Showing posts with label Mechanical Keyboard. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mechanical Keyboard. Show all posts

Tuesday, December 10, 2024

Pure Keyboard Bliss: Cidoo ABM066 with Cream Pro V3 Switches

December 10, 2024 0 Comments


Immerse yourself in the soothing sounds of typing with this quick ASMR sound check featuring the Cidoo ABM066, paired with Akko Cream Pro V3 tactile switches. Known for their smooth tactility, these switches deliver a subtle yet satisfying “thock” with every keystroke, creating an enjoyable auditory experience that’s both calming and addictive.

 

The keycaps on this setup add to the magic as well. I’ve chosen thicker, high-quality keycaps with an adorable blue cat design, which not only look cute but enhance the sound profile by deepening that beloved "thock" sound. This combination of tactile switches and thicker keycaps makes typing a true joy, whether you're working, gaming, or just typing for relaxation.

 

Perfect for mechanical keyboard lovers, ASMR fans, or anyone seeking a calming escape, this video captures the unique sounds of each keystroke. Grab your headphones, turn up the volume, and let yourself unwind with a few moments of pure typing bliss.

 

If you enjoy the first clip and want more, I’ve got a longer ASMR video featuring this setup. You can check it out below:

 

And if you are curious about the Cidoo ABM066 keyboard itself, be sure to check out my full review of the CIDOO ABM066 Barebones Kit with its Alice-layout. You’ll find the link below - happy listening and happy typing!

 

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

 

 

Saturday, December 7, 2024

Cidoo ABM066: Restoring Original GIF Animations

December 07, 2024 0 Comments


Did you know that once you change the GIF animations on your Cidoo ABM066 keyboard, you won’t be able to recover the originals, even if you perform a factory reset? One of my readers recently brought this up. I too did not have the original files saved and wondered if there was any way to get them back.

GIF animations on the Cidoo ABM066 add a fun, personalized touch, but the inability to restore the factory animations could feel limiting. So curiosity led me to contact Cidoo’s customer support. I explained the situation and asked if they could provide the original GIF animations. 

To my delight, their response was both prompt and helpful. Not only did they share a link to download the original animations, but they also granted permission for me to share it with you!

So if you’re looking to restore your keyboard’s original GIF animations or keep them handy for future use, download it from the links below!

 


or the one below if the link above does not work.


2 Download the file here

 




Tips to Avoid Losing Your Original Files:

  • Backup Before Changing: Always save the factory animations to a secure location before experimenting with new ones.
  • Organize Your Files: Maintain a folder dedicated to your Cidoo keyboard files, so you can easily revert to previous settings if needed.
  • Check Compatibility: When adding new animations, ensure they align with the Cidoo ABM066’s specifications to avoid any glitches.

The Cidoo ABM066 is a fantastic keyboard with unique personalization options, but it’s always better to have a backup plan. Whether you’re a new owner or a seasoned enthusiast, downloading the original GIF animations is a smart move.

What are your favorite animations for the Cidoo ABM066
Let me know in the comments, and feel free to share your own tips for customizing this innovative keyboard!








Keycap Series: A Shopee Guide to Affordable and Good Quality Artisan Keycaps

December 07, 2024 0 Comments

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. 

 If you have not signed up for Shopee and want to get S$5 off your first order, sign up 🠊here🠈😊 Alternatively, if you already have an account but have not bought anything yet, you can still get S$5 off your first order with this code 7L6EM9H
Do note that if you are viewing it on mobile it will check if you have the app first, if you do it opens in the app, just click ok and you would get to the listing page. Happy Shopping!


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. Their pricing is also wallet friendly ranging from S$5-$30+ per keycap. Hence sharing them with you because sharing is caring. So read on with caution (for your wallet). 😛


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

Looking for something more unique and familiar? I stumbled across this seller on Shopee because of the adorable Winnie the Pooh designs! The heart also got my attention.

