Interesting - mine came with RK branded switches (reds). They felt light but slightly scratchy and I tested them against the Outemu reds I had, which were a bit less light, but also sounded more smooth so I ended up swapping out and putting in the outemus. Also the keycaps that came on mine looked like double shot abs, but not the best quality, some had uneven texturing on them. I just did the switches and keycaps and it sounds much better already - next I'll do foam as well, but already very happy with the result.
Personally, I don't like outemu, just because they are generally marketed as Hot - swap (which they can be) , but because of the boards they are put in, they generally break when you try and pull them out, and the PCB's that support outemu, generally don't support the other switches. The plastic isn't as sturdy as other brands. But I must say that the switches themselves feel okay, generally, but I never have had the opportunity to lube a set. in regards to outemu switches: I wish the plastic was a little sturdier, but don't know if my switches broke because of the boards they shipped in, but think they could be good! I'm glad that modding your board is going well! Keebs are always the thing I like to tinker with constantly!
just finished my mod with this and I used the clipped the stabs and band aid mod as well as relubbed all the switches leaf included. My switches were the brands versions of gateron reds.
It sounds like you were able to mod it relatively easily! Did you buy it using my link from this video? They should have been gaterons if you did. I really like this board!
@@ireakhavok I used a different link but they were gaterons. I got it when it was on sale for 45 bucks. I lubed the switches with super lube dielectric grease. What took long was the lubricant of the switches cause I had no switch opener at this time. The keycaps were still kinda cheap. The band aid mod I learned from Taeha types. This was my first mod for my keyboard. Now the switches don’t sound scratchy or off and the stabs were not rattling anymore due to clipping it flushed. Next paycheck I’m getting some OEM keycaps.
Hi, I had a question, is it possible to change the lights on that keyboard? (I mean physically, from the PCB). And the battery could be changed? Thanks
Is it possible? yes. but I do not suggest it. If you have one LED that is broken, I could easily see someone trying to fix that, but if you are suggesting to do the whole board, I would greaty discourage somebody from doing that. SMD LED's are really hard to place, hard to desolder, and even harder to solder. You can easily get messed up. It isn't like soldering normal items, because when you solder it on, you have to flow it under the pads, without getting the component too hot. I have never soldered SMD LED's and I could be very wrong, but I definitely would not do it, however possible it was.
I've got a question, is the RK 68 (855 RGB) (The one without the removable frame and additional USBs) hot swappable? cause I can't seem to find an indication on that on Amazon, and I've read some people say yes and other say only the RK G68 (837) can hot swap. Thanks in advance.
so, here, it is a hit or a miss. I know for sure that if it says hot-swap, it will have hot swap. Not all of the boards are hot-swappable, so you have to be careful. you can always ask the seller. I know for sure that the keyboard I linked in the description is hot-swap.
They are two completely different boards with different layouts made by the same company with many of the same features. The only noticable difference is the top cover for the keyboard is way different and there is a wifi dongle instead of just bluetooth.
I was thinking of getting this one but I’m hesitating because I can’t seem to find a good picture or video that shows if the LED light bulges out or if the switch socket is flat. Does the LED stick out for this model? I have some aliaz switches I want to use but my Tecware Phantom has it’s LEDs bulging in the sockets so I can’t use them with that keyboard.
they are SMD LED's, so they do not come close to the switch! generally all hot-swap boards that have RGB will be SMD (flat against the PCB) Further note: The switches that came with it, will accept LED's, so if you were to take these switches out of the board, you could use them on a board that requires that you put an LED through the switch.
yes, I do. I feel that it has a clean design with the cover, and would be a great slick look. I am still very impressed with this keyboard for it's price, and any analogue to this keyboard, as long as it has similar features, would be great to own for a cheap price.
Sadly, I do not think so! The LED sticks out on the PCB, quite ferociously, and I believe that purple lavender switches are flush on the bottom side. Please correct me if I'm wrong! you would need a specific kind of switch that has a window cut out on the bottom side.
Do you have any links to brown switches that would work on that keyboard? I have the same keyboard and it came with the red switches. However, I am wanting to use brown switches instead as I don’t like the red ones very well. Thoughts? Thanks in advance
Normal gateron milky yellows won't fit on this board! You have to get the ones with the windows cut out of them, the SMD version. I believe. But considering that you already have them, I would take the time to lube them. Even if you don't end up keeping those ones in the board, having a set of lubed switches is nice. I have two sets floating around that are already lubed, that I throw into boards to give me an idea of how it will sound with similar switches.
Those should work perfectly for this keeb! They have the cutout window to allow for the LED, and they are 3 pin, not that that matters. I hear great things about the Akko switches. KTT is also another good company, but I have yet to get either of them. I am a little spoiled with the switches that I currently have.
