For mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of customizing your own setup. From selecting the perfect switches to finding the right keycaps and right board to fit it all - the process can be deeply satisfying. There are many options online, but if you are in Singapore and want to head down to try out the different types of switches on mechanical keyboards, then PantheonKeys would be one of the places you could check out.

About PantheonKeys

PantheonKeys was founded on December 2019 in Singapore and aims to offer premium-quality keyboard components at accessible prices. It has since established itself as a go-to brand for anyone looking to build or customize their own keyboards​. 

Based out of Ubi Techpark in Singapore, PantheonKeys caters to a local and global market, shipping products internationally as well. 

So if you want to have a physical experience of trying out mechanical keyboard and switches you can head down to their office in Ubi to have a personal experience. Besides mechanical keyboards, switches, keycaps and accessories (e.g. deskmats and mice), PantheonKeys also provides services such as soldering and desoldering, lubing and building services. The reviews on Google seem quite good and I might go down one day to experience it all! 

Online Presence

For those of us who are homebodies or live outside of Singapore, PantheonKeys does have an online presence where you can check out their latest offering.

They have their own online store, as well as a presence on both Lazada and Shopee. Do note that not all products are available on Lazada and Shopee, but it is more worth it if you are able to use the vouchers and during the sales period. 

If you are not able to find the product on Lazada and Shopee, chances are you would find it only on their online store. The online store also offers promo codes, updates, and a user-friendly shopping experience​. So make sure to sign up for their newsletter or follow their social media.

Whether you're a beginner looking to build your first custom keyboard or a seasoned enthusiast chasing that perfect keystroke feel, PantheonKeys has something for you.

PantheonKeys Products (Switches)

PantheonKeys is not just another mechanical keyboard store. The company regularly experiments with materials and designs. 

Pantheon Purity Tactile Switch

A great example is the currently out of stock Pantheon Purity Tactile Switches, which features a full PBT housing—a rare choice in the world of switches. PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate) is known for its durability and "thocky" sound profile, making it a favorite among enthusiasts who prefer deeper, richer keystrokes​.

"This Switch Is Called" Linear Switches

If you prefer a more soft, "thocky" sound without the sharp click or tactile bump, they also have their Pantheon "This Switch Is Called" Linear Switches, which is in stock. With additional modding options like Krytox lubrication and TX films, users can achieve an even quieter and more stable sound profile​.

PantheonKeys also offers optional switch modding services, allowing you to have the switches hand-lubricated with Krytox 205g0 or Tribosys 3203 and the springs treated with Krytox 105 to minimize spring ping. Clear TX films are also added to reduce wobble and stabilize the typing feel. This customization allows you to tailor the switches to your exact preferences for a better overall experience​. Of course, if you prefer stock it is also available.

Final Thoughts

While PantheonKeys operates from Singapore, it serves a global community of keyboard enthusiasts.  The company is more than just a mechanical keyboard vendor—it's a community-driven brand that is passionate about helping people build the perfect keyboard. Whether you're after a smooth typing experience, a thocky sound profile, or simply want to personalize your desk setup, PantheonKeys offers everything you need to build a mechanical keyboard that reflects your style.

If you haven’t checked them out yet, head over to their site, and explore what they have to offer. You just might find that elusive switch or keycap set that transforms your typing experience. You can also follow their social media accounts:

• Discord
• Facebook
• Instagram
• Youtube

Are you planning on trying out or have you gotten any of PantheonKeys’ products? Let me know in the comments below!

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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. 

I used the Maono WM620 to capture the asmr do this keeb sound check and I am pretty happy with the results.  There’s still other settings to explore and try but it is easy to use and the sound captured is quite good too.  With exception of the spacebar, don't you think 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.

AnyKey aka any____key makes their adorable iterations of their Bear character called Dori available through Raffle Sales (with Google Forms) which are announced on their Instagram and discord server. I first came across their adorable Dori creations on Instagram and was immediately smitten with their beary cute designs! 

[Keycap Series: August Artist Featuring AnyKey aka any____key]

[Keycap Series: All Doris I have gotten from Anykey]

Anykey announces the latest sales and updates to shipping, as well as posts about past creations on their Instagram and their Discord, so do check them out!

One thing to note is that shipping of the adorable Dori creations take about a month or so to be made and then shipped out.

