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Compare Royal Kludge C87 vs Royal Kludge M87 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two Royal Kludge TKL keyboards at a similar price point. The choice is difficult because the C87 is a specialized, wired performance tool with Hall effect switches and rapid trigger, while the M87 is a versatile, feature-rich wireless keyboard with a gasket mount and an LCD screen. Your decision hinges on whether you prioritize raw gaming responsiveness or a more refined, flexible daily driver.

C87 80% TKL Magnetic Hall Effect Keyboard
76
M87 TKL Wireless Gaming Keyboard

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  • Released in 2025
  • Has Magnetic switch options
  • Includes a No display
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Enables rapid trigger functionality
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Runs at a 8000 Hz polling rate
  • Weighs about 770 g
  • Sized at 41 x 366 x 139 mm
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Linear switch options
  • Supports hot-swappable switches
  • Comes with a knob
  • Includes a Yes, LCD display
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 7500 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 840 g
  • Sized at 41 x 157 x 41 mm
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 93.3
  • Build Quality: 44
  • Productivity: 70.5
  • Customizability: 48.8
  • Portability: 55.9
Scores
  • Performance: 65.5
  • Build Quality: 68.8
  • Productivity: 83.1
  • Customizability: 78.3
  • Portability: 85.6
Name
Royal Kludge C87
Name
Royal Kludge M87
Release year
2025
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Magnetic
Switch Options
Linear
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
80%
Layout Size
80%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
Display Support
 
LCD
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
8000 Hz
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
-
Battery capacity
7500 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
-
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
-
Case Material
-
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
41 x 366 x 139 mm
Dimensions
41 x 157 x 41 mm
Weight
770g
Weight
840g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you are a competitive gamer where every millisecond counts, the RK C87's Hall effect switches and 8KHz polling are compelling, tangible advantages. For virtually any other user—whether you work in an office, value a quiet, comfortable typing feel, need wireless flexibility, or enjoy tinkering with your setup—the RK M87 delivers a more complete and versatile package with its gasket mount, tri-mode connectivity, and useful extras like knobs and a screen.

Royal Kludge C87

  • +Hall effect magnetic switches with 0.01–3.5mm adjustable actuation.
  • +8000Hz polling rate and rapid trigger technology for minimal input lag.
  • +Triple-layer sound dampening system with EVA foam, sound-absorbing foam, and silicone pad.
  • +Web-based driver software for extensive key and lighting customization.
  • +Includes a dust cover in the box.

  • Wired-only connectivity limits placement and portability.
  • Hot-swappable sockets only support RK magnetic switches, limiting switch compatibility.
  • Lacks dedicated media keys and physical knobs.

Royal Kludge M87

  • +Tri-mode wireless connectivity with Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, and wired options.
  • +Gasket-mounted structure with 5-layer internal sound dampening.
  • +Features dual multi-function knobs and a built-in LCD smart screen.
  • +Fully hot-swappable PCB supporting 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
  • +Large 7500mAh battery for long wireless runtime.

  • Uses standard linear switches without the advanced customization of Hall effect sensors.
  • The LCD screen and additional features may contribute to its higher weight (840g).
  • Vendor descriptions note specific color variants have regional shipping restrictions.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The RK M87 is the more versatile choice, winning in office, programming, travel, modding, and content creation categories due to its wireless connectivity, gasket mount, hot-swappable design, and multimedia features. The RK C87 claims a decisive victory only in dedicated gaming, where its Hall effect switches, 8KHz polling, and rapid trigger provide a tangible competitive edge. For most mixed-use scenarios, the M87's broader feature set is more practical.

GamingRoyal Kludge C87
  • The C87 has an 8000Hz polling rate for ultra-low latency.
  • It features Hall effect magnetic switches with adjustable actuation from 0.01mm to 3.5mm.
  • It includes Rapid Trigger technology for faster key resets.
OfficeRoyal Kludge M87
  • The M87 offers tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, wired) for easy device switching.
  • It includes dedicated multimedia keys and a calculator key for productivity.
  • Its large 7500mAh battery provides extended wireless use.
ProgrammingRoyal Kludge M87
  • The M87's gasket mount and 5-layer sound dampening offer a quieter, more comfortable typing experience.
  • Its hot-swappable PCB supports a wide range of 3-pin and 5-pin switches for customization.
  • The TKL layout saves desk space while retaining essential keys.
TravelRoyal Kludge M87
  • The M87's wireless operation eliminates the need for a cable on the go.
  • Its tri-mode connectivity allows pairing with laptops, tablets, or phones.
  • The included 5.6-inch USB-C cable is short and portable.
ModdingRoyal Kludge M87
  • The M87 has a gasket-mounted design, which is favored for a softer typing feel.
  • It features a fully hot-swappable PCB for easy switch replacements.
  • It comes with pre-lubed linear cream switches as a starting point.
Content CreationRoyal Kludge M87
  • The M87's dual knobs provide quick control over settings and volume.
  • Its built-in LCD screen can display time, battery level, or custom GIFs.
  • South-facing RGB LEDs ensure compatibility with Cherry profile keycaps.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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