KeebFinder
Not sure which keyboard to choose? Try the Keyboard Finder now!

Compare Keychron V3 vs Royal Kludge RK84 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a wired, enthusiast-focused keyboard and a versatile wireless model. The Keychron V3 offers extensive modding support and premium build features, while the Royal Kludge RK84 provides tri-mode connectivity and a more compact layout. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize open-source firmware and a solid typing base or need wireless functionality and a smaller size for a multi-device setup.

96
Keychron V3 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
63
RK84 75% Wired Mechanical Keyboard

Select a keyboard to compare

2.4 (16)
0.0 (0)
  • Released in 2022
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Built with the ISO, JIS, ANSI, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW, ISO-CH layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • 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
  • Weighs about 1360 g
  • Sized at 19 x 141 x 367 mm
  • Made with a Plastic, ABS case
  • 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
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Offers a USB passthrough port
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 3750 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 803.5 g
  • Sized at 41 x 125 x 315 mm
  • Made with a Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 91
  • Build Quality: 88.5
  • Productivity: 97.6
  • Customizability: 99.7
  • Portability: 57.5
Scores
  • Performance: 62.7
  • Build Quality: 50.5
  • Productivity: 77.9
  • Customizability: 69.7
  • Portability: 81.6
Name
Keychron V3
Name
Royal Kludge RK84
Release year
2022
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
ISO, JIS, ANSI, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW, ISO-CH
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
1000 Hz;8000 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
ABS, PBT
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Dimensions
19 x 141 x 367 mm
Dimensions
41 x 125 x 315 mm
Weight
1360g
Weight
803.5g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. For a dedicated, high-quality typing base you plan to modify and keep on one desk, the Keychron V3 is the superior platform. If you need to move the keyboard around, connect to multiple devices wirelessly, or have limited desk space, the Royal Kludge RK84's practical features outweigh its customization shortcomings. Prioritize the V3's build and firmware, or the RK84's connectivity and form factor.

Keychron V3

  • +Extensive firmware support with QMK and VIA for deep customization.
  • +Includes high-quality components like screw-in PCB stabilizers and a steel plate.
  • +Available with double-shot OSA PBT keycaps in the assembled version.
  • +Offers a programmable aluminum knob option for creative workflows.
  • +Supports a wide array of international layouts (ANSI, ISO, JIS, ISO-DE, etc.).
  • −Wired-only connectivity limits placement and adds cable clutter.
  • −Heavier and larger than the RK84, making it less portable.
  • −The vendor description mentions some configurations are frequently out of stock.

Royal Kludge RK84

  • +Tri-mode connectivity with Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless, and wired USB-C.
  • +More compact 75% layout saves desk space compared to a TKL.
  • +Includes a 3750mAh battery for extended wireless use.
  • +Features two built-in USB 2.0 passthrough ports for peripherals.
  • +Comes with a keycap/switch puller and four replacement switches.
  • −Uses ABS double-shot keycaps which may develop shine over time.
  • −Lacks the advanced firmware and layout support of the Keychron V3.
  • −Some user reviews mention firmware and wireless reliability issues.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron V3 is the clear choice for users who value a solid, customizable typing experience at a single workstation, especially for gaming, programming, and modding. The Royal Kludge RK84 wins for mobile and office-centric use cases where wireless connectivity, a compact footprint, and multi-device support are more important than deep customization. For content creation, the V3's knob is a plus, but the RK84's wireless flexibility offers its own advantages.

GamingKeychron V3
  • •The Keychron V3 has a specified 1000 Hz polling rate for lower latency.
  • •Its south-facing RGB LEDs prevent interference with Cherry-profile keycaps.
  • •The manufacturer states its latency is hardly noticeable in competitive games.
OfficeRoyal Kludge RK84
  • •The RK84 offers Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity for a cleaner desk.
  • •It includes two USB 2.0 passthrough ports for connecting peripherals.
  • •Its 75% layout is more compact than the V3's TKL layout, saving desk space.
ProgrammingKeychron V3
  • •The Keychron V3 supports QMK and VIA for deep, open-source key remapping.
  • •It offers extensive layout support including ANSI, ISO, JIS, and multiple European ISO variants.
  • •It includes dedicated Mac and Windows keycaps and a system toggle.
TravelRoyal Kludge RK84
  • •The RK84 is lighter at 803.5g compared to the V3's 1120g.
  • •Its 75% layout (315 x 125 mm) is more compact than the V3's 80% layout (367 x 141 mm).
  • •Wireless functionality eliminates the need to carry or connect a cable.
ModdingKeychron V3
  • •The Keychron V3 supports QMK/VIA firmware and has knob support.
  • •It features screw-in PCB stabilizers and a steel plate.
  • •It is available in a barebones kit without switches or keycaps.
Content CreationTie
  • •The Keychron V3 offers a programmable aluminum knob for workflow control.
  • •The RK84 provides wireless connectivity for easy switching between devices like a desktop and tablet.
  • •Both keyboards have multimedia keys for controlling media playback.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Discover similar products

You might also like similar products in that price range:

96
$49
Keychron V5 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron V5
96%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Tray Mount

64
$60
RK84 Pro 75% Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
Royal Kludge RK84 Pro
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Alu case

98
$44
Keychron V6 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V6
100%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Tray Mount

97
$44
Keychron V1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron V1
75%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Tray Mount

91
$44
Keychron V2 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V2
65%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Tray Mount

97
$59
Keychron Q3 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q3
80%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

93
$114
Keychron V3 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V3 Max
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Gasket Mount

93
$62
Keychron K6 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K6 Pro
65%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

96
$89
Keychron V6 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V6 Max
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Gasket Mount

88
$55
R87 PRO TKL Wireless Gaming Keyboard (QMK/VIA)
Royal Kludge R87 PRO
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Gasket Mount