👉 www.banggood.com/custlink/3DG...
(Amazon)👉 amzn.to/3iiArsC
BoW Keycaps Set XDA PBT Dye-Sub (Hiragana):
(Bangood)👉 www.banggood.com/custlink/GKG...
🟣 SOCIAL LINKS:
Web: www.iosamfranco.com
Twitter: / iosamfranco
Mastodon: bitbang.social/@iosam
Instagram: / iosamfranco
Reddit: / io_sam
TH-cam: / iosam
🟣 LIST OF PRODUCTS LINKS:
- ePBT keycaps sets: 🌏» kbdfans.com/r?id=5onuff | US » bit.ly/3QQg1Gc
- Krytox 205 grade 2: amzn.to/3GDHAkk | ebay.us/zttJch
- Krytox 205 grade 0: bit.ly/3FS1nw1 | fave.co/413mV19
- Krytox 105: amzn.to/2NjBSuB | ebay.us/L2Bf31
- Krytox XHT-BDZ: bit.ly/xhtbdz2
- Micro Brushes (for lubing switches): amzn.to/3iUsQkr
- Nylon Hair Brush Set: amzn.to/3rUYMr1
- Mstone Acrylic Mechanical Switch Lube Station: fave.co/37Ne21h
- Hakko Flush Cutter: amzn.to/3dctIzc
- Aluminium Switch Opener - Kailh/MX Type: amzn.to/3dt3YwJ
- KBDFANS X AI03 2-IN-1 Aluminum Switch Opener: 🌏» kbdfans.com/r?id=rpgrn0
- 1.5 mm Silicone Baking Mat: amzn.to/3pgar21
- Nashua Stretch & Seal Silicone Tape: amzn.to/3vSgd0s
- Othmro Black Nitrile Rubber Sealing O-Rings (6mm x 2mm x 2mm / 500pcs): amzn.to/3d8E3MA
- Scotch Delicate Surface Masking Tape: amzn.to/3BD0BPP
- Silicone Adhesive Non-Slip Grips: amzn.to/3fxLtt4
- Xool Tweezers Set: amzn.to/3rPrE3X
- Jeweler Pick-Up Tool: amzn.to/3b01qFq
- Cutting Mat: amzn.to/3qgNHjS
- Durock T1: fave.co/38bIdTG
- Gazzew Boba U4T: fave.co/3FoAu0N
- Glorious Panda: shrsl.com/2wnu0 | amzn.to/39ithTR
- Drop Holy Panda: fave.co/3mcRvDs | amzn.to/38GeG4d
- Razer Viper Ultimate Hyperspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse: amzn.to/3kOPTOm
- Glorious Model D Wireless Gaming Mouse: amzn.to/3P1pQBD
- Logitech G502 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse: amzn.to/3yp5fRS
- GK21S RGB Hot Swap USB-C/Bluetooth Aluminium Numpad: amzn.to/37pQnaA
🟣 MY KEYBOARD TYPING SOUND RECORDING SETUP:
👉 bit.ly/iosamtyping
🟣 REFERENCE VIDEO MENTIONED:
@Hellborecannon- Silencing stabs the Walker way👉 • Silencing stabs the Wa...
🟣 TIME CODES:
00:00 - 1) Intro
01:32 - 1.1) Video briefing
02:18 - 1.2) Disclaimers
02:59 - 2) Royal Kludge RK96
04:14 - 3) Womier K98
06:22 - 4) The layout
07:58 - 5) The build quality and design
08:03 - 5.1) The case
09:17 - 5.2) The switches
09:40 - 5.3) The PCB
10:58 - 5.4) The lighting
12:26 - 5.5) The software
15:12 - 5.6) The keycaps
16:29 - 5.7) The sound damping
17:12 - 5.8) The stabs
18:34 - 5.9) The wireless connection
19:30 - 5.10) The battery life
20:12 - 6) The measurements
21:45 - 7) The looks
23:28 - 8) The "quality of life" features
24:06 - 9) Stock typing sound test
26:07 - 9.1) Typing sound test analysis (stock)
27:54 - 10) Modding both keyboards
27:59 - 10.1) Lubing switches
28:27 - 10.2) Modding the RK96
29:31 - 10.3) Modding the K98
32:13 - 11) Modded typing sound tests
34:27 - 11.1) Typing sound test analysis (modded)
35:00 - 12) Conclusion
35:08 - 12.1) Feel and sound
36:27 - 12.2) Overall quality, price and value
37:15 - 12.3) Availability
37:27 - 12.4) Competitive analysis
38:38 - 12.5) Target market
40:17 - 13) Outro - วิทยาศาสตร์และเทคโนโลยี
Superb review, you covered everything I wanted to know about. The mod suggestions are a great way to see the full potential of these keyboards, thanks!
Happy to know this was helpful! And thank you for leaving awesome feedback my good Sir!!!
Always highly appreciated!
Most underrated tech Chanel.
So much work put into these videos.
Love the thorough and structured approach. Production value second to none. 10 out of 10
Thank you so much Max!!! 🙏🏼 Feedback like your is what makes all the work (and care) put into my videos 100% worth it!!!
+1 from me :)
Quality over quantity. This is rare nowadays.
I recently discovered your channel, and I have to say I am REALLY impressed! Very professional, well thought out and superbly organized. Kudos!
Thank you for the awesome feedback and welcome the channel!!!
And you count on those traits to continue in all future videos! :)
fantastic review covering every possible angles and questions I could possibly ask! Really nicely done
Thanks a ton, Cedric!!! So happy to know this review helped you!
