Monday, August 19, 2024

Review of the CIDOO Nebula Mechanical Keyboard (Barebones Kit)



The CIDOO Nebula mechanical keyboard is designed with both aesthetics and functionality in mind. It is ideal for gamers, and anyone who values good typing experience. In this review, we'll dive into the features, design, and performance of the CIDOO Nebula, and help you decide if it's the right keyboard for you.

I managed to get it during the Lazada sales (as usual) for about S$77 (US$58), inclusive of shipping. Of course if you have vouchers or have a preference for Shopee, it is also available there for about S$80-180 (US$60-140), depending if it is for a barebones or full kit with switches and keycaps.  

The CIDOO Nebula usually ranges between US$54.99 (for barebones) to US$85.99 (for the full kit with switches and keycaps), shipping not yet included. If you are not in Singapore (or South East Asia), you can get it from the Epomaker online store. You should also be able to find on Amazon or AliExpress as well. So plenty of options to get this cute little pink board (there's also a white and blue version).

Do note that I bought the Pink barebones, which does not come with switches or keycaps.


Design and Build Quality of the CIDOO Nebula

The CIDOO Nebula stands out with its sleek, modern design. The keyboard is gasket-mounted and  balances aesthetics and utility, catering to the needs of both Windows and Mac users. 

One of the key advantages of the CIDOO Nebula is its compact space-saving 65% layout, which saves space on your desk without sacrificing essential functionality. The keys are intuitively placed, making it easy to transition from a full-sized keyboard or another compact model.

This design minimizes typing fatigue, and delivers a softer and more cushioned bottom-out experience while effectively dampening sound for a quieter typing environment.

It is VIA programmable which is good since you do not need to download and install any software per se. It's a great option if you want to reconfigure keys, craft macros, select diverse RGB lighting patterns, and even redefine the knob's functions... you just need to know what you are doing, or you could just use the default which is what I did. 😄

Want to connect via Bluetooth, USB C cable or 24.GHZ dongle? This keyboard has got you covered with it's tri-mode connectivity options. It is also hot swappable with 3/5 pin mechanical switches. 

The rgb lights are South facing, and you  can choose from a range of colors and patterns to create the perfect ambiance! 



The Unboxing




The Build

As mentioned at the start of this post, I bought the barebones version, so I had to put in my own switches and keycaps. For the switches, I chose Zuoce Bubble Gum Linear Switch.

If you are interested, you can get the Bubblegum switches from AliExpress

Zuoce Bubble Gum Switch 

  • SPECLinear Switch
  • POM+SL stem
  • Modified POM top housing
  • Nylong bottom housing
  • 22mm 2-stage spring
  • Operating force 37+/-5gf
  • Bottom force 45+/-5gf
  • Pre-travel 1.8+/-0.4mm
  • Total Travel 3.5+/-0.3mm

Pastel Chaos Keycaps

For the keycaps, I am fortunate to get my hands on Pastel Chaos keycaps by my friend, Mari. Her collaboration with Goblin TechKeys has produced a unique aesthetic that combines a soothing color palette with a touch of chaos, making each keycap set visually intriguing just like a pretty chaos.


They are such perfect match, don't you think? 😍
Pastel Chaos on the outside and underneath bubblegum goodness!

The Pastel Chaos  keycaps are Cherry Profile which makes them comfortable for typing. They are made out of PBT which is resistant to wear and fading, providing a long-lasting and vibrant typing experience. If you are interested the keycaps or even a whole mechanical keyboard with switches and keycaps, don't forget to check out Mari's Pastel Chaos and use the code "MARI" to get 10% off! 



CIDOO Nebula Performance and Typing Experience

Whether you prefer linear, tactile, or clicky switches, the Nebula has you covered. Each switch type offers a unique feel and sound, allowing you to choose the one that best matches your typing style.

A standout feature of the CIDOO Nebula is its hot-swappable switches. This feature allows you to change the switches without any soldering, giving you the flexibility to customize your keyboard to your liking. Whether you're an enthusiast who enjoys experimenting with different switch types or someone looking for a personalized typing experience, this feature adds significant value.


Sound Test Video

With the Pastel Chaos keycaps and linear bubble gum switches, don't they sound like smooth marbles rolling off the floor with deep and creamy sound to it? 

With exception of the spacebar, the whole keyboard sounds like creamy happy marbles rolling away. It turns out the stabilizers are a bit wonky so I might attempt to mod it.





Stunning RGB Lighting

True to its name, the CIDOO Nebula comes equipped with stunning RGB lighting. The keyboard features customizable per-key RGB backlighting, allowing you to create a unique lighting setup that reflects your personality or matches your gaming rig. The lighting effects are vibrant and smooth, adding a dynamic touch to your workspace.



Is the CIDOO Nebula Worth It?

The CIDOO Nebula mechanical keyboard is an excellent choice for anyone looking for something affordable and having performance with style. The barebones kit I purchased came with a silicone wrist rest which I think is a bonus and a nice touch. 

With colors to choose from (blue, pink, white) and being hot-swappable (for both switches and keycaps), along with customizable RGB lighting, the CIDOO Nebula is a keyboard that can adapt to your needs and preferences. Whether you're working, gaming, or both, the CIDOO Nebula is a reliable and stylish companion. It also makes a good first mechanical keyboard if you are new to this. There is the option which comes with the switches and keycaps so you can slowly ease your way into this hobby and discover a whole new world of mechanical keyboards, switches and keycaps (don't get me started on artisan keycaps 😂). 





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