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Head-to-head · Best Mechanical Keyboards Under 100

Ajazz AK33 vs RK Royal Kludge RK71

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

RK Royal Kludge RK71 comes out ahead by a clear margin (3.5 vs 4.2). The gap is mostly about compact keyboard users wanting navigation keys — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ajazz AK33
Ranked #8 in Best Mechanical Keyboards Under 100
Ajazz AK33
8 sources3 derived$67as of Aug 23

The Ajazz AK33 delivers solid build quality with its metal top frame and gold finish, making it feel sturdy and premium. Reviewers noted the Zorro blue switches provide satisfying tactile feedback akin to Cherry MX Blues. The RGB backlighting offers multiple effects controlled via the function key, and the keyboard includes useful accessories. However, its minimalist 70% layout limits function keys, and some keycaps are larger than standard, preventing full interchangeability. This keyboard suits gamers and typists seeking a compact mechanical option with RGB lighting.

Strengths
  • — Metal top frame with gold finish provides sturdy build quality
  • — Zorro blue switches offer tactile feedback that feels similar to Cherry MX Blues
  • — RGB backlighting with multiple lighting effects and controls via function key
Watch-outs
  • — Limited function keys due to minimalist 70% layout
  • — Keycaps are not fully interchangeable due to some larger-than-standard sizing
$67 · Buy at exegeek.comFull review →
RK Royal Kludge RK71
Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Mechanical Keyboards Under 100
RK Royal Kludge RK71
3 sourcesall derived$49.99as of Aug 23

The Royal Kludge RK71 offers a well-thought-out compact layout with dedicated arrow keys and navigation cluster, making it suitable for both productivity and gaming. TechBroll praised its space-efficient design and solid build quality, while a YouTube reviewer highlighted its value proposition as a budget-friendly wireless mechanical keyboard with good connectivity and battery life. The keyboard supports multiple switch types including RK Blue, and comes with a magnetic stand and Bluetooth dongle slot. However, reviewers noted the keycaps feel cheap and the color options are limited. This keyboard is best for users seeking a compact mechanical keyboard with wireless capabilities at an affordable price point.

Strengths
  • — Dedicated arrow keys and nav cluster in a compact 71-key layout
  • — Works properly in both wired and wireless modes with multi-device Bluetooth connectivity
  • — Good build quality with solid plastic construction and ergonomic design
Watch-outs
  • — Cheap keycaps that may not withstand long-term use
  • — Limiting color scheme with only white and black options available
$49.99 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Ajazz AK33

The Ajazz AK33's metal top frame and Zorro blue switches offer a premium feel compared to the Redragon K552 Kumara, which uses standard plastic construction. Unlike the Epomaker TH80 Pro, it doesn't include a color LCD screen or integrated battery, but it provides better RGB lighting controls than the Royal Kludge RK61 and more tactile feedback than the Keychron K2.

RK Royal Kludge RK71

The RK71's dedicated arrow keys and nav cluster distinguish it from the compact Royal Kludge RK61, which lacks these keys. While it shares the RK61's wireless capabilities, the RK71 offers better build quality than the cheaper RK84 and more functionality than the Redragon K552 Kumara, which has no software support for customization.

Specs side-by-side

SpecAjazz AK33RK Royal Kludge RK71
Layout70% keyboard frame71 Keys with Dedicated Arrow Keys and Nav Cluster
Switch TypeZorro Blue SwitchesRK Blue /RK Brown
LightingFull RGB backlightingICE Blue LED Backlight
Connectivity—Multi-Device Bluetooth Connectivity and Wired Mode
Keycaps—ABS Double Shot Keycaps
Battery—1000mAh
Weight—0.64 kg
Dimensions—11.4"L x 4"W x 1.6"H
← See the full ranking of best mechanical keyboards under 100