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Compare Redragon EISA MAX K686 vs PENUMBRA K687 HE Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two feature-rich Redragon keyboards at a similar price point. The choice hinges on whether you prioritize wireless connectivity and a larger layout or cutting-edge gaming performance in a more compact form. The EISA MAX offers tri-mode connectivity and a 96% layout, while the PENUMBRA focuses on a wired, aluminum build with magnetic switches and rapid trigger technology.

70
EISA MAX K686
70
PENUMBRA K687 HE Rapid Trigger Gaming Keyboard

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  • Released in 2024
  • Has Linear switch options
  • Supports hot-swappable switches
  • Available in a 90% layout
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Weighs about 1200 g
  • Sized at 90 x 430 x 90 mm
  • Made with a Plastic case
  • Released in 2025
  • Has Magnetic switch options
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Enables rapid trigger functionality
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Weighs about 1500 g
  • Sized at 43 x 334 x 140 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
Scores
  • Performance: 66
  • Build Quality: 63.7
  • Productivity: 84
  • Customizability: 68
  • Portability: 51.9
Scores
  • Performance: 86.7
  • Build Quality: 69.8
  • Productivity: 78.2
  • Customizability: 55.7
  • Portability: 60.7
Name
Redragon EISA MAX K686
Name
Redragon PENUMBRA K687 HE
Release year
2024
Release year
2025
Switch Options
Linear
Switch Options
Magnetic
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
90%
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
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
-
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
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Plastic
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
90 x 430 x 90 mm
Dimensions
43 x 334 x 140 mm
Weight
1200g
Weight
1500g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. For a versatile, wireless daily driver with a numpad and easy modding, the Redragon EISA MAX K686 is the better value. If your focus is purely on competitive gaming performance with features like rapid trigger and Hall Effect switches, and you don't mind a wired connection, the Redragon PENUMBRA K687 HE is the specialized tool, though its availability may be limited.

Redragon EISA MAX K686

  • +Tri-mode wireless connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, USB-C wired).
  • +Hot-swappable PCB compatible with 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
  • +Includes a dedicated multi-function control knob.
  • +Comes with a nano receiver, keycap/switch puller, and spare switches.
  • +96% layout retains the numpad in a compact form factor.

  • Plastic case construction, compared to the aluminum build of the PENUMBRA.
  • Uses standard linear switches instead of Hall Effect magnetic switches.
  • Lacks advanced gaming features like rapid trigger.

Redragon PENUMBRA K687 HE

  • +Features Hall Effect magnetic switches with adjustable actuation from 0.1mm to 3.4mm.
  • +Includes software-enabled rapid trigger technology for gaming.
  • +CNC aluminum frame with a frosted finish for a premium build.
  • +75% layout maximizes desk space for mouse movement.
  • +Includes five layers of sound dampening foam (PO, IXPE, PET, socket, silicone).

  • Wired-only connectivity, lacking wireless options.
  • Proprietary Hall Effect switches are not cross-compatible with other brands, limiting modding.
  • Heavier at 1500g and currently listed as sold out.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The EISA MAX K686 wins for office use, travel, and content creation due to its wireless connectivity, included numpad, and media knob. The PENUMBRA K687 HE is the clear choice for dedicated gaming, leveraging its Hall Effect switches and rapid trigger. For programming, it's a tie based on layout preference, while modders will favor the EISA MAX for its standard hot-swap compatibility.

GamingRedragon PENUMBRA K687 HE
  • The PENUMBRA K687 HE features dedicated Hall Effect magnetic switches, which the manufacturer states eliminate physical input delay.
  • It includes software-adjustable rapid trigger technology for precise actuation control.
  • Its 75% layout provides more mouse movement space compared to the 96% EISA MAX.
OfficeRedragon EISA MAX K686
  • The EISA MAX K686 offers tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, wired) for flexible device switching.
  • Its 96% layout retains a numpad, which is useful for data entry.
  • It includes a dedicated knob for media and volume control, enhancing productivity.
ProgrammingTie
  • The EISA MAX has a more complete layout with dedicated navigation keys.
  • The PENUMBRA's compact 75% design frees up desk space but requires using function layers for some keys.
  • Both keyboards feature PBT keycaps and gasket mount designs for a comfortable typing experience.
TravelRedragon EISA MAX K686
  • The EISA MAX K686 is lighter at 1200g compared to the PENUMBRA's 1500g.
  • Its wireless functionality removes the need for a constant cable connection.
  • It is slightly thinner (90mm vs 140mm), which may be easier to pack.
ModdingRedragon EISA MAX K686
  • The EISA MAX K686 is confirmed to have a hot-swappable socket, compatible with 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
  • The PENUMBRA K687 HE uses proprietary Hall Effect switches that the manufacturer states are not cross-compatible with other brands, limiting switch options.
  • Both include a switch puller and spare switches in the box.
Content CreationRedragon EISA MAX K686
  • The EISA MAX's dedicated media control knob is useful for scrubbing timelines and adjusting volume.
  • Wireless connectivity reduces cable clutter on a production desk.
  • The full 96% layout provides quick access to number keys for shortcut inputs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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