RK ROYAL KLUDGE L98 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard with Left-Side Numpad

At 40.6 x 14.5 x 4.3 cm, the RK ROYAL KLUDGE L98 is a 98-key mechanical keyboard with a left-side number pad. Its sage blue finish and southpaw layout give it a distinct place on a desk.

It connects by Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4 GHz wireless or USB-C, and supports multi-device connectivity. That mix suits a setup where you switch between a laptop, PC or tablet, or prefer a wired connection at certain times.

The layout is designed with left-handed users in mind, but the numpad placement may also appeal if you want more room on the right for mouse movement. What does that change during a work session? It puts number entry and mouse use on opposite sides of the keyboard.

Practical tips

Think about where you use the mouse before choosing this layout. With the number pad on the left, the right side of the keyboard is less occupied, which may be useful for gaming or desk work involving both mouse movement and frequent number entry. If you are used to a conventional right-side numpad, the arrangement will feel different at first.

The L98 offers three connection modes: Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4 GHz wireless and USB-C wired. It is listed as compatible with laptops, PCs and tablets. RGB backlighting is included, and the keyboard has a volume knob and programmable keys. The product information describes the knob as a volume control, buyers report mixed experiences with adjusting its function, so avoid assuming it can be freely reassigned.

Why it’s worth it

The gasket-mounted construction, PBT keycaps and five internal sound-dampening layers are aimed at a cushioned typing feel with less hollow case noise. The lighting is south-facing RGB. For someone comparing a basic mechanical keyboard with a more customizable build, the L98 adds hot-swappable switch support for both 3-pin and 5-pin switches. This gives you the option to change compatible switches without soldering, the listed switch choices include linear, tactile and silent types.

Buyer feedback is positive about the sound, appearance and overall build, with some describing a deeper typing tone. Experiences with adjustability and functionality are mixed: some appreciate the hot-swap design, while others find controls less straightforward or report operational issues. These are individual impressions, not a guarantee of how a particular unit will perform.

Key takeaways

The L98’s main distinction is its left-hand numpad, paired with wireless and wired connections. That layout can help keep the mouse area clear while leaving number entry close at hand. A gasket structure, PBT keycaps, RGB lighting and hot-swappable switches add further choice for people who care about feel and customization.

You’ll like it if you want a mechanical keyboard with a southpaw layout and more than one way to connect. Not the best choice if you specifically need a conventional right-side number pad. The product name calls it a 95% keyboard, while its feature description also refers to a 98-key, 90% format, the layout and dimensions are clearer points of reference than those differing format labels.

Questions before you buy

Which devices can it connect to? The listed compatible devices are laptops, PCs and tablets. You can connect over Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4 GHz wireless or USB-C, with multi-device connectivity noted in the product details.

Can I change the switches? The hot-swappable PCB supports compatible 3-pin and 5-pin switches. The listed options include RK linear cream, tactile beige and silent switches, the details do not establish which switch type is supplied with every variant.

Will it work with a console? The manufacturer says some games on PS4, PS5 and Xbox can work in wired mode. It also states that Bluetooth connection is not supported for Xbox One, PS4 or PS5.

When it makes sense

Choose the RK ROYAL KLUDGE L98 if a left-side numpad fits the way you work or play, and you value connection choices plus the ability to change compatible switches. Its layout is the deciding factor: if you prefer the familiar number pad on the right, a conventional keyboard will be a more natural fit.