ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 Review: Mechanical Keyboard for Power Typists and Casual Gamers
Dive into the world of mechanical keyboards with our extensive review of the RK61, a budget-friendly but feature-rich keyboard that caters to typists, programmers, and gamers. This review evaluates key aspects including build quality, keystrokes, typing experience, and software.
Today, I'm thrilled to share my insights on the ROYAL KLUDGE RK61, a popular mechanical keyboard that has made waves in the market.
The ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 is celebrated for its unique blend of design, functionality, and affordability. As we delve into this review, I'll guide you through its features, performance, and customer impressions. By the end of our journey, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of whether this keyboard is the right fit for you.
So, get ready for an engaging ride as we explore the nooks and crannies of the ROYAL KLUDGE RK61. I promise you, it's going to be informative and fun!
The RK61 mechanical keyboard is designed for a broad audience ranging from casual typists and programmers to avid gamers. Its compact size, multiple switch options, and compatibility with various operating systems make it suitable for diverse user preferences. Additionally, its portability and wireless capabilities may appeal to users who frequently travel or prefer a minimalist workspace.
- Multiple switch options (RK Red, RK Blue, and RK Brown) cater to different typing preferences
- Compact size and weight make it portable and travel-friendly
- Multi-device Bluetooth connectivity supports up to three devices
- Features like key customization and backlight settings through hotkeys enhance user experience
- Latency too high for competitive gaming
- Software issues preventing key reprogramming
- Lack of a wrist rest can lead to potential strain during extended typing sessions
- Keycaps made of ABS plastic may wear out quicker than PBT keycaps
Given its flexibility in switch options, robust build quality, and broad compatibility, the RK61 is a sound choice for those seeking a budget-friendly yet functional mechanical keyboard. However, serious gamers might find the latency a deal-breaker. Additionally, those looking for comprehensive software and key reprogramming might be disappointed. For casual typing, light gaming, or programming, the RK61 serves well.
Test Results
Design
The ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 boasts a compact, sleek design, catering to those who desire portability and aesthetics. With its commendable build quality and an interesting backlighting feature, the RK61 aims to appeal both to enthusiasts and daily users. Let's delve into these details.
The ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 sports a compact 60% layout, making it an easy pick for those who are often on the go. Weighing an average of 561 grams, it's lighter than comparable compact mechanical keyboards. This lightweight design enhances the portability, ensuring it won't be a burden during your travels.
Given its budget-friendly price point, the RK61 impresses with a robust build quality. Its design incorporates a sturdy plastic frame and a metal base plate, leading to no noticeable flexing or creaking. A variant with an aluminum frame is also available for those desiring a more premium feel. The ABS keycaps might not be as durable as PBT ones, but they are double-shot molded on top, ensuring clear and lasting legends. Furthermore, it features four rubber feet for stable typing.
Despite its high-profile case without a wrist rest, the RK61 is designed for comfort with a slight typing angle. While the lack of kickstands for height or angle adjustment might be a drawback for some, the keyboard's rubber pads provide a good grip, reducing strain on your wrists. However, potential discomfort during long typing sessions could be a consideration for those prone to wrist strain.
One of the standout features of the RK61 is its backlighting. The white variant has blue backlighting, while the black wireless variant sports an orange glow. Each key is individually lit, creating an attractive look. If you're seeking variety, the RGB model offers several modes such as SingleOn, SingleOff, Glittering, and Falling, to name a few. This customizable lighting, though not present in all versions, adds a fun and personalized touch to your keyboard.
Bluetooth connectivity is another strong suit of the RK61. It allows multi-device pairing of up to three devices, covering popular operating systems like Mac, iOS, Windows, and Android. This means you can seamlessly switch from your laptop to your phone or tablet. Note, however, that some users reported connectivity issues after the keyboard's 10-minute sleep mode. It's also equipped with a 1450 mAh battery for wireless use, offering up to 10 hours lifespan, and can be used wired with its included USB-C to USB-A rubber cable.
The RK61 comes with several extra features enhancing its usability. It includes a USB-C connector for wired mode, and key customization and backlight settings available through hotkeys. For the wireless lovers, a switch underneath manages the wireless connection. The front right lip of the keyboard showcases the Royal Kludge logo, adding a touch of branding. Note that some versions even offer full programmability and RGB lighting. The keyboard also includes a handy wire keycap puller. Unfortunately, the dedicated software for key reprogramming or setting macros didn't work during our testing, but this could vary by user experience.
