I randomly got recommended Hipyo Tech on YouTube one day and since have been watching his videos. I haven’t got a clue about mechanical keyboards, but I have strong tastes in terms of aesthetics. Long story short, I kept checking shit out and stumbled across a keyboard he hasn’t reviewed yet and I think I’m in love. But I don’t know if it’s any good or is even Linux compatible. So… is the ATK V75X a decent purchase? Or does it suck?
https://www.atk.store/products/atk-vxe-v75-x-mechanical-gaming-keyboard
The look I’m interested in, is the all matte black oka Gunmetal. I don’t have the foggiest about the difference between the switches.
That’s non via most likely. It will definitely mention QMK/VIA.
Go by Keychron.com and then search for models elsewhere based on that. The K-series non-Max are likely older models.
Also go for non-low-profile.
Oof, looks like I’m looking at spending £110 including shipping https://www.keychron.uk/products/keychron-k1-pro-qmk-via-wireless-custom-mechanical-keyboard-iso-layout-collection
Worth it.
In fact I’d probably go for the Q3 (not Pro/Max). Low-profile is subpar compared to a full body aluminum board.
Hmmm, what about this bad-boy/girl/them?
https://www.keychron.uk/products/keychron-k8-wireless-mechanical-keyboard-uk-iso-layout?variant=41479145586858
A bit dated design and no mention of QMK or VIA. You are not better off with this than the one you linked in your OP.
You’re killing me. I’m grateful, but crying 😂 I thought all of their keyboards came with QMK and VIA 😭
Honestly, there’s other options, some even might be cheaper. But the build quality might be worse as well. Keychron Q (aluminium body) and V (ABS plastic body) are known quantities.
Yeah, I definitely prefer aluminium. I’m trying to avoid the massive bezels and also go for an ISO layout to support the UK keyboard, hence the limited options.
Also basically you get what you pay for. Aluminium builds will cost GBP100+ for a PCB + plate + body usually. Switches and keycaps are extra.
There’s a couple examples of Group Buy (glorified pre-order) or in-stock boards currently running as well:
https://prototypist.net/products/group-buy-tkd-cycle8-keyboard-kit
https://prototypist.net/products/in-stock-neo80-keyboard-kit?_pos=1&_sid=88ebc846e&_ss=r
But again, both will still need you to buy switches and keycaps in addition. Depending on those, you can easily land upwards of 200 GBP.
This is chump change though. I’ve only spent money on cheapo keyboards and I’m easily skirting the 1000 GBP mark by now.
You’re cursing me aren’t you? What is this rabbit hole you’re dragging me down? 😭 that Crow Cycle 8 actually looks decent.
Beware that it’s a GB. It might take a while until you receive it.