In the ever-evolving world of gaming peripherals, finding the perfect mechanical keyboard can be a daunting task. The MACHENIKE K500-B94 enters the scene with promises of precision typing, customizable RGB lighting, and a robust build. 

In this review, we'll dive a little more into the features and performance of this mechanical marvel to see if it lives up to the hype. We got this one sales from Shopee so this will only be based on our experience. You can check out Shopee and check out more reviews before your make your decision to get your very own!

Design and Build Quality:

The MACHENIKE K500-B94 immediately catches the eye with its sleek and modern design. The brushed aluminum top plate not only adds a premium touch but also ensures durability. The compact tenkeyless design is a gamer's dream, saving valuable desk space without sacrificing functionality.

The quality of the keycaps and switches are comparable with the ones which came with the RK71

The keycaps are made of double-shot ABS plastic, providing a satisfying tactile feel and ensuring longevity. The key switches themselves are customizable, we got the one with the Red Switches. Typing on the K500-B94 is a delight, with the perfect balance of actuation force and smooth linear feeling.

[Royal Kludge RK71 Mechanical Keyboard Review: Compact Elegance with Versatile Performance]

In the end, we switched out the keycaps for pudding keycaps to highlight the RGB lighting effects. Of course, they were also on sale and under SGD$25. 

Performance:

The MACHENIKE K500-B94  does not disappoint with it’s responsiveness and smooth experience on the Red switches: whether you're engaged in an intense gaming session, or typing up a lengthy document, the Red switches deliver a smooth responsive and satisfying linear experience.

Want a little light effect in your experience? Then look no further at the customizable RGB backlighting which adds a touch of personalization, along with a plethora of colors and effects to choose from. The lighting can be easily adjusted through the dedicated software, allowing you to create your own unique gaming setup. But we are happy with the default options and settings.

Functionality and Features:

The K500-B94 doesn't just stop at performance; it offers a range of features to enhance the overall user experience. There are dedicated media controls, programmable macro keys, and a Windows lock, all of which are thoughtful additions that make this keyboard versatile for both gaming and productivity.

In conclusion, the MACHENIKE K500-B94  Mechanical Keyboard is a good option for gamers and typists alike who are looking for something affordable and user friendly. Its sleek design, reliable  switches, customizable RGB lighting, and hot swappability (for both switches and keycaps) make it a standout choice in the crowded mechanical keyboard market. With a perfect balance of performance, features, and build quality, the K500-B94 is a worthy investment for those seeking a reasonably affordable and good mechanical keyboard experience.

This guide will be about sellers on Shopee selling reasonably priced and quality keycaps for Singapore buyers. The best part about Shopee is that there are vouchers which could be used to discount the final price and the best part is delivery is free (just ensure you remember to download the vouchers). 

If you are wondering what is Shopee , it’s basically a shopping platform like Amazon but with pricing closer to Temu. They have an app for Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines and Indonesia, mostly for the South East Asian countries. Besides the (probably) more affordable (cheaper) pricing, shipping is either free or less than SGD$2 (for majority of the sellers). The only downside is that you need a local number and address for each of the Shopee country app. 

So if you are not located in these countries, you'd have to use the next best shopping platform available for your country (unfortunately?).

Styles of Keycaps

• Keycap sets: Perfect if you want to change out your old keycaps or simply want to give your mechanical keyboard a new look without having to buy a new one. Any design you can think of as long as it is not the "normal" looking keycaps and comes in enough pieces to fit your keyboard. 
• Accent Pieces: Usually used on a lesser used key like "Escape" or simply a center piece(s) for your keyboard.
• Custom: Anything you can imagine is probably able to be turned into a keycap based on your imagination and vision, along with the skills of the artist.
• Resin/Blanks/Novelty - Based on the artists interpretation and inspiration they create their keycaps and you buy them if you like them from their store or google forms (via raffle sales).

These sellers from Shopee below are ones which I have bought from before and find their designs matching my aesthetics. Hence sharing them with you because sharing is caring. Do note that my sense of asthetics might differ from yours. So read on with caution. 😛

If you do find any other artisan keycap sellers with affordable prices on Shopee, let me know in the comments below!

Seller: wowking｜Life Technology Digital

Looking for adorable and good quality keycap sets for a reasonable price?  Spy x Family, Sanrio Theme or even the cute bear / cat ears keycap sets etc.. The list goes on... 