Hi i am new to keyboards and I am just curious how you mod the keyboard. You changed to different switches that you lubed before. But what dis you do when before that. I am really interested and considering to buy the same stuff. Much love
Appreciate your long answer really interesting. I would love if you could maybe release a video about this more in detail. I think special content like this is pretty rare so far. There are a lot of videos about lubing etc but nobody is going that much into detail like you! much love!!! I will continue support you and hope for new videos about modding and sound tests with different keyboards cheers
I ordered it a few weeks ago. There are amazon sellers that guarantee gateron switches & you have to make sure you purchase from them. Seller I bought from was J-Devol on amazon. I also have the wireless version.
@@ireakhavok Oh trust me I know. I originally bought the rk61 & it came with rk branded switches so I sent it back for the rk68 with gateron brown switches. Actually did a review of it on my channel as well so I had to do my due dilligence finding out what was what.
They are 5 pin, but sadly they will not work, because the LED's stick out on the PCB, sadly! I really wish that the LED was flush. I LOVE THE LOOK OF TANGERINES. There are some other boards on my channel, like the GMMK series, Everest Max, Drop CTRL that would be able to adopt those switches. I do have more boards coming!
heyyy wta, why does some other reviewer that reviewed the RK68/855 does not came with hotswap board, is there a different option for soldered version or the brand is just that inconsistent? Im really temped to buy this but now im afraid i wont be getting the hotswap one hahahah
Just to clarify: The keyboard that Joel linked in the description is hot-swappable. I just got mine and tried it out. It is a new model. However, they are still selling models which are not hot-swappable such as the RGB variant. This is the same with the RK61 (some are hot-swappable, some are not). My guess is that Royal Kludge is switching all of their models over to be hot-swappable, but they still have a bunch of the old models lying around and are selling them off.
@@ireakhavok My clarification confused you further 😂. I got a hot swap board as expected. I'm just saying that some of the other listings are legitimate RK68 listings, but they just aren't hot swap.
i bought this same keyboard months ago when i got my pc, and i've just recently ordered some switches and keycaps. no issues getting the keycaps off, but i cannot seem to remove the switches. i'm pulling on them with the top and bottom tabs, but they just won't budge. any ideas on what i could be doing wrong?
So, many times the cheap pullers either bend or just don't do a good job! You may want to bend the opener to look less like a V and more like a C. there are some good switch pullers out there like from novelkeys, or kbdfans. I would suggest getting one, but failing that, the housings are for the most part sturdy, if you end up breaking that little plastic tab, it's generally okay, it will still work, just might get pulled out from time to time. Sometimes a quicker jerk instead of a steady pull works better too! Just make sure that you have a good angle, and use some quick force.
Hey just ordered this keyboard and can't find much info around the place on the specs inside it, would it be possible to switch out the stabs for some durock screw ins or are the stabs proprietary? Thank you
Trim the stock stabs and you'll be just fine if you want do the holee mod and possibe the bandaid mod or tape mod for the stabs to help firm them up. But honestly the stock stabs aren't horrible just do a clean and re-lube them libberally and they'll be fine.
One question I have about the hot-swapping capability is it possible to clip off the led switch on the pcb? I am just asking because I know that this led switch makes some switches incompatible with the keyboard because of the led switch bulge? Is it possible to clip it off so that this keyboard can be hot swapped with any switch?
sooooo I’m not very knowledgeable on switches so does anyone know if banana splits would fit in this?? I originally got a gk64 not knowing that it wouldn’t fit any other switch but gaterons so I might get this one depending on whether or not it fits banana splits
They will not work, because the SMD LED's are not flush against the keyboard. It's a good question for any keyboard that is RGB, but more so with the lower cost boards.
@@cyberchase0 Any Akko switch or Gateron MX SMD (has to be the MX SMD) - stay away from the milky, even though they sound good. just make sure that the bottom of the switch has a cuttout for the SMD LED
So this PCB requires switches that are SMD LED compatible, IE, it has to have a cutout in the bottom of the switch, or it has to be raised from the PCB. If the switch is completely flat on the bottom or only has the holes for LED diodes, then it will not work. I havn't seen the rk 837, and am not sure how to distinguish it from the rk855 entirely, but it seems like there is a removable bezel on the 837.
@@ireakhavok Are gateron yellows compatible with the PCB? I was planning on getting gat yellows as soon as i get the keeb. Thank you for the fast response :D
@@mjoren5679 No, they are not compatible! The issue is because the SMD LED is not flush against the PCB, it sticks out quite a bit and you will need to get switches that have either a small cutout, or have enough space for the LED's to fit. The bottom housing of the switch must not be flat. Most RGB enabled switches, that are made to allow LED light to pass through the switch from the bottom side are compatible, but switches that have tiny little holes for LED pins to pass through, generally are not compatible.