Typing Experience
The heart of any mechanical keyboard is the typing experience it provides. Here, we dissect how the RK61 performs in terms of keystrokes, typing quality, noise levels, and latency. These elements combined make or break the keyboard's desirability to different user profiles.
When it comes to keystrokes, the RK61 provides versatility. It comes with three switch options: RK Red (Linear), RK Blue (Clicky), and RK Brown (Tactile). These Royal Kludge branded switches are modeled off of the Cherry MX design, ensuring good quality keystrokes. While there's slight wobble in the plate, it doesn't noticeably affect the typing experience. Plus, the RK61 is hot-swappable, meaning you can use any three or five-pin switch. But be aware, the pre-travel distance seemed inconsistent during testing.
Despite being priced affordably, the RK61 delivers decent typing quality with good tactile feedback. Its ABS plastic keycaps are functional but might wear out quicker than higher-quality PBT keycaps. The keys might feel a bit wobbly during typing, which could be a downside for some users. On a brighter note, the doubleshot molding process used ensures that legends will remain clear even with extended use. Some might also find the typing quality improved by lubricating the switches to reduce any spring crunch or ping noise.
Noise levels on the RK61 largely depend on the switch type you opt for. If you prefer a quieter typing experience, the Royal Kludge Red switches are your best bet. The Blue switches, however, are louder and might not be suitable for quiet environments. It's worth noting that Red switches might generate some noise on bottoming out, causing the keyboard to sound somewhat hollow. RK Brown switches on the unit tested were relatively quiet, though the noise level will inevitably depend on the switches used.
Regarding latency, the RK61 offers acceptable input latency for general use and casual gaming. However, if you're into serious competitive gaming, you might find the latency too high, even with a wired connection. Nonetheless, no delay should be noticeable when typing, ensuring a seamless typing experience for the majority of users.
Software
A keyboard's accompanying software determines its programmability and compatibility with different devices. Here, we investigate how the RK61's software fares in these areas, and whether it aids or impedes the overall user experience.
The software capabilities of the RK61 offer some flexibility. While it wasn't specifically detailed, the software does allow key remapping to various functions, including mouse presses and macro recording. However, during the testing phase, there were issues with the software preventing key reprogramming. That said, some versions of the RK61 come with full programmability, which will be a significant advantage for programmers and gamers alike.
The RK61 shows impressive compatibility across multiple platforms. It's compatible with Mac, iOS, Windows, and Android, making it versatile for various users. The Bluetooth feature allows for connectivity with multiple devices, further enhancing its compatibility. Moreover, the keyboard comes with a USB-C connector, making it suitable for devices that support USB-C. It's worth noting, however, that while it works with most common operating systems, some hotkeys might not work on certain platforms. The keyboard also offers the ability to switch between Windows and Mac modes, further enhancing its adaptability.
Customer Reviews
When it comes to the real-world use of our RGB-lit, wireless, mechanical keyboard, our customers have a lot to say. Delving into their experiences, we uncover a trove of benefits and complaints that provide a nuanced understanding of this versatile piece of tech.
Benefits
Customers absolutely rave about the keyboard's stunning aesthetics and top-notch functionality. Many users find the customizable RGB lighting a showstopper, creating a mesmerizing ambiance for work or gaming sessions. The mechanical switches, lauded for their satisfyingly tactile feedback, enhance the typing and gaming experience by providing precise responsiveness. Some users have found the audible click of the switches adds a delightful touch.
The wireless functionality of our keyboard is praised for its convenience and reliable connection. Users no longer grapple with tangled cables or limited movement, as they can seamlessly switch between multiple devices. This feature, coupled with a remarkable wireless range, ensures a stable connection even from a distance. Additionally, the keyboard's solid construction and sturdy frame exude a premium feel, promising durability and heavy usage endurance.
Comfort is another highlight, as our ergonomic design and well-spaced keys promote a more enjoyable typing experience, reducing strain during extended periods. Last but not least, the compatibility of our keyboard across Windows and Mac systems, coupled with customization options, makes it a versatile choice for different users.
Complaints
Despite the numerous benefits, some users have noted certain issues. A few have struggled with the initial setup, finding it hard to access certain characters or functionalities. The instructions for switching between modes (Arrow mode and Character mode), as well as the FN shortcuts, were not immediately intuitive for some users. Improving the clarity of instructions could ameliorate this issue.
Another criticism is about the software interface. Some users have encountered difficulties in managing RGB colors, highlighting that the software can be a bit clunky and hard to use. Occasional glitches have also been reported, requiring users to reset the keyboard. Finally, a few customers mentioned that the RGB lights could be brighter, though this may vary depending on personal preference.
