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Compare Royal Kludge A72 Alice vs Royal Kludge N80 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two feature-packed, tri-mode wireless keyboards from Royal Kludge. The choice is difficult because both offer hot-swappable switches, a volume knob, and extensive sound dampening. The decision ultimately hinges on whether you prioritize the split, ergonomic Alice layout of the A72 or the modern low-profile design and integrated screen of the N80. Your preference for keycap material, battery capacity, and typing posture will be the deciding factors.

71
A72 68% Ergonomic Alice Layout Mechanical Keyboard
75
N80 Low-Profile Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Released in 2025
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Silent switch options
  • Available in a 65% layout
  • Offers Alice ergonomics
  • Includes a No display
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Equipped with a 7500 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1350 g
  • Sized at 42 x 384 x 140 mm
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Tactile, Linear switch options
  • Features a low-profile design
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Offers Normal ergonomics
  • Includes a Yes display
  • Offers a USB passthrough port
  • Uses a Top Mount mounting style
  • Equipped with a 3750 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1200 g
  • Sized at 28 x 330 x 140 mm
  • Made with a Plastic case
  • Features ABS keycaps
Scores
  • Performance: 57.9
  • Build Quality: 63.5
  • Productivity: 83.7
  • Customizability: 73.8
  • Portability: 94
Scores
  • Performance: 64.9
  • Build Quality: 62.9
  • Productivity: 82.3
  • Customizability: 72.6
  • Portability: 79.3
Name
Royal Kludge A72 Alice
Name
Royal Kludge N80
Release year
2025
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Silent
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Low Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
65%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Alice
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
Display Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
7500 mAh
Battery capacity
3750 mAh
Hall Effect Support
 
Hall Effect Support
 
QMK Support
 
QMK Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIAL Support
 
VIAL Support
 
N-Key Rollover
 
N-Key Rollover
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Mount Style
Top Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
-
Case Material
Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
ABS
Dimensions
42 x 384 x 140 mm
Dimensions
28 x 330 x 140 mm
Weight
1350g
Weight
1200g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If reducing wrist strain and going weeks between charges is critical, the Royal Kludge A72 Alice is the better investment. If you prefer a modern, sleek look with a smart screen, faster low-profile actuation, and handy desk features like a USB pass-through, the N80 is the more feature-forward option. Prioritize ergonomics and battery, or prioritize aesthetics and integrated tech.

Royal Kludge A72 Alice

  • +Ergonomic Alice layout with a split, angled design to promote a natural typing posture.
  • +Massive 7500mAh battery, double the capacity of the N80, for up to 550 hours of use.
  • +Five-layer sound dampening including dual foam, IXPE pad, silicone, and PET film.
  • +Cherry profile PBT keycaps for better texture and longevity.
  • +Includes five dedicated programmable macro keys (M1-M5).

  • The unique Alice layout has a learning curve and uses non-standard keycap sizes.
  • Heavier at 1350g and taller at 42mm, making it less portable.
  • Lacks the integrated smart screen and USB pass-through found on the N80.

Royal Kludge N80

  • +Integrated smart display screen for custom GIFs, battery status, and connection mode.
  • +Low-profile design with RK low-profile switches for a faster, shallower typing feel.
  • +Includes a USB 2.0 pass-through port for connecting peripherals.
  • +Top mount structure designed for a firm, stable keystroke.
  • +Comes with four spare switches in the box.

  • Smaller 3750mAh battery offers less than half the capacity of the A72.
  • ABS double-shot keycaps may develop shine over time faster than PBT.
  • Hot-swappable functionality is limited to RK low-profile switches only.
  • Lower profile may not be comfortable for all users during extended typing.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The A72 Alice is the clear choice for ergonomics and marathon typing sessions, winning for programming and modding. The N80's low-profile design and smart screen give it advantages for gaming, travel, and content creation. For general office use, both are competent, making it a tie that depends on your preferred typing height and keycap feel.

GamingRoyal Kludge N80
  • The N80's top mount design is described by the manufacturer as offering a firm keystroke for stability in intense sessions.
  • Its low-profile switches have a shorter actuation distance, which the vendor claims leads to faster response times.
  • The A72's Alice layout may require an adjustment period for gaming muscle memory.
OfficeTie
  • The A72's Alice layout and PBT keycaps promote long-term comfort for extended typing.
  • The N80's low-profile design and ABS keycaps offer a quieter, potentially faster typing experience suitable for shared spaces.
  • Both offer tri-mode connectivity for flexible device switching.
ProgrammingRoyal Kludge A72 Alice
  • The A72's ergonomic Alice layout can reduce wrist strain during long coding sessions.
  • It includes five dedicated programmable macro keys (M1-M5) for shortcuts.
  • Cherry profile PBT keycaps provide a textured, durable typing surface.
TravelRoyal Kludge N80
  • The N80 is slightly lighter at 1200g compared to the A72's 1350g.
  • Its lower profile (28mm height vs 42mm) makes it more compact for packing.
  • It includes a shorter 5.6-inch USB-C cable, which is more travel-friendly.
ModdingRoyal Kludge A72 Alice
  • The A72 features a gasket mount, which typically offers a softer, more customizable typing feel.
  • It uses a standard 5-pin hot-swap PCB compatible with a wider range of aftermarket switches.
  • Its PBT keycaps are generally more durable and resistant to shine than the N80's ABS keycaps.
Content CreationRoyal Kludge N80
  • The N80's smart display screen can show custom GIFs, battery status, and connection mode, useful for monitoring system info.
  • It features a USB 2.0 pass-through port for easily connecting peripherals like a drawing tablet dongle.
  • The knob controls volume, RGB settings, and screen functions, offering direct media control.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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