ROYAL KLUDGE RK68 Review: A Budget 65% Keyboard

Last Updated on October 22, 2023

In the realm of mechanical keyboards, striking the perfect harmony between features, cost, and personalization can pose quite a formidable task. Nevertheless, if you find yourself in the market for a 65% compact mechanical keyboard boasting hot-swappable switches and an economical price point, the ROYAL KLUDGE RK68 could be the keyboard you’ve long sought after.

This in-depth analysis will delve into the intricacies of the RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK68, meticulously exploring its design, construction quality, array of functions, and overall performance. Upon concluding this article, you will possess a comprehensive grasp of whether this keyboard aligns with your preferences.

ROYAL KLUDGE RK68 Overview

The ROYAL KLUDGE RK68 stands out as an exceptional choice within the realm of affordable mechanical keyboards. Sporting a compact 65% layout, it delivers a powerful combination of features and versatility. This keyboard boasts a detachable USB Type C cable, ensuring smooth connectivity. Furthermore, it’s Bluetooth-enabled, enabling simultaneous connection with up to three devices. However, what truly distinguishes this keyboard is its hot-swappable switch feature, accommodating both 3-pin and 5-pin switches. This unique feature offers remarkable flexibility for users seeking to personalize their keyboard to suit their preferences.

Unboxing The RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK68

Inside the package, you’ll discover all the essentials to kickstart your experience:

1. ROYAL KLUDGE RK68 Keyboard
2. USB Type C cable
3. User Manual

Although it doesn’t include additional items such as stickers or keycap pullers, you can easily acquire them individually, and they are budget-friendly.

Design And Build Quality

The ROYAL KLUDGE RK68 boasts an aesthetically pleasing design, particularly appealing to white keyboard enthusiasts. It showcases a minimalistic style, with the “ROYAL KLUDGE” logo elegantly positioned on the right side. Notably, a USB Type C port is thoughtfully centered for convenience. It’s worth noting that this keyboard doesn’t offer adjustable feet for modifying the typing angle, but the built-in rubber feet ensure secure placement on your desk.

When it comes to build quality, the ROYAL KLUDGE RK68 earns high praise. Its body is crafted from robust plastic, and its compact dimensions strike a balance between lightweight and stability. The keycaps, made from double-shot ABS plastic, promise excellent durability. However, some users might find them slightly slippery during extended typing sessions.

The Double Shot ABS Keycaps

The RK68 keyboard is equipped with double-shot ABS keycaps in an OEM profile. These keycaps boast a stylish design but are on the thinner side, leading to a distinct acoustic resonance when typing. However, they lack texture, potentially causing them to feel somewhat slippery during prolonged use. While these keycaps are ideal for highlighting the keyboard’s RGB lighting, numerous users might choose to upgrade to keycaps of superior quality.

Great Hot Swappable Switch Feature

The RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK68 boasts a remarkable feature: hot-swappable switch compatibility, accommodating both 3-pin and 5-pin switches. Its default TTC switches, available in Red, Brown, and Blue, offer a reliable experience, with the Red switches providing a tactile feel akin to Gateron Reds. With the hot-swappable design, you can effortlessly switch between different switches like Cherry MX, Gateron, Kailh, and ZealPC without the need for soldering. This makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy experimenting with various switches.

To elevate your typing experience, consider upgrading to more refined switches such as Gateron Red or Kailh BOX Burnt Orange. While the keyboard’s stabilizers are decent, applying lubrication can further enhance their performance by reducing vibrations and ensuring smoother keypresses.

Incredible RGB Lighting

The RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK68 stands out thanks to its impressive RGB lighting. Every key features unique RGB illumination that can be tailored to suit your personal preferences. This keyboard provides a diverse spectrum of RGB colors and dynamic animations, elevating its visual appeal as a fantastic addition to your setup. Its integrated software empowers you with extensive RGB customization options, granting you nearly limitless possibilities to personalize your keyboard’s lighting.

Reliable Connectivity and Compatibility

The RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK68 offers exceptional connectivity versatility. It caters to your needs by supporting both Bluetooth and a detachable USB Type C cable, enabling you to effortlessly connect with up to three devices simultaneously. With a robust 1450mAh battery, this keyboard delivers nearly 30 hours of uninterrupted usage on a single charge and can be recharged in just 20 minutes.

Furthermore, the RK68 is designed to harmoniously integrate with a variety of operating systems, such as Windows, Mac OS, Linux, Android, and iOS/iPad. This exceptional level of compatibility is a standout feature for a keyboard in its price range, guaranteeing a smooth and consistent user experience across different devices and platforms.

