Keychron K10 Max vs Royal Kludge S98Full-Size vs 96% Layout
Choose the Keychron K10 Max for a full layout and deep firmware customization, or the Royal Kludge S98 for a compact form factor with a screen and knob.
Which one should you get?
Get the
Keychron K10 Max
Full-Size
- Full 100% layout with a dedicated numpad.
- Supports QMK and VIA for extensive, open-source firmware customization.
- Features screw-in PCB stabilizers and multiple acoustic foam layers (IXPE, PET, EPDM).
- Large 100% footprint requires significant desk space.
- Some user reviews note that keycaps for Print Screen, Scroll Lock, and Pause are not included.
- The vendor description states the Keychron Launcher software requires a wired connection for configuration.
Get the
Royal Kludge S98
96% Layout
- Compact 96% layout saves space while retaining arrow and navigation keys.
- Includes a customizable screen and a multifunction control knob.
- Features a built-in USB 2.0 pass-through port.
- Only available in an ANSI layout, with no ISO options listed.
- Heavier at 1879g, which may reduce portability despite the smaller size.
- Lacks a specified polling rate in its product listing.
Your primary need dictates the choice. If you require a full numpad, plan on deep firmware customization with QMK/VIA, or need specific ISO layouts, the Keychron K10 Max is the clear option. If you want to maximize desk space, value a control knob and screen for quick adjustments, and don't need a numpad, the Royal Kludge S98 is the better compact alternative.
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.
Keychron K10 Max
Royal Kludge S98
Layout size
100%
96%
Battery
4,000 mAh
3,750 mAh
Switch options
Clicky, Linear, Tactile
Linear, Tactile
Mount style
PCB Mount, Plate Mount
Gasket Mount, Top Mount
Knob
No
Yes
- Keychron K10 Max
- Royal Kludge S98
- Performance
- 8266
- Build quality
- 8272
- Productivity
- 9582
- Customizability
- 9272
- Portability
- 5453
- Connection: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
- Hot-swappable
- Sound dampening
- Keycaps: ABS, PBT
What will you mostly use it for?
The Keychron K10 Max is the stronger choice for gaming, programming, and modding due to its confirmed high polling rate, QMK/VIA support, and full layout. The Royal Kludge S98 wins for travel and content creation with its space-saving design, knob, and screen. For office use, it's a tie, as the choice depends on whether you need a numpad or prefer a smaller footprint.
Pick the Keychron K10 Max
- The K10 Max has a specified 1000 Hz polling rate in its 2.4 GHz and wired modes, which the S98's listing does not mention.
- Its full-size layout provides a dedicated numpad for macros or keybinds.
- The manufacturer states its 1000 Hz polling rate makes latency 'hardly noticeable even in competitive games'.
What owners say
Ratings and quotes collected from verified store reviews, including the critical ones.
Keychron K10 Max
9 owner reviews
“Bought with super banana switches (awesome if you like panda switches!). The only complaint I have is having to plug it in to change any settings. Why?”
“Pretty much right out of the box it started registering double letters when typing. To the point where I’m fixing every other word I type. Very disappointed”
Royal Kludge S98
No owner reviews collected yet.
Keychron K10 Max vs Royal Kludge S98 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
16 of 28 specs differ
Keychron K10 Max
Royal Kludge S98
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Screw-in stabilizers
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Knob
Display
Media keys
Connection
Max polling rate
Battery
USB passthrough
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Typing angle
Backlight
QMK
VIA
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
Compare prices
Live prices from the stores we track, cheapest in-stock offer first.
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Keychron K10 Max vs Royal Kludge S98: your questions
The Keychron K10 Max lists a 1000 Hz polling rate for its 2.4 GHz and wired modes. The Royal Kludge S98 product page does not specify a polling rate, so a direct comparison cannot be made from the available information.
Yes, but the methods differ. The Keychron K10 Max supports QMK and VIA firmware, allowing for deep, open-source key remapping and macro programming. The Royal Kludge S98 uses proprietary software, referred to as a 'Web Driver & Software' or 'RK Launcher' for customization when wired.
Yes, both the Keychron K10 Max and Royal Kludge S98 list compatibility with macOS and Windows systems. The K10 Max includes an extra set of keycaps for Mac and a system toggle switch.
The Royal Kludge S98 is more compact. It uses a 96% layout that integrates the numpad into the main cluster, saving space. The Keychron K10 Max is a full-size 100% keyboard with a separate, standard numpad.
Yes, both the Keychron K10 Max and Royal Kludge S98 feature hot-swappable sockets. This allows you to change mechanical switches without soldering.
The Keychron K10 Max comes with OSA profile double-shot PBT keycaps. The Royal Kludge S98 comes with Cherry profile double-shot PBT keycaps, according to their respective vendor pages.
Yes, the Royal Kludge S98 includes a built-in USB 2.0 pass-through port, allowing you to connect another device directly to the keyboard.
The Keychron K10 Max has a 4000mAh rechargeable battery. The Royal Kludge S98 has a slightly smaller 3750mAh battery.
The Keychron K10 Max provides more details for modders, listing specific foam layers (IXPE, PET, EPDM), a steel plate, and screw-in PCB stabilizers. The Royal Kludge S98 mentions a four-layer sound absorbing foam and well-lubed stabilizers but with less specific material detail.
Yes. The Keychron K10 Max is available in multiple ISO layouts, including Nordic, German, UK, and Swiss, according to the manufacturer's description.
The Royal Kludge S98 includes a smart display screen that can show custom GIFs, battery status, and system info, along with a multifunction control knob. It also has a USB pass-through port.
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