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Compare Leopold FC/NP900R vs FC980M Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two Leopold keyboards with distinct layouts and feature sets. The choice is difficult because both are pre-built with PBT keycaps but diverge significantly in connectivity and physical footprint. The FC/NP900R is a standard 100% keyboard, while the FC980M offers a compact 95% layout with more versatile features. Your decision will hinge on whether you prioritize a traditional full-size layout or a more modern, feature-rich compact design.

Leopold FC/NP900R Dual Mode Mechanical Keyboard
Leopold FC980M Dual Mode Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Released in 2023
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear switch options
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Released in 2022
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options
  • Supports hot-swappable switches
  • Available in a 95% layout
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Weighs about 1100 g
  • Sized at 20 x 145 x 366 mm
  • Made with a Plastic case
Scores
  • Performance: 38.5
  • Build Quality: 37.5
  • Productivity: 43
  • Customizability: 40.1
  • Portability: 40.4
Scores
  • Performance: 46.3
  • Build Quality: 40.9
  • Productivity: 62.6
  • Customizability: 45.5
  • Portability: 50.1
Name
Leopold FC/NP900R
Name
Leopold FC980M
Release year
2023
Release year
2022
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Silent
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
100%
Layout Size
95%
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
Connection
Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
-
Battery capacity
-
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
-
Mount Style
-
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Backlight
 
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
-
Case Material
Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
20 x 145 x 366 mm
Weight
-
Weight
1100g
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Pros and Trade-offs

For most users, the Leopold FC980M is the clear recommendation. It trades the traditional full-size form factor for a more practical compact layout and adds significant modern features like wireless connectivity, hot-swap sockets, and sound dampening. Only choose the Leopold FC/NP900R if you are certain you need a full-size keyboard and do not value wireless functionality or the ability to easily change switches.

Leopold FC/NP900R

  • +Standard 100% layout with a dedicated numpad and navigation cluster.
  • +Available with clicky, tactile, or linear switch types.
  • +Features durable PBT keycaps.
  • −Lacks wireless or Bluetooth connectivity.
  • −Not hot-swappable, limiting switch customization.
  • −No listed sound dampening or N-Key Rollover feature.

Leopold FC980M

  • +Compact 95% (1800) layout retains the numpad in a smaller footprint.
  • +Offers Bluetooth, wireless, and wired connectivity.
  • +Hot-swappable PCB allows for easy switch changes.
  • +Includes sound dampening and N-Key Rollover.
  • +Available with silent switch options.
  • −The non-standard compact layout may require an adjustment period.
  • −Priced at a higher range than the FC/NP900R's base price.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Leopold FC980M is the more versatile choice, winning in most categories due to its modern features and space-efficient design. Its hot-swappable switches, wireless connectivity, and compact layout with a numpad make it superior for office work, programming, travel, and modding. For gaming, its feature set and desk space savings are advantageous. The primary scenario for the FC/NP900R is if a user's workflow is strictly dependent on a traditional, full-size keyboard layout for content creation or data entry, and wireless capability is not a requirement.

GamingLeopold FC980M
  • •The FC980M lists N-Key Rollover, which is beneficial for gaming.
  • •Its compact 95% layout frees up more desk space for mouse movement.
  • •The vendor description lists it as a dual-mode keyboard, offering wireless connectivity for reduced cable clutter.
OfficeLeopold FC980M
  • •The FC980M includes silent switch options, which are better for shared workspaces.
  • •Its 95% layout retains the numpad while saving desk space.
  • •Bluetooth and wireless connectivity, as listed in its metadata, allow for easy connection to multiple devices.
ProgrammingLeopold FC980M
  • •The compact 1800-style layout of the FC980M keeps arrow and navigation keys accessible while being smaller.
  • •Hot-swappable switches allow for easy customization of switch feel without soldering.
  • •The inclusion of sound dampening, per its extra features, can lead to a quieter typing experience.
TravelLeopold FC980M
  • •The FC980M has a smaller footprint (95% vs 100%) and specific dimensions (20 x 145 x 366 mm) for easier transport.
  • •Wireless and Bluetooth connectivity eliminate the need for a cable when on the go.
  • •It is listed as lighter, though a specific weight for the FC/NP900R is not provided for direct comparison.
ModdingLeopold FC980M
  • •The FC980M is explicitly listed as hot-swappable, allowing for easy switch replacement.
  • •Its inclusion of sound dampening material provides a modding foundation for acoustics.
  • •The vendor description confirms it is a dual-mode model, which may interest those modding for wireless use.
Content CreationTie
  • •The FC/NP900R's full 100% layout provides a dedicated numpad for data entry and shortcuts.
  • •The FC980M's compact layout with a numpad also supports efficient data entry while saving space.
  • •Both keyboards feature PBT keycaps for durability during long usage sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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