Royal Kludge L98 vs S98Southpaw vs Standard 96%

The RK L98 is specifically designed for left-handed users with its southpaw layout that places the numpad on the left side. This ergonomic choice allows the mouse to sit closer to the right hand, reducing shoulder strain. The RK S98 has a standard numpad on the right, which is less suitable for left-dominant workflows.

The vendor details confirm that the L98 PCB is compatible with both 3-pin and 5-pin switches. While the S98 is also hot-swappable, the specific compatibility with 5-pin switches is not explicitly stated, but it is a common feature for most hot-swappable boards. We recommend checking the board's specifications before purchasing switches.

The Royal Kludge L98 has a significantly larger 8000mAh battery, while the S98 houses a 3750mAh battery. According to RK, the L98 offers up to 310 hours of use with RGB off, whereas the S98 is rated for up to 200 hours with the backlight off, making the L98 a better choice for users who want to charge less frequently.

The RK S98 features a larger, more customizable LCD screen that can display GIFs, RGB modes, brightness, and battery status. The L98 also has an LCD screen, but it is described as a 'smart display' for battery and system info. Based on customer reviews, the S98's screen is considered higher quality and more versatile.

For a standard office environment, the S98 is often the better choice because it has a traditional numpad layout that requires no relearning, and it offers Mac/Win dual-system support. The S98's top mount and four-layer foam also contribute to a quieter typing experience, which is appreciated in shared workspaces.

The Royal Kludge L98 is much lighter at 990 grams compared to the S98's 1879 grams. If you plan to take your keyboard to the office or move it between setups, the L98's lower weight and larger 8000mAh battery make it significantly more travel-friendly.

Yes, both keyboards include sound dampening materials. The L98 is described as having a 5-layer sound dampening system, including two layers of sound-absorbing foam, an IXPE switch pad, a silicone dampener, and a PET sound-enhancement film. The S98 features a top mount design paired with four-layer sound absorbing foam to reduce echo and noise.

The L98 uses a gasket mount structure, which is generally preferred in the mechanical keyboard modding community for its softer, more flexible typing feel and distinctive acoustics. The S98 uses a top mount, which provides a more rigid and stable platform. Modders typically favor the L98 for its greater customization potential.

Yes, both keyboards support RK's proprietary software (RK Launcher) for remapping keys, adjusting RGB lighting, and saving profiles. The vendor notes that the S98's advanced software features require a wired connection. The L98 can also be customized using its onboard storage for saving profiles.

Both keyboards are available with hot-swappable options. The L98 offers Linear Cream, Tactile Beige, and Silent switches. The S98 similarly offers Linear Cream and Tactile Beige switches, as well as a Silent Purple switch option. All switches are pre-lubed according to the vendor notes.

Yes, the RK S98 is described as having a 2-stage adjustable design that allows you to change the keyboard's angle for a more comfortable ergonomic position. The L98 has a fixed 5 degree typing angle, which is not adjustable.