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.


Seller: cherisht27oe.sg
I was just casually browsing Shopee and literally stumbled unpin the sparkly and beautiful keycaps!  

Good quality reins keycaps for a reasonable price. The packaging is also good, not only securing the keycaps but protecting them. The seller also has an Instagram account which you can follow! 

Thursday, December 5, 2024

GMK87 Sound Test ASMR: Pantheon TSIC Switches

December 05, 2024 0 Comments

Get ready for a relaxing keyboard ASMR session featuring the GMK87 mechanical keyboard paired with the smooth and silent Pantheon TSIC linear switches. If you're a fan of calming typing sounds or exploring new switch options for your next keyboard build, this sound test is just for you!

 

🎧 Grab your headphones, sit back, and let the rhythmic sounds take you on a calming journey.

 

Why the GMK87 and Pantheon TSIC Switches?

The GMK87 is a solid and compact TKL keyboard known for its versatility and sleek design. Paired with Pantheon TSIC linear switches, this setup offers buttery smooth keystrokes with minimal resistance and a quiet yet satisfying sound profile. Perfect for those who prefer a soft and consistent typing experience.

 

[Pantheon “This Switch Is Called” Linear Switches: A Deep Dive into Smooth Typing

[Review: GMK87 Mechanical Keyboard Barebones Kit]


I paired the switches with Cute Shark Theme PBT Keycap, which added to the thockiness as the keycaps are slightly thicker than your usual keycaps.


[Cute Shark Theme PBT Keycaps in Blue: A Unique, Fun Upgrade for Your Keyboard]


If you enjoy the first clip and want more, I’ve got a longer ASMR video featuring this setup. You can check it out below:

 

 

 

Sunday, December 1, 2024

Paw65 Mechanical Keyboard Review: The Perfect 65% Keyboard for Typing, Gaming, and Customization

December 01, 2024 0 Comments


As someone who loves diving into the world of mechanical keyboards, the Paw65 Mechanical Keyboard Assembled Edition by Chilkey left a lasting impression on me: the compact size and ability to change the out the metal rim diffuser with a cat ear one. 

This 65% keyboard strikes a beautiful balance between style, performance, and affordability. Whether you're new to custom keyboards or an experienced enthusiast, this review will guide you through its highlights, including an exciting mention of the ND75 LP Keyboard, which is now firmly on my wishlist!
The Paw65 comes in Purple UnicornWild Rose and Dark Blush.
Since it was  on sale,  I got myself the Dark Blush Assembled Edition with the Sprout Green Tactile Switches. Delivery was not  not too bad at S$18, and  it took about 1.5weeks to arrive. At 1.95kg, this is the second heaviest mechanical keyboard I have in my growing collection next to my Rainy75.

[Exploring the Rainy75 Mechanical Keyboard: A Game-Changer in Affordable Luxury]



Unboxing the Paw65: What to Expect

Unboxing it feels like stepping into the premium world of custom keyboards. I had a fun and enjoyable time unboxing this keyboard!
The sweet pink and cute paw motif on the box made it really sweet. It was really a delight unboxing the keyboard. Chilkey really thought of everything, ensuring the keyboard arrived in pristine condition.

Here's what is included with the Assembled Edition:
  • The Paw 65 Mechanical Keyboard: Fully assembled and ready to use.
  • Sprout Green Tactile Switches: Pre-installed, offering a buttery smooth tactile typing experience.
  • Coiled USB-C Cable: A perfect blend of durability and style. It is even in pink!
  • Keycap and Switch Puller Tools: For easy customization.
  • Accessories: Screws, cat ear diffuser, USB dongle for wireless connection, storage bag.
  • User Manual: Simple instructions (but it does not tell you how to turn on the keyboard, you have to turn the switch underneath the spacebar for wireless or Bluetooth connection).


