RK ROYAL KLUDGE R98 Pro 96% wired mechanical gaming keyboard with number pad and volume knob
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Product description
The essentials
The RK ROYAL KLUDGE R98 Pro is a 96% wired mechanical keyboard built around a gamer/workday layout. By keeping a number pad and retaining the arrow keys and most core functions, it aims to save desk space without forcing you into a full compact (no-numpad) setup. It’s the sort of board that suits people who bounce between spreadsheets and games, where you still want your editing/navigation keys to be close.
On the feel side, the R98 Pro is designed with a gasket mount and includes five layers of sound-absorbing foam. That’s a clear attempt to dial in a “thocky” sound and a softer, more cushioned typing response. It’s not the only way to build a keyboard, of course, but this approach makes sense if you care about both sound and typing comfort rather than just lighting.
There’s also a fair bit of customisation baked in: hot swap support for switches, per-key RGB with more than 20 modes, and the ability to set macros and remap keys via the online RK controller for Windows and macOS. If you’re the kind of person who tinkers, this keyboard is designed to grow with you.
What to know before you buy
This is a wired mechanical keyboard with a 96% layout and a number pad, plus a detachable metal volume knob. The knob is a practical touch if you often adjust volume while gaming or in calls—rather than reaching for your mouse or audio panel.
The keycaps are PBT with an MDA profile. MDA is a style that many enthusiasts like because it can feel more “wrap-around” to the fingers than flatter profiles. The caps are described as double-shot and have a matte surface, which generally points to better wear resistance than cheaper plastics.
Switches are a big part of the buying decision here. The keyboard uses hot-swap sockets and supports 3/5-pin switches, and it comes with pre-lubed beige tactile switches. Pre-lubed switches are often chosen because they can reduce the “scratchy” or dry feel people get with very basic factory switches. Still, it’s worth noting that your final feel can depend on the switches you end up using later—so if you’re extremely picky about tactility and weight, you may still want to tweak.
One more small limitation to keep in mind: while it’s positioned for both Windows and macOS, the extent of remapping/macros and any finer points depend on what the online RK controller supports in practice for your setup.
Where it shines
The R98 Pro’s strongest pitch is the combination of layout practicality and “enthusiast-style” build choices. A gasket mount paired with multiple sound-absorbing foam layers is aimed at improving both sound character and typing feel. If you’ve used harsher, more rigid boards before, this kind of construction usually comes across as calmer and more controlled.
The included tactile experience is also clearly part of the plan: you get a custom beige tactile switch that’s pre-lubricated and designed for quick response with clear feedback. For touch typists and people who like a satisfying bump, that’s the right direction.
RGB isn’t the headline alone here, but it’s still substantial: more than 20 modes, including full colour and monocrome options, plus dynamic lighting. It’s the kind of thing that looks good without needing constant tinkering.
Tech specs
- Name: RK ROYAL KLUDGE R98 Pro Gaming Keyboard
- Type: Wired mechanical gaming keyboard
- Format: 96% layout with number pad
- Mount style: Gasket mount
- Keycap profile: MDA
- Keycap material: PBT (double-shot, matte surface)
- Switch type: Hot swap (supports 3/5-pin switches)
- Included switches: Pre-lubed tactile beige switches
- Volume control: Detachable metal CNC aluminium volume knob
- Indicators: Num Lock, Caps Lock, Win Lock, Mac mode
- Lighting: RGB with 20+ modes
- Layout: US layout
Usage tips
If you’re using it for day-to-day work, the 96% layout is a sensible compromise: number pad access helps for spreadsheets and data entry, and the included arrow/navigation area keeps you from constantly swapping layouts.
A simple practical example: during gaming or music-heavy sessions, you can adjust audio volume using the detachable knob without leaving your normal posture. For day-to-day typing, the gasket mount and foam layers are designed to make the keyboard feel less “pingy”, which tends to matter if you work in shared spaces.
If you want to personalise it, you can use the online RK controller to redefine keys and set macros, as well as configure custom RGB. That’s particularly useful if you play games that benefit from consistent key binds or if you run common shortcuts at work.
Pros
- Gasket mount with five layers of sound-absorbing foam for a “thocky”/creamy sound focus
- Hot swap support for 3/5-pin switches, with pre-lubed tactile switches included
- Practical 96% layout that keeps a number pad and arrow keys
- Detachable CNC aluminium volume knob and clear on-board indicators
- PBT double-shot keycaps in an MDA profile
- RGB with 20+ modes and online controller support for remaps/macros on Windows and macOS
When it makes sense
This keyboard is a good fit if you want a 96% wired mechanical keyboard that’s built for both gaming and desk work, and you care about more than just lighting—particularly the typing sound and feel. It suits enthusiasts who like tinkering, thanks to hot swap support, and people who appreciate the convenience of a volume knob.
It may not be a great match if you specifically prefer a smaller no-numpad layout, or if you’re only looking for a straightforward entry-level mechanical keyboard where you won’t touch switches or remapping.
Final verdict
It’s easy to see why the RK ROYAL KLUDGE R98 Pro appeals: it combines a space-saving 96% layout with a gasket-mounted, foam-damped build and tactile pre-lubed switches, plus hot swap flexibility and useful extras like the volume knob. It’s not perfect—if your tastes are extremely specific, you may eventually want to swap switches—but for many buyers this is a solid “do-it-yourself without going completely DIY” kind of keyboard.
Mini FAQ
Does it support switch swapping?
Yes. It’s hot swap, supporting 3/5-pin switches.
What keycaps does it use?
The keyboard uses PBT keycaps with an MDA profile.
Can I control macros and RGB?
Yes, via the online RK controller, with functions like key remapping, macros, and custom RGB configuration mentioned for both Windows and macOS.
What’s the purpose of the volume knob?
It’s a detachable metal CNC aluminium knob designed to adjust volume quickly.
Is it wired?
Yes, it’s a wired mechanical keyboard.