If you are looking for a new mechanical keyboard, there are some things to consider. You may have heard of the famous MK808 or MK89, but there are a few other options to consider. These include the Monoprice Majestouch and Ergodox EZ, as well as the Obinslab Gemini and Drop Enter.
Monoprice’s Collider
Monoprice is one of the leaders in electronics and gaming peripherals. Their new Dark Matter line of peripherals is a series of gaming peripherals including the Collider mechanical keyboard.
The Collider keyboard is designed to provide high performance and comfort. It is built on a steel frame for rigid structural support. The keys are positioned at a perfect angle for comfortable typing.
The keyboard is available in several color schemes, including Cherry MX Blue, Cherry MX Red, and Cherry MX Brown. It also comes with a USB-C to USB-A cable. This keyboard is easy to set up.
Collider TKL features RGB backlighting, per-key customization, and N-Key rollover. Its tenkeyless form factor and software-controlled features make it the perfect choice for gamers who don’t want to sacrifice space on their desk.
The Dark Matter Collider TKL features German-made Cherry MX Speed Silver switches. These tactile switches have an actuation point of 1.2mm and require about 45g of force to operate.
Although the keyboard has some programmability issues, it still offers a good gaming experience. It has a sleek design, and the lack of borders around the keys allows the RGB lighting to shine through.
There are also a handful of gradients that users can manually select or create. Users can also save two RGB layouts at a time.
Monoprice’s Drop Enter
If you’re looking for an upscale keyboard for work or play, Monoprice’s new Drop Enter mechanical keyboard is a solid choice. With a solid construction, a detachable cable, and Halo branded switches, this keyboard is a major upgrade from the stock keyboard. The only drawback is the MT3 actuation point, but the other features are well worth it.
Although not quite as elegant as Apple’s Magic Keyboard, the drop ENTR does boast a few other high-tech tricks. Specifically, the TKL layout is a nice touch. Additionally, the keyboard comes with a custom-fitted cable.
This keyboard is one of many that Monoprice has to offer. They also have a nice line of lightweight wired gaming mice. There are several models to choose from, including Hyper-K Ultralight and Hyper-K Ultralight Lite.
In addition to the mechanical switches, the keyboard includes a USB-C connector for connecting to a computer. It also supports Bluetooth 5.1. That’s not a feature that many low-profile mechanicals boast.
Aside from the standard keyboard functions, the X87 also comes with a Mac modifier keycap. Another nice touch is the per-key RGB fireworks. Also, the X87 has a three-port USB 2.0 hub.
Despite its shortcomings, the keyboard is worth a look if you’re in the market for a stylish, slick-looking mechanical. Not only does the keyboard support a number of modern wireless setups, but it is also more compact than most 100% mechanicals.
Monoprice’s Ergodox EZ
The Monoprice Ergodox EZ is a mechanical keyboard with all the features you need for a great typing experience. It has RGB backlighting, customizable inputs, and a variety of key switches to choose from.
It isn’t as cheap as you might think, but the quality is impressive. You can get it with or without wrist rests. There are also assembly kits if you aren’t into tinkering with parts.
ErgoDox EZ is one of the most popular mechanical keyboards on the market. It isn’t just an affordable keyboard, it is a solid, durable, and customizable one. This keyboard is ideal for anyone looking for an ergonomic keyboard.
What makes this keyboard stand out from the crowd is its ‘tent’ system. That’s right, you can tilt the Ergodox EZ at nearly any angle. In the process, you’ll be able to change the key layout, customize inputs, and even emulate a mouse and scroll wheel.
For instance, you can create a “layer” where you assign different functions to each key. A layer might be used to control media playback or send parentheses. Another layer might be used to perform macros.
To ensure your keyboard stays in tip-top shape, the ErgoDox EZ comes with a three-year warranty. As a result, you’re not stuck paying for expensive repairs.
Fujitsu Realforce R2
Fujitsu Computer Products of America has just announced its new REAL FORCE R2 RGB premium gaming keyboard line. This full-sized keyboard features a unique design, double-shot keycaps for fade resistance, and customizable backlighting. In addition to providing a gaming experience, it also provides ergonomic key settings to make it more comfortable for long hours of typing.
