Royal Kludge RK84 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard 2022 REVIEW

The RK84 keyboard is an affordable, fun option for any workstation.

Not too long ago, I reviewed the Redragon Draconic Pro K530 60% Wireless RGB Mechanical Keyboard. I really enjoyed using that keyboard, but since I’m not a gamer and use my keyboards for standard productivity, I found that my use was hindered somewhat by the lack of separate directional arrow keys as well as the missing system command keys.

After that review was published, it was suggested that I give the RK84 a try. The main reason was that it featured a compact — but still complete — keyboard layout. I’ve been thrilled with the experience of using this slightly larger, classic-feeling mechanical keyboard.

About RK84 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

The RK84 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard features a 75% compact layout. It’s called “RK84” because it features a layout with 84 keys. Modern keyboards — or full-size — have up to 104 keys (US) included. The RK84 is able to have its compact layout because 20 keys were removed from it including — the number pad, Print Screen/SysRq, Scroll Lock, and Pause/Break. Print Screen, Pause, Insert, and Screen Lock are still included, but they are paired up together so that three additional keys can be eliminated.

The keys are hot-swappable and up to five devices can be paired and stored in the device’s memory for later use. There is pro-driver support available (Windows only) and the battery has a capacity of 3,750 mAh. The keyboard can be connected in one of three ways — wired, Bluetooth, or 2.4Ghz wireless.

The RK84 has a built-in USB hub (2 x USB-A, 1 x USB-C) and the keyboard can be elevated by placing the magnetic pad feet on the back. The keyboard naturally sits at an 8º angle, but adding the pad foot beneath it tilts the keyboard slightly more and might make it easier for some users to type.

One of the defining characteristics of the RK84 keyboard is its diverse RGB backlighting. The RGB light has 21 onboard effects with 5 levels of brightness. There are four different switches to choose from — RK Red, RK Blue, RK Brown, or RK Low Profile Red. The chart below calls out the differences between each switch type.

Main Features

• DIY Software Supports
• Wireless Bluetooth/2.4Ghz 80% RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
• 84 Keys, Compact 75% layout
• Three Modes Connectable Keyboard – wired, 2.4Ghz wireless, Bluetooth
• Removable Frame
• Key Switch: Hot-Swappable Brown Switch
• Additional Ports: 2x USB 2.0 passthrough
• Lighting: RGB backlighting
• Onboard Storage: Yes
• Net Weight: 1.77lbs (803.5g)
• Media Keys: Secondary FN keys
• Cable: 5.6-inch USB-A to USB-C cable
• Internal Battery: 3750mAh
• Operating Force: 50g-60g
• Keycap Type: ABS Double Shot Keycaps
• Measurements (LxWxH): 12.4 x 4.9 x 1.6 Inch (315 x 125 x 41mm)
• Operating System: Windows XP/Win2000/Win7/Win8/Win10/Mac/IOS/Android

Pricing & Availability

The list price for the RK84 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard is $99.98 from the rkgamingstore.com website. It’s also available from other online authorized retailers such as Amazon.

What’s in the Box

• 1 x RK84 mechanical keyboard
• 1 x User manual
• 2 x Magnetic Pad Foot
• 1 x 2-in-1 Keycap & Switch Puller
• 4 x Replacement RK Switch
• 1 x Type-C Cable

User Experience

The RK84 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard comes in a simple box. The box is black, orange, and white, and other than the barcode sticker on it, the name of the product is not anywhere on the box. I don’t know if this keyboard is sold on retail shelves, but if it is, I would recommend upgrading the packaging so that it matches the RK84’s style a little better.

The user manual is simple and easy to follow. It outlines the items that are included in the box with the keyboard, how to connect it to your computer, the backlight control on the keyboard, and the multimedia keys for Windows and Mac users.

I am a macOS user so I immediately switched the layout over so that it was more compatible. To switch the layout to Mac, you press FN + S. I take one additional step and change the modifier keys in my System Preferences, too, so that my CMD and Option keys are in the right position according to Mac keyboard layouts.

The keyboard is comfortable to type on. I did have to get used to the height of the keys. I’m used to a lower-profile keyboard but I still found the RK84 comfortable to type on. The RK84 is stylish and while it has a retro look to it, it’s also modern. The RGB effects are colorful and bright so they add a little special something to my workspace.

When it comes to testing a mechanical keyboard one of the things I always end up doing is a timed typing test. These can be found easily by searching for ‘typing test’ on Google. My average words per minute count is usually around 72 and with the RK84 keyboard, I found that I had a faster typing rate of 74 WPM.

My accuracy was graded at 100%. I would say that I’m usually pretty accurate with my typing skills, but I do still make mistakes. With the RK84, I was particularly careful while I typed because the keys are higher profile than I am used to.

Conclusion

The RK84 wireless mechanical keyboard is a great choice for anyone looking for a quality keyboard. It is well-built, has a nice feel to it, and is very responsive. It is durable, has great build quality, and is a great value for the price. I also find it enjoyable to use. If you are in the market for a new keyboard adventure, check out the RK84 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard.

For more information, visit rkgamingstore.com, Facebook, and Twitter.