Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Mechanical Keyboards Under 100

Ajazz AK820 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 (3.8 vs 4.2). The gap is mostly about compact keyboard users wanting navigation keys — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ajazz AK820
Ranked #7 in Best Mechanical Keyboards Under 100
Ajazz AK820
6 sources2 derived$55.19as of Aug 23

The Ajazz AK820 Max offers a solid entry into mechanical keyboard territory with its minimalistic design and customizable features. Reviewers noted its subdued click sound, thanks to a silicone and cotton dampening layer, making it less intrusive than typical mechanical keyboards. The hot-swappable switches and triple connectivity options (USB, 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth) provide flexibility for users seeking a no-frills yet functional keyboard. It's well-suited for those new to mechanical keyboards or looking for a reliable, straightforward option without overwhelming features.

Strengths
  • Hot-swappable switches allow for easy customization and replacement
  • Triple connectivity mode supports USB, 2.4 GHz, and Bluetooth with up to three devices
  • Integrated LCD screen for displaying information and images
Watch-outs
  • RGB effects are limited to 20 options
  • Cable is not braided, which may affect durability
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

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 AK820

The Ajazz AK820's hot-swappable switches and triple connectivity options make it more flexible than the Redragon K552 Kumara, which lacks any software support.

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 AK820RK Royal Kludge RK71
Switch TypeYellow linear Moon switchesRK Blue /RK Brown
ConnectivityUSB, 2.4 GHz, BluetoothMulti-Device Bluetooth Connectivity and Wired Mode
Weight810g0.64 kg
Dimensions12.87"L x 5.35"W x 1.57"H11.4"L x 4"W x 1.6"H
Layout75% Gasket-mounted71 Keys with Dedicated Arrow Keys and Nav Cluster
KeycapsPBT keycaps in OEM profileABS Double Shot Keycaps
Lighting1.6m RGB BacklightICE Blue LED Backlight
Battery4000mAh1000mAh
HotswapYes
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