Unboxing Video


 

Typing Experience: The Paw65 in Action

Typing on the Sprout Green Tactile Switches is pure joy. There’s this subtle bump with every press that feels oh-so-satisfying. Each press is like a smooth bump with just the right amount of bounce to it. To date this would  be one of  my favorite kind of tactile switches.

The Sprout Green Tactile Switches deserve a special mention for their specs, which make them ideal for both work and play.   They are tactile, with a noticeable bump for satisfying feedback.
  • Total Travel: 3.50+0.3mm
  • Pre-Travel: 2.00+0.5mm
  • Operating Force: 37+5gf
  • Actuation Force: 35gf Min
  • Bottom Out Force: 45gf Max
  • Mechanical Lifespan: 80 million times
  • Electrical Lifespan: 100 million times
  • Spring: 22mm/Double Stage

The 65% layout is compact yet functional, saving precious desk space without sacrificing essential keys. And with customizable RGB lighting, I can set the vibe of my desk to match my mood. Whether you’re hammering out work emails or battling bosses in a game, the Paw 65 feels like it’s crafted just for you.

But here’s the exciting part: if you want to make the keyboard entirely your own, Chilkey also offers a Barebones Edition. For just US$44.50 (about S$60), the usual price is US$89, you can build the Paw 65 with your choice of switches and keycaps. If you love experimenting or already have a collection of switches and keycaps, this option is a no-brainer!


Pricing: Why Chilkey Offers the Best Deal

The Assembled Edition of the Paw65 is available for US$49.50 (about S$67) on the Chilkey website. The usual price is US$99 (about S$133), and locally in Singapore it costs around SG$135-155, not including delivery. With the sales, it’s an absolute steal!  And don’t forget, if you are interested in getting one yourself, you can use the exclusive code MELODI at checkout to save even more!


A Quick Peek at the ND75 LP Keyboard

If the Paw65 has sparked your interest in Chilkey’s offerings, let me introduce you to their latest release, the ND75 LP Keyboard. This slim, low-profile keyboard boasts a sleek design and offers a seamless typing experience. It’s perfect for those who want the responsiveness of mechanical switches with a more compact, lightweight build.

I’m so intrigued by the ND75 LP that I’ve already added it to my wishlist. It’s next on my keyboard journey, and I’m planning to get it soon. Stay tuned for an upcoming review once I have it in hand!


Final Thoughts: Why the Paw65 Stands Out

I love the Paw details and the pink hues against the black!
The Paw65 Mechanical Keyboard is an outstanding choice, whether you're a newcomer to mechanical keyboards or a seasoned enthusiast. It ticks all the right boxes with its sleek design, exceptional comfort, and ample customization options; all at a price that won’t hurt your wallet (too much).

That said, while I’m a big fan of its overall design and aesthetic appeal, there is one aspect I found less practical: the placement of the power button.

If you plan to use the keyboard via Bluetooth or wirelessly, you’ll need to turn it on using a small button located underneath the spacebar keycap. While this keeps the keyboard’s exterior seamless, it’s far from convenient. Removing the spacebar every time you need to turn it on is tedious, especially if you switch between wired and wireless modes frequently.
I thought the Rainy75 was frustrating with its power switch hidden beneath the Caps Lock key, but the Paw65 takes it a step further. Placing the switch under one of the most essential and largest keycaps makes it even more inconvenient. I would love to see a more user-friendly placement in future iterations of this keyboard.

Despite this minor drawback, the Paw65’s overall quality and features still make it a solid investment, especially for its price and versatility. I left the keyboard on for a week (with some rgb) and it lasted all week without having to charge (normal usage for about 8 hours per day), so the battery lifespan is pretty good.
 
So, what are you waiting for? 

Head over to the Chilkey website now to get your hands on the Paw65. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try out the Barebones Edition. Don’t forget to use the code MELODI for an exclusive discount!





Friday, November 29, 2024

Keycap Series: Featuring Artists of the Month

November 29, 2024 0 Comments

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!


