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Compare Chilkey ND104 vs Meletrix Zoom98 EE Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two premium, aluminum, tri-mode wireless keyboards with LCD screens. The choice is difficult because both offer gasket mounts, hotswap PCBs, VIA programmability, and similar connectivity. The core trade-off is between the Chilkey ND104's full-size layout with extensive modularity and the Meletrix Zoom98 EE's space-saving 98% form factor sold as a DIY kit.

100
Chilkey ND104 CNC Aluminum Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard
94
Zoom98 EE Cyber Yellow

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5.0 (14)
0.0 (0)
  • Released in 2025
  • Has Clicky, Silent, Linear switch options
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, ISO-UK layout standard
  • Offers Normal ergonomics
  • Comes with a knob
  • Uses a Plate Mount mounting style
  • Equipped with a 8000 mAh battery
  • Sized at 34 x 438 x 140 mm
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 98% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Offers Split Spacebar ergonomics
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Equipped with a 4500 mAh battery
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 81.9
  • Build Quality: 92
  • Productivity: 96.9
  • Customizability: 99.4
  • Portability: 64.8
Scores
  • Performance: 79.1
  • Build Quality: 88.6
  • Productivity: 93.2
  • Customizability: 96.7
  • Portability: 55.9
Name
Chilkey ND104
Name
Meletrix Zoom98 EE
Release year
2025
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Clicky, Silent, Linear
Switch Options
Linear, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
100%
Layout Size
98%
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO, ISO-UK
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Split Spacebar
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
LCD
Display Support
 
LCD
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
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
8000 mAh
Battery capacity
4500 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
Plate Mount
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
Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
-
Dimensions
34 x 438 x 140 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
-
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you require a full numpad, extensive physical modularity, and a pre-built package, the Chilkey ND104 is the compelling option. Opt for the Meletrix Zoom98 EE if you want to save desk space with a 98% layout, prefer selecting every component yourself, and value the split spacebar ergonomic option. Both are capable high-end boards with strong modding foundations.

Chilkey ND104

  • +Modular design with reconfigurable screen/knob module and removable navigation storage tray.
  • +Massive 8000mAh battery capacity for long wireless runtime.
  • +Includes five layers of sound dampening foam (plate, switch, PET, case) for a premium typing feel.
  • +PCB natively supports both ANSI and ISO layouts for broader compatibility.
  • +Available as a pre-built option with switches and keycaps included.

  • Full-size layout is large and less portable.
  • Some user reviews criticize the companion software's limitations for RGB and screen customization.
  • Higher starting price point compared to many barebones kits.

Meletrix Zoom98 EE

  • +Compact 98% layout saves desk space while retaining a numpad.
  • +Offers a split spacebar layout option for ergonomic customization.
  • +Sold as a barebones kit, allowing complete choice over switches and keycaps.
  • +Includes a Poron sound dampener kit and an external weight for customization.
  • +Features a lower front height (22mm) and 7.7-degree typing angle.

  • Barebones kit requires purchasing separate switches and keycaps, adding to total cost.
  • Smaller 4500mAh battery capacity.
  • No user reviews are available to confirm real-world performance or quality.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Chilkey ND104 is the more versatile choice for stationary setups, winning in Gaming, Office, and Content Creation due to its full layout, knob, and modular features. It also edges ahead for Modding thanks to its physical reconfigurability. The Meletrix Zoom98 EE is better for Travel due to its smaller footprint and barebones nature. For Programming, the decision hinges on whether you prioritize key count or desk space, as both offer excellent programmability.

GamingChilkey ND104
  • Full 1000 Hz polling rate in both wired and 2.4 GHz modes, as confirmed by the vendor.
  • Full-size layout includes a dedicated numpad for gaming macros or data entry.
  • Includes a hotswap knob for quick media and volume control during sessions.
OfficeChilkey ND104
  • Full-size 106-key layout includes a numpad for data entry and accounting.
  • Large 8000mAh battery capacity for extended wireless use between charges.
  • Modular screen can display a clock or calculator, and the navigation cluster can be a storage tray for USB drives.
ProgrammingTie
  • Both support VIA/QMK for deep key remapping and layer programming.
  • Both offer hotswap sockets for trying different switch types.
  • The ND104's full layout offers more dedicated keys, while the Zoom98 EE's compact size saves desk space.
TravelMeletrix Zoom98 EE
  • The 98% layout is more compact than a full-size board, taking up less bag space.
  • Lighter overall weight due to its smaller size and being a barebones kit without switches and keycaps.
  • Includes a storage box, as noted in the kit contents.
ModdingChilkey ND104
  • Extensive modularity: the screen/knob module and navigation cluster are reconfigurable or removable.
  • PCB supports both ANSI and ISO layouts, offering more physical layout options.
  • Comes with five layers of sound dampening foam (plate, switch, PET, case) pre-installed for a tuned starting point.
Content CreationChilkey ND104
  • Hotswap knob provides tactile control for timeline scrubbing, brush size, or volume adjustment.
  • Full-size layout provides ample keys for application shortcuts and a numpad for numerical inputs.
  • The programmable screen can display custom graphics or media information.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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