The keyboard features three routing channels for its USB Type-A cable. It is permanently attached and comes with a black rubber tie to help keep the cable in place.
The keys are labeled with dye sublimation, a process that creates a permanent stain on the plastic. They are made of PBT plastic, which is more resistant to household cleaning chemicals. These features help to make the keyboard more durable.
One of the most noteworthy features of the Realforce R2 is its unique switches. It uses Topre switches, which are a hybrid of various designs. By pressing the key in the right spot, you can adjust the actuation point, which ranges between 1.5mm and 3.0mm.
Another distinctive feature of the Realforce R2 is the use of rubber domes, which depress and press down the keycaps. This is not an actuation mechanism, but it does offer a unique type of “thuddy” sound.
Monoprice’s Obinslab
Obinslab is a name that evokes thoughts of a quality, yet affordable keyboard. The SK61 is a hot-swappable compact keyboard with multilayered programmability, plus some quality PBT keycaps. It’s also got the right amount of bling.
A look at Monoprice’s e-commerce site suggests they are serious about their wares. They’ve got a slew of wired gaming mice and mice that pack a punch. Among the more interesting is the Collider, a gaming-first mechanical keyboard and mouse combo with a plethora of notable features. You’ll also find a bevy of Hyper-K ultralight mice, and the best of the best in the Hyper-K Ultralight family. In fact, the company’s latest offerings might have you checking out the nearest aisle, and not the desktop.
The best part is that it is available in a variety of colors, so there’s no need to hunt for the one that suits you best. With a price tag of a mere $10 more, the SK61 is an excellent value proposition. It’s also got a slick swivel ring design and solid construction that should last for many, many hours of gaming.
A cursory perusal of the Obinslab website reveals that the keyboard is accompanied by some clever Obinslab software that helps you make the most of your device. While the company may not be as big as its competitors, the brand has a knack for making top-shelf products at a price that won’t break the bank.
Monoprice’s Majestouch
If you’re looking for a new keyboard, there are a number of options available. However, the best choice for you is likely going to depend on your specific preferences.
If you’re a gaming fan, you should look at Monoprice’s Hyper-K Ultralight keyboard. It’s a great workhorse that offers an array of useful features and flexible customizations. The prebuilt version comes with double-shot ABS plastic keycaps. You can also add dampening O-rings to shafts for a more quiet experience.
Another option is Monoprice’s Collider, which is their first gaming-focused mechanical keyboard. It has Cherry MX switches and a heavy steel switch plate. And it’s available in TKL and 100% layouts.
If you’re interested in a more budget-friendly keyboard, look at Leopold’s FC750R. It’s a solid keyboard that offers a low-profile design and Bluetooth 5.1. But it lacks a few important mod cons, such as backlighting.
For a more stylish, retro keyboard, look at Matias’ Tactile Pro. It replicates the feel of an old PC keyboard and ships with a USB-C adapter.
Another option for gaming enthusiasts is the Razer Blade FYI. It’s an inexpensive keyboard that sports gaming-grade keys and a solid build. That said, it’s a bit bulky compared to other 100% keyboards.
Obinslab’s Gemini
If you want to enjoy the feel of a mechanical keyboard, but without the cost and hassle of getting one custom-built, Obinslab’s Gemini keyboard is a great choice. It offers both Bluetooth and USB-C connectivity and comes with a variety of switches. Plus, it includes Obinslab’s renowned configuration software, so you can make sure that your layout looks just how you want it.
The Gemini’s construction is sturdy. The keycaps are made of Doubleshot ABS plastic. You can add dampening O-rings to the shafts to help reduce vibrations. Additionally, you can use a different PCB if you prefer. That way you can experiment with different switches and find the perfect combination.
Another nice feature of the Gemini is its detachable magnetic bars. These are designed to make it easier to remove and replace the keys. They can also be a safety precaution, as they can easily fall off if you accidentally misplace them.
One downside to the keyboard is that it doesn’t come with a capslock indicator. However, it does have per-key RGB fireworks. This allows you to choose your own colors for your keys. On top of that, the keyboard ships with Obinslab’s configuration software, which is easy to use.
