Royal Kludge R65 vs R7565% vs 75% Layout Keyboard Comparison

The main difference is the layout size. The R65 is a 65% keyboard with about 66 keys, sacrificing dedicated arrow and function keys for compactness. The R75 is a 75% keyboard with 81 keys, retaining arrow keys, a navigation cluster, and a column of function keys in a still-compact form.

Yes, both the R65 and R75 are hot-swappable. Their product listings confirm they support 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches, allowing you to change switches without soldering.

The specific models detailed in this comparison are listed as wired-only. However, Royal Kludge offers tri-mode (wired, 2.4GHz, Bluetooth) versions of both the R65 and R75 under the same product names. You must check the product listing for the specific connectivity of the model you are purchasing.

Yes, both keyboards fully support QMK and VIA programming. This allows you to remap any key, create complex macros, and adjust lighting effects directly through the VIA web app or QMK firmware.

Both the R65 and R75 come equipped with double-shot PBT keycaps in the MDA profile. The manufacturer states these are thicker than standard keycaps and offer a different typing feel compared to Cherry or OEM profiles.

A gasket mount is a design where the keyboard's plate is suspended on soft gaskets within the case, rather than being rigidly fixed. Both the R65 and R75 use this design, which, combined with their sound-dampening foam layers, aims to provide a softer, more cushioned typing feel and reduce vibration noise.

The Royal Kludge R65 is better for a small desk due to its significantly smaller physical dimensions. Its 65% layout frees up considerable space for mouse movement or other desk accessories compared to the wider R75.

Yes, both the R65 and R75 include a metal volume knob. The manufacturer describes it as a CNC-machined aluminum knob for precise audio control.

The models in this comparison come with pre-lubed linear Cream switches. The manufacturer notes these switches provide a smooth keystroke and a creamy sound profile.

According to the provided product metadata for the R65, the case material is listed as aluminum. The vendor description also mentions an aluminum CNC volume knob. The R75's case material is not specified as aluminum in the provided metadata.

Both keyboards come with the keyboard itself, a 1.6-meter USB-A to USB-C cable, a combined keycap and switch puller, and a user manual.

Both keyboards are designed to be quiet. The R65 listing mentions 5-layer noise dampening. The R75 description specifies a triple-layer system with poron cotton, IXPE foam, and sponge case foam, plus pre-lubed stabilizers. In practice, their acoustic performance is likely very similar due to these shared design principles.