*Do note that these are based on my own experiences and thoughts, so remember to always check the reviews before committing to anything.

Think an artist (who is not on this list and fits the bill) should be added, do let me know in the comments below on where are they and why they should be added! 😆

Artists Featured:

  • 2024
    • April: 🍎 wildapplestudio
      • Material: Polymer clay, protected with UV resin
      • Style: 🧚 Whimsical / Fantasy / Sweet 🍬
    • May: 🐶 shopqwerkycaps
      • Material: Polymer clay, PBT keycap, Matte glaze or UV resin glaze
      • Style:  🍬 Fantasy / Gaming / Pop Culture / Nature Inspired / Anime 📺
    • June: 🍵 teas_factory
      • Material: Resin / Polymer Clay
      • Style:  📺 Pop Culture / Nature Inspired / Gaming / Anime
    • July: 🍑 peache_atelier
      • Material: Resin / Polymer Clay
      • Style:  📺 Anime / Animals / Food 🍞
    • August: 🧸 AnyKey 
      • Material: Resin (Hand sculpted) 
      • Style: 🧸 Adorable Dori Bear Designs
    • September: 
      • 🍁kōyōkeys
        • Material: Resin
        • Style: 🍁 Nature-Inspired
      • 🐇 pyuyucaps
        • Material: Polymer clay + PBT
        • Style:  🐇 Animals / Pokemon / Cartoon & Game Characters
    • October: 🐯 O_OOHKeycap
      • Material: Resin (Hand sculpted)
      • Style:  Animals / Fantasy 🐉⛅
    • November: 🐥 Duckycaps (on hiatus)
      • Material: Polymer clay, soft pastel + acrylic paint
      • Style:  📺 Anime / Animals / Food 🍞
    • December: ???

Wednesday, November 27, 2024

Keycap Series: Dalgona Dori by AnyKey aka any____key

November 27, 2024 0 Comments


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]


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


In my last payment for Cotton Doll Dori (yes I believe I am now a beary fan of Dori 😂), Anykey has adopted a new payment method: instead of issuing an invoice directly, they now provide a link to an online store (Shopify) where customers can complete their purchase through the checkout process, still using PayPal. Maybe a store is in the works? 😍💸💸💸


Dalgona Dori has a simple caffeine sweetness vibe and I am addicted.  😝

 

It has such a matching hue to my Rainy75 that I put Dalgona Dori there. 




ASMR Video


[Exploring the Rainy75 Mechanical Keyboard: A Game-Changer in Affordable Luxury]


As expected, the keycap arrived well-protected in its compact tin box, accompanied by a certificate that adds a thoughtful touch. The elegant packaging is just as impressive as the keycap itself, making the unboxing experience all the more enjoyable.



Unboxing Video



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

  • Style: 🧸 Adorable Dori Bear Designs
  • Pricing (per keycap)US$35 (about S$50+)
  • Shipping Internationally: Depends on your country and ranges from USD$15-$23 (S$20-S$30+)
  • Wait Time: It took about 6 weeks to get an update about shipping. If you join the discord, a post will be made, but if you did not do not worry as there will be an email to inform you that it has been shipped out along with the tracking number. From there, it took another 5 business day to receive my adorable keycap from South Korea. So all in all it was almost a 2 month wait.
  • Material: Resin (Handsculpted)
  • Location: South Korea
  • Payment Method: Paypal
  • Social Media: 


Have you gotten any keycaps from any____key? If the answer is yes, let me know in the comments below what you loved and what did you get! 



Tuesday, November 26, 2024

Keycap Series: November Artist Featuring Duckycaps (on hiatus)

November 26, 2024 0 Comments

For the month of November, the artist of the month is Duckycaps, who is located in Malaysia! She has been around since 2021! Inspired by animals, nature and anime, her designs are adorably elegant. 😍 Lately her designs have also a touch of food too (think matcha, bread and yummy things). Her creations are not only limited to artisan keycaps, but charms, pins and keychains!