Customer Conclusion
In conclusion, our customers appreciate the many benefits of our wireless, RGB-lit mechanical keyboard. Its stunning aesthetics, top-notch functionality, and high level of comfort make it an exceptional addition to any workspace or gaming setup. However, to ensure a flawless user experience, we recognize the need to address software-related issues and improve the intuitiveness of certain functionalities. Overall, the majority of customers still highly recommend our keyboard, citing it as a game-changer that provides excellent value for money.
Customer Questions/Answers
Can I change the software settings to avoid pressing function and shift for the question mark?
The software allows for the customization of keyboard RGB color and certain shortcut keys to enhance your gaming experience. However, it doesn't support changing the function of the Fn key.
Can the RK ROYAL keyboard be used with a PS4?
The RK61 keyboard should work with a PS4 as long as there's a USB slot available for connection.
Does the keyboard come pre-lubed?
While the stabilizers on the keyboard come lubed, the switches do not. The quality of the lubrication job varies.
Is this keyboard compatible with Fortnite on PS4?
Yes, the keyboard should work with Fortnite on PS4 when plugged in.
Does the keyboard have a right-side keypad?
No, the keyboard is a 60% model and isn't designed to include a right-side keypad.
Can I edit all layers of keys?
You can edit the main layer of keys. For other layers, download the software to set the macro keys. The software can be found under the product description on the purchase link.
Is this keyboard compatible with Xbox Series S?
Although it's confirmed to work with PS4, the wired keyboard should also be compatible with Xbox Series S. For confirmation, check videos or guides online.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 stands as a commendable option among compact mechanical keyboards. It offers a solid balance of functionality, aesthetics, and affordability.
The keyboard's build quality and design are impressive, considering its price range. It brings forward good backlighting options and multi-device Bluetooth connectivity, a bonus for those who use multiple devices. Its compatibility across various platforms makes it a versatile choice for a wide audience.
However, the keyboard isn't without its minor drawbacks. The high profile and lack of a wrist rest can lead to potential wrist strain. Also, the input latency, although acceptable for general use, may not suit competitive gaming. There's also room for improvement in the software department.
Despite these, the ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 still represents a great value proposition for its price. It’s a fitting choice for those seeking a compact, reliable keyboard that doesn't compromise on functionality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is RK61 a good keyboard?
The RK61 is generally regarded as a good keyboard, particularly considering its price point. It offers multiple switch options catering to various typing preferences, multi-device Bluetooth connectivity, and a compact, sturdy build. However, it may not be ideal for serious gamers due to high latency and individuals seeking comprehensive programmability because of software issues. The lack of a wrist rest might also pose a problem for some users in extended typing sessions.
Is Royal Kludge good quality?
Royal Kludge, as a brand, is known for providing decent quality mechanical keyboards at a budget-friendly price. The RK61, for example, demonstrates their commitment to quality with a sturdy build, multiple switch options, and features such as multi-device Bluetooth connectivity. However, there can be potential downsides such as high latency for gaming and software issues.
Are Royal Kludge keyboards good?
Yes, Royal Kludge keyboards are generally seen as good, especially for their price point. They offer a range of features like multiple switch options and multi-device Bluetooth connectivity, which are often appreciated by users. The build quality is also generally commendable. However, there might be some trade-offs such as high latency for gaming and software limitations.
Is the RK61 a 60%?
Yes, the RK61 is a 60% mechanical keyboard. This refers to its compact size, which omits the numpad, function row, and navigation cluster of a full-sized keyboard. The compact design makes it more portable and travel-friendly while freeing up desk space.
What type of switches does the RK61 have?
The RK61 comes with three switch options: RK Red (linear), RK Blue (clicky), and RK Brown (tactile). The choice between them is subjective and depends on your preference for typing feedback and noise level.
Is the RK61 good for gaming?
The RK61 can be used for casual gaming, but it may not be ideal for serious competitive gaming due to its high latency, particularly in wireless mode. The typing experience, however, is generally comfortable and responsive.
Can the RK61 be connected to multiple devices?
Yes, the RK61 features multi-device Bluetooth capabilities that allow it to be connected to up to three devices simultaneously. This is useful if you switch between different devices, such as a desktop, laptop, or tablet.
Does the RK61 come with a wrist rest?
No, the RK61 does not include a wrist rest. The absence of a wrist rest might lead to wrist strain during extended typing sessions for some users.