Qwertykeys QK101 vs Meletrix Zoom98 EE4KHz vs Split Spacebar
Choose the QK101 for maximum wireless performance and build flexibility, or the Zoom98 EE for its unique split spacebar layout and extensive firmware support.
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Which one should you get?
Get the
Qwertykeys QK101
4KHz
Build quality in the top 5% of 100% boards under $200.
- Higher 4000Hz wireless polling rate for reduced latency.
- Dual-mount design (gasket and top-mount) for flexible sound and feel tuning.
- Larger 8000mAh combined battery capacity for longer wireless use.
Get the
Meletrix Zoom98 EE
Split Spacebar
Build quality in the top 5% of 98% boards under $300.
- Split spacebar layout for additional programmable keys and ergonomic flexibility.
- Supports QMK firmware for advanced, granular programming beyond VIA.
- Includes a coiled USB-C cable and Wuque Studios stabilizers in the kit.
- South-facing LEDs. Shine-through legends stay dark, and some sculpted keycaps can clip the LED.
- No ISO layout. ISO-DE, UK, and other ISO variants are not offered.
- Compact full-size layout. The numpad is present, the gaps of a full-size board are not.
Your primary need dictates the choice. If you prioritize the absolute lowest latency for gaming or want maximum flexibility in plate, PCB, and mounting style for modding, the Qwertykeys QK101 is the stronger candidate. If your workflow benefits from a split spacebar, deep QMK programming, or a slightly more aggressive typing angle, the Meletrix Zoom98 EE is the more tailored tool. Both represent premium, capable foundations for a custom build.
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.
Qwertykeys QK101
Meletrix Zoom98 EE
Layout size
100%
98%
Battery
8,000 mAh
4,500 mAh
A larger battery means fewer cables during the day
Ergonomics
Standard
Split Spacebar
Max polling rate
4,000 Hz
1,000 Hz
Higher polling helps competitive FPS and does nothing for typing
Case material
Aluminum, Copper
Aluminum
- Qwertykeys QK101
- Meletrix Zoom98 EE
- Performance
- 7879
- Build quality
- 9188
- Productivity
- 8293
- Customizability
- 8595
- Portability
- 6355
- Connection: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
- Hot-swappable
- VIA
- Sound dampening
What will you mostly use it for?
The QK101 is the clear choice for competitive gaming and for modders who value hardware customization. The Zoom98 EE wins for programming and office tasks where its QMK support and split spacebar enhance productivity. For travel, neither is ideal due to size, and for content creation, both offer equally strong programmability and screen features.
Pick the Qwertykeys QK101
- The QK101 has a 4000Hz wireless polling rate, which is four times faster than the Zoom98 EE's 1000Hz rate.
- Its dual-mount design includes a top-mount option, which can provide a more immediate and consistent keypress response favored in gaming.
Qwertykeys QK101 vs Meletrix Zoom98 EE specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
15 of 24 specs differ
Qwertykeys QK101
Meletrix Zoom98 EE
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Screw-in stabilizers
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Display
Connection
Max polling rate
Battery
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Weight
Dimensions
Typing angle
Backlight
QMK
VIA
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
ISO layouts by store
Which stores sell ISO-DE, UK, and the other regional layouts.
Qwertykeys QK101
Listed on the product, not split by store: ISO.
Meletrix Zoom98 EE
No ISO layout at the stores we track.
Compare prices
Live prices from the stores we track, cheapest in-stock offer first.
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Lowest price across stores, Amazon excluded.
Qwertykeys QK101 vs Meletrix Zoom98 EE: your questions
The Qwertykeys QK101 has a larger combined battery capacity of 8000mAh (2x 4000mAh), while the Meletrix Zoom98 EE has 4500mAh (2x 2250mAh). Based on specs alone, the QK101 should offer significantly longer wireless usage between charges.
No. The vendor description for the Zoom98 EE lists support for ISO enter keys, but the metadata specifies only ANSI for the layout standard. For guaranteed compatibility, you should plan to use ANSI layout keycaps with this board.
No, both the Qwertykeys QK101 and the Meletrix Zoom98 EE are sold as barebones DIY kits. This means the kit includes the case, PCB, plate, stabilizers, and accessories, but you must purchase mechanical switches and keycaps separately to complete the build.
The QK101 features a TFT or OLED screen that, according to the vendor, can sync custom GIFs with typing speed. The Zoom98 EE has an LCD screen listed as programmable. Both screens offer customization, but the QK101's description highlights more dynamic visual features.
The QK101 offers more hardware options for sound customization. It provides a choice of four plate materials (FR4, Aluminum, POM) and two PCBs (one with flex cuts), allowing you to significantly alter the acoustic profile. The Zoom98 EE includes a Poron sound dampener kit and a polycarbonate plate.
The specified 4000Hz polling rate for the QK101 is not explicitly stated for a specific mode. High polling rates are typically associated with the 2.4GHz wireless or wired connection. Bluetooth modes, like the Zoom98 EE's 125Hz over Bluetooth, usually operate at much lower polling rates.
The Qwertykeys QK101 can be assembled in two different ways: as a gasket mount keyboard for a softer, more cushioned typing feel, or as a top mount keyboard for a more rigid and direct feedback. This is a unique feature that lets you choose the mounting style that suits your preference.
Yes, the Meletrix Zoom98 EE is listed as programmable with VIA. It also supports QMK firmware, which offers even more advanced programming capabilities than VIA alone.
The Meletrix Zoom98 EE has a listed front height of 22mm. The Qwertykeys QK101's front height is not specified in the provided data, but it has a 5° typing angle. A lower front height generally reduces wrist strain.
Yes, both kits include screw-in stabilizers. The QK101 includes stabilizers whose mounting type is based on your plate selection. The Zoom98 EE specifically includes one set of Wuque Studios 3.1 stabilizers.
The Zoom98 EE has south-facing RGB LEDs, which prevent interference with the north-facing stems of Cherry-profile keycaps. The QK101's LED orientation is not specified, so interference with Cherry keycaps may be a possibility depending on the PCB chosen.
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