Shipping (to South East Asia) is US$15 (S$20~) for normal registered mail, which is somewhat reasonable. If you want faster delivery via DHL, it would be US$26 (S$35).


International shipping via DHL is as below, otherwise it would be US$18 (S$25~):

  1. North America (US & Canada): US$31 (S$42~)
  2. Australia & New Zealand: US$32 (S$44~)
  3. Europe: US$32 (S$42~)
  4. South East Asia: US$26 (S$35~)


Her keycap creations range from an average of US$28 (S$38~) to US$40+(S$55~) . The price range is reasonable along with the unique and good quality designs. 😆 


[Keycap Series: Featuring Artists of the Month

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


I first came across Duckycaps on Instagram, and one day she was having a raffle sale on her matcha series! 😍


It was a touch decision to choose between Tobi the rabbit, Toshi the dog or Tokki the kitty, but choose I did. I saw the adorable Matcha Toshiba and just had to get him. 


Duckycaps recently opened her online store for international buyers, but this I got Toshi via Google forms. The form was easy to complete, the process was straight forward as well. Payment was either via Stripe, Wise or PayPal. Needless to say I selected PayPal as the payment option. I ended up paying S$77.33 (US$55). If you are located in Malaysia, the ordering would be done via Google Forms. You can find the details on her Instagram page.


From the time the order was put in to the time little Toshi was received, it took about 1.5 months to arrive. Duckycaps was really responsive via Instagram, it was such a pleasure chatting with her too. Do remember to check out her page and give her the support she deserves!


Packaging was sufficient: little Toshi was protected within a box and even came with a packet of matcha tea! There were also cute matcha themed stickers.

 

Unboxing Video 


The overall experience was fantastic. Isn’t little Toshi adorable and so detailed? I love the side floral details. 😀

 

One thing to note about Duckycaps  is that she is taking some time off so she is not as active, but she is still around, so do occasionally stalk out her page to see if she has anything new.

Artist Info

  • Style:  📺 Anime / Animals / Food 🍞
  • Pricing(per keycap)an average of S$38 to S$55+ (S$38 US$28  to US$40+
    • Pricing for commission pieces might vary so always reach out and clarify. 
  • Shipping to Singapore (and the rest of South East Asia): S$20~ (US$15)
  • Shipping Internationally:
    • Normal Mail: S$25~  (US$18)
    • DHL:
      • North America (US & Canada): S$42~ (US$31)
      • Australia & New Zealand: S$44~ (US$32)
      • Europe: S$42~ (US$32)
      • South East Asia: S$35~(US$26)
  • Wait Time: My order took about 1.5 months to reach me. Since it was made to order, the time frame is pretty reasonable.  Duckycaps is also very responsive so do message her if you have any concerns.
  • Material: Polymer clay, soft pastel + acrylic paint
  • Social Media:  

💗 Loves

💗 Unique designs and aesthetics.
💗 Light weight and easy to install caps. 
💗 The evenness and smoothness of the end product. 
💗 The attention to detail is impeccable, love the floral paint designs on the sides of little Toshi!
💗 Good quality and amicable, responsive artist (to address and concerns or questions). 
💗 Reasonable pricing and aesthetically pleasing designs.



Remember to compare prices and shipping costs across different artisans and platforms to find the best fit for your budget!


Have you gotten any keycaps from Duckycaps? If the answer is yes, let me know in the comments below what you loved and what did you get! 


[Keycap Series: Featuring Artists of the Month]

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




Saturday, November 16, 2024

KTechs: Mechanical Keyboards and Tech Accessories

November 16, 2024 0 Comments

 


 Known for its curated selection and knowledgeable staff, KTechs is a specialty store that provides both an in-store and online shopping experience tailored to keyboard enthusiasts and tech lovers. From customizable keyboard kits to key switches and accessories, KTechs offers everything you need to build the perfect keyboard setup.



