Head-to-head · Best Mechanical Keyboards

Mode SixtyFive 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

Mode SixtyFive comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.4 vs 3.9). The gap is mostly about Collectors and serious typists seeking customization — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #3 in Best Mechanical Keyboards

Mode SixtyFive

4.4

4 sources3 derived$299as of Aug 3

Mode Designs built the SixtyFive on its 2021 R1 predecessor, refining the technology around user feedback. Tom's Hardware praised it as a 'renewed classic' that delivers an 'intoxicatingly innovative keystroke feel.' The aluminum construction is heavy-duty, the block mount system is selectable, and semi-custom orders let you pick color and configuration. The $299 MSRP and limited international distribution, particularly in Japan, will put some buyers off. Serious typists and collectors after a high-end, customizable 65% layout are the fit; anyone on a budget or needing local support should look elsewhere.

Strengths

— Premium build quality with a massive aluminum body and accent bar that enhances both aesthetics and durability
— Innovative selectable block mount design allows for customization of keyswitches and mounting options
— Exceptional keystroke feel with a unique tactile response that stands out among 65% keyboards

Watch-outs

— Limited global availability with no Japanese sales vendors, making international purchase challenging
— Price point of $299 may be prohibitive for budget-conscious enthusiasts

Full review →

Ranked #9 in Best Mechanical Keyboards

Royal Kludge RK84

3.9

4 sources2 derived$56.99as of Aug 1

The RK84 is an 80% hot-swap keyboard that costs less than a good set of keycaps. Three connection modes — USB-C, Bluetooth 5.0 for up to three devices, and a 2.4GHz dongle — plus four switch options and a removable top panel add up to a feature list normally found two price tiers up. Tom's Hardware scored it two and a half out of five, and the gap between that and the enthusiasm elsewhere comes down to stabiliser rattle and a fiddly Bluetooth pairing routine.

Strengths

— Hot-swappable switches with four options (Red, Blue, Brown, Low Profile Red)
— Multiple connectivity options including Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C wired, and USB receiver
— Compact 80% layout with removable outer panel for a custom look

Watch-outs

— Stabilisers ship under-lubed, so the larger keys rattle noticeably
— Bluetooth pairing is a manual process that trips up first-time owners
— ABS keycaps develop shine on the most-used keys, and the lighting is muted rather than vivid

$56.99 · Check Price on Amazon Full 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

Mode SixtyFive

The Mode SixtyFive distinguishes itself with its selectable block mount system and unique tactile keystroke feel, which sets it apart from the Keychron Q1 Max and Drop CTRL that offer more standard switch compatibility. While the Glorious GMMK Pro provides better RGB lighting and the NuPhy Air75 V2 offers a low-profile design, the SixtyFive's semi-custom ordering system and premium aluminum construction make it ideal for collectors and serious typists.

Royal Kludge RK84

The Royal Kludge RK84 provides more connectivity options and hot-swappable switches than the Keychron Q1 HE, but it lacks the build quality and RGB lighting of the Keychron Q1 Max and Drop CTRL. While it's more affordable than the Mode SixtyFive, it doesn't offer the same level of customization or tactile feedback, making it a good budget-friendly option for users who don't mind a more basic setup.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Mode SixtyFive	Royal Kludge RK84
Form Factor	65%	80%
Switch Type	Selectable block mount	RK Red, Blue, Brown, Low Profile Red
Connectivity	USB-C	Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C, USB receiver
Backlight	None	RGB
Build Material	Aluminum	Solid with magnetic feet
Battery	None	—
Keycaps	Not included	Double-shot ABS
Weight	1.5 kg	803.5 g
Dimensions	313mm W x 114mm D x 19.5mm H	12.4"L x 4.9"W x 1.6"H

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