You can use all standard RGB enabled switches, there is a diode that sticks above the PCB, so either the switch must have a hole there to allow space for an SMD LED, or the bottom of the switches case must not be 100% flat. If you look at my video for my Drop CTRL I feature a better angle so you can see that the PCB doesn't allow for specific switches. I would consider it about 80-90% compatible. It does have 5 pin support.
if you want to send me a link on here or instagram, I'll tell you if it's compatible. Here is a link to my Drop CTRL video, where I mention and show the diferences in the LED's on the PCB ua-cam.com/video/Qcswo4qVyTo/v-deo.html
Yes, you can use normal packing foam, as long as it isn't too thick! If you have some packing foam try it out, but check before you screw it down that it isn't too thick. Sometimes if it doesn't close right you will either have to use thinner foam or cut it up so that it fits between the plastic slots. I don't believe I was using tape for the foam mod, I could have been using some tape to mod the stabilizers a little bit. I do not believe that I spent enough time on the stabilizers for this particular build. In a couple of my videos I show an example of the band-aid mod, in which you put a piece of band-aid on the PCB below the stabilizers, and sometimes in between the plate and the stabilizer cage. This is just to make it rattle less and provide you with a thud sound instead of a click.
There aren't any compatible sets yet! if I find one I will let you know! there are a bunch of things available for the GK series on amazon. There are also some brass plates available for the drop Carina. There are many ways to achieve that crisp thock! I am on a mission now, to find something like your suggestion! must be brass though. Probably will end up with swapping the PCB over... the usb is in the middle though
Yes, I haven't noticed any input lag, and it does have the arrow keys, so you really aren't sacrificing anything gaming wise, unless if those games require you to remap the F1 keys.
It dampens the sound and reduces ping! check out this video to learn a little more. ua-cam.com/video/T3RtqplfVWs/v-deo.html It reduces the amount of hollow sounds that come from the case, and also makes the switches sound more crisp. It will make the keypresses more firm, so if you are after a very soft key switch feeling, I would not do it this way, and maybe put foam between the PCB and the plate instead.
hello iv'e been thinking about buying this keyboard but i cant find any info on it. I would appreciate if anyone could answer my questions. 1.what brand switches does it have out of the box 2.whats the switch compatibility
The one in the link provides gateron switches but it can also come with other clones like kaihl. The ones that are compatible are ones that have cutouts for SMD LEDs. Not all switches will work with it because the PCB is not flat. Something like a kale cream or a gateron RGB switch would work. Some get her on milky switches will not work because they only have the pin holes for the LEDs not the actual windows cut You need to have windows cut.
Yes, you are able to, you'd have to take out all the switches. I didn't do it on my board, but there are very few boards out there that do not let you take the plate and PCB off of each other. This board even has an option for split spacebar, which has a different plate, so yeah, I would assume it is most definitely able to be taken off the PCB. Finding a different plate without making it yourself is hard, though.
Would you say this keyboard gives you the most bang for your buck? Are there any keyboards that are in this price range (>$70) that you would recommend? I’m looking for something that is at least hot swappable, wireless, and has decent switches (don’t forget RGB!)
In a short answer, yes. but this keyboard is one solid color, so it isn't RGB, if you want the same company, I would say the ROYAL KLUDGE RK84 Would also be a board to look at. The vast majority of better quality boards (like the GMMK series) are not wireless, but provide better materials, feel, and overall usability. I guess it depends on wireless, at this point. If you were to ask me which board is best overall at that price point (< $110 ) I would say the GMMK TKL, but if you are dead set on wireless then I would suggest the RK84 for RGB, or the RK68 if you are okay with one solid color. My favorite two boards (>200) are the everest max, overall, and the DROP CTRL in second place. but at that price point there are so many options to choose from, it becomes more of a specificity of your switch, LED faceing type (north face or south face) and your keycaps. This is a very deep, rabbit hole, and I would gladly help you take the leap for your next board if you would like to discuss this further. Please contact me on my instagram (@ireakhavok)
Well, I'm most impressed by Zeal pc and their Zealios v2 switches, for their unparalled tactility, and just great experience overall. (I don't suggest them for gaming) however, not everybody can spend that much on switches. I have also been enjoying the increased stability of gateron box switches. There is something about how stable they feel during the key press, that just makes it feel better, almost more premium. But for sound, I would have to say the gateron milky housings, hands down. There is just something about those housings that I can't put my finger on!
@@FeiYuenSays So In my opinion, the black gat inks, are a little too stiff! (if you go that route, get the reds!) I am about to do a spring swap in my halo trues. I'm actually about to put in a new switch order, and might get some more milkys
@@ireakhavok I gave in and bought zealios v2 62g switches for my other keeb coz i got curious when u mentioned it hahaha also got some milky gat yellows for the rk837 :D
If I had some! They are actually next (for switches, specifically) on my list of stuff to get. I would have to break them in first before I showed them off. However, I also need to get a gasket mounted board, too.... I will keep you updated, but it'll probably be a couple months before I can do it!
