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

Royal Kludge RK61 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

Royal Kludge RK61 and Royal Kludge RK84 score essentially the same (3.9 vs 3.9). Pick the one whose trade-offs match your priorities — the strengths and watch-outs below are where they actually differ.

Royal Kludge RK61
Ranked #5 in Best Mechanical Keyboards Under 100
Royal Kludge RK61
6 sources1 derived$58.99as of Sep 13

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
Royal Kludge RK84
Ranked #4 in Best Mechanical Keyboards Under 100
Royal Kludge RK84
7 sources2 derived$56.99as of Sep 13

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

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.

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

SpecRoyal Kludge RK61Royal Kludge RK84
Layout60%75% mechanical
Switch TypeGateron BrownHot-swappable (various types including brown and yellow)
ConnectivityBluetooth, USB-CWired, 2.4G wireless, Bluetooth
KeycapsABS double-shotABS Double Shot
LightingBlue LEDRGB backlighting
Weight0.5kg1.77lbs (803.5g)
Battery3750mAh
Hotswaphot-swappable switches
Dimensions12.4"L x 4.9"W x 1.6"H
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