I have another big 96% keyboards round-up coming soon to the channel, where I'll review 4 keyboards between $120 and $250... Stay tuned! ;)
I have never seen this layout until today. This was a great watch and the in depth review outstanding! Thank you for this share!
You are so welcome Vlad!!! It is my goal to always bring new/novelty topics like this in this channel whenever possible, and I'm so glad to know these videos are helpful! Thank you for the awesome feedback!
Good to see a new video! Enjoy how detailed your videos are.
Thank you Nick!!! More to come! :)
Completely sold on the RK96, perfect review as always!
Thank you my good Sir! And yes, I was actually pretty surprised with Royal Kludge! This is the first time I try any of their boards and I'm very impressed with what they're giving you for $80 (actually less than $70 now that is on sale)!
The only thing I don't like about it so far is that it's not RGB :( I just bought one and realized it after getting it hooked up. It's blue only! what the hell? lol.
@@rrittenhouseHave you tried changing the colours? Press FN+DEL or FN+PRT SCR
I normally don't comment on these kinds of videos because they are usually just the normal break down but this was really nicely thought out and you gave a lot of great options of materials and in depth info with pictures/video to back up what your saying. I love the pacing of how your presenting this as well and hope to see more of your videos in the future! I didn't even need to watch all of this but still let it roll through because you deserve the watch time xD
This was the nicest piece of feedback I've gotten around here in a long time! You basically described the ideal reaction I dream of when I think of someone stumbling upon one of my videos. In other words, your feedback means that whatever I'm trying to do here… is working!
Yeah... This type of in-depth video won't go viral. I know... But that's not what I'm aiming for here anyway. I'm not after "meme mobs". I want smart people who can appreciate the work that goes into producing this type of content, and then be able to articulate intelligent comments and questions in this area. Which is exactly what I'm getting (and you are the living proof! :)
So, thank you my friend!!! Your words are extremely appreciated! And you can bet there will be much more content like this (covering all sorts of computer peripherals and related themes by the way, not only keyboards) coming to this channel.
Just found your channel, and i gotta say you deserve way more subs! clean edits and very to the point
Thank you my friend!!! Highly appreciated!! We're slowly building a great community around here and you're very welcome to be a part of it!
I accidentally stumbled across your video when I tried to research more about RK96, and wow, this is such an underrated video, it was so well done/edited. Also, your voice is so calm and relaxing. Thank you so much for this nice video!
Thank you for awesome feedback and welcome aboard the I/O Sam train my friend!!! 😁
Glad you found this channel, and hope you stick around for more chillout keyboard reviews and DIY modding guides (that will hopefully be properly rated as time goes by and as this channel grows 😆🙏).
Loved this review! The most comprehensive one I ever watched! I'm only looking for a comparison between RK 100 and RK 98, and found this gem of a review! Now, I'm even more confused with 3 different models of RK to choose from! Haha! Thanks for this, Bro!
Thank you Bryan!!! Appreciated my friend!! And I’m sorry for bringing even more options to consider into this never ending sea of mechanical keyboards we're already in these days… 😂
This deserves way more views and attention. With the amount of details, work put into the video, it's truly commendable
Thank you so much Ali!!! Your nice words are highly appreciated!!
Nice work as always, Keep it up! Now I have some good recommendations for friends looking to get a budget mechanical board.
Always happy to help my friend!!! Let's put these value mechs to good use (as the "gateway drugs" to pull everybody into this hobby 😆)!
The best keyboard review I've ever seen! I always try to steer clear of lengthy videos but damn! It was worth it.
He he… Thank you Zubaer!!! I really appreciate you time and your awesome feedback!! It is indeed a very tricky balance to try to get as much relevant information possible about products in the shortest amount of time (without feeling too fast paced and fatiguing)…
So, I opted instead to do THE MOST DETAILED chapter markings on the history of TH-cam, for my lengthy and in-depth reviews, to at least allow people who don’t want/need to sit through the whole thing to find the specific piece of information they are looking for. This way, everybody gets what they need out of my videos (or at least that is my intention 😁).
@@IOSam Please review other RK models. This world needs more reviews like this one.
Would love to see Keyboard battles for e.g. RK84 vs RK98 vs RK96 etc.
@@Z-Warrior3470 I will definitely try to go back to covering RK boards! Royal Kludge PR reps are super nice people and they have offered me the chance to review any of their products anytime, but life has unfortunately gotten in the way a lot lately and I couldn't find the time yet...
But a super shootout between all their most popular models would indeed make up for a very interesting video.
Really enjoyed the in-depth review!
I truly enjoy your videos, and even when I’m not interested in the specific models, I always learn something new about modding, materials and recommended parts.
Thanks Sam!
Subscribed.
Thanks man!!! Love to hear that!!!
That is exactly the type of approach I have with the creators I follow (focus on learning from them more than in specific products they cover), so it is so nice to have other likeminded people (such as yourself) following my work here! 🙏
@@IOSam
No problem! Glad to be here on this channel.
Honestly, it’s channels like this that remind me why I liked engineering so much (used to work as an EE, but moved on to the product field now).