@@ireakhavok I bought a gateron mechanical switch tester and it said the switches would work I’ll send a link to it. Please tell me if you think they are functional. Griarrac Gateron 9 Key Switch Tester Mechanical Keyboards Testing Sampler Zealios 67g Tealios, with Keycap Puller and 40A-L O-Rings www.amazon.com/dp/B07PDCK34P/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_SFF49HX2YG8EH31WHQCE?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
it basicly doesnt have any extra buttons tho.. its just wider for the arrow keys if you'd prefer. Personaly I actually prefer them being closer now (also bought this board)
Hi, Im new to mechanical keyboards. I ordered this as my first kb after watching this vid! I am planning to change the switches since the one I ordered came with RK red switches. not gateron. will Kailh, Cherry MX, or gateron milky yellow fit in this keyboard? thanks
I like- I HOPE BEFORE MY BIRTHDAY I CAN GET RK68 OR OTHER HOT SWAPPBLE KEYBOARD CAUSE MY KEYBOARD IS KINDA BROKEN AND IF I BOUGHT A NEW HOT SWAPPABLE KEYBOARD ILL GIVE MY OLD KEYBOARD TO MY BROTHER :((
If you aren't going to use your old keyboard that is a great thing to do with it! You should try to fix it when your new one comes! I don't mind helping you if you have questions or need some help!
Hello I was hoping to buy some Gateron Yellows but I'm not sure about the housings and top that's gonna disrupt the LED backlight. What would you recommend?
The link above is a referral for drop.com. once there just search for the everglide aqua. It will give you 10$ off and get me 10$ for a referral bonus. Other than that I would suggest any of the switches from ZealPC , but they are rather expensive.
If there is I haven't found it! I am almost sure there has got to be a website somewhere that offers a compatible case. I just know it! it's a really popular board
Interesting - mine came with RK branded switches (reds). They felt light but slightly scratchy and I tested them against the Outemu reds I had, which were a bit less light, but also sounded more smooth so I ended up swapping out and putting in the outemus. Also the keycaps that came on mine looked like double shot abs, but not the best quality, some had uneven texturing on them. I just did the switches and keycaps and it sounds much better already - next I'll do foam as well, but already very happy with the result.
Personally, I don't like outemu, just because they are generally marketed as Hot - swap (which they can be) , but because of the boards they are put in, they generally break when you try and pull them out, and the PCB's that support outemu, generally don't support the other switches. The plastic isn't as sturdy as other brands. But I must say that the switches themselves feel okay, generally, but I never have had the opportunity to lube a set.
in regards to outemu switches: I wish the plastic was a little sturdier, but don't know if my switches broke because of the boards they shipped in, but think they could be good!
I'm glad that modding your board is going well!
Keebs are always the thing I like to tinker with constantly!
i realize I'm quite off topic but do anybody know a good site to stream newly released series online?
@Alijah Kohen Flixportal xD
@Gary Camilo Thanks, I signed up and it seems like a nice service :) I appreciate it !!
@Alijah Kohen glad I could help :D
My rk68 didnt have that wire when you took it apart which is weird cause im typing on it rn.
Any wireless version will have a wire on the inside hooking up to the internal battery... Prove me wrong?
@@ireakhavok i have a wired rk68, no wireless
just finished my mod with this and I used the clipped the stabs and band aid mod as well as relubbed all the switches leaf included. My switches were the brands versions of gateron reds.
It sounds like you were able to mod it relatively easily! Did you buy it using my link from this video? They should have been gaterons if you did. I really like this board!
@@ireakhavok I used a different link but they were gaterons. I got it when it was on sale for 45 bucks. I lubed the switches with super lube dielectric grease. What took long was the lubricant of the switches cause I had no switch opener at this time. The keycaps were still kinda cheap. The band aid mod I learned from Taeha types. This was my first mod for my keyboard. Now the switches don’t sound scratchy or off and the stabs were not rattling anymore due to clipping it flushed. Next paycheck I’m getting some OEM keycaps.
@@ddrfan210 Sounds like you got a great deal! Just be careful with the right shift key, and bottom row for finding the right keycaps.
@@ireakhavok that’s the main problem with 68% keyboards
@@ddrfan210 IK... I just still have to have arrow keys, so like going with a TKL is always better for me. Going to be trying out the UHK V2, though
Hello, will cherry mx and gateron switches will be compatible with rk68 2021 version? The rk 837?
Yes
Wow it’s REALLY loud and rattly before the mods. I’m not looking to mod it, so should I go for the red switches?
I would suggest that, yes.
does it have south facing leds i want to use cherry profile keycaps
they are north facing. They will interfere with GMK, Cherry profile.
Hi, I had a question, is it possible to change the lights on that keyboard? (I mean physically, from the PCB).
And the battery could be changed?
Thanks
Is it possible? yes. but I do not suggest it. If you have one LED that is broken, I could easily see someone trying to fix that, but if you are suggesting to do the whole board, I would greaty discourage somebody from doing that. SMD LED's are really hard to place, hard to desolder, and even harder to solder. You can easily get messed up. It isn't like soldering normal items, because when you solder it on, you have to flow it under the pads, without getting the component too hot. I have never soldered SMD LED's and I could be very wrong, but I definitely would not do it, however possible it was.
@@ireakhavok ohh, thanks!
What are the brown switches you swapped stock with. Can I have a link 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
Actually, these are Gateron Browns that came with the board!
amzn.to/3eRcesa
Here is a link to them!
