Black Friday is upon us, and it’s the electric parade of deals we’ve all been waiting for. Today, we’re diving into the digital aisles to unearth the Top 5 Mechanical Keyboard Deals for Black Friday 2023. Navigating the sea of discounts to snag that perfect blend of clicky satisfaction and savings is no small feat, but fear not—I’ve got your back.
5. ASUS ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless
Normal Price – $180
Sale Price – $145
The Strix Scope II doesn’t shy away from making its presence known, boasting a robust 96% layout capped with a sturdy metal top plate. Its plastic undercarriage is accented with glossy finishes that add a touch of sophistication to the whole ensemble. It’s a looker, especially when you place it among the pantheon of mainstream gaming keyboards.
Now, this isn’t just about looks; functionality takes the front seat with features like a convenient volume wheel and exceptional dampening—something you might not wager to find in an Asus creation, but here we are, pleasantly surprised. The typing experience? It nudges closer to what you’d expect from a custom keyboard, which is high praise indeed.
Under the hood, the Strix Scope II comes equipped with pre-lubed Rog snow switches, offering a linear journey, or storm switches for those craving that tactile bump. The standout feature is its hot-swappable PCB, a nod to customization that’s a rare sight in gaming-brand peripherals. Asus has handed you the keys to swap in any switch your heart desires, even boutique ones, to elevate your gaming experience.
When it comes to staying connected, the Strix Scope II is versatile. Wired play is handled via a detachable USB Type-C cable, but if you’re looking to cut the cord, it offers seamless wireless connectivity with Bluetooth or a 2.4 GHz USB dongle. And battery life? It’s a marathoner with a staggering 1500 hours of playtime.
As for the RGB, it’s a spectacle of per-key illumination with a myriad of modes to choose from. And if your tastes lean towards the understated, you can dial down the light show with some classy, non-shine-through keycaps—though personally, I find the RGB adds a vibrant edge to the setup.
4. Keychron V1
Normal Price – $85
Sale Price – $68
The Keychron V1 packs a punch in a compact 75% layout, with a two-piece plastic chassis that feels as good as it looks. The knob is a standout feature, firmly rooted without a hint of wobble, offering a touch of class and function. It’s the little things, right?
But let’s get into the light play. We’re talking south-facing LEDs, providing an underglow that’s as subtle as it is striking. And yes, for the customization enthusiasts out there, it’s got QMK—meaning you can map your keys to whatever your gaming heart desires. The semi-transparent case is more than just a pretty face; it’s a window into the soul of your gaming rig.
The sound profile is nothing short of aural bliss, thanks to the high-quality dampening materials packed inside. Whether you choose to keep them or strip them out for a different acoustic experience, you’re in control.
At the core of this keyboard, you’ll find Gateron G Pro switches, available in red for those who prefer the smooth path or brown for a bit of tactile feedback. These switches come factory lubed—a rare luxury—and while there may be a few inconsistencies given the generous application, the overall feel is buttery smooth with a satisfying sound profile.
Connectivity-wise, the Keychron V1 keeps it simple yet flexible with a detachable USB Type-C cable. And then there’s the RGB—oh, the RGB! It’s everything you could ask for: per-key lighting, a spectrum of modes to match your mood or game, and an intensity that shines without blinding.
In short, the Keychron V1 is a little piece of keyboard nirvana for the discerning gamer and typist alike.
3. Royal Kludge H81
Normal Price – $90
Sale Price – $64
The Royal Kludge H81 isn’t just your average keyboard; it’s a visual treat with its 75% split design that’s a cut above the rest, and that’s before you even consider the steal of a price tag it carries around Black Friday. It boasts a delightful assortment of unique angles and detailing that sets it apart, making it feel more like a boutique piece than what you’d expect for its cost.
Now, let’s talk about the real conversation piece—the connectivity knob. It’s a nifty little feature sitting proudly at the top right, offering a tactile and satisfying method to switch through its modes. It’s not just cool; it’s practical, making your daily interface a breeze.