Spy x Family Design the purple number keys were a mix and match with the Kuromi set

I found this seller on Shopee and tried their keycaps. I got the Spy x Family, Pokemon and Kuromi designs and the quality is not too bad for the price.  The delivery experience was not too bad, taking about 8 days to reach me. The keycap sets survived the delivery process and came in bags.

Seller: Rabbit Keycap Shop

Cute, affordable and the best part is that it is customizable: you can choose the color of the keycaps! 

The seller is also pretty responsive to the chat and there are many options to choose from. I've bought from this seller a few times and delivery times are within 6-9 days, which can be considered pretty fast. It is also well packaged and the keycaps came in good condition each and every time. 

Seller: happykeycap89.sg

Here you can also choose your own keycap color and the type of keycap used is different too, it's XDA which give it a different feeling and profile.

Delivery time is slightly longer than the other sellers, taking about 8-12 days but each key is bubble wrapped and in a cute bag too.  Their designs are unique and adorable. Workmanship is also good.

Artisan keycaps are fascinating in many ways: they represent a fusion of artistry and functionality, adding a unique and personalized touch to mechanical keyboards. The creativity and craftsmanship involved in making artisan keycaps are impressive, with artisans often pouring their passion and skill into creating intricate designs that appeal to a wide range of enthusiasts.

One of the most appealing aspects of artisan keycaps is their ability to allow keyboard enthusiasts to express their individuality and personality. With an ever-expanding array of designs, colors, and themes, there's something for everyone, whether you're into gaming, pop culture, nature, or abstract art

Moreover, artisan keycaps contribute to a vibrant and supportive community of keyboard enthusiasts. This community-driven aspect fosters collaboration, creativity, and a sense of camaraderie among artisans and enthusiasts alike,

However, it's worth noting that artisan keycaps can sometimes be pricey due to their limited availability and handmade nature. Additionally, acquiring certain designs may require patience and persistence, as they often sell out quickly or are traded within enthusiast communities

Overall, artisan keycaps are a testament to the creativity and passion of both their creators and the enthusiasts who appreciate them. They add a touch of artistry and personality to mechanical keyboards, transforming them from mere tools into objects of admiration and self-expression.

Let's delve into the enchanting realm of artisan keycaps, where each key tells a story and adds a touch of whimsy to your mechanical keyboard adventure. Explore the artistry behind these handcrafted treasures, their limited-edition charm, and the vibrant community that brings them to life.

There are various ways which artisan keycaps are being sold:

• Promoting via Instagram and having Raffle Sales via Google Forms when a new design is out.
• Artisan's own website (in additional ot Etsy), usually a Shopify shop
• Shopee 
• Lazada

I will be consolidating a list of good quality, unique and reasonably priced artisans which I have tried, so check out the links below:

• [Keycap Series: A Shopee Guide to Affordable and Good Quality Artisan Keycaps]
• [Keycap Series: Monthly Artist Features]

Did you know that there are so many short keys which are not in the manual which comes with the RK71? 

Check the short keys before to take full advantage of your RK71!

• FN + Pause = Print Screen
• FN + Enter = Displays the level of battery 
• FN + Shift + Esc = ~
• FN +Del = scroll lock
• FN + A / FN = S = Switch to Windows-/Mac-mode  

The known short keys:

• FN + F1 = My Computer
• FN + F2 = Opens Windows Explorer

Have you gotten your copy of Pokemon Scarlet or Violet yet? If not, do check out the link below to get your copy to start your adventure! 

[S$64.00](▼20%)[Nintendo] Nintendo Switch Pokemon Scarlet/Pokemon Violet (Physical Copy) (Region May Vary)

WWW.SHOPEE.COM

You might be wondering what are Mystery Gifts? Well, they are basically Poké freebies (for perpetually almost forever) and who doesn't love freebies? 😁 

They did it with the other Pokemon games such as Sword and Shield, Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl, and The Legend of Arceus. Since Pokemon Scarlet and Violet are ones I started really paying attention to, I'll be having a handy list of the here. 

So check out this page for the latest code for few Mystery Gifts! 

Below is a full list of the Mystery Gift codes you can currently redeem in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.