I've got a question, is the RK 68 (855 RGB) (The one without the removable frame and additional USBs) hot swappable? cause I can't seem to find an indication on that on Amazon, and I've read some people say yes and other say only the RK G68 (837) can hot swap. Thanks in advance.
so, here, it is a hit or a miss. I know for sure that if it says hot-swap, it will have hot swap. Not all of the boards are hot-swappable, so you have to be careful. you can always ask the seller. I know for sure that the keyboard I linked in the description is hot-swap.
Quick question can you turn down the brightness of the rgb to off? Because i do not like rgb
Yes, you can. Just a function and down arrow if I remember right.
Hi may I know the difference between RK68 and RK68 Plus?
They are two completely different boards with different layouts made by the same company with many of the same features. The only noticable difference is the top cover for the keyboard is way different and there is a wifi dongle instead of just bluetooth.
I was thinking of getting this one but I’m hesitating because I can’t seem to find a good picture or video that shows if the LED light bulges out or if the switch socket is flat. Does the LED stick out for this model?
I have some aliaz switches I want to use but my Tecware Phantom has it’s LEDs bulging in the sockets so I can’t use them with that keyboard.
they are SMD LED's, so they do not come close to the switch! generally all hot-swap boards that have RGB will be SMD (flat against the PCB) Further note: The switches that came with it, will accept LED's, so if you were to take these switches out of the board, you could use them on a board that requires that you put an LED through the switch.
did that answer your question?
Do you recommend rk68 plus?
yes, I do. I feel that it has a clean design with the cover, and would be a great slick look. I am still very impressed with this keyboard for it's price, and any analogue to this keyboard, as long as it has similar features, would be great to own for a cheap price.
Can I replace the switches with the purple (lavender) switches?
Sadly, I do not think so! The LED sticks out on the PCB, quite ferociously, and I believe that purple lavender switches are flush on the bottom side. Please correct me if I'm wrong! you would need a specific kind of switch that has a window cut out on the bottom side.
Do you have any links to brown switches that would work on that keyboard? I have the same keyboard and it came with the red switches. However, I am wanting to use brown switches instead as I don’t like the red ones very well. Thoughts? Thanks in advance
Thank you so much
YT deleted my original comment: novelkeys.xyz/products/cherry-switches or novelkeys.xyz/collections/switches/products/gateron-switches
hi! i was wondering if i just mod my keyboard with the rk brown switch that comes with the keyboard? or should i switch to gateron milky yellows one?
Normal gateron milky yellows won't fit on this board! You have to get the ones with the windows cut out of them, the SMD version. I believe. But considering that you already have them, I would take the time to lube them. Even if you don't end up keeping those ones in the board, having a set of lubed switches is nice. I have two sets floating around that are already lubed, that I throw into boards to give me an idea of how it will sound with similar switches.
I might go ahead and put Akko matcha green switches in this keyboard
Those should work perfectly for this keeb! They have the cutout window to allow for the LED, and they are 3 pin, not that that matters. I hear great things about the Akko switches. KTT is also another good company, but I have yet to get either of them. I am a little spoiled with the switches that I currently have.
Hi i am new to keyboards and I am just curious how you mod the keyboard. You changed to different switches that you lubed before. But what dis you do when before that. I am really interested and considering to buy the same stuff. Much love
Appreciate your long answer really interesting. I would love if you could maybe release a video about this more in detail. I think special content like this is pretty rare so far. There are a lot of videos about lubing etc but nobody is going that much into detail like you!
much love!!! I will continue support you and hope for new videos about modding and sound tests with different keyboards cheers
@@ireakhavok much love bro
Can you unscrew the plate from the pcb?
Yes, you can. I didn't do it, though.
broo idont know why my RKG68 spacebar, shift and enter button are perfectly prelubed from factory, no rattle and i felt so lucky XD
Congrats!!!! that seems to be a reason to celebrate, haha. I don't think I've ever experienced pre-lube done correctly
I saw on some other reviews that the switched on the rk855 were ttc not gatreon did they change it ?
I ordered it a few weeks ago. There are amazon sellers that guarantee gateron switches & you have to make sure you purchase from them. Seller I bought from was J-Devol on amazon. I also have the wireless version.
@@ireakhavok Oh trust me I know. I originally bought the rk61 & it came with rk branded switches so I sent it back for the rk68 with gateron brown switches. Actually did a review of it on my channel as well so I had to do my due dilligence finding out what was what.
Is this a 3 pin or a 5 pin? Planning to put c3 tangies if possible
They are 5 pin, but sadly they will not work, because the LED's stick out on the PCB, sadly! I really wish that the LED was flush. I LOVE THE LOOK OF TANGERINES. There are some other boards on my channel, like the GMMK series, Everest Max, Drop CTRL that would be able to adopt those switches. I do have more boards coming!
heyyy wta, why does some other reviewer that reviewed the RK68/855 does not came with hotswap board, is there a different option for soldered version or the brand is just that inconsistent? Im really temped to buy this but now im afraid i wont be getting the hotswap one hahahah
Just to clarify: The keyboard that Joel linked in the description is hot-swappable. I just got mine and tried it out. It is a new model. However, they are still selling models which are not hot-swappable such as the RGB variant. This is the same with the RK61 (some are hot-swappable, some are not). My guess is that Royal Kludge is switching all of their models over to be hot-swappable, but they still have a bunch of the old models lying around and are selling them off.
