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Compare Keychron C1 Pro vs Royal Kludge RK84 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a high-spec wired keyboard and a versatile wireless model at a similar price point. The Keychron C1 Pro offers premium features like an 8000 Hz polling rate and QMK support, but is tethered. The Royal Kludge RK84 provides Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, and wired connectivity in a smaller 75% form factor, but with more basic keycaps and lighting. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize raw performance and firmware freedom or wireless convenience and space savings.

90
Keychron C1 Pro 8K QMK Wired Custom Mechanical Keyboard
63
RK84 75% Wired Mechanical Keyboard

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4.7 (7)
0.0 (0)
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Runs at a 8000 Hz polling rate
  • Weighs about 830 g
  • Sized at 20 x 357 x 131 mm
  • Made with a Plastic, ABS case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face, White, White South-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2021
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Offers a USB passthrough port
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 3750 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 803.5 g
  • Sized at 41 x 125 x 315 mm
  • Made with a Plastic case
  • Features ABS, PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 90.1
  • Build Quality: 81.4
  • Productivity: 94.5
  • Customizability: 89.2
  • Portability: 57.5
Scores
  • Performance: 62.8
  • Build Quality: 50.5
  • Productivity: 77.8
  • Customizability: 69.5
  • Portability: 81.4
Name
Keychron C1 Pro
Name
Royal Kludge RK84
Release year
2023
Release year
2021
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
80%
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
8000 Hz;1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
-
Battery capacity
3750 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
Tray Mount
Mount Style
-
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face, White, White South-face
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Plastic, ABS
Case Material
Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Dimensions
20 x 357 x 131 mm
Dimensions
41 x 125 x 315 mm
Weight
830g
Weight
803.5g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If your keyboard stays on one desk and you value peak responsiveness, typing sound, and limitless customization, the wired Keychron C1 Pro is the superior tool. If you need to move the keyboard between devices, value a cleaner desk without cables, or need the USB hub functionality, the wireless Royal Kludge RK84 is the more practical daily driver, despite some compromises on keycap material and firmware.

Keychron C1 Pro

  • +Adjustable 8000 Hz polling rate for high-performance gaming.
  • +Open-source QMK and VIA firmware support for extensive customization.
  • +Includes sound absorbing foam, bottom case acoustic foam, and a silicone pad for improved acoustics.
  • +Double-shot PBT keycaps in an OSA profile for durability and feel.
  • +South-facing RGB LEDs that avoid interference with Cherry-profile keycaps.
  • −Wired-only connectivity limits placement and requires a cable.
  • −Larger 80% TKL footprint compared to the more compact 75% RK84.
  • −No built-in USB pass-through ports for connecting other devices.

Royal Kludge RK84

  • +Triple-mode connectivity with Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless, and wired USB-C.
  • +Compact 75% layout saves desk space while keeping arrow and function keys.
  • +Includes two USB 2.0 pass-through ports on the keyboard itself.
  • +Comes with a 3750mAh battery for cordless operation.
  • +Package includes a keycap/switch puller, four replacement switches, and a USB receiver.
  • −Uses ABS double-shot keycaps, which may develop shine faster than PBT.
  • −Lacks the advanced programmability of QMK/VIA, relying on proprietary software.
  • −Some user reviews mention firmware and wireless reliability issues.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron C1 Pro is the clear choice for performance-centric tasks like gaming and for users who value deep programmability and a premium typing foundation. The Royal Kludge RK84 wins for mobile and office use where wireless connectivity, desk space, and built-in USB ports are more valuable. For modding, the C1 Pro's detailed acoustic treatment and open firmware give it an edge, while content creators will find valid arguments for either keyboard's specific feature set.

GamingKeychron C1 Pro
  • •The Keychron C1 Pro offers an adjustable 8000 Hz polling rate for lower latency.
  • •Its south-facing RGB LEDs avoid interference with Cherry-profile keycaps.
  • •The vendor description highlights sound dampening foam for a focused acoustic profile.
OfficeRoyal Kludge RK84
  • •The Royal Kludge RK84 supports wireless Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz connectivity for a cleaner desk.
  • •It includes two built-in USB 2.0 pass-through ports for connecting peripherals.
  • •Its 75% layout saves desk space while retaining arrow and function keys.
ProgrammingKeychron C1 Pro
  • •The Keychron C1 Pro supports QMK and VIA for deep, open-source key remapping.
  • •It features PBT keycaps, which are more resistant to shine from heavy use.
  • •The 80% TKL layout provides dedicated navigation keys without a full-size footprint.
TravelRoyal Kludge RK84
  • •The Royal Kludge RK84 is wireless and includes a 3750mAh battery for cord-free use.
  • •Its 75% layout is more compact than the C1 Pro's 80% layout.
  • •It includes a USB receiver and a short 5.6-inch cable in the box for easy transport.
ModdingKeychron C1 Pro
  • •The Keychron C1 Pro features extensive sound dampening with multiple foam layers according to its vendor page.
  • •It uses screw-in stabilizers and supports both 3-pin and 5-pin hot-swap switches.
  • •South-facing RGB and QMK/VIA support provide a strong foundation for customization.
Content CreationTie
  • •The Keychron C1 Pro offers superior keycap material (PBT) and programmable layers via QMK for shortcuts.
  • •The Royal Kludge RK84 provides media keys via secondary FN functions and wireless flexibility.
  • •Both are hot-swappable, allowing switch changes to suit typing preferences for long sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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