Who knows, maybe with enough content consumed, I will start messing with soldering electronics again 😃
@@TheRonybala Hehe... It is a matter of time my friend... You'll be dustin' off your soldering skills sooner than you think if you stay in this hobby long enough! 😆
@@IOSam
That’s what my wife is worried about. I was about to get a soldering station and make my DROP ENTR pcb hot-swap, so now I’m getting an Akko Mod007 instead, and damn be the costs 😅
The funny thing is - once I have my Akko 007 set up, I’m definitely remaking the ENTR lol
@@TheRonybala And that's how one knows he is past the "point of no return"... 😂
Honestly, a very underrated tech reviewer. So glad I came across your channel. Love this in-depth review and it has affirmed my decision to get the RK96! Can see the amount of effort you put into this video especially the timestamps which are incredibly helpful. You've earned a subscriber :)
Thank you so much John!!! I really appreciate your feedback (and your sub)!!!
And yeah… I go out of my way to make my videos as comprehensible, useful and easy to navigate as possible. It is indeed a crazy amount of work, but I want that to be the main differentiation for my channel: that you’re not gonna get a more in-depth computer peripheral review anywhere else! :)
@@IOSam Hope your channel grows quickly! Will definitely recommend it :)
This is a great video on the less-covered 1800 layout keyboards. I really appreciate the time and effort you spent in testing and tuning these boards!
In my earlier search for a work keyboard, I tried RK100. It sounded really nice after some extensive work, but unfortunately it's daughter board had an overheating issue. I ended up with Stacked 1800 from Cannon Keys. It's a stacked acrylic case ~$90 like the K98, but it is barebone and requires soldering. The upside of it is PCB-mounted stabs and QMK/VIA compatibility. For everyday consumers, there is also AKKO 3098 series. Maybe some day you could do a review on it?
Thank you so much Nina!!! I’m glad to know that this type of content is appreciated by members of the community like you! While I know most enthusiasts don’t care about larger boards such as these, I also know that a lot of people need these bigger layouts for work.
I want to cover all possible topics, for as wide of an audince as possible, when reviewing keyboards (including different layouts and price segments). So, I feel like budget keyboards that include numpads have to have a space around here too. At any rate, I already have a KBDfans Zeus here which will be featured in the channel soon, so It’ll be another interesting look at a large layout (it has a unique layout largely inspired on the 1800), but from a more premium side of the market.
On the topic of the quality of RK products, I have to admit I had never tried one of their keyboards before, but I was aware of the fact they are very aggressive with their pricing and had a reputation as a low tier brand. But this first experience shows me that they have been evolving, which is always nice. Meanwhile I know Akko keyboards are on higher tier (which I call “performance”) and they usually have much more polished products (they are even venturing into the semi-custom market with their MOD series). I’ve seen Scott’s (Keybored) review of the MOD 003 (the next tier up from the 3098) and it does look like these Akko options are the natural next step in build quality for people interested in the 1800 layout. I’ll definitely will try to get one to take a look for myself.
As for your Stacked 1800, you’re in good hands with CannonKeys stuff, of course. When you know your way around a soldering iron, you’ll always be able to get better results with custom builds than with production keyboards (which I intend to cover those around here as well). I have a huge queue of videos coming up that will be right up that “custom alley”. So, stay tuned! ;)
Very thorough, unbiased and detailed review! I'm sold on rk96 as my first mechanical kb.
Thank you!!! Always happy to know my videos were helpful to bring new people to the joys of typing on mechanical keyboards! 😁
Wow this review was impressive, liked, subscribed and got the RK96, great job.
Yooo!!! Thank you so much!!!
I hope you enjoy your new keyboard (and please drop by my sub-reddit at www.reddit.com/r/IOSam to let us know your thoughts on the RK96 once you get to try it for yourself)!
Hey man top top notch stuff, subscribed!
Thank you Jake!!! Your feedback and your sub are highly appreciated my friend!🙏
I just bought the Royal Kludge RK96 90% and I changed out the keycaps and added rubber O rings to dampen the clicking sound. I absolutely love mine ❤️
The perfect home office keyboard "solution" for it's price, that's for sure!
High-quality video. Sam, you deserve more subs and likes!
Thank you so much for your support!!! 🙏
And the subs/likes will eventually come as long as we keep up the good work, right? So, you can bet there will be much more content like this in the channel going forward! :)
Thanks a lot for this video!
Glad it was helpful! And thank YOU for the nice feedback!!
Perfect review , very thorough
Thank you Sir!!! Glad this video was helpful!!
very informative video. thanks man
Hey Sajid! Glad it was helpful my friend!!!
Astonishing amount of hard work on this video, new hard fan here!
Thank you for the awesome feedback (and the sub 🙏🏼)!!!
Lot more videos (with a lot more hard work in them 😅) in the making!
@@IOSam Can't wait! I found this video looking for a worthy replacement for my daily (since 2007) perfectly working Logitech G15 V1, which unfortunately is experiencing compatibility problems with the USB ports on my mobo. I was oriented on the Everest Max because it offers almost everything I am looking for, however the RK96 has many interesting features at an incredible price point. This video surely helped me to deeply know the RK before buying. So thanks to you sir! :D
@kMw07 That's what I'm here for!!! By the way, Royal Kludge has recently released the RGB version of RK96 in their Aliexpress store (fave.co/3u8bRRu ) for pretty much the same price, in case you think you'd appreciate the added feature.
Great video!!! Extremely informative and well editing. I am waiting for my rk96 shipping to my house. Can’t wait! Thank you for your video
Glad it was helpful!!! And thank YOU for the lovely feedback, Wachansa!
I hope you enjoy your new keyboard (and please report back on your experience once you get it)!