Excellent Software Support

The ROYAL KLUDGE RK68 stands out for its exceptional software support, providing extensive customization capabilities. The included software empowers you to personalize RGB animations, reconfigure key assignments, and adjust layer functions with ease. Downloading the software is straightforward, and it boasts a compact file size of just 11.6 MB, guaranteeing compatibility with Windows operating systems.

Typing Experience

Although the RK68 serves as a robust base for customization, refining the typing experience might necessitate a few tweaks. The ABS keycaps, TTC switches, and unlubricated stabilizers may not deliver the most satisfying typing feel right from the start. Enthusiasts seeking an exceptional typing experience are advised to consider upgrading to superior-quality components.

Price and Variants of RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK68

The RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK68 comes in two sleek color options: black and white. It offers a variety of switch choices, including TTC Red, Blue, and Brown. The RK68 is impressively affordable, with a price tag of approximately $52.99 on Amazon and $67.99 on Banggood. With its 65% layout, hot-swappable switches, and Bluetooth connectivity, the RK68 delivers outstanding value for those seeking a versatile mechanical keyboard.

Pros And Cons

Pros:

• Great for customization and modification
• Hot-swappable 3 and 5-pin switches
• Stable software support
• Removable USB Type C
• Wireless/Bluetooth connectivity

Cons:

• ABS keycaps may feel cheap
• Stabilizers could be better
• Slippery keycap surface

Is the RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK68 the Right Mechanical Keyboard for You?

The RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK68 is a versatile keyboard that can cater to a wide array of users, depending on your specific needs and preferences. To help you determine if the RK68 is the ideal mechanical keyboard for you, let’s break it down:

• For Customization Enthusiasts: If you enjoy experimenting with different switches, keycaps, and RGB lighting, the RK68 is an excellent choice. Its hot-swappable switch feature allows you to tailor the keyboard to your exact liking.
• For Budget-Conscious Users: The RK68’s affordability is a significant advantage. Instead of investing in a more expensive custom keyboard, you can achieve a similar level of customization with this budget-friendly option.
• For Those Needing Versatile Connectivity: The keyboard’s Bluetooth connectivity, multi-device support, and cross-platform compatibility make it a suitable choice for those who switch between various devices and operating systems.
• For the Software-Savvy: Users who appreciate the ability to fine-tune RGB lighting, key functions, and layer functions will find the accompanying software to be user-friendly and effective.

However, there are a few factors to consider:

• Typing Experience: If you value a superior typing experience right out of the box, you may need to invest in additional components, such as higher-quality keycaps and switches. The default ABS keycaps and TTC switches may not provide the tactile satisfaction you seek.
• Stabilizers: The stabilizers on this keyboard are decent but may benefit from modification and lubrication for smoother and quieter operation.
• Keycap Texture: The keycaps, while visually appealing, can feel a bit slippery due to their lack of texture.

Ultimately, whether the RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK68 is the right choice for you depends on your specific preferences and requirements.

Closing Thoughts on the RK68 Mechanical Keyboard

The RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK68 isn’t just a keyboard; it serves as your gateway to the world of mechanical keyboard customization. Whether you’re a gamer, programmer, or writer, your keyboard is a fundamental tool that can significantly impact your productivity and enjoyment. In this review, we’ve explored the strengths and weaknesses of the RK68.

It’s essential to bear in mind that some of the RK68’s drawbacks, like the ABS keycaps and stabilizers, can be easily addressed with a modest investment in aftermarket components. Keyboard enthusiasts can effortlessly switch to high-quality PBT or Pudding PBT keycaps, which not only enhance the typing experience but also showcase the RGB lighting more effectively.

Furthermore, the RK68 provides an excellent opportunity to delve into the intricacies of mechanical keyboards. If you’re new to the world of customizing your typing experience, the RK68 offers a forgiving entry point. As you gain more experience, you can delve deeper into the realms of switches, stabilizers, and keycaps.

Regarding its price, the RK68 offers exceptional value. It combines features, flexibility, and software support at an affordable price point, making it a remarkable choice. Whether you require an office, gaming, or programming keyboard, the RK68 can be tailored to meet your specific needs.

Ultimately, the decision to purchase the RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK68 hinges on your unique preferences and priorities. If you cherish the ability to customize your keyboard to your heart’s content, this keyboard is an excellent choice. It’s your gateway to customization and a budget-friendly option that delivers more than its price suggests.

As you evaluate its pros and cons, consider your primary use case. If customization and versatility are high on your list of requirements, the RK68 is well worth the investment. However, if you seek a keyboard that delivers an exceptional typing experience right out of the box, be prepared to budget for some component upgrades. In any case, the RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK68 offers an enticing blend of features and affordability that’s difficult to ignore.