The invoice for Hibernation Dori was USD$50, including shipping. I paid S$70.60 via PayPal (no thanks to currency conversation😂).

Isn't Hibernation Dori  simply adorable and sleepy? The perfect kind of relaxed artisan bear keycap!

Anykey announces the latest sales and updates to shipping, as well as posts about past creations on their Instagram and their Discord, so do check them out!

One thing to note is that shipping of the adorable Dori creations take about a month or so to be made and then shipped out.

Artist Info

In the world of mechanical keyboards, finding the perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality can be a challenge. The SK82 mechanical keyboard manages to strike that balance with its compact design and feature-rich capabilities; all for a reasonable price. I see it currently going for less than US$60-45 on AliExpress, and if you are a first time purchase it is US$24 (while the offer is availed). It really is a good price considering that it is hotswappable and tri-mode (wired, bluetooth and 2.4ghz). Of course the wired version would cost a little lesser.

Always on the lookout for a good deal, I manged to get it for S$29.90 (about US$23) on Lazada when there was a promotion. The last I checked, it averages around S$40-55 for the wired / wireless version. It supposedly usually ranges from S$100-120, which still a pretty good price if you can get it for under that amount.

Unboxing and First Glance Review

Here’s an in-depth look at what makes the SK82 (based on my personal observations and preferences):
 

Design and Build Quality

 The SK82 sports a 75% layout, which is a sweet spot for many users. It offers a compact form factor while retaining essential keys such as the function row and arrow keys. The keyboard's case quality is pretty impressive with relatively high-quality plastic. 

Being made out of mostly plastic, it is relatively light and something those new into the hobby can probably warm up to a littler faster than an aluminum board. The design is sleek and modern, and available in two cute designs:

1. Blue - has a cute little ghost detail on the knob and on the side of the keyboard.
   
2. Pink- has an adorable little paw print on the side of the keyboard with a matching pink simply knob.
   

One notable design feature is the multi-functional knob located at the top right of the keyboard. This knob can be used for various tasks such as adjusting volume, controlling media playback, or even customizing functions through software. It’s a thoughtful addition that enhances usability, making the SK82 not just a keyboard but a versatile tool for your desk setup.

Switches and Typing Experience

Being hotswappable, the SK82 is compatible with various mechanical switches, including popular options like Cherry MX, Gateron, and others. This allows users to choose the switch type that best suits their typing or gaming preferences. Whether you prefer a tactile bump, a clicky response, or a smooth keystroke, the SK82 provides a satisfying typing experience with its high-quality switches.

My version came with the tactile brown switches and they are pretty nice and bouncy/snappy (if it could be described that way). The quality of the stock keycaps and brown switches are good for those who are just exploring the world of mechanical keyboards.  If you enjoy a little bit more rebound "bounciness" of brown switches then it might be your choice, otherwise choose the linear switch for a more smooth experience.

One thing you might want to note is that you can only use switches with 3 pins, 5 pins won't fit.

Sound Test

I found the brown switches a bit stiff (which some lubing might solve the issue), but I might  be swapping out the switches and keycaps later on (since that's what this hobby is all about - customization).  😀

Backlighting and Customization

The SK82 doesn’t skimp on lighting. It offers a choice of 20 customizable RGB backlighting options, which can be adjusted to suit your mood or match your setup. 

Connectivity and Additional Features

One of the key highlights of the SK82 is its connectivity options. It’s available in both wired and wireless versions, with Bluetooth connectivity being a notable feature. This flexibility makes the SK82 suitable for a variety of setups, whether you prefer a wired connection for gaming or a wireless option for a cleaner desk setup.

I usually go for tri-mode for more flexibility, so this would have been my dream first mechanical keyboard for the price if I had met it first and not the RK71. But it does not matter, as this is really a cute and pretty good budget (budget) mechanical keyboard for sure.

Additionally, (and as mentioned previously) the SK82 comes with hotswappable switches, a feature that allows users to change out switches without soldering. This is perfect for those who enjoy experimenting with different switch types or need to replace a switch due to wear and tear.  Also can we just take some time to admire that cute little knob and little paw print on the side? 

Price and Value

The average price of the SK82 mechanical keyboard typically ranges from US$60-45 on AliExpress, depending on the specific model and features (e.g. wired or wireless). This price point places it in the lower-mid range for mechanical keyboards, reflecting its build quality, features, and versatility.