@@IOSam Sure, I'll let you know! I'm a newbie here and have to learn a lot from you videos :)) Thank you again, you're so sweet! Just subbed!
@@Wachansa Hey... This is a newbie friendly zone! (I made sure of that when I created this channel ;) So, feel free to ask any questions here or on my subreddit (www.reddit.com/r/IOSam ) and I'll be happy to help!
And thank you so much for the sub!!! Highly appreciated!!! 😁🙏
@@IOSam Oh thanks again, Sam! I really need this! lol. Already joined your subreddit. :)
P.S. Seller told me the shipping was delayed and I have to wait for another 1-2 weeks 😩 I'm so close to run to a mall and grabbing another mechanical keyboard. hahaha
@@Wachansa Ooofff.. Let's just say I know the feeling of having keyboard products shipments delayed... (I have a very particular keycap set on a group buy, that was supposed to take 3 to 6 mnonths to ship... It's been 1 and 1/2 year! 😫)
Very well done videos!!!
Thank you very much!!!🙏
Very well made video with well defined segments and great advice on the office use keyboard layout
Hope your channel grows much bigger
Thank you so much Kunal!!! Highly appreciated comment my friend! And I hope to have you on board in this journey into 10K subs and beyond here soon! :)
Nice to see 96% getting some attention, really underrated...
Nice to see you back :)
Have to give the numpad a little bit of love, right? XD
Thanks man!!!
what a perfect video... covering every detail...!!!
Thank you!!! (covering every detail is our business around here :)
Underrated video that deserves more views and subscribers
Thanks RØnin!!! Appreciated man!!!
New round-up of a bunch of other 96% boards (between $130 and $250) is coming soon the channel... Stay tuned! ;)
Excellent video! I was looking at a similar keyboard (Royal Kludge 98) and stumbled across your video when looking for reviews. Really well edited, have subscribed! I'm new to the mechanical keyboard world and all these different switch types can be quite confusing. In fact, I've just ordered the RK98 (with brown switches) on Amazon now!
One thing to note about these boards however is that the royal kludge keyboards are not international format (no £, €, or ñ characters) which means typing on them can be quite difficult in certain situations. Other then that they look really good, and the USB pass through is a bonus when using my laptop that only has usb c ports!
Thank you so much Lou!!! Appreciated!!
And yeah… The mechanical keyboard rabbit hole can be very deep, and very confusing! So, I’m glad this video helped you out, and that you managed to find a board that can suit you reasonably well without overspending (RK is the value king in this market!).
As for ISO and other more niche layouts… Yeah… That is still a big problem dictated by economies of scale. Only big brands such as Logitech and Razer can offer their boards in almost all variations of layout in a profitable way.
You can always go the custom keyboard route, of course, which will allow you to configure your layout any way you want. But that will easily cost you between 2 and 3 times more money (at least!) than buying a decent pre-built. So, that would be a much bigger commitment to your typing experience.
Most professional, informative and complete review I ever watched :O :O :O This man know what he's doing and talking about. Quickly become one of my favorite reviewers.
Do you have an issue with bent wrist rest? Mine came bent straight from the box. Also the volume knob is jamming.
Thank you Dimitar! Your nice words are very much appreciated my friend!!!
Answering your question: my review unit did not come with any bent on the wrist rest nor any problems with the volume barrel. So, if you did get those problems with your unit, I would strongly suggest you contact the seller and try to obtain a replacement unit.
@@IOSam Thank you, man! You are welcome! Keep it up, you are doing a great job! :) Quality over quantity. This is rare nowadays.
Loved the review, Sam. Very interested in the RK96. I know it’s got north facing LED’s, but I really want to put some Olivia’s on it, have you tried it? Would there be interference? I know you mentioned the possibility in the video, but - don’t know whether or not you tested it. Very thorough as always!
Hi Eugene! Thanks man!! Appreciated!!!
I did test cherry profile caps with the included RK switches and there is indeed interference in the 3rd row ( th-cam.com/video/sTQfpqbskfw/w-d-xo.html ). My suggestion here, if you want to go ahead with cherry profile caps in this board, is to also replace the switches with ones that have long pole stems, such as Holy Pandas tactiles ( Drop: amzn.to/38zKrwc or Glorious: amzn.to/380PRAi ) and Durock Pom linears ( bit.ly/durockpom ) for example.
If the switch has a longer pole, the stem hits the bottom of the switch sooner (shorter travel distance) and has an extra millimeter of clearance on the top side that should give you enough space for the cap to avoid hitting the switch top housing.
Thank you for such an informative video. I learned so much from the in-depth review. I Know what keyboard is best for me. 👍
Hey Michael! Thank you!! Glad this was helpful man!!!
watching this because i found an rk96 at a liquidation store bin for 12 dollars brand new!! gotta say ive been loving it
Wow! That's what I call a sweet deal my friend!!!
I just ordered the rk96 limited ed. I'm not sure if it's the same model that you tested in the video, i can't wait to try it, it's gonna be my first ever mech keyboard! Didn't know that it was such a deep and vaste universe, choosing the perfect keyboard wasn't an easy task! And btw, nice video! your voice and prononciation are very unique, it's so pleasant to hear!
Thank you!!! And welcome aboard this never-ending hobby! :)
The RK96 is a great start! The difference with the Limited Edition is that it has better switches (the better weighted yellows), nicer keycaps and full RGB backlighting (instead of the monochromatic blue I had on my sample). So, overall, you’re getting a better version of what you saw in this video.
