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Compare Gateron iG 98 vs iG 98 Sweet Time Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two nearly identical Gateron 98% keyboards. The choice is difficult because they share the same layout, connectivity, hotswap sockets, and battery. The decision hinges on subtle differences in keycap material, plate construction, and aesthetic design, which may affect typing feel, sound, and long-term durability.

67
Gateron x invictus Gaming iG 98 Splashing Ink 98% Hotswap Bluetooth + 2.4 GHz. RGB Mechanical Keyboard
68
Gateron x invictus Gaming iG 98 Sweet Time 98% Hotswap Bluetooth + 2.4 GHz. RGB Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Features ABS keycaps
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
Scores
  • Performance: 78.6
  • Build Quality: 53.5
  • Productivity: 73.5
  • Customizability: 76.2
  • Portability: 57.1
Scores
  • Performance: 79.9
  • Build Quality: 53.6
  • Productivity: 74.5
  • Customizability: 75.8
  • Portability: 55.1
Name
Gateron iG 98
Name
Gateron iG 98 Sweet Time
Release year
2024
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Clicky
Switch Options
Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
98%
Layout Size
98%
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
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
Battery capacity
4000 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
Plate Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, North-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS
Case Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
-
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your choice between the Gateron iG 98 and iG 98 Sweet Time should be guided by material preference and availability. If you prioritize PBT keycaps for durability and prefer a specific color theme, the Sweet Time is the logical pick. If you value the potential for a polycarbonate plate and the standard green colorway is in stock, the original iG 98 is suitable. Core performance and features are the same.

Gateron iG 98

  • +Lists a polycarbonate plate option, which may offer a specific acoustic or flex profile.
  • +Features Gateron 2.0 hotswap sockets for easy switch customization.
  • +Offers three connectivity modes: wired USB-C, Bluetooth 5.0, and 2.4 GHz wireless.
  • +Includes an interchangeable spacebar layout for customization.
  • −Uses ABS keycaps, which may develop shine over time compared to PBT.
  • −The vendor listing indicates some user reports of random keypress issues and connectivity problems.
  • −Lacks support for QMK or VIA firmware for advanced reprogramming.

Gateron iG 98 Sweet Time

  • +Includes PBT keycaps, which are more resistant to wear and shine.
  • +Features Gateron 2.0 hotswap sockets for easy switch customization.
  • +Offers three connectivity modes: wired USB-C, Bluetooth 5.0, and 2.4 GHz wireless.
  • +Includes an interchangeable spacebar layout for customization.
  • −The vendor listing shows the product as out of stock, affecting availability.
  • −Uses a plastic plate, whereas the standard model lists a polycarbonate option.
  • −Lacks support for QMK or VIA firmware for advanced reprogramming.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The keyboards are tied in most categories due to their shared core specs. The Sweet Time model has a slight edge for office use due to its PBT keycaps, while the standard iG 98 may appeal to programmers interested in its listed polycarbonate plate option. For gaming, travel, modding, and content creation, the feature sets are effectively identical, making the choice purely aesthetic or based on material preference.

GamingTie
  • •Both offer identical 3-way connectivity (wired, Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4 GHz) for low-latency options.
  • •Both feature N-key rollover for simultaneous key presses.
  • •Both have the same 98% layout with a clickable volume knob.
OfficeGateron iG 98 Sweet Time
  • •The Sweet Time model includes PBT keycaps, which are generally more resistant to shine from frequent use.
  • •Both support connection to up to 5 devices wirelessly for easy switching.
  • •Both have a 4000mAh battery for extended wireless use.
ProgrammingGateron iG 98
  • •The standard iG 98 lists a polycarbonate plate option, which can offer a different typing feel.
  • •Both have the full 98% layout with arrow keys and a numpad.
  • •Both use Gateron 2.0 hotswap sockets for easy switch customization.
TravelTie
  • •Both are the same 98% layout size and weight is not specified differently.
  • •Both have the same 4000mAh battery capacity for portable use.
  • •Both offer Bluetooth for cable-free use on the go.
ModdingTie
  • •Both feature Gateron 2.0 hotswap sockets for easy switch changes.
  • •Both have an interchangeable spacebar layout supporting 6.25u or three smaller bars.
  • •Both use north-facing RGB LEDs and plate-mount switches.
Content CreationTie
  • •Both include a clickable volume knob for quick audio adjustment.
  • •Both offer the same 98% layout with dedicated media controls.
  • •Both have dye-sublimated keycaps for durable legends.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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