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Compare Leopold FC980M vs FC980MBT Differences Side by Side

Both are pre-built Leopold keyboards using Cherry MX switches and PBT keycaps, but they serve different needs. The FC980M uses a 95% layout and includes hot-swappable switches, making it more adaptable. The FC980MBT keeps a full-size footprint and adds Bluetooth 5.1 with multimedia keys, powered by AAA batteries. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize switch customizability or a complete connectivity suite.

Leopold FC980M Dual Mode Mechanical Keyboard
Leopold FC980MBT Two Tone White Bluetooth PD Double Shot PBT Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Released in 2022
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options
  • Supports hot-swappable switches
  • Available in a 95% layout
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Weighs about 1100 g
  • Sized at 20 x 145 x 366 mm
  • Made with a Plastic case
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Uses a Plate Mount mounting style
  • Equipped with a 2 mAh battery
  • Made with a ABS, Plastic case
Scores
  • Performance: 46.3
  • Build Quality: 40.9
  • Productivity: 62.7
  • Customizability: 45.5
  • Portability: 50.1
Scores
  • Performance: 47.6
  • Build Quality: 45.5
  • Productivity: 60.5
  • Customizability: 47.4
  • Portability: 50.9
Name
Leopold FC980M
Name
Leopold FC980MBT
Release year
2022
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Silent
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
95%
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
Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless
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
-
Mount Style
Plate Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Backlight
 
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Plastic
Case Material
ABS, Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
20 x 145 x 366 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
1100g
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

The Leopold FC980M is the clear choice for anyone who values switch modding and a more compact gaming-friendly layout. The Leopold FC980MBT is better suited for office and content creation workflows where a full numpad and dedicated multimedia keys are essential, especially if Bluetooth is critical. Make your pick based on whether you prefer hot-swap flexibility or a full-size feature set.

Leopold FC980M

  • +Hot-swappable switch sockets enable tool-free switch changes.
  • +Compact 95% layout with N-Key Rollover for gaming and desk space saving.
  • +Factory sound dampening for a quieter typing experience out of the box.
  • +Wireless Bluetooth connectivity provides cable-free operation.
  • −No multimedia keys are highlighted, potentially requiring software for media shortcuts.
  • −Higher price range compared to the FC980MBT as per vendor listings.

Leopold FC980MBT

  • +Full-size layout with a separate numeric keypad for data-intensive tasks.
  • +Dedicated multimedia keys in the F-row for easy audio and video control.
  • +Uses standard AAA batteries (included) for wireless power, no charging required.
  • +3-way cord channel for neat wired placement with exit on left, center, or right.
  • −Non-hot-swappable switches mean any changes require desoldering.
  • −Largest footprint is less space-efficient on a desk compared to the FC980M.
  • −Listed as out of stock at the providing vendor.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The FC980M wins decisively for Gaming and Modding thanks to its hot-swappable switches and compact form factor. For Office and Content Creation, the FC980MBT's full-size layout with multimedia keys and broad OS compatibility gives it an edge. Programming and Travel are closer contests. The FC980M offers a more portable size, while the FC980MBT provides the full key set some programmers prefer. The core trade-off is between hot-swappable moddability and a full-size feature set.

GamingLeopold FC980M
  • •Hot-swappable switches allow for easy swap to preferred linear switches for gaming.
  • •N-Key Rollover supports full key press registration during intense gameplay.
  • •Compact 95% layout frees up mouse space on the desk.
OfficeLeopold FC980MBT
  • •Full-size layout with multimedia keys aids productivity in office apps.
  • •Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity can help keep a cleaner desk setup.
  • •Reported Windows, Mac, and Linux compatibility from the vendor.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both boards offer similar high-quality PBT keycaps and available tactile switches.
  • •No key reassignment features are advertised for either model beyond dip switches.
  • •Choice largely depends on preferred layout size (95% vs full-size) and need for Bluetooth.
TravelLeopold FC980M
  • •The 95% layout is smaller than the FC980MBT’s full-size, packing more compactly.
  • •Both have wireless Bluetooth, but FC980M's hot-swap could be useful for changing switches on the go.
ModdingLeopold FC980M
  • •Hot-swappable switch sockets support easy switch changes without soldering.
  • •Sound dampening feature included from the factory provides a good modding baseline.
  • •Plastic case is straightforward to open and customize.
Content CreationLeopold FC980MBT
  • •Full-size layout with a dedicated number pad is beneficial for data entry and video timelines.
  • •Multimedia keys in the F-row allow for quick control of playback.
  • •Bluetooth connectivity helps manage cable clutter during multiple device setups.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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