As for my pronunciation, it comes from my native language (Portuguese). So, there is still a lingering accent in there… But good to know it is not annoying to listen to! 😁
i received it some days ago and oh boy it's everything that i wanted, the typing experience so pleasant! the only downside that i found it that i just can't use it in a dark room, the backlighting doesn't actually light the keys, it's just there for the aesthetic. Maybe it's because i need to change the keycaps to translucent ones? But overall, I'm really happy with it!@@IOSam
@@zinelabidineturki3670 Nice to know! Did you get the white keyboard with blue LEDs as well? If so, try to reduce the brightness of the backlight when using it in the dark, and the key's legends will become more legible (otherwise the super bright lights will bleed through the keycaps walls and make it more difficult to see the letters).
i wish i had seen this video before i bought my RK918 a couple of weeks back. LOL. Hindsight is always 20/20. That RK96 is exactly all i could have asked for!
Hehe... I know the feeling... XD
But fear not: I have another round of a few more 96% keyboards ranging from $120 all the way up to $250 coming up here in the channel before the end of the year.
You might as well wait for that before you ever decide to sell your KR918... ;)
@@IOSam Lookin forward to it brother!
1800 and 96% are my go-to these days. Love them for work and play. Q5 w/ Gat Red Pro at work and Halo96 w/Rose at home. Also have the RT100 w/ Flamingo on my other desk at home.
96% is the new full-size ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
I’m still working on a large round up of 1800/96% keyboards (around 6 or 7 boards) that should land here in the channel sometime in this first half of 2023. Should be interesting!
This was the detailed comparison I was looking for, thanks! Just bought an rk96, my first mech. After lubing and taping, it sounds great, very happy. steel plate does have a bit of ping, but it is not very noticeable. Also wish it was an off white instead of stark white. I am going to hot glue mod to the inside of the key caps to see if I can eek out a little more thock.
Nice! First off: congrats on your first mech!! Big step!!! :)
And you're right about your observations there: steel plates can be "pingy" and more color options (such as gray or off-white) would be great. Although I get it why they did it in this bleached white... It seems most kids really dig these "storm-trooper" colored devices these days.
Let me know if the keycaps glue mod works out in the sound department (wondering here if they will not kill the backlight on your keycaps though).
@@IOSam I used cheap clear drying hot glue, and it did not alter the shine through at all. It did deepen the sound, making it sound a little more marble. I only did it to the larger keys, and was careful where I applied, as to avoid the switch housing when pressed. Also used a lot of thick super lube on the switches and the stabs. I think the thick lube worked well in this unique case, given the overall play in the switch. It sounds great now.
@@KevinAdams06 That is awesome! I need to try this mod myself!! Question: do you think the keycaps get too heavy after this hot-glue mod? Wondering if one would need heavier springs in their switches if they decide to do this for the whole keyboard...
@@IOSam in the case of the spacebar, it might be helpful. I don’t feel like it is really needed for the other keys. Note, I am using the switches that came with the board (not sure what gram rating is on those). I am assuming that this might be problematic if you already started with a light switch. Also, this mod might be difficult to do easily on standard keys. even if you did it, i am guessing it would be difficult to get a meaningful and consistent sound impact. Let me know if you come up with a good way of doing this to standard keys that does not interfere with the switch housing.
@@KevinAdams06 Interesting! The RK brown switches should be around 50 to 55 grams of force, which is medium level. But for the space-bar the extra material inside the cap could make it a bit sluggish... But that is something for me to test and find out.
And you're right, the challenge here would be to apply a consistent amount of glue in each cap, which will be difficult with hot glue. Regular water soluble glue should be easier to apply, but those will cloud the backlighting a bit, since they have a more whiteish coloration.
Hello. Just found this awesome video with amazing video quality and production value.
Could you please help me decide by answering a few questions?
Firstly, I do own a RK84 and I love it every bit. However, I really need the numpad as I work with numbers almost every moment. Also, I need the PageUp and PageDown button to navigate in MS Excel. From what I have seen, RK96 do not have those and been integrated in the numpad itself. Is the Fn button need to be pressed while using them? even if, I really liked the keyboard, shall I move to RK96 or would be better if I get a 3rd party numpad to combo with RK84?
Would be awesome, if I could get some serious suggestions! Thanks!
Hi Anthony! Thank you so much!!!
Addressing your question: Yes, you are correct that the RK96 does not have PageUp and PageDown direct keys. But you have two ways to access those two functions:
1) Use the key combinations "Fn"+ "k" for PageUp and "Fn" + "," for PageDown;
2) Press the "Num Lock" key once to switch the numpad from numbers mode to navigation mode, and then press "9" for PageUp and "3" for PageDown.
While you technically can remap any key with those functions, that would require you to use RoyalKlusge software to switch to a secondary profile (where you'd have keys remapped for whatever you like) and then return to the primary profile (with the default layout) once you're done (otherwise you'd lose the original functions of whatever remapped keys until you go back to the default profile, since this keyboard does not support programmable secondary and tertiary layers accessible through the "Fn" key, such as QMK/VIA compatible boards usually do).
So, I guess you have to consider if these "maneuvers" are too cumbersome for you to use at work. If so, a separate numpad (such as my usual recommendation for quality basic numpad: the Filco Hakua: amzn.to/3e1F7UW ) to bring to the side of your RK84 whenever you need to work with numbers might be a more sensible approach.
