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Compare Skyloong GK980 Memphis vs GK980 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two closely related Skyloong GK980 keyboards, a 98% layout designed for desks where a full numpad is needed but space is limited. The Memphis edition is a themed pre-built with a unique split spacebar and a dedicated vendor page, while the standard GK980 is a platform available across more vendors with options for different case and plate materials, switch types, and DIY kits. The decision is hard because both share the same core tri-mode wireless connectivity, 4000mAh battery, and gasket mount structure, making the choice come down to configuration flexibility versus a ready-to-go aesthetic.

65
SKYLOONG GK980 Dual Knobs Keyboard - Memphis
82
SKYLOONG GK980 Rainbow Mechanical Knob Keyboard

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0.0 (0)
4.2 (9)
  • Has Tactile, Linear switch options
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Offers Split Spacebar ergonomics
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Weighs about 1200 g
  • Made with a ABS case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO layout standard
  • Offers Normal ergonomics
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, Wired only connectivity
  • Weighs about 1300 g
  • Made with a ABS, Aluminum, Plastic, Steel case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 66.5
  • Build Quality: 64.2
  • Productivity: 70.6
  • Customizability: 60.7
  • Portability: 50.8
Scores
  • Performance: 78.1
  • Build Quality: 80
  • Productivity: 82.6
  • Customizability: 78.1
  • Portability: 53.4
Name
Skyloong GK980 Memphis
Name
Skyloong GK980
Release year
2022
Release year
2022
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
98%
Layout Size
98%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO
Layout Ergonomics
Split Spacebar
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
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, Wired only
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
Battery capacity
4000 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
Gasket Mount
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS
Case Material
ABS, Aluminum, Plastic, Steel
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Dimensions
36 x 323 x 141 mm
Dimensions
36 x 323 x 141 mm
Weight
1200g
Weight
1300g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

For the majority of buyers, the standard Skyloong GK980 is the better investment due to its superior performance scores, higher community validation, and wide range of customization options including switch types and plate materials. Choose the GK980 Memphis only if you are specifically drawn to the Memphis aesthetic, want the split spacebar feature, or prefer a lighter pre-built model that comes with two knobs out of the box.

Skyloong GK980 Memphis

  • +Lighter weight at 1200g, making it slightly more portable than the standard model.
  • +Includes a split spacebar layout option with 2.75U, 2.25U, and 1.25U pieces, a unique ergonomic feature.
  • +Comes with two knobs included in the box and a dedicated Knob Module accessory.
  • +Includes a 2.4G dongle and USB adapter in the box as standard accessories.
  • +Cherry profile PBT keycaps are a specific profile that some typists prefer for its sculpted rows.

  • Fewer configuration options, no DIY Kit/Barebones version, and no Clicky switch type option available.
  • Lower gaming performance score of 66.5 compared to the standard GK980, potentially impacting competitive play.
  • No N-Key Rollover listed as a feature, which may affect key registration during simultaneous presses.
  • Fewer vendor options with only one vendor in stock, making price comparison and availability more limited.

Skyloong GK980

  • +Broader switch compatibility with Tactile, Linear, and Clicky options, as well as optical switch support.
  • +Available as a DIY Kit/Barebones, allowing users to fully customize switches, keycaps, and stabilizers.
  • +Higher community rating with 4.2 out of 5 stars from 9 reviews, indicating user satisfaction.
  • +Supports both ANSI and ISO layout standards for international users.

  • Heavier build at 1300g, which is 100g more than the Memphis edition.
  • Some configurable versions may be wired-only (USB-C), depending on the specific variant purchased.
  • Does not include the same knob module or split spacebar pieces as included accessories in the box.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The standard GK980 wins in gaming, office, modding, and content creation due to its broad specification options, higher community reviews, and features like N-Key Rollover and Mac/Win support. The Memphis pulls ahead only in travel due to being lighter. Programming is a tie since both keyboards share the same core 98% layout and gasket mount typing feel. Overall, the base model is the more recommended platform for most users, with the Memphis serving a niche for those who want a specific aesthetic and split spacebar.

GamingSkyloong GK980
  • The standard GK980 has a higher performance score of 78.1 versus the Memphis 66.5, indicating better latency and polling behavior for gaming.
  • The standard GK980 supports N-Key Rollover, a spec explicitly listed for the base model but absent in the Memphis description.
OfficeSkyloong GK980
  • The standard GK980 scores higher on productivity, 82.6 compared to the Memphis 70.6, suggesting better layout and feature suitability for office tasks.
  • The standard GK980 has Mac/Win support, a feature listed for the base model but not mentioned for the Memphis edition.
ProgrammingTie
  • Both keyboards share the same 98% layout, which retains the numpad and navigation cluster useful for programming without being full-size.
  • Both utilize a Soft Silicone Lite Gasket mount structure that dampens noise and provides a consistent typing feel.
TravelSkyloong GK980 Memphis
  • The Memphis is lighter at 1200g compared to the standard GK980 at 1300g, making it slightly easier to transport.
  • Both have the same 4000mAh battery and tri-mode connectivity, but the Memphis maintains the same dimensions for portability.
ModdingSkyloong GK980
  • The standard GK980 offers a wider selection of plate materials including Steel, Polycarbonate, FR4, and Plastic for custom builds.
  • The standard GK980 is available as a DIY Kit/Barebones, allowing users to choose their own switches and keycaps from the start.
  • The standard GK980 supports both ANSI and ISO layout standards, giving modders more international keycap options.
Content CreationSkyloong GK980
  • The standard GK980 has knob support for volume or timeline control, a feature shared with the Memphis but available with more vendor stocking.
  • With a higher customizability score of 78.1, the base GK980 offers more flexibility to adapt the keyboard for a creator's preferred switches and keycaps.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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