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Compare Leopold FC980C vs FC980MBT Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two full-size 1800 layout keyboards from Leopold, a brand known for build quality. The main decision hinges on the switch type: the FC980C offers the distinctive feel of genuine 45g Topre electrostatic capacitive switches, a favorite among typing enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the FC980MBT provides more practical flexibility with a choice of four Cherry MX switches, plus the convenience of Bluetooth 5.1 wireless connectivity and a modern USB-C port. Both boards share a durable PBT keycap set and a space-saving layout, but their core technologies cater to different priorities, making the choice a matter of typing feel versus connectivity.

Leopold FC980C Black Dye Sub PBT Mechanical Keyboard (AECX02)
Leopold FC980MBT Two Tone White Bluetooth PD Double Shot PBT Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Released in 2024
  • Has Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 2 mAh battery
  • Made with a ABS, Plastic case
Scores
  • Performance: 52.6
  • Build Quality: 45.8
  • Productivity: 49.5
  • Customizability: 40.7
  • Portability: 40.8
Scores
  • Performance: 47.6
  • Build Quality: 45.5
  • Productivity: 60.5
  • Customizability: 47.4
  • Portability: 50.9
Name
Leopold FC980C
Name
Leopold FC980MBT
Release year
2024
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Linear, Clicky
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
100%
Layout Size
100%
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, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
-
Battery capacity
2 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
Plate Mount
Mount Style
Plate Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Backlight
 
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
-
Case Material
ABS, Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
-
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your final decision comes down to whether you value a unique, high-quality typing experience or flexible connectivity. If you prioritize the distinct feel of Topre switches and prefer a dedicated wired connection, the Leopold FC980C is the keyboard for you. However, if Bluetooth wireless, a USB-C port, and the ability to choose among a wider range of standard Cherry MX switches are more important, the Leopold FC980MBT is the practical and versatile choice.

Leopold FC980C

  • +Features genuine 45g Topre electrostatic capacitive switches for a unique typing feel.
  • +Uses dye-sub PBT keycaps with black legends, known for their durability and resistance to wear.
  • +Offers a classic 1800 layout that saves desk space while retaining a full number pad.
  • +Comes with DIP switches on the underside for customizing key functions.
  • −Only connects via a wired USB connection, no wireless functionality.
  • −The cord is a fixed 70-inch cable, and the connection type is not specified as USB-C.
  • −Does not have hot-swap switches, making switch replacement difficult.

Leopold FC980MBT

  • +Connects both wired via USB-C and wirelessly via Bluetooth 5.1, offering flexible setup options.
  • +Available in four Cherry MX switch varieties: Blue, Brown, Red, and Silent Red.
  • +Includes 1.5mm thick PBT double-shot keycaps, which are durable and the legends will not fade.
  • +Comes with multimedia controls integrated into the F-row and a 3-way cord channel for cable management.
  • −The plate material is listed as plastic, which may affect rigidity compared to metal plates.
  • −Requires 2 AAA batteries for wireless operation, which will need to be replaced periodically.
  • −Does not have hot-swap switch sockets, limiting easy customization.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

For office and travel users, the FC980MBT is the clear winner due to its Bluetooth wireless connection, USB-C port, and wider selection of Cherry MX switch types, including quiet silent reds. In gaming, both are tied as they can be used wired, but the FC980MBT offers more switch variety for personal preference. For programming, modding, and content creation, the choice is a tie, as the differentiator is the unique typing feel of the FC980C's Topre switches versus the standard, mod-friendly platform and wireless options of the FC980MBT.

GamingTie
  • •Both are wired-capable, which is ideal for low-latency gaming.
  • •Neither keyboard offers hot-swap switches, limiting switch customization for gaming preferences.
  • •The FC980C's 6-key rollover is adequate for many games, but the FC980MBT's specific rollover is not stated.
  • •The FC980MBT offers linear (Cherry MX Red) and silent linear (Cherry MX Silent Red) switch options, which are often preferred for gaming.
OfficeLeopold FC980MBT
  • •The FC980MBT's Bluetooth 5.1 wireless connectivity allows for a cleaner desk setup and easy switching between devices.
  • •It includes dedicated multimedia keys in the F-row, which is useful for quick audio controls during work.
  • •The FC980MBT offers a wider variety of switch options, including quiet Cherry MX Silent Red and tactile Cherry MX Brown, to suit different office noise levels and preferences.
  • •It offers USB-C connectivity, a more modern and common standard for charging and wired use.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both keyboards utilize the same space-saving 1800 layout, which provides a full number pad in a more compact footprint, useful for coders.
  • •Both have DIP switches for customizing key functions, allowing for some layout personalization.
  • •The FC980C's Topre switches offer a unique tactile feedback that many programmers enjoy for typing, while the FC980MBT offers more standard Cherry MX tactile (Brown) or clicky (Blue) options.
  • •Neither keyboard features hot-swap sockets, which limits the ability to easily test different switch types.
TravelLeopold FC980MBT
  • •The FC980MBT can be used wirelessly via Bluetooth, removing the need to connect a cable to a laptop or tablet on the go.
  • •The FC980MBT uses 2 AAA batteries (included) for wireless power, which are easy to replace when traveling.
  • •Its USB-C connection is more universal for charging and syncing than the FC980C's older USB connection.
ModdingTie
  • •Both keyboards are pre-built and are not hot-swappable, meaning any switch modification would require desoldering.
  • •The FC980C's Topre switches and internal membrane design present a unique and complex modding path, as noted in user reviews, but it is risky.
  • •The FC980MBT's Cherry MX switches have a more standard modification path with a wide aftermarket for parts.
  • •Both keyboards feature PBT keycaps, which are durable and a common starting point for keycap customization.
Content CreationTie
  • •Both feature a full-size layout with a dedicated number pad, beneficial for data entry and timeline editing.
  • •The FC980C's Topre switches are often prized for a unique typing experience and sound profile, which may be appreciated during long editing sessions.
  • •The FC980MBT offers quiet Cherry MX Silent Red switches, which are a good choice for recording voiceovers or working in a quiet environment.
  • •The FC980MBT provides wireless functionality for a less cluttered workspace.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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