Royal Kludge M87 vs R87 PROWireless vs Wired Customization
Choose the M87 for wireless freedom and a smart display, or the R87 PRO for deep firmware customization and a lower price.
Which one should you get?
Get the
Royal Kludge M87
Wireless
- Tri-mode wireless connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, and wired).
- Built-in LCD smart display for time, battery, and custom GIFs.
- Large 7500mAh battery for extended wireless use.
- Generally priced higher than the R87 PRO.
- Heavier at 840g, partly due to the larger battery and screen.
- Relies on proprietary software (RK Launcher) instead of open-source QMK/VIA.
Get the
Royal Kludge R87 PRO
Wired Customization
- Supports QMK and VIA firmware for advanced key remapping and macros.
- Typically available at a lower price point.
- Lighter weight of 760g and a more compact depth (131mm vs 157mm).
- Wired-only connectivity, with no wireless option.
- Lacks the LCD screen and dedicated multimedia keys of the M87.
- Smaller 6000mAh battery is only relevant for RGB lighting in wired mode.
Your need for wireless flexibility versus software customization is the deciding factor. If you want to connect to multiple devices without cables and enjoy a visual status screen, the Royal Kludge M87 is the better investment. If you plan to heavily customize your typing experience with layered keymaps and macros, and prefer a simpler, often more affordable wired connection, the Royal Kludge R87 PRO is the superior tool.
The differences that matter
Skip the 40-row spec sheet. These are the specs that change how each board feels, sounds, and fits your desk.
Royal Kludge M87
Royal Kludge R87 PRO
Battery
7,500 mAh
6,000 mAh
Display
LCD
None
Weight
840 g
760 g
QMK
No
Yes
VIA
No
Yes
- Royal Kludge M87
- Royal Kludge R87 PRO
- Performance
- 6684
- Build quality
- 6978
- Productivity
- 8393
- Customizability
- 7891
- Portability
- 8585
- Layout size: 80%
- Connection: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
- Hot-swappable
- Switch options: Linear
- Mount style: Gasket Mount
- Knob
What will you mostly use it for?
The R87 PRO is the clear choice for users who prioritize customization and consistent performance, winning in Gaming, Programming, and Modding due to its QMK/VIA support and wired design. The M87 excels in mobile and multi-device scenarios, taking the lead for Office and Travel use with its wireless connectivity, large battery, and status screen. For Content Creation, the tools are different but equally potent, making it a tie.
Pick the Royal Kludge R87 PRO
- The R87 PRO's listing includes N-Key Rollover for simultaneous key presses.
- Its wired-only connection may offer more consistent latency for competitive play.
- The removable metal volume knob provides direct media control.
Royal Kludge M87 vs R87 PRO specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
7 of 23 specs differ
Royal Kludge M87
Royal Kludge R87 PRO
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Knob
Display
Media keys
Connection
Battery
USB-C
Case material
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Backlight
QMK
VIA
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
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Royal Kludge M87 vs R87 PRO: your questions
Only the Royal Kludge M87 offers wireless connectivity. It supports tri-mode connections via Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, and USB-C wired. The R87 PRO is a wired-only keyboard according to its vendor description and specifications.
Yes, the Royal Kludge R87 PRO explicitly supports both QMK and VIA firmware according to its product listing. This allows for deep customization of key mappings, layers, and macros through open-source software.
The Royal Kludge M87 has a 7500mAh built-in battery. The manufacturer claims up to 400 hours of usage with RGB off and 600 days in standby mode, though real-world results will vary with lighting and usage patterns.
Yes, both keyboards feature hot-swappable PCBs. This means you can easily remove and replace the mechanical switches without soldering, using the included switch puller. Both support 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
Both keyboards have volume knobs, but they differ. The M87 has two multi-function knobs, one for settings and one for volume. The R87 PRO has a single, removable metal volume knob that the vendor states can be hot-swapped with a standard keycap.
The RK M87 is designed for a comfortable typing experience. It uses a gasket mount structure and the vendor lists five layers of internal sound-absorbing materials for a quieter, softer feel. It comes with pre-lubed linear Cream switches and Cherry profile PBT keycaps.
Both the Royal Kludge M87 and R87 PRO use Cherry profile double-shot PBT keycaps according to their vendor descriptions. This profile is known for its sculpted shape and PBT plastic offers better durability and resistance to shine compared to ABS.
No, the vendor's technical specifications for the R87 PRO explicitly list 'Media Keys: No'. Media functions would need to be accessed through function layer combinations or programmed in via QMK/VIA. The M87 does have dedicated multimedia buttons.
The Royal Kludge M87 features a built-in LCD smart display that can show time, connection status, battery level, and custom images. The Royal Kludge R87 PRO does not have any screen.
Yes, both the M87 and R87 PRO list compatibility with Windows and Mac operating systems in their specifications. They also list support for iOS and Android, relevant for the M87's Bluetooth mode.
The R87 PRO is lighter at 760g compared to the M87's 840g, and its listed dimensions show a smaller depth (131mm vs 157mm), making it slightly more compact. However, the M87's wireless functionality makes it more convenient for use away from a desk.
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