@@ireakhavok My clarification confused you further 😂. I got a hot swap board as expected. I'm just saying that some of the other listings are legitimate RK68 listings, but they just aren't hot swap.
I think they released the hotswap recently. they call it RK68 2021 from where I bought mine.
@@curiousavocatto149 i see thank you for the clarification!
i bought this same keyboard months ago when i got my pc, and i've just recently ordered some switches and keycaps. no issues getting the keycaps off, but i cannot seem to remove the switches. i'm pulling on them with the top and bottom tabs, but they just won't budge. any ideas on what i could be doing wrong?
So, many times the cheap pullers either bend or just don't do a good job! You may want to bend the opener to look less like a V and more like a C. there are some good switch pullers out there like from novelkeys, or kbdfans. I would suggest getting one, but failing that, the housings are for the most part sturdy, if you end up breaking that little plastic tab, it's generally okay, it will still work, just might get pulled out from time to time. Sometimes a quicker jerk instead of a steady pull works better too! Just make sure that you have a good angle, and use some quick force.
@@ireakhavok thank you so much, i'll keep this in mind. :)
You might have a older model.
Hey just ordered this keyboard and can't find much info around the place on the specs inside it, would it be possible to switch out the stabs for some durock screw ins or are the stabs proprietary? Thank you
The stabilizers are plate mount stabs, non-proprietary! great question. They weren't bad and didn't have any play, and no rattle!
Swap them to durock v2 plate mounted stabs. Sounds much better and less rattly. Lube is mandatory.
Trim the stock stabs and you'll be just fine if you want do the holee mod and possibe the bandaid mod or tape mod for the stabs to help firm them up. But honestly the stock stabs aren't horrible just do a clean and re-lube them libberally and they'll be fine.
@@Zotac359 For the spacebar, do I get the 6.25 units one or the 7 units one?
One question I have about the hot-swapping capability is it possible to clip off the led switch on the pcb? I am just asking because I know that this led switch makes some switches incompatible with the keyboard because of the led switch bulge? Is it possible to clip it off so that this keyboard can be hot swapped with any switch?
No, you will damage other led's on the board. Do not do that.
What screw driver did you use can I use a philips one
I used a phillips size 000. it will have to be a pretty small one.
sooooo I’m not very knowledgeable on switches so does anyone know if banana splits would fit in this?? I originally got a gk64 not knowing that it wouldn’t fit any other switch but gaterons so I might get this one depending on whether or not it fits banana splits
They will not work, because the SMD LED's are not flush against the keyboard. It's a good question for any keyboard that is RGB, but more so with the lower cost boards.
@@ireakhavok awesome, thank you! is it possible that you could list a few models that *would* work?
@@cyberchase0 Any Akko switch or Gateron MX SMD (has to be the MX SMD) - stay away from the milky, even though they sound good. just make sure that the bottom of the switch has a cuttout for the SMD LED
Is the hotswap socket on this one universal or just compatible to a certain brand and what's the difference between the rk855 and rk837? Nice vid man!
So this PCB requires switches that are SMD LED compatible, IE, it has to have a cutout in the bottom of the switch, or it has to be raised from the PCB. If the switch is completely flat on the bottom or only has the holes for LED diodes, then it will not work. I havn't seen the rk 837, and am not sure how to distinguish it from the rk855 entirely, but it seems like there is a removable bezel on the 837.
@@ireakhavok Are gateron yellows compatible with the PCB? I was planning on getting gat yellows as soon as i get the keeb. Thank you for the fast response :D
@@mjoren5679 No, they are not compatible! The issue is because the SMD LED is not flush against the PCB, it sticks out quite a bit and you will need to get switches that have either a small cutout, or have enough space for the LED's to fit. The bottom housing of the switch must not be flat. Most RGB enabled switches, that are made to allow LED light to pass through the switch from the bottom side are compatible, but switches that have tiny little holes for LED pins to pass through, generally are not compatible.
Is this keyboard hot swappeble and if so what switches can you use with it
You can use all standard RGB enabled switches, there is a diode that sticks above the PCB, so either the switch must have a hole there to allow space for an SMD LED, or the bottom of the switches case must not be 100% flat. If you look at my video for my Drop CTRL I feature a better angle so you can see that the PCB doesn't allow for specific switches. I would consider it about 80-90% compatible. It does have 5 pin support.
if you want to send me a link on here or instagram, I'll tell you if it's compatible. Here is a link to my Drop CTRL video, where I mention and show the diferences in the LED's on the PCB ua-cam.com/video/Qcswo4qVyTo/v-deo.html
Are the other RK keyboards hotswapp also?
No, they will be advertised as hotswap if they are! This model in particular can be with or without hotswap! Just be sure to check the listing!
were you using some kind of tape during your foam mod? Also, can I use normal packaging foam to put inside the keyboard?