Hope this helps! 👍
Great video! Members of the hobby generally push people into the TKL side if someone needs something for the office, but nothing can beat the practicality of having a numpad attached to your board. (Especially if you deal with more numbers than words at times).
Well said! As someone who [loves TKLs and] has worked in finance departments before, I can 100% second that opinion!
(and thank you good Sir!!!)
@@IOSam Sam what do you like about TKL so much? Imo a 75% has everything you need in a smaller size. Surely you don't use Insert, ScrLk or Pause that much (if at all). I'll never understand why people like this format, but maybe i'm missing something.
Well, you're not wrong on 75% boards having everything you need... And for practicality-plus-space-saving reasons, nothing beats a 75% (which I think is why they became so popular in the last few years).
As for why so many people like TKLs (me included), I think it is mostly for looks (they can be so classy!) and nostalgia... There was a time when TKLs were rare and expensive (think 90's and early 2000's), so having one would immediately show you were a real geek (at least for young GenX'ers like me)! XD
Also, in the late 2000's, Filco TKLs became a hit with the South Korean StarCraft players, and that had an instant effect in the gaming community at the time (coinciding with the beginning of what I call the "mechanical keyboards renascence" of the early 2010's). So I think a lot of late Millennials (which were certainly gamers back then) are also a bit nostalgic about this format.
Aaand you just gave me a good idea for a new article in my blog! 🤔😆👍
@@IOSam That makes sense i guess, old habits die hard. Thanks for answering and keep up the good work!
Majestic video
Wow, thanks Dmitry!!! Appreciated my good Sir!!
Friend sent me this video, and I already ordered RK96. I hope it will perform as good as it looks 🙃
Cool! Let us know your impressions here once you get yours, so we have a good idea on how consistent RK's quality control is on each copy 👍
Hi, I was wondering if you could clarify something for me.
In the video you mentioned possible "interference" with the switch and Cherry profile keycaps, because of the fact that the switches are "north-facing". Is it correct to assume that all/most cherry keycaps will have "interference" when using north-facing switches?
Thanks for the video!
Hey Jibronee! You’re welcome man! While not all combinations of switches and cherry keycaps will collide in the north-facing position, in my experience most will. The exceptions are usually a combination of switches with long stem poles with cherry keycaps that happen to have thick walls (GMK for example).
I actually addressed this topic in one of my recent videos over here (th-cam.com/video/mF2aqtYb_e0/w-d-xo.html ), which might be an interesting clip for you to check out.
I ended up with an RK98, and it is a fantastic keyboard. Highly recommend.
Royal Kludge makes the best bang-for-the-buck ultra budget mechanical keyboards... Hard to go wrong with any of them for their price.
A question!
You seems to know what you are talking about. Can I made my RK96 to illuminate only the letters on the buttons and not the space around them. I find it very distracting and my eyes are definitely not happy, typing in the dark. :/
So, do you think it's possible?
Hey Dimitar! I think the problem to get what you’re looking for is that the Cherry MX switch design is not conducive to having a focused backlighting that only shines through the legends (without spilling over to the plate and between the keycaps. That would only be possible if the LED was sitting much higher in the switch (closer to the top of the keycap).
The best way to (at least) reduce the light spill with MX based keyboards would be to get a black version of the board, since a dark plate would reflect less light and thus have less RGB glare between the keys.
I would love to see a review of Royal Kludge RK 92
While the RK96 was the first Royal Kludge I ever tried, I'll definitely keep them on my radar for future budget friendly mechs reviews!
This is some great detailed review, subbed!
Do they both have on-board macros?
I would like to bring the same key bindings to all the connected devices, without downloading software on all of them.
Thank you Justin!!! Highly appreciated!!!🙏
As for the Macros situation with these boards, I'd say it is a mixed bag...
The positive is that they do offer Macros and allow it to be very granular in the way you set them up (allowing to you set the intervals between keypresses and even including mouse movements in the case of the Womier).
The negative is that you do need to have the software running in the background for these Macros to work properly, because they do not offer you “layers” that you can switch through a Function key (and that be recorded to the keyboard’s controller memory). That means you’ll have to create different software profiles for your normal layout (with no Macros) and a secondary layout (with Macros) that you’ll have switch between through the software every time you need to use your Macros (otherwise you’d have to permanently assign a Macro to a key, which might be a problem if you ever need to access that key’s original/default function).
So, if you are a heavy Macro user (for work for example, where you might not be able to install any software in your computer), the ideal solution for you would be to get a keyboard with VIA compatibility, since those types of boards do allow you to create multiple layers through the VIA interface and then easily switch between them without having any software running in the background (these boards have the ability to store these configurations in hardware) by using a “Function” or “Menu” key. Which means you could program your keyboard in one computer and then use the board in other computers without VIA and you’d still be able to carry and use all your Macros with no issues.
Hope this 96% thing catches on, the keys of my Logitech K360 are getting worn out and for many years I have simply been unable to find another keyboard that offers the same: compact design, num pad and multimedia controls. It's baffling that among hundreds and hundreds of keyboards it's so difficult to find this simple combination. Even, now, the RK96 (that I just ordered, and how I got to this video) seems like the only one matching these parameters and having a dedicated delete key.
Hey David! I do believe that 96% is the new “full-size” going forward. I have been flooded with review samples for 96% keyboards after I posted this video, and it seems every trendy keyboard manufacturer out there now has at least one model in this layout (except for the largest laggards, such as Logitech, Razer and Steelseries, which will inevitably follow suit). Meanwhile, traditional 104 full-size boards are starting to fade from online store “shelves”…
I’ll have a new video covering premium 96% boards between $120 and $250 sometime earlier next year, which will show how much this layout has evolved in the market in the last 12 months (both in terms of build quality and features). But at this point in late 2022, the RK96 is still the value champion in the market, considering all the features you get for its unbeatable price.
