Royal Kludge S98 ES vs S98 FRLayout or Polling Rate Choice

The primary difference is the physical key layout. The S98ES uses a Spanish QWERTY (ES) layout, while the S98FR uses a French AZERTY (FR) layout. A secondary difference is that the S98FR product listing specifies a 4000 Hz polling rate, a detail not mentioned for the S98ES.

Yes, both the S98ES and S98FR keyboards are hot-swappable. They support both 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches, allowing you to change switches without soldering. Each keyboard comes with a switch puller in the box.

According to their respective vendor pages, both keyboards come equipped with double-shot PBT keycaps. This material is more durable and resistant to shine compared to ABS plastic, and the double-shot construction means the legends won't wear off.

Yes, both models offer triple-mode connectivity. You can connect via Bluetooth 5.0, a 2.4 GHz wireless dongle (which has a storage slot on the keyboard), or a wired USB-C connection for a lag-free experience or charging.

Both the S98ES and S98FR are equipped with a 3750mAh rechargeable battery. The vendor claims it offers long battery life, but actual duration will depend on usage patterns, backlight brightness, and connection mode.

Yes, both models feature internal sound-dampening materials. The S98ES vendor page mentions two layers of thick foam. The S98FR page specifies an IXPE foam cushion, two thick foam layers, and a silicone pad, claiming to reduce noise by 40%.

Both models include the keyboard itself, a USB-A to USB-C cable (5.6 inches), a combined keycap and switch puller, and a user manual. The S98FR listing confirms these same items.

The S98FR has a slight edge for gaming because its product specification lists a 4000 Hz polling rate, which can offer lower input latency. The S98ES listing does not state its polling rate. Both have N-key rollover and a gamer-oriented top mount design.

Yes, both keyboards list compatibility with macOS, iOS, and Android operating systems in addition to Windows. The connectivity is achieved via Bluetooth or the wired USB-C connection.

The LCD screen can display information like battery level, connection mode, date, and custom GIFs. The multifunction knob can be used to control system volume, switch connection modes, adjust RGB backlight brightness/speed, and change lighting effects.

Yes, according to the vendor descriptions, both keyboards come with pre-lubricated stabilizers. The S98ES page mentions 'lubricated, silent stabilizers,' and the S98FR page mentions 'lubricated stabilizers for smooth keystrokes.'

If you do not specifically need the Spanish QWERTY or French AZERTY physical layouts, you should not purchase either of these models. You should look for a Royal Kludge S98 variant with a US QWERTY or other layout that matches your typing needs, as the keycap legends and positions are fixed.