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Novice 100

Novice 100

The Novice 100 is a compact 68-key mechanical keyboard designed for users who want flexible connectivity and easy switch customization. It suits hobbyists who swap switches regularly and users needing a versatile keyboard for multiple devices, including tablets. Its wireless and wired modes offer options for different environments, while the hot-swappable shafts allow quick switch changes without soldering.</p... Read more
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Compare Novice 100 vs Keychron Lemokey X2 vs Redragon CHIMERA K550 Specification

Compare similar keyboards side by side, or use the comparison table to compare all keyboards!
Novice 100Keychron Lemokey X2Redragon CHIMERA K550
Novice 100
88
Lemokey X2 QMK Wired Mechanical Keyboard
CHIMERA K550 (French Layout Only)
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  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Offers Yes, White RGB lighting
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Weighs about 970 g
  • Sized at 37 x 438 x 129 mm
  • Made with a ABS case
  • Features ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, North-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2025
  • Built with the ISO-FR, ISO layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Offers a USB passthrough port
  • Uses a Bottom Mount mounting style
  • Weighs about 1200 g
  • Sized at 40 x 440 x 180 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 54.2
  • Build Quality: 48.9
  • Productivity: 52.3
  • Customizability: 50.8
  • Portability: 47.8
Scores
  • Performance: 75.2
  • Build Quality: 83.9
  • Productivity: 95.6
  • Customizability: 89.7
  • Portability: 47.4
Scores
  • Performance: 62.5
  • Build Quality: 57.5
  • Productivity: 51.3
  • Customizability: 48.9
  • Portability: 40
Name
Novice 100
Name
Keychron Lemokey X2
Name
Redragon CHIMERA K550
Release year
2024
Release year
2024
Release year
2025
Switch Options
-
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
-
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
100%
Layout Size
100%
Layout Size
100%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ISO-FR, ISO
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
Display Support
 
Display Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
-
Battery capacity
-
Battery capacity
-
Hall Effect Support
 
Hall Effect Support
 
Hall Effect Support
 
QMK Support
 
QMK Support
 
QMK Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIAL Support
 
VIAL Support
 
VIAL Support
 
N-Key Rollover
 
N-Key Rollover
 
N-Key Rollover
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Mount Style
-
Mount Style
Tray Mount
Mount Style
Bottom Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
White
Backlight
 
North-face
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
-
Case Material
ABS
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic
Keycaps Material
-
Keycaps Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
-
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
37 x 438 x 129 mm
Dimensions
40 x 440 x 180 mm
Weight
-
Weight
970g
Weight
1200g
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Product Description

The Novice 100 is a compact 68-key mechanical keyboard designed for users who want flexible connectivity and easy switch customization. It suits hobbyists who swap switches regularly and users needing a versatile keyboard for multiple devices, including tablets. Its wireless and wired modes offer options for different environments, while the hot-swappable shafts allow quick switch changes without soldering.

Key Features

  • Hot-swappable shafts support three modes, enabling users to change switches quickly to suit different typing preferences or tasks.
  • Multiple connectivity options include wired USB, 2.4G wireless, and Bluetooth 5.0 with support for pairing up to three devices, allowing seamless switching between devices.
  • Compact 68-key layout saves desk space while maintaining essential keys for efficient typing and gaming.
  • Monochromatic white backlighting provides basic illumination without distractions or complex lighting setups.

Connectivity

The keyboard offers wired connection with a 1000Hz polling rate, suitable for low-latency needs. The 2.4G wireless mode has a lower 25Hz polling rate, which may not be ideal for fast-paced gaming. Bluetooth 5.0 supports multi-device pairing, making it convenient for users who switch between tablets, laptops, or phones.

Build Quality

The case is made from durable materials designed for long-term use. It includes a single-section foot stand with an anti-slip silicone pad to keep the keyboard stable during use. The keyboard uses a positioning board satellite axis, which helps stabilize larger keys for consistent keypress feel.

Trade-offs

  • The 2.4G wireless polling rate is relatively low, which may affect responsiveness in competitive gaming.
  • Backlighting is limited to a single white color without customization, which may not satisfy users wanting RGB effects.
  • Power options include wired power or two AAA batteries, which may require frequent battery replacement depending on usage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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