Sam, what are the best 96% wireless mechanical keyboards? If the RK96 is a budget pick what are some mid range/top tier ones? (2.4G and Bluetooth multi connection are necessary) also in stock would be helpful
I happen to have another video on 96% that will cover specifically this question. From all the 96% boards over $100 I’ve tried these three get my recommendation for their price tiers (and will be featured in the upcoming video):
a) the Yunzii Keynovo IF98 for $130 (available now on Amazon > affiliate link: amzn.to/3SKJp1P ): great build quality, super nice PBT keycaps and smooth pre-lubed Gateron Pro switches. It is a great deal for the price if you can forsake the wireless connections. It offers very basic (but workable) software programmability.
b) the EPOMAKER TH96 for $150 (still in pre-order phase, but they sent me a prototype for me to test > epomaker.com/collections/96-keyboards/products/epomaker-th96 ): very high-quality case and keycaps, gasket mounted plate (not soft or bouncy, but effective in eliminating friction, creaks and rattles), great design, volume knob is one of the best I’ve seen in any keyboard so far, both Bluetooth and 2.4 Ghz wireless with a gigantic 6,000 mAh, and the Flamingo switches are possibly the smoothest pre-lubed stock switches I’ve ever tried in a production keyboard (I suspect these are made by TTC). On the software side they offer wireless and wired-only versions of this board, where the wired ones are QMK/VIA compatible (awesome!) and the wireless use their own proprietary software (not as nice as VIA, but good enough to get the job done).
c) IQUNIX F97 for $255 (available now in IQUNIX website > affiliate link: iqunix.store/iosam - 5% off with promo code "IOSAM"): This is possibly the highest build quality production 96% keyboard in the market (and the best-looking one in my opinion, if you don’t mind the extremely compact layout). It has a metal framed case, a huge variety of designs, the best stabilizers in the industry (Costar stabs with zero rattle), beautiful and thick keycaps (they have models with PBT and with ABS), and a few options of the always amazing TTC pre-lubed switches, from which the “Ace” is my favorite (IQUNIX also offers Cherry switches for a little less, but choosing those would be a huge mistake). This board also offers both Bluetooth and 2.4 Ghz with a good 4,000 mAh. The only problem with IQUNIX boards at the moment is the lack of software programmability, but the hardware RGB controls are reasonably intuitive to use.
@@IOSam thanks for your thoughtful and thorough reply, the Iquinix F97 Dark Side would be absolutely perfect if it was more 1800 layout instead of extremely compact. Appreciate the suggestions sincerely
Can I use Akko Cream Keycaps if I switch to the Akko switches (Jelly Pink/Purple in mind) as well? (New to the hobby, sorry)
You can use the Akko Cream Keycaps with either the stock switches that come with the board, or with any set of Akko switches, since any of these swtches are Cherry MX compatible. So, no worries!
@@IOSam Thank you sir!
Kinda hard to thibk painters tape really makes a difference. Maybe I will do it on the Halo96
Yeah, the whole point of using the tape mod is usually to lower the pitch of the sound in metal cases (which tend to sound higher pitch than plastic ones), so it makes less sense to use it on plastic encased boards such as these here. But let me know what is your experience if you do it on the Halo96 (which is still mostly a plastic keyboard anyway, since only the top frame is metal).
I bought the RK100, and am feeling some pain in my right ring and pinky finger. How was comfort for you with these boards? I feel like my hands might be trying to get used to the compact form factor.
The form factor of these keyboards (including the RK100) shouldn't be the culprit for your hand pain and discomfort, since the alpha portion is the same size of any other full-size keyboard. One possibility for your problem could be the lack of a tall wrist rest (depending on your typing form) since, unlike the RK96, the RK100 doesn't come with one.
Is this your first mechanical keyboard? Do you touch your wrists on the table when typing? If so, you could be flexing your wrists too much when typing and that can cause hand injuries after some time. And in that case a wrist rest (that elevates your wrist to the same level of the keyboard) could help.
@@IOSam I try to maintain a "floating" typing style like you mentioned in this video, but I might be bending my wrists a bit too much. I'll give a wrist rest a shot!
This is actually my 2nd keyboard. My first was a G413, but the full-size layout was becoming too big for my desk.
@@craterface12 If you can keep floating wrists as you type, that is the ideal position of course (if your chair and table allow for that). But I can tell from experience that as we type and get tired throughout the day, the wrists tend to sag... And that's when the problems can start if you don't have a wrist rest.
So, give it a try and let me know how it goes.
The F row being moved closer to the num row is a big favorite of mine, makes them much quicker to reach in the heat of battle in a game. Great video like always.
Thank you!!! And good tip! I know some people don't like the look of the lined-up F row and Numbers row (I don't mind), but I never thought that I can actually be an advantage in games where you use the F row...
@@IOSam I agree that it looks a bit odd because the rest of the keyboard isn't ortho, but I can look past that for having an extra row of buttons within reach.
whatever happened to the k96's space bar after getting modded though
Do you mean the K98? Once I replaced them with the NovelKeys ones, the problem was solved. No more clicking: th-cam.com/video/sTQfpqbskfw/w-d-xo.html
But if you mean the sound of the spacebar of the RK96, it indeed developed a faint "squeak" after I replaced the keycaps (I did not mod the stabs on the RK96). That was not something I could hear when typing, but it is definitely there in the recording.