SEEY0U1NPALDEAChipper GimmighoulNovember 30, 2024SH1NYBUDDYShiny LucarioJanuary 3, 2024No code – Get via InternetMaster BallJanuary 3, 2024TEAMSTARFighting Tera Type RevavroomOctober 31, 2024L1KEAFLUTECetitanAugust 31, 2024SWEET0RSP1CYSweet Herb Mystica or Spice Herb MysticaSeptember 30, 2024

1. SUPEREFFECT1VE - Expert Belt Expires 28 February , 2025
2. G0TCHAP0KEM0N - 30 Quick Balls Expires 28 February, 2025
3. SH1NYBUDDY -  Shiny Lucario Expires 03 January, 2024
4. No code – Get via Internet - Master Ball  Expires 03 January 3, 2024
5. No code – Get via Internet - 10 TM223 (Metal Sound)  Expires Mid-January, 2024
6. L1KEAFLUTE - Cetitan  Expires 31 August, 2024
7. SWEET0RSP1CY - Sweet Herb Mystica or Spice Herb Mystica  Expires 30 September, 2024
8. TEAMSTAR - Fighting Tera Type Revavroom  Expires 31 October, 2024
9. WEARTERASTALCAP - Sporty Cap  Expires 30 November, 2024
10. SEEY0U1NPALDEA - Chipper Gimmighoul  Expires 30 November, 2024
11. THA12022CHAMP - Shiny Grimmsnarl 18 Aug 23
12. DARKTERA0006 - Dark Tera Type Charizard 31 Aug 23
13. GETY0URMEW - Free Mew 08 Sept 23
14. NATSUN0T0KKUN - Sandwich Ingredients 30 Sep 23
15. LEVELUP -10 Rare Candy Expires 02 Oct 23
16. REV1VE -5 Max Revive Expires  02 Oct 23
17. CATCHBYBALL -5 Dive, Dusk, Luxury, Nest, Quick and Timer Balls Expires  02 Oct 23
18. ENJOYBATTLE -TM082 Thunder - Wave and TM087 - Taunt Expires 30 Apr 23
19. ROCKANDBATON -TM116 Stealth Rock and TM132 Baton Pass Expires 07 May 23
20. LETSTERA - TM171 — Tera Blast Expires 31 Mar 23
21. HAPPYVALENT1NE - Destiny Knot Expires 14 Mar 23 
22. L0VEL0VEL0VE - 2x Love Balls Expires 14 Mar 23 
23. T0KUSE1STUDY - Ability Capsule Expires 28 Feb 23
24. No Code (under "Get via Internet") - Pikachu (Tera Type: Flying) Expires 28 Feb 23
25. HAJ1ME0R1G1NAL - Sandwich Ingredients 10X: Peanut Butter, Prosciutto, Hamburger, Cream Cheese, Noodles, Rice Expires 31 Jan 23
26. READY4RA1D - 20,000 League Points Expires 31 Jan 23
27. HAPPYH0L1DAYS - 50 Ice Tera Shards Expires 25 Dec 22
28. SALTV1NEGAR - Random assortment of sandwich ingredients Expires 18 Dec 22
29. PEANUTBUTTER - Random assortment of sandwich ingredients Expires 18 Dec 22
30. LETTUCEBAC0N - Random assortment of sandwich ingredients Expires 18 Dec 22
31. T0MAT0SL1CE -  Random assortment of sandwich ingredients Expires 18 Dec 22

How do you redeem Mystery Gift codes?

To redeem the above codes, simply follow these instructions:

1. Open the main menu in your copy of Pokémon Scarlet or Violet
2. Select 'Poké Portal', then 'Mystery Gift'
3. Select 'Get with Code/Password' and input the code to claim your free gift

[S$59.50} Nintendo Switch Pokemon Games Collection (Arceus / Sword / Shield / Diamond / Pikachu / Eevee)

WWW.SHOPEE.SG

If you are new to the world of mechanical keyboards, they are both a functional necessity and a symbol of personal expression. We will be exploring the basics of mechanical keyboards, the benefits they offer, and how to choose the perfect one for your typing needs. 

Understanding the Basics: What Sets Mechanical Keyboards Apart?

Unlike their membrane counterparts, which you can find to be the standard on laptops, mechanical keyboards rely on individual mechanical switches beneath each key. 

These switches are comprised of several moving parts, including a hard plastic "stem" containing two metal contacts and a spring underneath. When a key is pressed, the stem pushes the contacts together, registering a keystroke. The tactile and audible feedback from these switches provides a satisfying typing experience that many users find addictive.

