KBDFans TOFU TKL vs RF 8XMagnetic vs Top Mount
Choose the TOFU TKL for a magnetic-switch, hot-swappable keyboard, or the RF 8X for a case designed around compatible Realforce internals.
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Which one should you get?
Get the
KBDFans TOFU TKL
Magnetic
Build quality in the top 5% of 80% boards under $100.
- Magnetic switches with Hall Effect and hot-swap support.
- Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, and wired connectivity are listed.
- VIA and VIAL support, plus USB-C.
- Magnetic switches only. Standard MX switches will not fit.
Get the
KBDFans RF 8X
Top Mount
Build quality in the top 45% of 80% boards at any price.
- Top-mount DIY/barebones case with an aluminum and polycarbonate case listing.
- The vendor describes compatibility with Realforce R1 86/87/88/89u internals.
- The vendor lists compatibility with Cipulot’s RF_R1_8-9Xu PCB and custom JST cables for R1 and R2 OEM PCB compatibility.
- Switches are soldered. Swapping them means soldering.
For a versatile TKL with magnetic hot-swap switches, wireless options, and VIA/VIAL support, choose the TOFU TKL. Choose the RF 8X if your project specifically centers on compatible Realforce internals or the vendor-described aftermarket EC build options. Check the RF 8X's exact PCB and internal compatibility before buying.
The differences that matter
Skip the 40-row spec sheet. These are the specs that change how each board feels, sounds, and fits your desk.
KBDFans TOFU TKL
KBDFans RF 8X
Hall effect (magnetic)
Yes
No
Adjustable actuation helps in games and not in normal typing
Hot-swappable
Yes
No
Switch changes without soldering
Case material
Aluminum, Brass, Copper, Steel
Aluminum, Polycarbonate
Mount style
Gasket Mount
Top Mount
Display
None
LED
A case display rather than a typing feature
- KBDFans TOFU TKL
- KBDFans RF 8X
- Performance
- 7445
- Build quality
- 9661
- Productivity
- 9546
- Customizability
- 8554
- Portability
- 7053
- Layout size: 80%
- Max polling rate: 1,000 Hz
What will you mostly use it for?
The TOFU TKL is the more broadly equipped option for gaming, office work, programming, and content creation, based on its listed switch type, connectivity, and configuration features. For travel, wireless support favors the TOFU TKL, though its listed weight is substantial and the RF 8X includes a carrying case. Modding is a closer call: the TOFU TKL offers accessible magnetic-switch swaps and firmware support, while the RF 8X is tailored to Realforce and aftermarket EC builds.
Pick the KBDFans TOFU TKL
- The TOFU TKL uses magnetic switches and supports Hall Effect.
- It lists a 1000 Hz polling rate, matching the RF 8X listing.
- The RF 8X listing does not specify magnetic switches or Hall Effect.
KBDFans TOFU TKL vs RF 8X specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
14 of 25 specs differ
KBDFans TOFU TKL
KBDFans RF 8X
Switch options
Hall effect (magnetic)
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Screw-in stabilizers
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Display
Connection
Max polling rate
Battery
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Weight
Dimensions
Typing angle
Backlight
VIA
VIAL
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
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KBDFans TOFU TKL vs RF 8X: your questions
The TOFU TKL is a magnetic-switch keyboard with hot-swap support and listed wireless options. The RF 8X is a top-mount DIY case focused on compatible Realforce internals and custom build options.
No. Its compatibility rule specifies magnetic switches only, and says standard MX switches will not fit.
The RF 8X has soldered switches, so changing them requires soldering. The vendor describes aftermarket EC builds, but compatibility should be checked against the specific PCB and internals.
The listing includes Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz connectivity, as well as wired connectivity. It also lists a 1000mAh battery.
The RF 8X listing specifies USB-C but does not list Bluetooth or 2.4 GHz connectivity. Its vendor description identifies a USB-C daughterboard.
The TOFU TKL lists both VIA and VIAL support. The RF 8X vendor describes an optional VIA-supported PCB, so that capability depends on the PCB configuration.
The RF 8X is the purpose-oriented option, with vendor-listed compatibility for Realforce R1 86/87/88/89u internals. The vendor also identifies compatibility with Cipulot’s RF_R1_8-9Xu PCB.
The vendor lists top and bottom housing, a USB-C unified daughterboard PCB, two custom JST cables, screws, rubber feet, and a protective carrying case. The vendor states that keycaps, stabilizers, and switches are not included.
Yes, both listings identify an 80% layout. The RF 8X vendor description offers WK and WKL variants.
The RF 8X metadata lists a 7° typing angle, and its vendor description specifies 7.45°. The TOFU TKL listing gives a 9° typing angle.
The RF 8X listing specifies a screen marked as LED. It does not describe the screen's functions.
The TOFU TKL listing includes both DIY kit/barebones and pre-built as extra features. The RF 8X is listed as DIY kit/barebones, and its vendor says switches, stabilizers, and keycaps are not included.
Not sold on either?
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