Royal Kludge R87 PRO vs RK89

The Royal Kludge R87 PRO supports QMK/VIA firmware, as listed in its extra features and confirmed by the vendor description. This allows for advanced key remapping, macro creation, and backlight customization. The RK89 does not list QMK or VIA support in its features or vendor description.

The R87 PRO has a significantly better battery life due to its 6000mAh battery. The RK89 has a much smaller 1850mAh battery. According to the RK89 vendor description, it lasts up to 60 hours with the backlight off, while the R87 PRO's larger capacity will provide considerably longer runtime between charges.

Yes, they are different. According to the vendor descriptions, the R87 PRO features Cherry profile PBT keycaps, which are more durable and resistant to developing a shiny surface. The RK89 comes with ABS double-shot keycaps, which are more prone to shine over time but are common on budget keyboards.

The R87 PRO is better suited for quiet typing in an office. Its vendor description highlights a gasket mount structure combined with sound-absorbing foam and case foam, which reduces noise and vibration. The RK89's vendor description does not mention any specific sound-dampening features.

The R87 PRO uses a standard 80% TKL layout with 88 keys, which removes the numpad. The RK89 uses an innovative 89-key layout that includes a number pad, as described by the vendor, aiming to save space compared to a full-size keyboard while retaining numeric input.

No, only the R87 PRO has a removable metal volume knob, as confirmed by its vendor description. This knob can be used to control volume and can also be replaced with a standard key switch. The RK89 does not list a volume knob in its vendor description.

The R87 PRO is lighter, with a weight of 760g compared to the RK89's 1000g. Both keyboards are 80% in size and have similar dimensions, so the R87 PRO's lower weight makes it the better choice for travel. The R87 PRO also has a larger battery for longer wireless use on the go.

Yes, both the R87 PRO and RK89 are hot-swappable, as listed in their extra features and vendor descriptions. This means you can remove the existing switches and install new ones without soldering, allowing for easy customization of the typing feel.

Yes, the RK89 has a few unique features. It uses an innovative 89-key layout that includes a numpad, has a detachable frame, and includes two built-in USB 2.0 pass-through ports and a Type-C port for hub-like functionality. These are not available on the R87 PRO.

The R87 PRO offers far more software customization because it supports QMK/VIA firmware. This allows for deep programming of key layouts, macros, and lighting effects. The RK89 has its own DIY software, but it does not support the open-source QMK/VIA standard, limiting its flexibility.

Only the Royal Kludge R87 PRO features a gasket mount, as stated in its metadata and vendor description. The RK89 does not list a gasket mount in its provided specifications or vendor description. The gasket mount on the R87 PRO contributes to a softer typing feel and reduced noise.