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Compare Dareu A98 Pro vs Qwertykeys QK101 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a fully assembled, feature-rich compact keyboard and a high-end, barebones DIY kit. The decision hinges on whether you value immediate usability or deep customization potential. Both offer triple-mode connectivity, screens, and premium materials, but their core philosophies differ. The Dareu A98 Pro is a complete package, while the Qwertykeys QK101 is a blank canvas for enthusiasts.

74
DAREU A98 Pro Keyboard With LED TFT Screen
90
Qwertykeys QK101 Keyboard

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5.0 (2)
5.0 (2)
  • Released in 2022
  • Has Linear switch options
  • Available in a 98% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Includes a Yes, TFT display
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1200 g
  • Sized at 37 x 388 x 139 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Released in 2025
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO layout standard
  • Includes a Yes, TFT, OLED display
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Uses a Top Mount mounting style
  • Runs at a 4000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 8000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 2000 g
  • Sized at 50 x 440 x 140 mm
  • Made with a Copper, Aluminum case
Scores
  • Performance: 49.3
  • Build Quality: 69.8
  • Productivity: 86.7
  • Customizability: 74.8
  • Portability: 56.2
Scores
  • Performance: 77.6
  • Build Quality: 90.8
  • Productivity: 81.2
  • Customizability: 85.4
  • Portability: 62.4
Name
Dareu A98 Pro
Name
Qwertykeys QK101
Release year
2022
Release year
2025
Switch Options
Linear
Switch Options
-
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
98%
Layout Size
100%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
TFT
Display Support
 
TFT, OLED
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
4000 Hz
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
Battery capacity
8000 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
Aluminum, Plastic
Case Material
Copper, Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
-
Dimensions
37 x 388 x 139 mm
Dimensions
50 x 440 x 140 mm
Weight
1200g
Weight
2000g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your choice fundamentally comes down to convenience versus customization. Opt for the Dareu A98 Pro if you want a high-quality, compact keyboard that works perfectly the moment you unbox it. Choose the Qwertykeys QK101 if you are an enthusiast who enjoys building and tailoring every aspect of your keyboard, from the mounting style to the acoustic signature, and are willing to invest more time and money into the project.

Dareu A98 Pro

  • +Ready-to-use pre-built package with linear switches and PBT keycaps included.
  • +More portable 98% layout and lighter weight (1200g) than the full-size alternative.
  • +Includes multi-layer sound-absorbing silicone pad for a quieter typing experience.
  • +Vendor states wide system compatibility including macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, and Android.
  • −Lower 4000mAh battery capacity compared to the QK101's 8000mAh total.
  • −Case construction uses a combination of aluminum and plastic.
  • −Offers less hardware customization out of the box compared to a DIY kit.

Qwertykeys QK101

  • +Extensive customization with choice of PCB (flex/non-flex), plates (FR4, Aluminum), and mount style (gasket/top).
  • +Premium CNC-machined aluminum and copper case materials.
  • +Larger 8000mAh total battery capacity from dual cells.
  • +Includes VIA support for easy key remapping and a protective keyboard case.
  • −Sold as a barebones DIY kit, requiring separate purchase of switches and keycaps.
  • −Substantially heavier (2000g) and larger full-size footprint.
  • −Higher starting price point as it is a kit requiring additional components.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Qwertykeys QK101 is the clear choice for modders and gamers seeking top-tier specs and customization. The Dareu A98 Pro wins for office use and travel due to its out-of-the-box readiness and more portable form factor. For programming, the choice depends on layout preference, while content creators may favor the QK101's full layout and massive battery.

GamingQwertykeys QK101
  • •The QK101 lists a 4000 Hz polling rate, which can offer lower latency.
  • •Its dual-mount design (gasket and top mount) allows for tuning typing feel and acoustics.
  • •The full-size layout provides dedicated number keys without a separate pad.
OfficeDareu A98 Pro
  • •The Dareu A98 Pro's 98% layout saves desk space while retaining a numpad.
  • •It is a pre-built unit, ready to use out of the box with included switches and keycaps.
  • •The vendor description states compatibility with macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, and Android.
ProgrammingTie
  • •The QK101's full-size layout offers dedicated navigation keys.
  • •The A98 Pro's compact layout frees up mouse space while keeping a numpad.
  • •Both support VIA or proprietary software for key remapping and macros.
TravelDareu A98 Pro
  • •The Dareu A98 Pro is significantly lighter at 1200g versus the QK101's 2000g.
  • •Its 98% layout is more compact (388mm wide) than the full-size QK101 (440mm wide).
  • •It comes as a complete, pre-built unit, requiring no assembly on the go.
ModdingQwertykeys QK101
  • •The QK101 is sold as a DIY barebones kit, designed for custom assembly.
  • •It offers extensive choice: two PCB types (flex cut RGB or non-flex cut), four plate options (FR4, Aluminum, etc.), and dual-mount styles.
  • •It includes VIA support for easy firmware reprogramming and comes with a protective case for storage.
Content CreationQwertykeys QK101
  • •The full-size layout on the QK101 provides a dedicated numpad for efficient data entry.
  • •Its customizable OLED/TFT screen can sync GIFs with typing speed, according to the vendor.
  • •The dual 4000mAh batteries (8000mAh total) offer longer wireless usage for a clean desk setup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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