KeebFinder
Not sure which keyboard to choose? Try the Keyboard Finder now!

Compare PBTfans Athena 1800 vs Meletrix Zoom98 EE Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two high-end, large-format aluminum keyboards with LCD screens. The choice is difficult because both offer premium materials, hot-swappable PCBs, and extensive customization, but diverge sharply on core features. The Athena 1800 is a strictly wired board with a unique top mount and extensive material choices, while the Zoom98 EE adds tri-mode wireless and a gasket mount in a slightly more compact 98% layout.

75
Ready to use Athena 1800 with PBTfans WOB
94
Zoom98 EE Cyber Yellow

Select a keyboard to compare

0.0 (0)
0.0 (0)
  • Released in 2025
  • Available in a 95% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, layout standard
  • Offers Normal ergonomics
  • Supports VIAL configuration
  • Uses a Top Mount mounting style
  • Supports Wired, Wired only, connectivity
  • Weighs about 2500 g
  • Features PBT, keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
  • Released in 2023
  • Available in a 98% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Offers Split Spacebar ergonomics
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 4500 mAh battery
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 68.4
  • Build Quality: 75.3
  • Productivity: 68.4
  • Customizability: 74.8
  • Portability: 43.7
Scores
  • Performance: 79.3
  • Build Quality: 88.5
  • Productivity: 93.2
  • Customizability: 96.8
  • Portability: 55.7
Name
PBTfans Athena 1800
Name
Meletrix Zoom98 EE
Release year
2025
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Linear, Clicky
Switch Options
Linear, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
95%
Layout Size
98%
Layout Standard
ANSI,
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Split Spacebar
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
LCD
Display Support
 
LCD
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
Connection
Wired, Wired only,
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
-
Battery capacity
4500 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, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT,
Keycaps Material
-
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
2500g
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you require wireless operation for a clean desk or multi-device workflow, the Meletrix Zoom98 EE is the necessary pick, offering excellent flexibility and a modern gasket mount. If you are a stationary user or an enthusiast who prioritizes deep, hardware-level customization with various plate and weight materials, the wired PBTfans Athena 1800 provides more tangible options for tuning sound and feel, and it comes complete with keycaps and switches.

PBTfans Athena 1800

  • +Extensive plate material selection (Aluminum, FR4, Polycarbonate, Carbon Fiber, Brass, Steel).
  • +Multiple internal cover plate options (Stainless Steel, Brass, Carbon Fiber) for tuning acoustics and weight.
  • +Includes a full pre-built keycap and switch set, ready to use out of the box.
  • +Comes with a comprehensive modding kit including foam, force break tape, and silicone gaskets.
  • +Supports VIAL firmware for customization.
  • −Wired-only connectivity, with no wireless option.
  • −Exceptionally heavy, with a base weight of 2.5kg, limiting portability.
  • −Top mount design may offer a different typing feel compared to the more popular gasket mount.

Meletrix Zoom98 EE

  • +Tri-mode wireless connectivity (Bluetooth 5.2, 2.4 GHz, and wired).
  • +Includes a large 4500mAh battery for extended wireless use.
  • +Gasket mount structure for a potentially more flexible and cushioned typing feel.
  • +Explicitly supports split spacebar, stepped Caps Lock, and ISO/ANSI enter keys for layout flexibility.
  • +Comes with a storage box and coiled USB-C cable.
  • −Sold as a barebones kit, requiring separate purchase of switches and keycaps.
  • −Only one plate material option (Polycarbonate) is listed.
  • −Higher price point compared to the Athena 1800.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Meletrix Zoom98 EE wins in most mobile or multi-device scenarios, including Office, Travel, and Content Creation, due to its wireless tri-mode connectivity and included battery. It also takes the edge for Gaming with its high polling rate. The PBTfans Athena 1800 is the clear choice for dedicated modders who value a wide selection of plate and internal weight materials. For stationary use like Programming, both are excellent, with the decision boiling down to a preference for wireless freedom versus the Athena's specific typing feel and material options.

GamingMeletrix Zoom98 EE
  • •The Zoom98 EE offers a 1000 Hz polling rate over its 2.4 GHz wireless connection, which is explicitly stated for gaming responsiveness.
  • •Its wireless connectivity provides cable-free desk management for greater mouse movement.
  • •N-key rollover is listed as a feature, ensuring all key presses are registered.
OfficeMeletrix Zoom98 EE
  • •Tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth 5.2, 2.4 GHz, wired) allows easy switching between multiple devices.
  • •The vendor listing confirms explicit compatibility with Windows, Mac, and Linux systems.
  • •The split spacebar layout can be programmed for additional macro keys to streamline workflows.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both keyboards offer full navigation clusters and number pads, which are essential for coding.
  • •Both support powerful firmware (VIA for Zoom98, VIAL for Athena) for extensive key remapping and layer creation.
  • •The Athena's 1800 layout may offer slightly more dedicated keys, while the Zoom98's split spacebar adds a programmable key.
TravelMeletrix Zoom98 EE
  • •The Zoom98 EE is wireless and includes a 4500mAh battery, eliminating the need for a constant cable connection.
  • •It comes with a storage box, as mentioned in the kit contents, for protection during transport.
  • •While both are heavy aluminum boards, the Zoom98's wireless functionality is a decisive advantage for portability.
ModdingPBTfans Athena 1800
  • •The Athena 1800 offers six plate material options (Aluminum, FR4, Polycarbonate, Carbon Fiber, Brass, Steel) versus the Zoom98's single Polycarbonate plate.
  • •It includes multiple internal cover plate material choices (Stainless Steel, Brass, Carbon Fiber) to alter acoustics and weight.
  • •The kit includes a comprehensive foam kit, force break tape, and a silicone gasket set for internal tuning.
Content CreationMeletrix Zoom98 EE
  • •Wireless operation reduces cable clutter on camera or in a streaming setup.
  • •The programmable LCD screen can display custom graphics or system stats useful for stream overlays.
  • •Multi-device Bluetooth connectivity is helpful for switching between a editing workstation and a tablet or secondary device.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Discover similar products

You might also like similar products in that price range:

84
$136
Athena 1800
KBDFans Athena 1800
95%,
Hotswap,
Screen,
RGB,
VIAL,
Alu case,
Top Mount

90
$245
[In-Stock]Zoom98 SE Ice Blue
Meletrix Zoom98 SE
98%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Screen,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

90
$188
Qwertykeys QK101 Keyboard
Qwertykeys QK101
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Screen,
RGB,
VIA,
Alu case,
Top Mount

96
$212
Keychron Q5 HE QMK Wireless Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q5 HE
96%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

77
$178
Keydous NJ98-CP V3 Rapid Trigger Three Mode HE Keyboard
Keydous NJ98 CP V3 HE
98%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Screen,
RGB,
Knob,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
Alu case

97
$229
Keychron Q6 HE QMK Wireless Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q6 HE
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
Metal case,
Gasket Mount

74
$169
DAREU A98 Pro Keyboard With LED TFT Screen
Dareu A98 Pro
98%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Screen,
RGB,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

89
$220
Meletrix Zoom TKL DYNA Aluminum Barebones Wireless DIY Keyboard Kit Group Buy
Meletrix Zoom DYNA
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Screen,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
HE,
Alu case,
Plate Mount

73
$129
Minilo
Varmilo Minilo
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Screen,
RGB,
Knob,
Gasket Mount

98
$219
Keychron Q3 HE QMK Wireless Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q3 HE
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
Metal case,
Gasket Mount