Royal Kludge RK71 70% RGB Mechanical Keyboard Review: A Tri-Mode Gem?
Royal Kludge RK71 70% RGB Mechanical Keyboard Review: A Tri-Mode Gem?
Looking for a compact mechanical keyboard with RGB lighting and the flexibility of tri-mode connectivity? The Royal Kludge RK71 might just be the perfect fit. In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive deep into its features, performance, and overall user experience.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Royal Kludge RK71 70% mechanical keyboard is an interesting addition to the crowded market. It boasts a compact layout, RGB backlighting, hot-swappable switches, and a tri-mode connectivity system, making it a versatile option for both casual users and enthusiasts. Let’s delve into the details.
Features & Design
The RK71 features a 70% layout, which means it lacks the function row and number pad. This compact design saves desk space while still offering all the essential keys. It comes with Royal Kludge’s in-house RK Red switches, which are linear and smooth, offering a responsive typing experience. The keyboard also includes:
- RGB Backlighting: Customizable RGB lighting with various effects and brightness levels.
- Tri-Mode Connectivity: Connect via USB cable, 2.4GHz wireless dongle, or Bluetooth.
- Hot-Swappable Switches: Easily swap out the switches for customization without soldering.
- Anti-Ghosting: Ensures accurate keystrokes even when multiple keys are pressed simultaneously.
- 1000mAh Battery: Provides long battery life for wireless use.
- English Layout: Standard US QWERTY layout.
- Durable Construction: Made with high-quality ABS plastic for long-lasting use.
Specifications
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Layout | 70% |
| Switches | RK Red (Linear) |
| Connectivity | Wired, 2.4GHz Wireless, Bluetooth |
| Backlighting | RGB |
| Hot-Swappable | Yes |
| Anti-Ghosting | Yes |
| Battery Capacity | 1000mAh |
| Layout | English (US QWERTY) |
| Cable Length | 1.8m |
| Dimensions | 353 x 135 x 38mm |
| Weight | 850g |
Performance
The RK71 delivers a smooth and responsive typing experience thanks to the linear RK Red switches. The keystrokes are light and effortless, making it great for both typing and gaming. The tri-mode connectivity is a huge plus, allowing you to seamlessly switch between wired, 2.4GHz wireless, and Bluetooth connections depending on your needs. The 2.4GHz wireless connection is remarkably stable, with minimal latency. Bluetooth pairing is equally effortless.
The RGB backlighting is vibrant and customizable, offering a wide range of colors and effects. It’s a welcome addition, especially for those who prefer a more visually engaging experience. The hot-swappable switches are a great feature for customization enthusiasts. You can easily swap out the switches for different ones to tailor the typing feel to your preference. The anti-ghosting feature ensures that every keystroke is registered accurately, even when multiple keys are pressed simultaneously. The 1000mAh battery provides ample battery life for wireless use, and the charging time is relatively quick.
Pros & Cons
Here’s a breakdown of the RK71’s strengths and areas for improvement:
Pros:
- Compact 70% layout
- Smooth and responsive RK Red switches
- Tri-mode connectivity (wired, 2.4GHz, Bluetooth)
- Customizable RGB backlighting
- Hot-swappable switches for easy customization
- Anti-ghosting for accurate keystrokes
- Long battery life with 1000mAh capacity
- Durable construction
Cons:
- The keycaps may feel a bit flimsy.
- The plastic housing could benefit from a slightly more premium feel.
- Some users might find the lack of a dedicated function row inconvenient.
Final Verdict
The Royal Kludge RK71 is an excellent value-for-money mechanical keyboard that offers a compelling combination of features and performance. Its compact size, smooth typing experience, tri-mode connectivity, RGB lighting, and hot-swappable switches make it a great choice for both casual users and enthusiasts. While the plastic construction could be slightly more premium, and the keycaps might not feel as sturdy as some competitors, the overall value proposition is hard to beat. If you’re looking for a versatile and well-rounded mechanical keyboard with a compact design, the RK71 is definitely worth considering.
