Which one should you get?
Get the
Royal Kludge A72 Alice
Ergonomic
- Ergonomic Alice layout with a split, angled design to promote a natural typing posture.
- Tri-mode wireless connectivity (Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz, USB-C wired) for versatile use.
- Large 7500mAh battery, with the manufacturer claiming up to 550 hours of use with RGB off.
- Lacks a dedicated number pad, which may be necessary for some productivity tasks.
- The unique Alice layout requires an adjustment period and may limit keycap set compatibility.
- No included wrist rest, whereas the C96 HE includes a magnetic one.
Get the
Royal Kludge C96 HE
Gaming Performance
- Features Hall Effect magnetic switches with adjustable actuation points from 0.01mm to 3.5mm.
- High 8000Hz polling rate for ultra-responsive input in fast-paced games.
- Includes advanced gaming features like Rapid Trigger, Dynamic Keys, and SOCD Cleaning.
- Wired-only connectivity, lacking the wireless options of the A72.
- Hot-swap capability is limited to RK magnetic switches only, per the manufacturer's listing.
- Smaller 3750mAh battery (though this is less relevant for a wired keyboard).
Your primary need dictates the choice. If you are a competitive gamer who values the fastest possible response time, customizable actuation, and advanced gaming features, the Royal Kludge C96 HE is the dedicated tool for the job. If your priority is all-day typing comfort, wireless freedom for a clean desk, and the ability to easily mod with standard switches, the Royal Kludge A72 Alice is the more versatile and ergonomic daily driver.
The differences that matter
Skip the 40-row spec sheet. These are the specs that change how each board feels, sounds, and fits your desk.
Royal Kludge A72 Alice
Royal Kludge C96 HE
Layout size
65%
96%
Hall effect (magnetic)
No
Yes
Rapid trigger
No
Yes
Hot-swappable
Yes
No
Battery
7,500 mAh
3,750 mAh
- Royal Kludge A72 Alice
- Royal Kludge C96 HE
- Performance
- 5894
- Build quality
- 6347
- Productivity
- 8376
- Customizability
- 7353
- Portability
- 9450
- Connection: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
- Knob
- Sound dampening
- Keycaps: PBT
What will you mostly use it for?
The C96 HE is the clear choice for competitive gaming due to its high polling rate and Hall Effect switches. For travel, modding, and content creation focused on macros and comfort, the A72 Alice takes the lead. Office and programming use sees a tie, as the decision hinges on valuing wireless freedom and ergonomics (A72) versus a number pad and a more traditional full compact layout (C96 HE).
Pick the Royal Kludge C96 HE
- The C96 HE features an 8000Hz polling rate for minimal input latency.
- It includes Hall Effect magnetic switches with adjustable actuation and Rapid Trigger technology.
- The listing mentions advanced gaming features like Dynamic Keys, Multi-Tap, and SOCD Cleaning.
Royal Kludge A72 Alice vs C96 HE specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
11 of 22 specs differ
Royal Kludge A72 Alice
Royal Kludge C96 HE
Switch options
Hall effect (magnetic)
Rapid trigger
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Knob
Display
Media keys
Connection
Max polling rate
Battery
USB-C
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Backlight
Mac & Windows
Released
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Royal Kludge A72 Alice vs C96 HE: your questions
The Royal Kludge A72 Alice is designed for wireless use. It supports tri-mode connectivity via Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, and USB-C wired. The C96 HE is a wired-only keyboard and does not offer wireless functionality.
Yes, the RK C96 HE is listed as hot-swappable. However, the manufacturer specifies that this hot-swap capability is for RK magnetic switches only. It is not compatible with standard 3-pin or 5-pin mechanical switches.
The Alice layout is a split, angled design that positions your hands in a more natural, shoulder-width posture. According to the vendor description, this is intended to reduce wrist and forearm strain during extended typing sessions, making it an ergonomic choice.
Yes. The C96 HE uses Hall Effect magnetic switches which allow you to software-adjust the actuation point for each key. The manufacturer states the actuation range is adjustable from 0.01mm to 3.5mm.
The RK A72 Alice has a significantly larger 7500mAh battery compared to the C96 HE's 3750mAh. The A72's vendor page claims up to 550 hours of use with RGB lighting turned off. The C96 HE's battery is less relevant as it is a wired keyboard.
Only the Royal Kludge C96 HE includes a wrist rest. Its package includes a magnetic, ergonomic wrist rest. The A72 Alice does not come with a wrist rest.
Rapid Trigger is a gaming feature that allows a key to be re-pressed instantly after a partial release, without needing to return to the full resting position. The C96 HE implements this with a 0.01mm step distance, which can provide an advantage in fast-paced games.
Both keyboards use PBT keycaps in a Cherry profile, which are generally more durable and resistant to shine than ABS. The C96 HE specifically mentions 'oil-resistant' Cherry profile PBT keycaps.
The RK A72 Alice is more portable. It has a compact 65% (68%) layout, is slightly lighter (1350g vs 1370g), and its wireless functionality means you don't need to carry or use a cable. The C96 HE is larger, wired, and has a 96% layout.
Yes. According to the vendor descriptions for both the A72 Alice and the C96 HE, they are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems.
The A72 Alice uses a five-layer dampening system which includes dual sound-absorbing foam, an IXPE switch pad, a silicone dampener, and PET film. The C96 HE uses a triple-layer system with a thick EVA dampener, sound-absorbing foam, and a bottom silicone pad.
Yes, there is a significant difference. The RK C96 HE has a specified 8000Hz polling rate. The polling rate for the RK A72 Alice is not stated in the provided specifications or vendor description.
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