Royal Kludge A72 Alice vs C87Ergonomic Wireless vs Wired Gaming

The core difference is their design philosophy. The A72 is an ergonomic, wireless keyboard with an Alice layout, a volume knob, and macro keys for productivity and comfort. The C87 is a wired, performance-focused gaming keyboard with an 8000 Hz polling rate, Hall effect switches, and Rapid Trigger technology for competitive play.

The A72 can be used for gaming, but it is not specialized for it. It lacks the high polling rate, adjustable actuation, and Rapid Trigger features found on the C87. Its strengths for gaming are its wireless connectivity and comfortable layout, not ultra-low latency performance.

The manufacturer lists compatibility with Windows and macOS. Console compatibility, such as with PlayStation, is not stated in the product specifications or descriptions, so it cannot be confirmed.

Yes, both keyboards use Cherry profile PBT keycaps which are standard and can be replaced. However, the A72's unique Alice layout may require a specific keycap set that supports its split spacebar and angled modifier keys.

The Royal Kludge A72 Alice is better suited for all-day typing. Its ergonomic Alice layout is designed to reduce wrist and forearm strain. The gasket mount and five-layer dampening system also contribute to a softer, more cushioned typing feel compared to the C87's standard mounting.

Yes, the C87 supports a web-based driver for customization. According to the vendor page, this allows you to remap keys, adjust actuation points, configure Rapid Trigger, and personalize RGB lighting through a browser.

The Royal Kludge A72 has a 7500mAh battery. The manufacturer claims a battery life of up to 550 hours with the RGB backlighting turned off, and approximately 54 hours with the RGB lighting enabled.

The C87 is hot-swappable, but with a major restriction. The vendor description specifies it is compatible with RK magnetic switches only. You cannot install standard 3-pin or 5-pin mechanical switches in this keyboard.

Both keyboards have sound dampening features, but the A72 has a more extensive system. The A72 uses a five-layer system including dual foam, an IXPE switch pad, silicone, and PET film. The C87 uses a triple-layer system with EVA foam, sound-absorbing foam, and a silicone pad. The A72 may have a slightly more muted sound profile.

The Alice layout has a learning curve. Its split and angled design changes the position of keys like the spacebar, 'B' key, and modifiers. Most users adapt within a few days to a week, but it is not an instant transition from a standard keyboard.

The A72 includes the keyboard, a USB-C cable, a keycap and switch puller, and a user manual. The C87 includes the keyboard, four backup magnetic switches, a USB-C cable, a keycap and switch puller, a dust cover, and a user manual.