Benefits of Mechanical Keyboards:

1. Durability: Mechanical keyboards are built to last. With individual switches rated for tens of millions of keystrokes, they outshine membrane keyboards in terms of longevity.
2. Customization: Mechanical keyboards come in a variety of switch types, each with its unique feel. Whether you prefer a linear, tactile, or clicky switch, there's a mechanical keyboard out there for you. This level of customization extends to keycaps and backlighting options, allowing you to personalize your typing experience.
3. Typing Speed and Accuracy: The distinct tactile feedback of mechanical switches often results in improved typing speed and accuracy. Many users find that they make fewer errors and experience less finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
4. N-Key Rollover and Anti-Ghosting: Mechanical keyboards often feature advanced functionalities like N-Key Rollover and Anti-Ghosting, ensuring that every keypress is registered, even during complex key combinations. This can be a game-changer for gamers and fast typists.

Choosing the Right Mechanical Keyboard:

Making the Leap: Choosing Your First Mechanical Keyboard

Mechanical keyboards are a playground for customization enthusiasts. The keycaps, the physical pieces you press, come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, allowing users to create a keyboard that not only feels great but also looks stunning. Backlit keys add another layer of personalization, with RGB lighting options that can be customized to match your mood or your gaming setup.

If you're ready to dive into the world of mechanical keyboards, start by considering your typing preferences. Do you prefer a clicky, tactile feel, or a smooth, linear experience? Are you interested in customizable keycaps or vibrant RGB lighting? With a plethora of options on the market, finding the perfect mechanical keyboard is an exciting endeavor.

As you embark on your journey into the world of mechanical keyboards, keep in mind that finding the perfect one is a personal quest. With benefits like durability, customization, and improved typing performance, a mechanical keyboard can elevate your computing experience to new heights. Explore the diverse options available, consider your preferences, and get ready to unlock the full potential of your typing endeavors with a mechanical keyboard by your side. Happy typing!

Check out this really useful video Guide to Mechanical Keyboards for Beginners!

Source: Nintendo

Sometime back I reviewed Nintendo Switch Sports Volleyball and Badminton, and this time I am back with Chambara. I thought Volleyball and Badminton gave a workout for the arms, but Chambara  actually overtakes Volleyball  and Badminton: the speed and arm movements for Chambara are definitely more intense (particularly if you opt for the Twin Swords 😅)!

[Nintendo Switch Sports Volleyball and Badminton First Thoughts Review]

So what is Chambara?

Source: Nintendo

It's basically sword fighting, and is one of six sports in Nintendo Switch Sports. It requires a single Joy-Con, but can be played with two, and allows up to two people to play at a time.

What are the rules?

To win, within the time limit (45 seconds) you have to knock your opponent off the platform and into the water using the arm movements Attack and Guard. If no one is knocked off within the time limit, it becomes a draw. If no winner is decided after three rounds, there's a Final Round in which the arena shrinks.

What are the basic moves?

Attack: Slash the Joy-Con as if it were a sword. The direction of your attacks greatly matters. If your opponent is guarding vertically, you should attack vertically, and so on, or they will block you.

Source: Nintendo

Guard: Hold the ZR(or ZL) button to Guard. Aim perpendicularly to the incoming attacks to stun your opponent.

Source: Nintendo

What types of weapons?

Source: Nintendo

There are 3 types of swords to choose from:

1. Sword: has an edge with the simplest mechanics. It can knock an opponent off the platform in just 4 attacks.
2. Charge Sword: f you're adept at blocking at the perfect time, the Charge Sword could be a better fit for you.
3. Twin Swords: it has the ability to easily confuse the opponent, since you can switch stances and guards very quickly. It can knock an opponent off the platform in 6 attacks.

Some Tips:

What is Nintendo Switch Online?  

More information on the Nintendo Site

Individual Membership

What is it: Provides Nintendo Switch Online service to the Nintendo Account that purchased the service. Individual Memberships are available in 1 month, 3-month, or 1-year increments. An individual Nintendo Switch Online membership costs USD$19.99 a year, while the expansion pack would cost USD$50 per year.

Who is it for: If you just want the basic cloud save, being able to play online and access to the usual offerings an online subscription has to offer, then opting for the normal individual plan would be sufficient. If you want to have more with the additional access and content the expansion pack has to offer, go for it! 

However, if you have a big family, or a group of friends, it might be more economical to get the family membership instead.The point of a family group is to bring together everyone's Nintendo Account under one subscription.  The family membership for Nintendo Switch Online can have up to 8 people on one plan. The more people you get to join in on this plan, the more money you save. 