Right out of the box, the H81 surprises with its sound quality, thanks to ample dampening within the case. Then there are the switches—Pre-Lubed Sky cyan switches to be exact. Linear, smooth, and with minimal wobble, these switches are a mystery wrapped in an enigma, exclusive to the H81, and quite the find, particularly at the Black Friday price point—under $65.
Connectivity-wise, this keyboard flexes its versatility with wireless options through a 2.4 GHz USB dongle, enabling you to game without the tangle of wires without sacrificing that essential 1,000 Hz polling rate. Bluetooth 5.1 is also on the table, or you can stick to the classic wired setup with its USB Type-C port—perfect for those who like to add a personal touch with a custom coiled cable. And if you’re not keen on plugging in, the battery life won’t disappoint.
Lastly, the RGB. It’s per-key lighting here, with all the dynamic modes and static hues your heart could desire, packing in all the pizzazz expected from top-tier per-key RGB illumination.
2. Yunzii Royalaxe Y68
Normal Price – $90
Sale Price – $52
The Y68 boasts a 65% form factor, marrying the sweet spot of space efficiency with gaming functionality, all while looking sleek. The construction features a two-piece plastic case, but the real eye-catcher is the robust metal accents on each side. These aren’t just for show; they complement the flip-over risers and a solid metal plate that hides a secret—a wealth of silicone dampening, which makes for a substantial, premium feel.
At $42, it’s an absolute no-brainer for the quality you’re getting. The Y68 comes equipped with Gateron Pro switches—Reds, Browns, or Yellows—and yes, it’s fully hot-swappable for both three and five-pin switches. Gamers, take note: snag the Yellows for their quick actuation. Straight out of the box, this keyboard delivers an impressive acoustic performance.
On the connectivity front, it’s all about options: USB Type-C for the traditionalists, Bluetooth for the cord-cutters, or a 2.4 GHz USB dongle for the latency-conscious. Plus, with a 3,000 mAh battery, it’s ready for extended wireless sessions without a hitch.
Last but certainly not least, the RGB lighting. It’s bright, vibrant, and fully decked out with all the modes and statics you could ask for. It seems keyboards these days have set a high bar for RGB, and the Y68 doesn’t just meet it—it soars right over.
1. Royal Kludge M75
Normal Price – $140
Sale Price – $80
Crowning the list of unbeatable mechanical keyboard deals is the Royal Kludge M75, a sleek piece of tech wizardry that’s more than just a typing tool—it’s a 75% form factor masterpiece. Clad in a robust two-piece plastic housing, it flaunts a chic metal knob, an extra USB-C port for when you’re hooked up to your battlestation, and a charming little OLED screen nestled in the bottom right corner. With a gasket mount and ample dampening, this keyboard delivers a typing experience that’s both acoustically and tactilely pleasing straight from the get-go.
Switch-wise, the M75 offers a personal touch with options for Browns, Reds, or Speed Silvers—catering to tactile aficionados and linear lovers alike. For those with a need for speed in their gaming arsenal, the Speed Silvers are your go-to for rapid-fire actuation. And for the tinkerers and customizers, rejoice; this board is fully hot-swappable with both three and five-pin switches, serving as an open canvas for future mods or immediate personalization.
Connectivity is a breeze with the M75, whether you’re plugged in via USB Type-C, roaming free with Bluetooth, or gaming untethered with a 2.4 GHz USB dongle. The battery life won’t let you down either; a beefy 3,750 mAh ensures you’re powered up for the long haul.
As for the RGB, it’s nothing short of spectacular—bright, lively, and loaded with a plethora of modes and colors to choose from, all with per-key lighting precision. It’s everything RGB should be and then some. Having personally integrated the M75 into my daily routine, I can attest to its quality and comfort as a daily driver. It’s not just a tool; it’s an extension of the workspace that keeps up with you, day in and day out.
