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

Keychron K2 Wireless vs Royal Kludge RK84

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

Keychron K2 Wireless comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.2 vs 3.9). The gap is mostly about users wanting customizable mechanical switches — read the strengths below before deciding.

Keychron K2 Wireless
Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Mechanical Keyboards Under 100
Keychron K2 Wireless
7 sources1 derived$79.99as of Aug 23

The Keychron K2 Wireless features magnetic Hall Effect switches that allow users to customize actuation points from 0.2mm to 3.8mm, offering versatility for both typing and gaming. Hardware Canucks reviewer Eber Anthony noted its compact 75% design and dual connectivity options, though he found the keyboard's thickness caused wrist strain and recommended using a wrist rest. The keyboard supports both Windows and Mac with included OS-specific keycaps and uses USB-C for charging and connection. RTINGS.com praised its budget-friendly price point and mechanical switch quality, while YouTube reviewer Eber Anthony highlighted the advanced configurability of the magnetic switches. This keyboard is ideal for users seeking a customizable mechanical keyboard but may not suit those prioritizing ultra-thin profiles or extended comfort without additional accessories.

Strengths
  • Uses magnetic Hall Effect switches allowing actuation point adjustment from 0.2mm to 3.8mm
  • Supports both Windows and Mac operating systems with appropriate key caps included
  • Compact 75% layout that saves desk space while maintaining full functionality
Watch-outs
  • Significantly thicker design causes wrist strain and discomfort without wrist rest
  • Charging/USB-C port placement on the side rather than back reduces aesthetic appeal
Royal Kludge RK84
Ranked #4 in Best Mechanical Keyboards Under 100
Royal Kludge RK84
7 sources2 derived$56.99as of Aug 23

The Royal Kludge RK84 is a budget-friendly 75% mechanical keyboard featuring hot-swappable switches and multiple connectivity options. TechPowerUp praised its solid build quality and USB passthrough capabilities, while YouTube reviewer Consumer Tech Review highlighted the tactile brown switches and dual USB ports. However, both sources noted issues with the 2.4G wireless range and signal interference. The keyboard comes with a 3750mAh battery that supports extended use, making it suitable for users seeking an affordable mechanical keyboard with versatile connectivity.

Strengths
  • Hot-swappable switches in different flavors
  • USB passthrough with dual USB ports (USB-C and two USB-A)
  • Solid build quality with magnetic feet included
Watch-outs
  • Wireless 2.4G connection has limited range and signal interference issues
  • Battery percentage requires pressing FN+Enter to display

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

Keychron K2 Wireless

The Keychron K2 Wireless's magnetic Hall Effect switches, which allow actuation point adjustment, are unique among these keyboards, unlike the Redragon K552 Kumara or Royal Kludge RK61. While the Epomaker TH80 Pro offers a color LCD screen, the Keychron K2 provides more customizable mechanical switches and dual OS support, though it's thicker than the Ajazz AK33.

Royal Kludge RK84

The Royal Kludge RK84's hot-swappable switches and dual USB ports distinguish it from the Redragon K552 Kumara, which lacks these features. Compared to the Epomaker TH80 Pro, it doesn't offer a color LCD screen or integrated battery, but it provides more connectivity options than the Ajazz AK820, which lacks USB passthrough.

Specs side-by-side

SpecKeychron K2 WirelessRoyal Kludge RK84
Layout75%75% mechanical
Switch TypeHall Effect MagneticHot-swappable (various types including brown and yellow)
ConnectivityWireless (Bluetooth), Wired (USB-C)Wired, 2.4G wireless, Bluetooth
KeycapsDouble-shot PBTABS Double Shot
Dimensions12.32"L x 4.84"W x 1.52"H12.4"L x 4.9"W x 1.6"H
Lighting18 Backlit: Adjustable 4-level RGB backlitRGB backlighting
Battery4000 mAh3750mAh
Weight663g1.77lbs (803.5g)
Hotswaphot-swappablehot-swappable switches
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