Family Membership

What is it: the Nintendo Switch Online service to everyone in the purchaser’s family group (up to 8 people). Family memberships are available in 12-month increments only. The normal Nintendo Switch Family Online membership costs USD$35 a year, while the expansion pack would cost USD$80 per year.

Who is it for: If you want to get the membership at a slightly cheaper price and save some money, that and / or you have a big family or group of friends. 

How: All accounts must be part of a “family group”. It doesn't matter if they are used on a single Nintendo Switch console (with multiple Nintendo profiles / accounts) or on multiple Nintendo Switch devices with their respective Nintendo Accounts.

The family membership utilises family groups, so each account can be assigned a different role, with set permissions:

Personally, I prefer a mix of digital and physical because it just makes sense. This is especially the case for:

•  digital games which go on sale on the Nintendo e-Shop and are way cheaper than the physical copy (sometimes up to a 50% discount or more!)
• physical games which come with special bonuses, make for a good collection or if I don't like it, I can resell it away to fund my other games

Depending on what you want both digital and physical games have their pros and cons. But in a nutshell, if you want easier access to games on the go without having to constantly take out game cartridges each time you want to play a different game, then investing in a in a large-capacity microSD card and getting games digitally would be the choice for you. However, if you prefer owning the game cartridges and have your own little collection which you can trade or resell to fund future games, then physical game cartridges with a little investment on a  invested a smaller microSD card and a carrying case for the cartridges.

Note: The Nintendo Switch and Switch Lite have 32GB of internal storage, while the Switch OLED offers 64GB. When you download a game from the eShop, it will occupy some of that storage space. You can expand the Switch's storage through microSD cards up to 2TB (which is more than enough for plenty of Switch games), but that's an additional expense.

Personally, I prefer a mix of digital and physical because it just makes sense. This is especially the case for:

•  digital games which go on sale on the Nintendo e-Shop and are way cheaper than the physical copy (sometimes up to a 50% discount or more!)
• physical games which come with special bonuses, make for a good collection or if I don't like it, I can resell it away to fund my other games

Pros 

Welcome to my little guide on Toki Tori 2+

Basics

Melodies

Here are the melodies you can use in the game:

• Finder (LSSS): This points towards any collectibles on the screen. If none appear, then you got them all in that screen!
• Camera (LSLS): This summons a camera which you use to take pictures of animals and things which are then added to your Tokidex. Complete it, and something good will happen!
• Map (LLSSLL): This brings up the world map and it comes in handy when you need to orientate your sense of direction.
• Eagle (SSLSSL): This melody allows you to fast travel. It is only usable at a checkpoint. However, you can only land at obelisks.
• Rewind (SSLL): This is the "Restart Checkpoint" option. Anything you did between that point and the last checkpoint will NOT be saved. You'd have to re-do it all over again. So this should be your very last resort!     

Walkthrough Gameplay

So, you’ve got your Nintendo Switch and are excited to start your gaming adventure, what next? 

To get a Nintendo Account so you can start buying digital games, and playing online of course!

[S$528.90](▼12%)Nintendo Switch Oled Console - Pokemon Scarlet Violet Edition

WWW.QOO10.SG

Here’s a compiled guide for questions you might have, and I hope it helps you out.

1. Console Region
2. Account Region
3. Game Region (Physical Game Cartridges)
4. Buying Games Digitally from the e-Shop
5. Digital Games vs Phyical Game Cartridges
6. Nintendo Switch Digital Games vs Physical Games OnePager
7. Online Subscription Individual vs Family

 

Understanding how to navigate the Nintendo Switch Console’s and Account region settings might take some time to understand and get used to, especially if your country is not on Nintendo’s list of supported Regions. But once you get the hang of it, you’ll be identifying and buying games like a pro in no time!

[S$431.00](▼10%)[Nintendo]Nintendo Switch OLED Console (White/Neon) Bundle/Standalone - 1 Year Local Warranty (Ready Stock)

>WWW.QOO10.SG

Was this guide useful for you? Let us know in the comments below! 

~Comments, shares and follows are most definitely appreciated! 💬💞

Besides buying physical game carts, if you want it digital and possibly cheaper (during sales), you should get your digital games directly from the Nintendo e-Shop.  The region which you set in your Nintendo Account is the e-Shop which you have access to. 

[More about Nintendo Account Region]

How to buy games from the US e-Shop