I suspect that is the "chalky" sound of the super thick PBT spacebar resonating differently than the thin ABS cap, something that should be easy to fix by stuffing the keycap with a foam insert (something like this: amzn.to/3QqWuwn ).
Are there any aftermarket keycaps for RK96 that would have the same legends? I mean, it'd suck if I were to replace the keycaps only to not know where a Home key is.
If you mean finding a set that has the correct legends for the main key functions… Absolutely! The key for a good set of aftermarket keycaps is to find one that comes with around 120 or more keys: the higher the key count, the more likely the set will fit whatever layout you have (in terms of legend position and key size), in whatever configuration you want.
If you get a good programmable keyboard (that lets you remap keys, such as the RK96) and a good set of aftermarket keycaps (such as the inexpensive one from Banggood I showed in the video), you can ensure you’ll have correct legends for each main key function.
However, you won’t find a set that comes with matching printed secondary functions and their sub-legends for your specific keyboard (such as the ones under Y, U, I, G, H, K, N, M and “
@@IOSam Thanks for the answer! Yeah, it's mostly keycaps with secondary functions that I'm worried about. It seems like this keyboard is best choice for me, considering how few wireless full key keyboards are available with hot swap feature.
P.S. Your videos are great
@@dainiusvysniauskas2049 Yeah, the RK96 is still the value champion in the 96% segment... RK knocked out of the park with this one!
If you get it, take some time to use it with its stock keycaps until you get familiarized with it. You might even find that the stock caps are perfectly fine for your use case.
And even if you decide to upgrade them in the future, there is a good chance you'd have the sub-legends memorized by them anyway...
Any recommendations on similar boards but at the next price point of maybe 120-150?
Hi Mark, I do! In fact I am producing a round-up of some of my favorite 96% keyboards between $120, all the way to $250, which is dropping here before Christmas (hopefully!). But I can tell you right now that my favorite entry levels are the $120 GMMK 2 “Full Size” (shrsl.com/3rmzr ) which, despite the name, is a 96%; and the YUNZII Keynovo IF98 for $130 (amzn.to/3TKVlBR ). My favorite "mid tier" one is the EPOMAKER TH96 (epomaker.com/collections/96-keyboards/products/epomaker-th96 ) for $150.
They vary wildly in features (which will be the point of my upcoming video), but they all have amazing build quality, super smooth switches and very good keycaps. So, any of these options should at least satisfy all but the most critical keyboard user in terms of basic features, good sound & typing feel and very good build quality.
Awesome recommendations Sam , much appreciated & looking forward to that round - up. Thanks !
Can this keyboard configured with QMK or ZMK?
Unfortunately not. QMK compatibility until very recently had been a feature usually found on custom and/or premium production keyboards commanding higher prices. Although that is starting to change now, so we might see models from RK and Womier with QMK/VIA compatibility soon.
@@IOSam well i have two custom Lily58 running on ZMK with Bluetooth...no cables even with split layout. And ported my Gherkin as well yesterday.
whats the battery mah size? 4000mah?
It is 3,750 mAh, which is a pretty decent capacity for a board this size.
How many are there rk 68,rk71 ,rk85 ,rk85 pro
,Rk89 ,Rk96,Rk98,Rk100.
Yeap! I think you covered almost all their basic models right there (there are also the rk61, rk 84 and rk87). Royal Kludge seems poised to cover every possible keyboard layout in the book... Which is great, of course!
While it can get a bit confusing for buyers (to have so many different options) that is what reviewers like me are here for, right? ;) It is my goal to cover every possible keyboard layout here in the next coming months as well. So, stay tuned!
need more video like this, about 98%/96% layout or 1800 layout because the numpad.. i need numpad for working in excel
So, you'll like to know I'm working on a big "face-off" review pitting 5 96% popular keyboards (in many different price segments) against each other. Coming in the next couple of months, so stay tuned! ⏳
@@IOSam thank you... and please use the budget (cheapest) keyboard posible ,because not everyone had decent salary..
@@kampret43 Hehe... I know... I always try to feature some good budget options here in the channel whenever possible. But in that regard, I think the RK96 is still the undisputed value king! Nothing in the market offers more features for a lower price...
@@IOSam how about Akko 3098 cs jelly pink? Or rexus daxa M100 pro/ultimate with jwk black?or fantech keyboard,not to mention cherry keyboard those are full sized/1800 in USD $100 ish
RK98 has a version with wireless as well
I think Royal Kludge has been adding wireless capability on all of their more recent models.
I wish the kludge had the ability to swap batteries.
Good point... While it is possible to replace them once you open the board, you will need a soldering iron to actually do it. Although the batteries are fairly easy to get on AliExpress.
I have questions
Gmmk2 is better than or not?
That is a good question! While I have not reviewed the GMMK2 line here in the channel yet (don't worry... I will soon :), I know that it has its strong points: well built, comes with good switches and decent keycaps.
I'd say it plays in the same level of the RK96 and k98. So your choice would be dependend on your needs: In terms of build quality, I'd pick the GMMK2. If you need more features, the main one being wireless connectivity, I'd pick the RK96. If you want visuals, I'd pick the K98.
One extra point I'd give the GMMK2 is its software, which is more solid and easier to use than the options from RK and Womier.