Yes, you can use normal packing foam, as long as it isn't too thick! If you have some packing foam try it out, but check before you screw it down that it isn't too thick. Sometimes if it doesn't close right you will either have to use thinner foam or cut it up so that it fits between the plastic slots.
I don't believe I was using tape for the foam mod, I could have been using some tape to mod the stabilizers a little bit. I do not believe that I spent enough time on the stabilizers for this particular build.
In a couple of my videos I show an example of the band-aid mod, in which you put a piece of band-aid on the PCB below the stabilizers, and sometimes in between the plate and the stabilizer cage. This is just to make it rattle less and provide you with a thud sound instead of a click.
Can I put my switches in this and how many pin hotswap
yes, this is a hot-swappable board, and it is 5 pin compatible!
What foam you were using? I dont know what to use for my RK68
YT deleted my original comment: Foam similar to this: www.uhaul.com/MovingSupplies/Packing-Supplies/Cushion-Foam/?id=2336
@@ireakhavok how thick is it ?
@@sattetile13 2.31mm is how thick the foam is that I suggested to use.
is this keyboard a 3 pin or 5 pin keyboard?
It is 5 pin.
Does it use normal size stabs?
Yes I believe so, I will double check that other stabs fit on Saturday, when I get back home from vacation.
Any knowledge about plate compatibility? I'd love to install a brass or carbon one. Nice video!
There aren't any compatible sets yet! if I find one I will let you know! there are a bunch of things available for the GK series on amazon. There are also some brass plates available for the drop Carina. There are many ways to achieve that crisp thock! I am on a mission now, to find something like your suggestion! must be brass though. Probably will end up with swapping the PCB over... the usb is in the middle though
@@ireakhavok Thanks! I'd love to see the mods you are planning :)
Can you use it to play games?
Yes, I haven't noticed any input lag, and it does have the arrow keys, so you really aren't sacrificing anything gaming wise, unless if those games require you to remap the F1 keys.
Hi i am new. I just got this board and im curious why put packaging under it?
@@ireakhavok thank you so much for replying! Would you recommend relubing clicky switches?
No, I would not!
It dampens the sound and reduces ping! check out this video to learn a little more. ua-cam.com/video/T3RtqplfVWs/v-deo.html It reduces the amount of hollow sounds that come from the case, and also makes the switches sound more crisp. It will make the keypresses more firm, so if you are after a very soft key switch feeling, I would not do it this way, and maybe put foam between the PCB and the plate instead.
just bought this board but the switches won't come out no matter what I do. It should be hot swappable
It sounds like you didn't use the link that I provided in the video. There is an older version that is not hot swappable.
Just open up the board and take a look at the hot swaps or if there is solder holding the key switches on.
It's only like six small screws.
the pcb is 5 pin hot swap, right?
Yes, it is!
hello iv'e been thinking about buying this keyboard but i cant find any info on it. I would appreciate if anyone could answer my questions.
1.what brand switches does it have out of the box
2.whats the switch compatibility
The one in the link provides gateron switches but it can also come with other clones like kaihl. The ones that are compatible are ones that have cutouts for SMD LEDs. Not all switches will work with it because the PCB is not flat. Something like a kale cream or a gateron RGB switch would work. Some get her on milky switches will not work because they only have the pin holes for the LEDs not the actual windows cut You need to have windows cut.
@@ireakhavok ok thank you for the fast response
are you able to take the plate off the pcb?
Yes, you are able to, you'd have to take out all the switches. I didn't do it on my board, but there are very few boards out there that do not let you take the plate and PCB off of each other. This board even has an option for split spacebar, which has a different plate, so yeah, I would assume it is most definitely able to be taken off the PCB. Finding a different plate without making it yourself is hard, though.
Can RK855 white led hot swap?
not easily. They are SMD LED's
No, switches but on sigle led version
Hello, do you know if the cass is GH60?
@@ireakhavok it can be replaced with gateron switches tho right?
@@ireakhavok do you think its worth to replace the built-in switches (TTC) with gateron?
I don't know where my comment went, but yes, I would
I don't know where my comment went, but no, it isn't
What razer mouse you were using? It seems like it has a nice shape on it
Razer Naga Pro
YT deleted my original comment: razer naga pro with a stand I bought from china off of ebay, lol.
Would you say this keyboard gives you the most bang for your buck?
Are there any keyboards that are in this price range (>$70) that you would recommend? I’m looking for something that is at least hot swappable, wireless, and has decent switches (don’t forget RGB!)
