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Head-to-head · Best Mechanical Keyboards Under 100

RK Royal Kludge RK71 vs Royal Kludge RK61

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 (4.2 vs 3.9). The gap is mostly about compact keyboard users wanting navigation keys — read the strengths below before deciding.

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 →
Royal Kludge RK61
Ranked #5 in Best Mechanical Keyboards Under 100
Royal Kludge RK61
6 sources1 derived$58.99as of Aug 23

The Royal Kludge RK61 offers a compact 61-key mechanical keyboard with Bluetooth connectivity and RGB backlighting, reviewed by Eds tech as ideal for both work and gaming. While praised for its build quality and backlighting, reviewers noted the lack of adjustable feet and cumbersome secondary function key combinations. YouTube reviewer Daniel from Beebom highlighted its quiet operation and NKRO support, though noted the switches lack pre-lubrication. It's recommended for users with limited desk space who don't need full-size keyboard features.

Strengths
  • — Compact 61-key design with 60% layout suitable for travel and small desks
  • — Bluetooth connectivity supporting up to 3 devices with blue LED backlighting
  • — Good build quality with minimal flex in the plastic chassis
Watch-outs
  • — Lacks adjustable rubber feet for ergonomic positioning
  • — Requires key combinations for secondary functions, less convenient than full-size keyboards
$58.99 · 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

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.

Royal Kludge RK61

The Royal Kludge RK61's 61-key compact design and Bluetooth connectivity set it apart from the Redragon K552 Kumara, which lacks wireless capabilities. While the Epomaker TH80 Pro offers more advanced features like a color LCD screen, the RK61 provides a simpler, more straightforward experience with better build quality and less complexity than the Ajazz AK820.

Specs side-by-side

SpecRK Royal Kludge RK71Royal Kludge RK61
Layout71 Keys with Dedicated Arrow Keys and Nav Cluster60%
Switch TypeRK Blue /RK BrownGateron Brown
ConnectivityMulti-Device Bluetooth Connectivity and Wired ModeBluetooth, USB-C
KeycapsABS Double Shot KeycapsABS double-shot
LightingICE Blue LED BacklightBlue LED
Battery1000mAh—
Weight0.64 kg0.5kg
Dimensions11.4"L x 4"W x 1.6"H—
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