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Compare Knife Lab Dolphins75 vs WhatGeek SKN Bluebird Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two 75% aluminum, gasket-mounted keyboards with VIA support. The choice hinges on a core trade-off: the Knife Lab Dolphins75 is a substantial, wired-only kit, while the WhatGeek SKN Bluebird is a more affordable, pre-built option with tri-mode wireless. Both offer hot-swap PCBs and a premium feel, making the decision about connectivity, included components, and intended use.

70
[In Stock] Dolphins75 75% Mechanical Keyboard
80
SKN Bluebird75 Tri-Mode Aluminum Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Released in 2022
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Weighs about 2400 g
  • Sized at 20 x 327 x 150 mm
  • Offers No RGB lighting
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Clicky, Linear switch options
  • Comes with a knob
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 8000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1800 g
  • Sized at 31 x 140 x 322 mm
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 68
  • Build Quality: 72.3
  • Productivity: 60.8
  • Customizability: 68.6
  • Portability: 61
Scores
  • Performance: 81.1
  • Build Quality: 76.1
  • Productivity: 82.3
  • Customizability: 83
  • Portability: 92.4
Name
Knife Lab Dolphins75
Name
WhatGeek SKN Bluebird
Release year
2022
Release year
2024
Switch Options
-
Switch Options
Clicky, Linear
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
Display Support
 
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
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
-
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
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
-
Keycaps Material
-
Dimensions
20 x 327 x 150 mm
Dimensions
31 x 140 x 322 mm
Weight
2400g
Weight
1800g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you require wireless connectivity for a clean desk or multi-device use and want a complete, plug-and-play keyboard, the WhatGeek SKN Bluebird is the practical and more affordable option. If you are a hobbyist who enjoys building from a kit, prioritizes a purely wired connection for a stationary setup, and values a heavier base for modding, the Knife Lab Dolphins75 is the appropriate foundation.

Knife Lab Dolphins75

  • +Heavy, 2.4kg aluminum construction for a solid, premium feel.
  • +Sold as a comprehensive DIY kit with PC plate, foams, and daughterboard.
  • +Includes multiple internal foam layers (Poron bottom foam, IXPE switch pad) for sound dampening.
  • +Offers various color and weight material options according to the vendor page.

  • Wired-only connectivity, with no wireless option.
  • Does not include switches, keycaps, or a knob, requiring additional purchases.
  • Heavier and likely more expensive than the wireless alternative.

WhatGeek SKN Bluebird

  • +Tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, wired) for maximum flexibility.
  • +Comes pre-built with Keychron x HUANO Summer Latte linear switches.
  • +Includes an 8000mAh battery for extended wireless use and RGB backlighting.
  • +Features a metal multimedia knob and is ready to use out of the box.

  • The vendor description notes the silver color variant has a smaller 4000mAh battery.
  • Less of a blank canvas for modders compared to a full DIY kit.
  • Specific details on included stabilizers or additional foam are not provided in the listing.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The SKN Bluebird wins in scenarios demanding flexibility and convenience, such as office work, travel, and gaming where its wireless modes and included features shine. The Dolphins75 is the clear choice for modders who want a foundational kit to build upon. For programming, both are equally capable due to shared core features like VIA and hot-swap support.

GamingWhatGeek SKN Bluebird
  • The SKN Bluebird offers a 2.4 GHz wireless mode with a manufacturer-claimed 1.25ms latency.
  • It includes RGB backlighting, which the Dolphins75 lacks.
  • It is a pre-built unit, ready for immediate use.
OfficeWhatGeek SKN Bluebird
  • The SKN Bluebird supports Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless for easy multi-device switching.
  • It includes a metal knob for multimedia control.
  • Its pre-built nature and lower price make it a more convenient office solution.
ProgrammingTie
  • Both keyboards support the VIA software for key remapping.
  • Both have a 75% layout that saves space while retaining essential keys.
  • Both feature hot-swappable PCBs for customizing switch feel.
TravelWhatGeek SKN Bluebird
  • The SKN Bluebird is significantly lighter at 1800g compared to the Dolphins75's 2400g.
  • Its wireless functionality eliminates the need for a cable on the go.
  • It has a built-in 8000mAh battery for cordless operation.
ModdingKnife Lab Dolphins75
  • The Knife Lab Dolphins75 is sold as a DIY kit, requiring user assembly with switches and keycaps.
  • Its kit includes multiple foam layers (Poron bottom foam, IXPE switch pad, Poron gasket-foam) for sound customization.
  • The vendor description mentions it uses a gasket-foam combination designed for typing consistency.
Content CreationWhatGeek SKN Bluebird
  • The SKN Bluebird's included multimedia knob allows for quick volume or timeline scrubbing adjustments.
  • Wireless connectivity reduces desktop cable clutter for a cleaner workspace.
  • RGB lighting can be useful for visual customization in streaming setups.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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