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Compare Qwertykeys QK101 vs Royalaxe L98 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a high-end DIY project and a fully assembled keyboard. The Qwertykeys QK101 is a barebones kit requiring assembly and separate purchases for switches and keycaps, while the Royalaxe L98 ships as a complete unit. The decision hinges on your willingness to build, your budget for additional parts, and your desired level of customization versus immediate usability.

90
Qwertykeys QK101 Keyboard
71
RoyalAxe L98 Mechanical Keyboard with TFT Display

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5.0 (2)
0.0 (0)
  • Released in 2025
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO layout standard
  • Includes a Yes, TFT, OLED display
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Uses a Top Mount mounting style
  • Runs at a 4000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 8000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 2000 g
  • Sized at 50 x 440 x 140 mm
  • Made with a Copper, Aluminum case
  • Released in 2022
  • Available in a 98% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Includes a Yes, TFT display
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Equipped with a 6000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1120 g
  • Sized at 39 x 405 x 149 mm
  • Made with a Plastic, Aluminum case
Scores
  • Performance: 77.7
  • Build Quality: 90.8
  • Productivity: 81.2
  • Customizability: 85.4
  • Portability: 62.5
Scores
  • Performance: 68.5
  • Build Quality: 67.4
  • Productivity: 80.2
  • Customizability: 69.5
  • Portability: 69.5
Name
Qwertykeys QK101
Name
Royalaxe L98
Release year
2025
Release year
2022
Switch Options
-
Switch Options
-
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
100%
Layout Size
98%
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
TFT, OLED
Display Support
 
TFT
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
4000 Hz
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
8000 mAh
Battery capacity
6000 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
Top Mount
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Copper, Aluminum
Case Material
Plastic, Aluminum
Keycaps Material
-
Keycaps Material
-
Dimensions
50 x 440 x 140 mm
Dimensions
39 x 405 x 149 mm
Weight
2000g
Weight
1120g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your choice fundamentally comes down to involvement. If you enjoy the process of building, tuning, and sourcing parts for a top-tier keyboard, the Qwertykeys QK101 is a superior platform. If you want a capable, feature-rich keyboard that works immediately upon unboxing without extra cost or effort, the Royalaxe L98 is the sensible option. Consider the total investment, as the QK101's kit price is just the beginning.

Qwertykeys QK101

  • +CNC-machined aluminum and copper case construction for premium durability.
  • +Extensive customizability with choice of mount style (gasket/top), four plate options, and two PCBs.
  • +Includes a comprehensive kit with tools, stabilizers, foams, and a protective case.
  • +Programmable via VIA web configurator for easy key remapping.
  • +Large 8000mAh battery capacity from dual cells.

  • Sold as a barebones DIY kit, requiring separate purchase and assembly of switches and keycaps.
  • Very heavy at 2000g and large at 440mm wide, limiting portability.
  • Higher overall cost when factoring in necessary switches and keycaps.

Royalaxe L98

  • +Fully pre-built with TTC Titan Heart switches and keycaps included.
  • +Lighter weight (1120g) and more compact 98% layout for easier portability.
  • +Includes useful accessories like a dust cover and 2.4G dongle.
  • +Software is available for macro definition and key reassignment.
  • +Vendor description states compatibility with Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.

  • Case material uses plastic in combination with aluminum, which may feel less premium than all-metal.
  • Smaller 6000mAh battery compared to the QK101.
  • No user reviews are available for the product listing, and it was listed as out of stock.
  • Lacks the detailed mounting and plate material options of the QK101.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The QK101 dominates for users who prioritize performance tuning, deep customization, and a premium build process, winning in gaming, programming, and modding. The L98 is the pragmatic choice for office use and travel due to its lighter weight, pre-built nature, and more compact form. For content creation, both offer useful screen functionality, making it a tie dependent on whether you value software customization or immediate setup.

GamingQwertykeys QK101
  • The QK101 has a specified 4000 Hz polling rate for lower latency.
  • Its dual-mount design (gasket and top-mount) allows for tuning the typing feel.
  • The CNC-machined aluminum and copper case provides a solid, premium base.
OfficeRoyalaxe L98
  • The Royalaxe L98 is a pre-built keyboard, ready to use out of the box.
  • It includes TTC Titan Heart switches and keycaps, requiring no additional purchases.
  • Its 98% layout is more compact than a full-size while retaining a numpad.
ProgrammingQwertykeys QK101
  • The QK101 supports both ANSI and ISO layouts for broader keycap compatibility.
  • VIA support allows for deep, easy key remapping and macro programming.
  • The full 106-key layout provides dedicated keys without layers.
TravelRoyalaxe L98
  • The Royalaxe L98 is significantly lighter at 1120g compared to the QK101's 2000g.
  • Its 98% layout has a smaller footprint (405mm wide vs 440mm).
  • It comes with a dust cover for protection during transport.
ModdingQwertykeys QK101
  • The QK101 is a dedicated DIY kit with extensive included tools and parts.
  • It offers a choice of four plate materials (FR4, Aluminum, POM) and two PCB designs.
  • Magnetic, interchangeable badges and a dual-mount system provide physical customization.
Content CreationTie
  • Both keyboards feature a customizable TFT screen for displaying information or graphics.
  • Both offer tri-mode connectivity (wired, Bluetooth, 2.4GHz) for multi-device workflows.
  • The QK101's VIA software offers macro flexibility, while the L98's pre-built nature offers immediacy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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