In a short answer, yes. but this keyboard is one solid color, so it isn't RGB, if you want the same company, I would say the ROYAL KLUDGE RK84 Would also be a board to look at. The vast majority of better quality boards (like the GMMK series) are not wireless, but provide better materials, feel, and overall usability. I guess it depends on wireless, at this point. If you were to ask me which board is best overall at that price point (< $110 ) I would say the GMMK TKL, but if you are dead set on wireless then I would suggest the RK84 for RGB, or the RK68 if you are okay with one solid color. My favorite two boards (>200) are the everest max, overall, and the DROP CTRL in second place. but at that price point there are so many options to choose from, it becomes more of a specificity of your switch, LED faceing type (north face or south face) and your keycaps. This is a very deep, rabbit hole, and I would gladly help you take the leap for your next board if you would like to discuss this further. Please contact me on my instagram (@ireakhavok)
Thanks for the great (and fast) response!
@@luispalacios2489 My Pleasure Luis! Stop by again, soon! More videos coming, soon!
What brand of switches do you think would be a perfect fit for this hotswappable keeb? :D
Well, I'm most impressed by Zeal pc and their Zealios v2 switches, for their unparalled tactility, and just great experience overall. (I don't suggest them for gaming) however, not everybody can spend that much on switches. I have also been enjoying the increased stability of gateron box switches. There is something about how stable they feel during the key press, that just makes it feel better, almost more premium. But for sound, I would have to say the gateron milky housings, hands down. There is just something about those housings that I can't put my finger on!
@@ireakhavok I just got my RK68 (RK837 ver.) and is torn between gateron milkies and gat inks. Haha thanks so much for the reply!
@@FeiYuenSays So In my opinion, the black gat inks, are a little too stiff! (if you go that route, get the reds!) I am about to do a spring swap in my halo trues. I'm actually about to put in a new switch order, and might get some more milkys
@@ireakhavok I gave in and bought zealios v2 62g switches for my other keeb coz i got curious when u mentioned it hahaha also got some milky gat yellows for the rk837 :D
@@FeiYuenSays Have you installed them yet??? You will absolutely love them both, I'm sure
rk855 doesn't need to desoldering?
www.amazon.com/RK-ROYAL-KLUDGE-Mechanical-Rechargeable/dp/B08CDBGWFK No, at one point it did, but now it doesn't.
And may I know is it 3pin switch?
@@ireakhavok ooohhh okay thanks may i know if the switches are only compatible with SMD switches?
It is 5 pin and is SMD.
Wait isn’t this the RK G68? The one with gat switches?
It is not! that board has different wifi modes, and is RGB
Hi is the stabs plate mounted?
yes
Can u put nk creams 😅
If I had some! They are actually next (for switches, specifically) on my list of stuff to get. I would have to break them in first before I showed them off. However, I also need to get a gasket mounted board, too.... I will keep you updated, but it'll probably be a couple months before I can do it!
Is it compatible with gateron mechanical switches ( not optical! ) also great video you earned yourself a subscriber
Yes, it is!
Thank you!
@@ireakhavok THANK GOD FOR YOU 🙏
@@ireakhavok I also have another question
@@ireakhavok I bought a gateron mechanical switch tester and it said the switches would work I’ll send a link to it. Please tell me if you think they are functional. Griarrac Gateron 9 Key Switch Tester Mechanical Keyboards Testing Sampler Zealios 67g Tealios, with Keycap Puller and 40A-L O-Rings www.amazon.com/dp/B07PDCK34P/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_SFF49HX2YG8EH31WHQCE?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
There is rk68plus
YT deleted my original comment: but the rk68 plus isn't available yet in the states!~
it basicly doesnt have any extra buttons tho.. its just wider for the arrow keys if you'd prefer. Personaly I actually prefer them being closer now (also bought this board)
Hi, Im new to mechanical keyboards. I ordered this as my first kb after watching this vid! I am planning to change the switches since the one I ordered came with RK red switches. not gateron.
will Kailh, Cherry MX, or gateron milky yellow fit in this keyboard? thanks
yes
Am I deaf or is it so quiet
I'd rate it a 3 / 10 on loudness, it's pretty quiet! any thing less would require silent switches and / or a different plate
I like- I HOPE BEFORE MY BIRTHDAY I CAN GET RK68 OR OTHER HOT SWAPPBLE KEYBOARD CAUSE MY KEYBOARD IS KINDA BROKEN AND IF I BOUGHT A NEW HOT SWAPPABLE KEYBOARD ILL GIVE MY OLD KEYBOARD TO MY BROTHER :((
If you aren't going to use your old keyboard that is a great thing to do with it! You should try to fix it when your new one comes! I don't mind helping you if you have questions or need some help!
@@ireakhavok OMG TY FOR REPLYING MEEEEE OMGGG
Hello I was hoping to buy some Gateron Yellows but I'm not sure about the housings and top that's gonna disrupt the LED backlight. What would you recommend?
drop.com/?referer=NLYDWP 55g EVERGLIDE AQUA KING MECHANICAL SWITCHES, or just get some 45g springs off of ali express for like 10$
The link above is a referral for drop.com. once there just search for the everglide aqua. It will give you 10$ off and get me 10$ for a referral bonus. Other than that I would suggest any of the switches from ZealPC , but they are rather expensive.
is there any case replacements as i dont really like the case
If there is I haven't found it! I am almost sure there has got to be a website somewhere that offers a compatible case. I just know it! it's a really popular board