Ajazz AK35I V2 vs AK980Full-Size vs 96% with TFT Screens
Choose the AK35I V2 for a full-size layout and aluminum build, or the AK980 for a more compact 96% form factor with switch choice.
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Which one should you get?
Get the
Ajazz AK35I V2
Full-Size
Build quality in the top 15% of 100% boards under $100.
- Full-size 104-key layout includes a dedicated numpad.
- Aluminum case construction for a solid feel.
- South-facing RGB LEDs for better keycap compatibility.
- South-facing LEDs. Shine-through legends stay dark, and some sculpted keycaps can clip the LED.
Get the
Ajazz AK980
96% with TFT Screens
- More compact 96% layout saves desk space while keeping arrow and navigation keys.
- Offers a choice between linear and tactile switch types.
- Specifically lists an FR4 plate, which is favored for its sound characteristics.
Your primary need dictates the choice. If you require a full numpad, prefer a metal build, and value detailed sound dampening, the Ajazz AK35I V2 is the clear pick. Opt for the Ajazz AK980 if you want a more compact keyboard that saves space, offers a choice of tactile or linear switches, and includes a popular FR4 plate, all often at a lower price point.
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.
Ajazz AK35I V2
Ajazz AK980
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
Wireless
Wireless for several devices and wired for lower latency
Case material
Aluminum
Plastic
Sound dampening
Yes
No
Backlight
RGB, south-facing
RGB
RGB for looks and low light rather than speed
N-key rollover
Yes
No
- Ajazz AK35I V2
- Ajazz AK980
- Performance
- 7642
- Build quality
- 7550
- Productivity
- 7842
- Customizability
- 6958
- Portability
- 6557
- Hot-swappable
- Battery: 8,000 mAh
- Switch options: Linear
- Mount style: Gasket Mount
- Display: TFT
- Keycaps: PBT
What will you mostly use it for?
The AK35I V2 wins for gaming, programming, and content creation primarily due to its full-size layout with numpad and aluminum case. The AK980 is the better choice for travel due to its more compact 96% form factor and lighter weight. For office use, it's a tie, as both offer excellent wireless features and screens, with the choice boiling down to desk space versus numpad utility. The AK980 has a slight edge for modders due to its specified FR4 plate material.
Pick the Ajazz AK35I V2
- Full-size layout includes a dedicated numpad for macros or keybinds.
- Aluminum case may provide a more solid base.
- South-facing RGB LEDs are listed for the AK35I V2, which can reduce interference with certain keycaps.
Ajazz AK35I V2 vs AK980 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
8 of 20 specs differ
Ajazz AK35I V2
Ajazz AK980
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Display
Connection
Battery
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Backlight
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
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Ajazz AK35I V2 vs AK980: your questions
The AK35I V2 is a full-size 100% layout keyboard measuring 448mm wide and 31mm tall. The AK980 is a 96% layout, which is more compact at 417mm wide and 19mm tall, eliminating the gap between the main cluster and numpad but retaining most keys.
Yes, both the Ajazz AK35I V2 and the Ajazz AK980 feature hot-swappable sockets. This allows you to easily change the mechanical switches without soldering.
The Ajazz AK35I V2 is listed with only linear switch options, such as Ajazz Gift, Sea Salt, and Moon switches. The Ajazz AK980 offers both linear and tactile switch choices, including Gift V2 Linear and Cyan Cloud Tactile switches.
Both keyboards are equipped with an 8000mAh lithium battery, which the manufacturer states provides long battery life, especially when using power-saving features.
The Ajazz AK35I V2 uses an aluminum case. The Ajazz AK980 uses an ABS plastic case. The AK980 also specifically mentions an FR4 plate, while the plate material for the AK35I V2 is not detailed in the provided specs.
The vendor description for the AK35I V2 mentions a software driver is needed to customize the TFT screen, though some reviews note it can be complicated to find. Software details for the AK980 are not explicitly provided in the listing.
Yes, according to the vendor descriptions, both the Ajazz AK35I V2 and the AK980 have TFT color screens capable of displaying personalized animated GIFs, in addition to showing time, connection mode, and battery level.
The Ajazz AK35I V2's vendor description specifically details a five-layer padding system using PORON and IXPE foam for sound dampening. The AK980 description mentions a five-layer gasket structure for reduced noise but does not list the specific foam materials.
Both keyboards use PBT keycap material, which is more durable and resistant to shine than ABS. The AK35I V2 description mentions two-tone PBT keycaps with south-facing RGB.
Both the Ajazz AK35I V2 and AK980 offer tri-mode connectivity: wired via USB-C, wireless 2.4GHz with a dongle, and Bluetooth. Both also support Windows and Mac systems.
The Ajazz AK980 listing includes a switch and keycap puller in the package. The Ajazz AK35I V2 listing includes a Type-C cable and a 2.4G receiver, but a puller is not mentioned.
Yes, the Ajazz AK980 uses a 96% layout, which integrates a number pad into a compact block alongside the main typing area. It does not have the spaced-out, traditional numpad of a full-size keyboard like the AK35I V2.
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