If you are in Singapore or South East Asia, you could also check out Lazada  The last I checked, it averages around S$40-55 for the wired / wireless version. It supposedly usually ranges from S$100-120, which still a pretty good price if you can get it for under that amount.

💖 Loves

• Budget friendly.
• Cute design.
• RGB options.
• Knob.
• Hotswappable: you can change the switches and keycaps according to your preference.
• Tri-mode (2.4ghz, Bluetooth and wired).
• Comes with some extra Brown tactile switches.

💔 Not so much

• Materials used reflects the price point, but it is pretty good for those wanting to try a mechanical keyboard.
• While it is hotswappable, you are limited to only 3pin switches. Of course you could ruin perfectly good 5pin switches but I don't think it's work it. 

Overall, the SK82 mechanical keyboard is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a compact, feature-packed keyboard at a budget friendly price. Its blend of quality build, rgb lighting options, versatile connectivity, and additional features like the multi-functional knob make it a valuable addition to any setup. Whether you’re a gamer, a writer, or someone who just loves a good mechanical keyboard at a good price, the SK82 offers an impressive combination of style and functionality that’s hard to beat.

Get from Lazada

Get from AliExpress

Have you gotten the SK82 yet, or are you planning on getting it? Let me know in the comments below on your thoughts on it!

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Enjoying art and fun shouldn't come with a hefty price tag; it can be both high-quality and affordable.

Welcome to this monthly new series where I will be spotlighting talented keycap artists whose work I have come across and purchased from them as I love their designs. With reasonable pricing and shipping options that have proven worthwhile to me, here I am sharing them with you. Whether you're in search of intricacy, uniqueness, or affordability in artisan keycaps, I hope you find inspiration and the opportunity to support these creators.

Getting into the hobby and into the rabbit hole of artisan keycaps can be a bit overwhelming for the pocket as one artisan keycap can cost as much as a whole set, with some costing more than S$80 (not including shipping fees yet). And let's not get started on shipping... If you are in Singapore or South East Asia, sometimes shipping from overseas sellers are more than S$20-40+!😵

[Beginner's Guide to Artisan Keycaps: Everything You Need to Know]

Hopefully this list helps you as it did me (especially if you are from South East Asia) and support the lovely artists who are doing a wonderful job, and making it a little bit more easier for you and your wallet in personalizing your mechanical keyboard!

I bought the CIDOO Nebula mechanical keyboard barebones kit some time back and here is the unboxing video. 

If you are interested in the full (and longer details), do check out the post below for a more detailed review.

[Review of the CIDOO Nebula Mechanical Keyboard (Barebones Kit)]

The box is really cute and I was pleasantly surprised to see that a cute wrist rest was included, along with other goodies like stickers, and a little panda keychain were included. It also included the usb cable wire, manual and keycap/switch puller. Do note that I bought the barebones kit, so that meant I had to put my own switches and keycaps. The full keeb version with switches and keycaps is always available. 

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).

Pastel Chaos Keycaps

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! 

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

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

Overall, I am happy with my build: the Bubble Gum Linear switches are a delight to look at, and together with the Pastel Chaos keycaps, they are a match in heaven. 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.

Have you gotten the Cidoo Nebula?  Let me know in the comments below which one did you get (barebones or full kit with switches and keycaps) and what are your thoughts on it.

Introducing the artist for August… AnyKey aka any____key! 

I found them on Instagram and they have their own discord server (for those who have the time and energy for yet another app 😂). They are relatively new to the scene, being online since 2023 and having their Instagram account in August 2023.

Unlike the other artists who have their own Esty and/or online shop, AnyKey makes their adorable iterations of their Bear character called Dori available through Raffle Sales (with Google Forms) which are announced on their Instagram and discord server.  Apparently for each run there are only about 15 pieces (limited run), but fret not as there are about 3-5 runs per month of this adorable little bear. 

Despite its “exclusivity”, the pricing for Dori is reasonable at USD$35 (about S$50), and shipping USD$15 (about S$20) to Singapore. Considering it is coming from South Korea, with such adorable variations of Dori the bear, it's quite a friendly pricing (including shipping). 😆

Aren’t these snapshots of Dori in some of the iterations simply too adorable to resist?

