Design, Build & Physical Fit of the RK ROYAL KLUDGE X108
Running your fingers across the top, the aluminum alloy panel feels solid. This matte finish looks elegant and resists scratches well. The body itself blends 60% recycled ABS with other plastics. It gives the board a reassuring heft, contributing to good desk stability. Integrated rubber feet on the base stop it from sliding, even during intense typing sessions.
Its 108-key layout makes it a full-size board. At 17.4 inches wide, it needs ample desk space. The retro round keycaps are a standout, giving it that classic typewriter look. While visually stunning, some users may prefer a more compact layout. A detachable ABS wrist rest comes included. It does a fair job of easing pressure during long typing stints, folding flat if not needed. The two-size built-in legs allow for comfortable hand position adjustments.
Core Performance & Feel of the RK ROYAL KLUDGE X108
Hitting a key on the RK ROYAL KLUDGE X108 immediately delivers that distinct click. This board uses mechanical blue switches. They provide clear tactile feedback with medium resistance. The sound is undeniably clicky, much like old typewriter machines. This acoustic profile is fun, but can be loud in quiet settings, something to consider for shared spaces. I did not notice any key conflicts when typing fast or gaming.
Over three months, I used this keyboard for games like Asphalt 9 and FIFA 20. Control felt perfect. The N-key rollover and anti-ghosting worked as expected, ensuring every keystroke registered. This is crucial for gaming where multiple keys are pressed at once. The vintage steampunk round keycaps have a stable clicking touch. While they look great, getting used to the spacing might take a week or two for touch typists. After that, finger fatigue was noticeably less.
Power, Connectivity & Setup
Plugging the USB-A cable into my PC revealed true plug-and-play functionality. There are no drivers to install, which is always a plus. This keyboard connects via a corded electric wired USB-A connection. This means no batteries to worry about, ever. The power comes directly from your computer. If you want a wireless desk setup, this is not the board for you. For a reliable, zero-latency connection, wired is often best, simple as that.
Controls, Software & Daily RK ROYAL KLUDGE X108 Maintenance
A durable CNC aluminum knob sits on the board. This knob makes quick volume adjustments easy. Function (Fn) shortcuts allow control over lighting modes, brightness, speed, and multimedia functions. Customization is deep for a board in this price tier. It supports QMK/VIA, so you can remap keys, build macros, and tweak RGB lighting without needing extra software. This is great for advanced users who want fine control.
Keeping the RK ROYAL KLUDGE X108 clean is simple. A dry microfiber cloth handles most dust and smudges well. For spill resistance, you should check specific ratings. It's always best not to expose any electronics to liquids directly.
How the RK ROYAL KLUDGE X108 Compares
Against a true Classical Typewriter, the RK ROYAL KLUDGE X108 brings modern tech to a vintage look. It uses mechanical switches and RGB lighting instead of levers and ink, a clear upgrade in daily use. Compared to Standard Mechanical Keycaps, this board offers universal compatibility, letting you swap its unique round keycaps for standard ones if you want. This adds good flexibility.
Against Other typewriter-style keyboards in its budget tier ($40-$80), the RK ROYAL KLUDGE X108 feels like higher quality. The aluminum panel stands out over cheaper plastic builds. For gamers who usually buy Top gaming mechanical keyboards that are not retro-designed, this board won't likely compete in pure competitive speed or features like hot-swappable switches. But if you value uniqueness and style, the X108 is a solid choice. It's a niche product for a specific aesthetic, not a high-performance gaming beast.
What I Like & What Could Be Better
I really like the distinct retro look. The vintage steampunk design with round, metal-plated keycaps just works. The blue mechanical switches offer a satisfying, clicky sound and tactile feel that makes typing enjoyable for hours. Having per-key RGB backlighting and customizable sidelights adds a lot of personality, letting you fine-tune the look. The detachable wrist rest, though ABS plastic, does a good job for comfort during long sessions. Plug-and-play setup also means you are ready to go in seconds.
What could be better? The switches are not hot-swappable, which is a major drawback for keyboard enthusiasts. This means you are stuck with the blue switches, like it or not. While I enjoy the click, the noise can be too loud for open office settings. Some users might find the breathing rhythm light adjustments less useful than other features. The wrist rest, while ergonomic, has a plastic feel. A gel or padded rest would offer more comfort. Not great, to be honest.
Who Should Skip the RK ROYAL KLUDGE X108
You should skip the RK ROYAL KLUDGE X108 if a quiet typing experience is a must. The blue clicky switches are loud. In a shared office, they could quickly annoy coworkers. Anyone needing hot-swappable switches for different feel or maintenance should also avoid this board. It locks you into one switch type. If you prefer a compact layout, the full 108-key design will take up too much desk space. For these users, a board like the Royal Kludge RK61, a compact 60% with hot-swappable switches, might be a better fit. Also, if a modern, sleek aesthetic is your goal, the retro look of the X108 will not appeal to you.