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Compare Ducky OK M 98 vs Year of the Dragon Zodiac Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Ducky's value-oriented workhorse and its high-end collector's item. The OKM 98 offers a versatile 98% layout with triple-mode connectivity at a much lower cost. The Year of the Dragon is a strictly wired, limited-edition 65% keyboard with a premium aluminum case and exclusive keycaps. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize practical features and wireless freedom or a unique, premium typing experience.

79
Ducky OK-M 98 Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard
78
Ducky Year of the Dragon 2024 Zodiac Aluminum 65% Hotswap RGB Keyboard

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  • Released in 2026
  • Has Clicky, Linear switch options
  • Available in a 98% layout
  • Comes with a knob
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2024
  • Available in a 65% layout
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 69.6
  • Build Quality: 72.5
  • Productivity: 89
  • Customizability: 78.6
  • Portability: 51.8
Scores
  • Performance: 81.6
  • Build Quality: 76.6
  • Productivity: 64.5
  • Customizability: 81.5
  • Portability: 73.2
Name
Ducky OK M 98
Name
Ducky Year of the Dragon Zodiac
Release year
2026
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Clicky, Linear
Switch Options
-
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
98%
Layout Size
65%
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
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
-
Battery capacity
-
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
 
Rgb, North-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
-
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
-
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your budget and primary use case dictate the choice here. For most users needing a versatile, wireless keyboard with a practical layout, the Ducky OKM 98 delivers exceptional value and features. Reserve the Ducky Year of the Dragon Zodiac for collectors and enthusiasts who prioritize a unique, premium build with top-tier customization firmware and are comfortable with a compact, wired-only format.

Ducky OK M 98

  • +Triple-mode connectivity with wired USB-C, 2.4 GHz, and Bluetooth.
  • +98% layout retains the numpad and arrow keys in a relatively compact form.
  • +Includes five layers of sound dampening foam (poron, IXPE, PET, silicone).
  • +Comes with a programmable volume knob and a 2.4 GHz dongle storage slot.
  • +Offers a dedicated hardware switch for toggling between Mac and Windows modes.
  • −North-facing RGB LEDs may cause interference with some Cherry-profile keycaps.
  • −Uses plate-mount stabilizers, which are generally less favored than screw-in stabilizers for modding.
  • −The larger 98% size is less portable than a 65% keyboard.

Ducky Year of the Dragon Zodiac

  • +CNC machined anodized aluminum case for a premium build.
  • +Limited edition collectible with only 999 units, individually numbered.
  • +Includes exclusive Oriental Crystal PBT+PC blend keycaps and artisan-style Escape/spacebar.
  • +Dual firmware support for both QMK and VIA.
  • +Features south-facing RGB LEDs for broad keycap compatibility.
  • −Wired-only connectivity, lacking wireless options.
  • −65% layout requires using layers or a separate numpad for number entry.
  • −Significantly higher price point as a limited-edition item.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Ducky OKM 98 is the clear choice for office work, gaming with a numpad, and content creation due to its layout and wireless features. The Year of the Dragon excels in portability and deep customization for modders. For programming, it's a tie between the OKM 98's utility and the Zodiac's superior firmware support, making the choice personal.

GamingDucky OK M 98
  • •The OKM 98 offers a 1000Hz polling rate for wired use, a spec not provided for the Year of the Dragon.
  • •Its triple-mode connectivity allows for flexible wired, 2.4 GHz, or Bluetooth setups.
  • •The 98% layout retains a dedicated numpad for gaming that requires one.
OfficeDucky OK M 98
  • •The OKM 98's 98% layout includes a numpad and arrow keys, which are essential for data entry.
  • •Its wireless connectivity via Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz reduces cable clutter on a desk.
  • •It includes a dedicated Mac/Windows mode switch for easy compatibility.
ProgrammingTie
  • •The OKM 98 provides a more complete layout with dedicated arrow keys and a numpad.
  • •The Year of the Dragon offers dual QMK and VIA firmware support for deep key remapping.
  • •Both keyboards feature hot-swappable switches for personalizing the typing feel.
TravelDucky Year of the Dragon Zodiac
  • •The Year of the Dragon's 65% layout is significantly more compact and portable.
  • •Its CNC machined aluminum case, while premium, contributes to a denser, potentially more stable feel.
  • •The OKM 98 is a larger 98% board and lacks a stated battery life for true portability.
ModdingDucky Year of the Dragon Zodiac
  • •The Year of the Dragon supports both QMK and VIA for extensive firmware customization.
  • •It features an FR4 plate and a CNC aluminum case, which are desirable premium materials.
  • •South-facing RGB LEDs allow for compatibility with a wider range of Cherry-profile keycaps without interference.
Content CreationDucky OK M 98
  • •The OKM 98 includes a programmable volume knob for quick audio adjustments.
  • •Its 98% layout provides a numpad for efficient shortcut mapping in editing software.
  • •Wireless operation offers more flexibility in desk setup and cable management.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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