I wished I had made it for the Raffle Sales for the HBD Dori, but the Lime Boom! Dori caught my eye and so I entered the Raffle Sales seeing if I would be able to get it... and I did! It was a pleasant surprise to be able to “win” my first Raffle Sales. The invoice for Lime Boom! Dori was USD$50, including shipping. I paid S$70.99 via PayPal (no thanks to currency conversation😂).

That said I did fall in love with Hibernation Dori, another of AnyKey Dori creations. It will get its own post since it is so adorable. So stay tuned for that post!

Ok back to Lime Boom! Dori ... He arrived in a nice little a metal casing with AnyKey's logo, along with his own certificate!

Check out the unboxing video below:

Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts are always on the hunt for the perfect blend of aesthetics, performance, and affordability. The Rainy75 mechanical keyboard by Wobkey is making waves for hitting that sweet spot. 

I had seen the keeb being shown on Instagram and got so curious that I got one myself when it was on sale from Lazada. It averages for about S$139 - 179,  depending on the version you are getting (e.g. with or without RGB, textured or non-textured plate etc.). It is available at Shopee for about the same price, from the same seller who has a presence on Lazada as well. Since I had vouchers for Lazada, I got it there instead for S$162 (shipping was "free") for a Yellow color Pro version. 😁

Of course not all the colors were available, pink for example was out of stock on both Lazada and Shopee, but Amazon has the pink variant for about S$222 (US$170). If you are interested in getting the a Rainy75 and have no access to Shopee, depending on the version you can get it from Amazon from about US$159, or from AliExpress. 

Ok, now that we have had an introduction to this cute keeb, let’s dive into what makes the Rainy75 stand out, explore its features, and detail the various models available.

About Wobkey (the company)

Established in 2023, Wobkey is a relatively new entrant in the mechanical keyboard industry. Despite its recent inception, the company has quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality, customizable mechanical keyboards at competitive prices. Their commitment to innovation and user experience is evident in their flagship product, the Rainy75.

Of course everything is not too smooth sailing for the company with some buyers complaining of shipping delays or quality issues. However, a quick google online and it seems most of the issues seem to be from the kickstarter for pre-orders or the company's online store / website.  There seems to be lesser issues if you get it from a vendor or platforms such as Amazon, Lazada, Shopee or Drop. 

Now that we know a little more about the company behind this keeb, let's take a look at the actual product itself. 

Key Features of the Rainy75

The Rainy75 is designed with a focus on premium build quality and user-friendly features:

1. Build Quality: The Rainy75 boasts a full aluminum case, providing both durability and a premium feel. The construction ensures longevity and a solid typing experience.
2. Switches: The keyboard is equipped with either HMX Violet switches or JWICK WOB switches, depending on the model. These switches are known for their smoothness and reliability, catering to both typists and gamers.
3. Connectivity: The Rainy75 supports tri-mode connectivity, including 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth 5.0, and wired USB options. This versatility makes it easy to switch between different devices and setups.
4. Battery Life: With battery options ranging from 3500mAh in the Lite and Standard versions to 7000mAh in the Pro version, the Rainy75 ensures extended usage times.
5. Customizability: The Rainy75 features gasket mounting, multiple layers of sound-dampening foam, and customizable RGB lighting in the Standard and Pro versions. These features enhance the typing experience and allow users to personalize their keyboards.

Model Variations

The Rainy75 comes in three distinct versions, each catering to different user preferences and budgets. Do note that the prices below are an average and taken from the Wobkey website.

• Lite Version:
• Price: Approximately S$135 (US$99 )
• Colors: Anodized Black or Silver
• Features: No RGB lighting, 3500mAh battery, HMX Violet switches
• Target Audience: Budget-conscious users seeking a high-quality mechanical keyboard without the need for RGB lighting.

• Standard Version:
• Price: Around S$165 (US$99 )
• Colors: Anodized Silver, Electro White, Electro Blue, and Electro Pink
• Features: A-RGB backlighting, 3500mAh battery, HMX Violet switches
• Target Audience: Users who want added aesthetic features like RGB lighting while maintaining a reasonable budget.

