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Compare WhatGeek K98 vs PMO Aurora 80 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two tri-mode gasket mount keyboards from WhatGeek with different priorities. The K98 offers a more affordable entry with a full 98% layout and thematic designs, while the Aurora 80 commands a higher price for a premium aluminum TKL build with enthusiast-grade features. The decision hinges on whether you need a numpad and value aesthetics, or prefer a compact, high-end typing experience with deeper customization.

68
LINGBAO K98 Anime Wireless Mechanical Keyboard Ellinia Keyboard
89
PMO Aurora 80 TKL Aluminum Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Available in a 98% layout
  • Equipped with a 10000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1500 g
  • Sized at 53 x 420 x 180 mm
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Equipped with a 8000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 2300 g
  • Sized at 36 x 360 x 140 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 76.5
  • Build Quality: 62
  • Productivity: 78.3
  • Customizability: 63.5
  • Portability: 65.4
Scores
  • Performance: 81.1
  • Build Quality: 85.5
  • Productivity: 94.7
  • Customizability: 90.3
  • Portability: 88
Name
WhatGeek K98
Name
WhatGeek PMO Aurora 80
Release year
2025
Release year
2025
Switch Options
-
Switch Options
-
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
98%
Layout Size
80%
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, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
10000 mAh
Battery capacity
8000 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
Gasket Mount
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
-
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
-
Keycaps Material
-
Dimensions
53 x 420 x 180 mm
Dimensions
36 x 360 x 140 mm
Weight
1500g
Weight
2300g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Select the WhatGeek K98 if your work requires a number pad and you prefer a more affordable, themed keyboard. Opt for the PMO Aurora 80 if you value a premium aluminum build, advanced firmware like QMK/VIA, and a more compact TKL form factor, and are willing to pay more for it. The core wireless performance and gasket mount feel are shared, making layout and build materials the deciding factors.

WhatGeek K98

  • +Includes a full 98% layout with a number pad.
  • +Larger 10000mAh battery capacity.
  • +Offers themed anime designs (Ellinia, Lucynirel).
  • +Comes with a keycap/switch puller and user manual.
  • +Vendor description mentions five layers of sound-dampening liners.
  • −Lacks the premium aluminum case construction of the Aurora 80.
  • −Does not list support for QMK/VIA firmware.
  • −Larger footprint (420mm long) takes up more desk space.

WhatGeek PMO Aurora 80

  • +Constructed with an aluminum alloy case.
  • +Supports QMK and VIA for extensive customization.
  • +Includes a dust cover for protection.
  • +Features a five-layer acoustic structure with IXPE foam.
  • +Uses screw-in stabilizers.
  • −More expensive than the K98.
  • −Smaller 8000mAh battery.
  • −TKL layout lacks a dedicated number pad.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The K98 wins for office work and content creation primarily due to its number pad, while the Aurora 80 is superior for programming, modding, and travel due to its software support and compact form. For gaming, both are capable with identical core performance specs. Your daily tasks will dictate the winner.

GamingTie
  • •Both offer a 1000 Hz polling rate and N-key rollover for reliable inputs.
  • •Both feature tri-mode connectivity (wired, 2.4G, Bluetooth) for flexibility.
  • •Both have RGB backlighting and gasket mounts for a cushioned feel.
OfficeWhatGeek K98
  • •The K98's 98% layout includes a dedicated number pad for data entry.
  • •Its larger 10000mAh battery may offer longer wireless use between charges.
  • •The vendor description states it supports Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS.
ProgrammingWhatGeek PMO Aurora 80
  • •The Aurora 80 supports QMK and VIA for deep key remapping and macros.
  • •Its TKL layout saves desk space while retaining most navigation keys.
  • •The aluminum case and steel/FR4 plate may provide a more stable typing platform.
TravelWhatGeek PMO Aurora 80
  • •The Aurora 80 is more compact (360mm long) than the K98 (420mm long).
  • •It includes a dust cover in the box for protection during transport.
  • •It is lighter at 2.3kg compared to the K98's 1.5kg, despite the aluminum build.
ModdingWhatGeek PMO Aurora 80
  • •The Aurora 80 explicitly supports QMK and VIA for firmware customization.
  • •It features screw-in stabilizers, which are typically preferred for modding.
  • •Its build includes a five-layer acoustic filling structure and IXPE foam for sound tuning.
Content CreationWhatGeek K98
  • •The integrated number pad on the K98 is useful for timeline scrubbing and numerical shortcuts.
  • •The vendor description mentions dedicated software for macro programming.
  • •The anime-themed designs may appeal to creators building a specific aesthetic.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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