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Compare Royal Kludge RK920 vs Zerodate K98 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a traditional full-size layout and a more compact 98% design at a similar price point. The Royal Kludge RK920 offers a complete 104-key layout with multiple switch choices, while the Zerodate K98 provides a space-saving 98-key layout with a knob and robust QMK/VIA software support. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize a dedicated numpad or a smaller footprint with greater customization potential.

65
RK920 Full Size Mechanical Keyboard (Color-Block Edition)
79
[In Stock] Zerodate K98 Full RGB Wired Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Released in 2021
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Silent, Clicky switch options
  • Supports hot-swappable switches
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Weighs about 840 g
  • Sized at 434 x 193 x 36 mm
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Released in 2025
  • Has Linear switch options
  • Available in a 98% layout
  • Comes with a knob
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Weighs about 731.6 g
  • Sized at 36 x 385 x 136 mm
  • Made with a ABS case
  • Features ABS keycaps
Scores
  • Performance: 77.5
  • Build Quality: 50.4
  • Productivity: 62.4
  • Customizability: 74
  • Portability: 44
Scores
  • Performance: 82.2
  • Build Quality: 72.6
  • Productivity: 78.6
  • Customizability: 85.5
  • Portability: 42.5
Name
Royal Kludge RK920
Name
Zerodate K98
Release year
2021
Release year
2025
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Silent, Clicky
Switch Options
Linear
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
100%
Layout Size
98%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
Display Support
 
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
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
-
Battery capacity
-
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
-
Mount Style
-
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
-
Case Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
ABS
Dimensions
434 x 193 x 36 mm
Dimensions
36 x 385 x 136 mm
Weight
840g
Weight
731.6g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you require a full numpad for work or prefer a specific switch type like tactile or clicky, the Royal Kludge RK920 is the straightforward option. If you want to save desk space, value firmware customization with QMK/VIA, or want a knob for media control, the Zerodate K98 is the more capable and modern keyboard despite its single switch type. Both represent strong value in their respective layouts.

Royal Kludge RK920

  • +Offers a full 104-key layout with a dedicated numpad.
  • +Provides a choice of clicky, tactile, or linear switch types from the vendor.
  • +Vendor claims wide compatibility with Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.
  • +Includes 12 multimedia shortcut keys according to the product description.
  • +Features DIY software for keybinding and lighting adjustments per the listing.
  • −Larger and heavier (approx. 432 x 193 mm, 840g) than the compact K98.
  • −The product listing does not specify a polling rate.
  • −Build materials are not detailed in the provided specifications.

Zerodate K98

  • +Compact 98% layout saves desk space while keeping arrow keys and a numpad.
  • +Explicitly supports QMK and VIA for advanced, open-source customization.
  • +Includes a multimedia control knob, as stated in the vendor description.
  • +Has a specified 1000 Hz polling rate.
  • +Lighter weight at 731.6g.
  • −Only linear switch options are listed in the metadata.
  • −Case and keycaps are made of ABS plastic, which may show shine over time.
  • −The vendor description specifies a solder PCB, which is not hot-swappable.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Zerodate K98 wins in scenarios prioritizing space efficiency, customization, and portability, such as programming, travel, and modding. Its QMK/VIA support and compact layout are key advantages. The Royal Kludge RK920 is the better choice for office and data-entry tasks where a full numpad is non-negotiable. For gaming and content creation, the choice depends on whether you value the K98's confirmed polling rate and knob or the RK920's full layout and switch variety.

GamingZerodate K98
  • •The Zerodate K98 has a specified 1000 Hz polling rate, which the RK920's listing does not mention.
  • •Its 98% layout saves desk space for larger mouse movements.
  • •The product listing mentions a multimedia knob for quick volume adjustments.
OfficeRoyal Kludge RK920
  • •The RK920's full 104-key layout includes a dedicated numpad, which is often essential for data entry.
  • •Its vendor description lists compatibility with Windows, Mac OS, iOS, and Android systems.
  • •It offers a choice of clicky, tactile, or linear switches to suit different office noise preferences.
ProgrammingZerodate K98
  • •The Zerodate K98 supports QMK and VIA for deep, open-source key remapping and macro programming.
  • •The compact 98% layout retains the numpad and arrow keys while using less desk space.
  • •Its listed dimensions are smaller (385 x 136 mm vs. the RK920's approx. 432 x 193 mm), offering a more efficient workspace.
TravelZerodate K98
  • •The Zerodate K98 is lighter at 731.6g compared to the RK920's 840g.
  • •Its 98% layout has a smaller footprint, making it easier to fit in a bag or on a cramped desk.
  • •The dimensions are more compact (385 x 136 mm vs. approx. 432 x 193 mm).
ModdingZerodate K98
  • •The Zerodate K98 explicitly lists QMK and VIA support, enabling extensive firmware customization.
  • •Its product page mentions knob support as a feature.
  • •While the RK920 mentions 'DIY Software Supports', the K98's support for industry-standard open-source tools is a stronger foundation for modding.
Content CreationTie
  • •The RK920's full numpad can be useful for shortcut macros and numerical input in editing software.
  • •The Zerodate K98's multimedia knob, as described by the vendor, allows for precise volume or parameter scrubbing.
  • •Both keyboards feature RGB backlighting and N-key rollover for reliable multi-key presses.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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