• Pro Version:
• Price: About S$190 (US$139)
• Colors: Electro White, Electro Blue, Electro Purple, and Electro pink
• Features: FR4 plate, 7000mAh battery, JWICK WOB switches, enhanced RGB lighting
• Target Audience: Enthusiasts desiring top-tier features, longer battery life, and advanced customizability.

Yellow Pro Version

I had gotten the the Yellow Pro version and I have to say it is a beautiful mechanical keyboard! 

There’s only little point… If there was one thing to complain about then it would the fact that in order to turn on the keyboard for 2.4ghz wireless or Bluetooth, you have to remove the “CapsLock” keycap and access it from there. 

Unboxing

Considering that I managed to get it at a pretty reasonable price due to sales and vouchers, here are the other reasons why it is worth getting (if you are considering getting a more premium budget mechanical keyboard):

1. Value for Money: For what it costs, it offers premium features typically found in more expensive keyboards at a fraction of the price (and that design is pretty too).
2. Versatility: With multiple connectivity options and long battery life, it suits various usage scenarios.
3. Customizability: From switches to RGB lighting, you can tailor the keyboard to your preferences.
4. Build Quality: The all-aluminum case ensures durability and a premium typing experience.

As mentioned earlier, if you are interested in getting a Rainy75, and you have no access to Lazada or Shopee, you can get it AliExpress. The last I checked, pink Standard Rainy75  is available on  Amazon for US$159 (about S$212). Of course you could also check out the company's website to make a direct order as well.

Have you gotten the Rainy75, or would you be getting it? If the answer is yes, do let me know your thoughts on it in the comments below! 

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So you’ve gotten your Cidoo ABM066, the typing experience is great but you just cannot figure out how to customise the display screen using VIA?

If that is you then this guide is just perfect for you! Like you, I was pretty happy with my first Alice-layout keyboard. But the display being stuck in April 2022 and reflecting the time bothered me. I thought it would be a simple thing, just find the app VIA and then plug in the keyboard and it should at least auto-refresh the time and date?

Well, it was not as simple as I thought and took me some googling to finally get it. First things first you need a Windows computer, and then you need to download the VIA driver. Initially I was happily thinking that I could just connect my keyboard using the web version. 

For mapping and other settings

• If you are connecting your keyboard via USB connection, download this .json file [Download here]
• If you are connecting via the USB 2.4, then download this .json file [Download here]

You can go to the VIA website and click on the Start Now section, connect your keyboard and turn on the settings for Design Now. Next upload the .json you downloaded and you should be able to customize your setting and key mappings. 

Make sure the keyboard is connected via USB cable or 2.4G and click "Authorize device". You should be able to find the keyboard name.

Select "Design" from the top navigation bar and upload the .json file you downloaded earlier.

To customize the keys or RGB, you just need to select the "Setting" icon and you are on your way to customizing your keyboard. But remember, you cannot sync /update the time and date.

This is great for those who do not have a Windows computer, you just need to open up the links in Chrome or your preferred choice of internet browser, and you are on your way to a more personalized typing experience. I finally have my beloved "Delete" key on my ABM066 now. 😃

If you are more inclined to view it rather than read, I found this useful video tutorial:

For Animations Display

If you want to change or add your own display animations, you would need to download and install the Windows app [CIDOO ABM066 Image Tool]

Unfortunately, if you do not have a Windows computer, you are pretty much out of luck and are stuck with the default animations that came along with the CIDOO ABM066 - a cute cat with it’s spaceship, and a cheeky raccoon (just press FN + Enter to cycle through the options).

If there was a mobile app, or some easier way to customize the screen without needing Windows that would have made it even better. Currently it is not very accessible, and you need to be somewhat tech savvy (enough) to know what you want, where to go, and what to do or else you would be lost. 

You also need to have a Windows computer, or else you cannot even sync / update the time and date.

Other than the above points, the mechanical keyboard itself is not too bad - with tactile switches and my cute cat keycaps, the happy taps asmr is not too bad (Stay tuned for the upcoming sound test!).  I got the keyboard mainly for its layout, the knob and to try out the start from barebones experience, and so far it has been good out of the box. But if you want customization of the software then take note on the basic requirements. 

Building Video

[First Look: CIDOO ABM066 Barebones Kit Alice-layout Review]

Do you have any tips or hacks on how to make it easier to customize the screen display? Let me know in the comments below!~

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