Ajazz AK35i V3 vs AK980Full-Size vs 96% Layout Comparison
Choose the AK35i V3 for a full-size layout with extensive sound dampening, or the AK980 for a more compact 96% form factor.
Which one should you get?
Get the
Ajazz AK35i V3
Full-Size
- Full-size 104-key layout with dedicated numpad and function row.
- Extensive five-layer sound dampening including PORON cotton and silicone padding.
- Includes a dedicated metallic multimedia knob for volume control.
- Larger and heavier footprint (448mm wide, 1230g) is less portable.
- No explicit mention of Mac/Win support switches in its listed features.
- Lacks the variety of pre-installed switch options listed for the AK980.
Get the
Ajazz AK980
96% Layout Comparison
- Compact 96% layout retains a numpad while saving desk space.
- Offers a choice of pre-installed switches including linear, tactile, and silent variants.
- Side-mounted function keys for easy mode switching without flipping the board.
- Vendor description does not detail the same level of internal sound-dampening materials as the AK35i V3.
- Lacks a dedicated physical knob for media control.
- Does not mention screw-in stabilizers or south-facing RGB LEDs in its specifications.
Your desk space and need for a numpad are the deciding factors. If you have the room and value a complete keyboard with enhanced acoustics and a knob, the Ajazz AK35i V3 is the more feature-rich option. If you need to conserve space but still want a numpad, the Ajazz AK980 provides a compelling compact alternative with good switch variety. Both deliver excellent core value with gasket mounts, screens, and wireless connectivity.
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 V3
Ajazz AK980
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
Wireless
Knob
Yes
No
Sound dampening
Yes
No
Screw-in stabilizers
Yes
No
Backlight
RGB, south-facing
RGB
- Ajazz AK35i V3
- Ajazz AK980
- Performance
- 5142
- Build quality
- 6650
- Productivity
- 8042
- Customizability
- 7758
- Portability
- 5957
- Hot-swappable
- Battery: 8,000 mAh
- Case material: Plastic
- Mount style: Gasket Mount
- Display: TFT
- Plate material: FR4
What will you mostly use it for?
The AK35i V3 is the more versatile choice for users who prioritize a full layout, superior sound dampening, and a dedicated knob, winning in gaming, programming, and content creation. The AK980's main advantage is its space-efficient 96% design, making it the better pick for travel and tighter desks. For general office use, both are equally capable due to their shared wireless features and large batteries.
Pick the Ajazz AK35i V3
- Full-size layout includes a dedicated function row and navigation cluster for easier access to in-game macros and controls.
- South-facing RGB LEDs, as listed in its vendor description, ensure better compatibility with Cherry-profile keycaps without interference.
- Includes a dedicated multimedia metallic knob for quick volume adjustment during gameplay.
Ajazz AK35i V3 vs AK980 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
7 of 21 specs differ
Ajazz AK35i V3
Ajazz AK980
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Screw-in stabilizers
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Knob
Display
Media keys
Connection
Battery
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Backlight
Released
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Ajazz AK35i V3 vs AK980: your questions
The AK35i V3 is a full-size 104-key keyboard measuring 448mm in width. The AK980 uses a 96% layout, which condenses the numpad and navigation keys closer to the main typing area, resulting in a narrower width of 417mm. Both include a numpad.
Yes, both the Ajazz AK35i V3 and the AK980 feature full-key hot-swappable sockets. This allows you to easily change the mechanical switches without soldering. The AK980's vendor page lists several switch options it can come with, including Gift V2 linear and Cyan Cloud tactile switches.
Based on vendor descriptions, the AK35i V3 has a more detailed sound dampening construction. It specifically mentions a five-layered internal structure with Sandwich PORON Cotton padding, IXPE undershaft padding, and silicone bottom padding. The AK980's description mentions a five-layer gasket structure for noise reduction but does not list the specific materials.
Yes, the Ajazz AK35i V3 includes a dedicated metallic multimedia knob. According to the manufacturer, this knob can be used to adjust system volume. The Ajazz AK980 does not have a physical knob.
Both keyboards feature a 1.14-inch TFT color screen. The manufacturers state these screens can display information like time, battery level, and connection mode. They also support customization with static images or animated GIFs.
Yes, both are tri-mode wireless keyboards. They support connectivity via a 2.4GHz wireless dongle, Bluetooth, and a wired USB-C connection. This allows you to pair them with multiple devices like PCs, laptops, and tablets.
Both keyboards are equipped with an 8000mAh lithium battery. The manufacturer claims for the AK35i V3 a battery life of up to 140 hours with RGB off and up to 28 hours with RGB on. The AK980's vendor page also highlights long battery life using low-power technology but does not provide specific hour estimates.
The Ajazz AK980 explicitly lists Mac support in its extra features. The AK35i V3's feature list does not specifically mention Mac support, though it may still be functionally compatible via Bluetooth or wired connection. For guaranteed Mac compatibility, the AK980 has a listed advantage.
Yes, both the AK35i V3 and AK980 have RGB backlighting. The AK35i V3's vendor description specifies it has south-facing RGB LEDs and 20 different lighting effects, including musical rhythmic modes. The AK980 also lists RGB with 20 lighting effects.
According to its vendor description, the Ajazz AK35i V3 comes with customized Avocado mechanical switches. The description notes these switches have a 1.5mm pre-travel and a 45gf actuation force. The AK980 offers more variety, with options like Gift V2 Linear, Cyan Cloud Tactile, and Silence Linear switches.
The Ajazz AK35i V3 is the heavier of the two. It weighs 1230 grams (approximately 2.7 lbs), while the Ajazz AK980 weighs 1140 grams (approximately 2.5 lbs). The difference is due to the AK35i V3's larger size and potentially more extensive internal padding.
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