Royal Kludge RK920 vs Zerodate K98Full-Size vs 98% Layout
Choose the Zerodate K98 for a more compact layout and advanced software support, or the Royal Kludge RK920 for a full numpad and multiple switch types.
![[In Stock] Zerodate K98 Full RGB Wired Mechanical Keyboard](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0549/0262/0278/files/1_159f7108-b742-406c-903c-de98399c4f03.jpg?v=1745306324&width=3840&quality=75)
Which one should you get?
Get the
Royal Kludge RK920
Full-Size
- 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.
- 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.
Get the
Zerodate K98
98% Layout
- 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.
- 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.
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.
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.
Royal Kludge RK920
Zerodate K98
Layout size
100%
98%
Hot-swappable
Yes
No
Switch options
Clicky, Linear, Silent, Tactile
Linear
Knob
No
Yes
Weight
840 g
731.6 g
- Royal Kludge RK920
- Zerodate K98
- Performance
- 7484
- Build quality
- 4773
- Productivity
- 5680
- Customizability
- 6686
- Portability
- 4343
- Connection: Wired
What will you mostly use it for?
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.
Pick the Zerodate 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.
Royal Kludge RK920 vs Zerodate K98 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
10 of 20 specs differ
Royal Kludge RK920
Zerodate K98
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Knob
Display
Media keys
Connection
Max polling rate
Case material
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Backlight
QMK
VIA
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
Compare prices
Live prices from the stores we track, cheapest in-stock offer first.
Lowest price across stores, Amazon excluded.
Prices in USD are converted to your currency and can change at any time. KeebFinder may earn a commission when you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Royal Kludge RK920 vs Zerodate K98: your questions
The Zerodate K98 is better for a small desk. It uses a 98% layout that is significantly more compact than the RK920's full-size layout. Its dimensions are 385 x 136 mm compared to the RK920's approximately 432 x 193 mm footprint.
Yes, but the methods differ. The Zerodate K98 supports QMK and VIA, which are powerful, open-source tools for remapping keys and creating macros. The Royal Kludge RK920 offers 'DIY software supports' according to its vendor page, but it does not mention the specific QMK/VIA standard.
No. The vendor specifications for the Zerodate K98 list a 'solder PCB'. This means the switches are soldered in place and cannot be easily swapped without specialized tools and skill.
According to the vendor description, the RK920 is available with Red (linear), Brown (tactile), and Blue (clicky) switch options. The product page describes the Red switches as quiet, the Brown as a friendly compromise, and the Blue as having a distinctive click.
The Zerodate K98 includes a multimedia knob. The vendor description states it can be rotated for volume control or brightness adjustment and pressed to switch between modes.
The Zerodate K98 uses doubleshot ABS keycaps according to its specifications. The Royal Kludge RK920's vendor page lists its keycaps as 'ABS (shine-through)' but does not specify the doubleshot manufacturing process.
The Zerodate K98 has a polling rate of 1000 Hz, as stated in its product metadata. The Royal Kludge RK920's listing does not provide a polling rate specification.
Both keyboards list Mac support in their extra features. The Royal Kludge RK920's vendor description also explicitly mentions compatibility with macOS, iOS, and Android systems.
The Royal Kludge RK920 is heavier, weighing 840g (0.84 kg). The Zerodate K98 is lighter at 731.6g.
Yes, both keyboards feature RGB backlighting. The RK920's vendor page mentions 24 light modes, while the K98's page lists 19 RGB lighting effects and includes side light strips.
The main difference is the layout size. The Royal Kludge RK920 is a 100% full-size keyboard with 104 keys, including a full numpad and navigation cluster. The Zerodate K98 is a 98% keyboard with 98 keys, which condenses the layout by removing some of the spacing and a few keys but retains a numpad and arrow keys.
Not sold on either?
Still torn?
Answer a few quick questions and the keyboard finder ranks 2,000+ boards by how you will actually use yours.