About KTechs

KTechs was established in Singapore to serve the growing demand for mechanical keyboards, custom keyboard kits, and tech accessories. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced builder, KTechs offers a variety of options to suit every budget and preference. With both a physical location and a comprehensive online store, KTechs makes shopping for mechanical keyboards in Singapore easy and convenient.

 

If you are in Singapore, you can experience the walk-in experience as well as the online experience should you not have the time to head down to the physical store.  For those of you who are not in Singapore, KTechs also does international deliveries so you can shop online with ease as well. 



Where to Find KTechs – Location and Online Store

For those who enjoy hands-on shopping, KTechs’ retail store is located at:

37 Lor 23 Geylang
Yu Li Industrial Building, #07-05
Singapore 388371 

 

Here, you can test out various keyboards, try different types of switches, and get expert advice from the staff. This physical location is ideal for those who want to experience the products before buying, especially helpful for new keyboard builders.


KTechs also offers a full-featured online store at ktechs.store, where customers can browse their extensive collection from anywhere. The website is user-friendly, featuring clear categories and detailed descriptions, making it easy to shop for mechanical keyboards, keycaps, and accessories. The online store also offers shipping across Singapore and internationally, giving customers access to KTechs’ quality products even if they’re not local.



KTechs Product Offerings and Pricing

KTechs stocks a wide range of mechanical keyboards and accessories to fit different budgets:

  • Mechanical Keyboards:  
    • Pre-built keyboards range from S$100 to S$300, while customizable kits start at S$150 and can go up to S$500. These options cater to everyone, from beginners to experienced hobbyists.
  • Key Switches
    • Available in packs, switch prices vary from S$15 to S$50, covering popular brands like Gateron, Cherry MX, and more.
  • Keycaps
    • Premium keycap sets range from S$50 to S$150, with a wide variety of materials and styles.
  • Accessories
    • Desk mats, cables, and lubricants range from S$20 to S$80, providing affordable ways to personalize your workspace.


By offering competitive pricing and frequent online promotions, KTechs makes it easy for keyboard enthusiasts to find high-quality products at reasonable prices.



The KTechs In-Store Experience

Shopping in-store at KTechs offers a unique experience for anyone passionate about mechanical keyboards. 

 

Located in Singapore, the store allows customers to physically test keyboards, compare switch types, and browse keycaps and other accessories up close. The KTechs staff are highly knowledgeable, ready to answer questions, and offer advice on building and customizing keyboards. This hands-on approach is ideal for anyone looking to get a true feel for different products before buying.



The KTechs Online Shopping Experience

If you prefer shopping from home, the KTechs online store is an excellent resource. Their website, ktechs.store, is designed with ease of navigation in mind, featuring high-quality images and comprehensive product descriptions. This setup makes it simple to shop for everything from custom keyboard kits to switches and accessories. The online store also offers exclusive deals and promotions, making it a convenient and cost-effective way to shop for mechanical keyboards and accessories.


 

Why Choose KTechs?

KTechs sets itself apart with its focus on quality, customer service, and community engagement. Whether in-store or online, the company provides a welcoming environment where customers can explore, learn, and find products that suit their needs.


Whether you’re in Singapore or (overseas) shopping online, KTechs is an ideal destination for anyone looking to purchase mechanical keyboards, custom keyboard kits, key switches, and tech accessories. With a physical location for hands-on exploration and an online store for convenient shopping, KTechs offers a full range of products and expert support for keyboard enthusiasts of all levels.




Thursday, November 7, 2024

ASMR Sound Check: Cidoo ABM066 Keyboard with Akko Cream Pro V3 Tactile Switches

November 07, 2024 0 Comments

 

If you’re in search of a truly satisfying mechanical keyboard sound test, you’re in the right place. The Cidoo ABM066, equipped with Akko Cream Pro V3 tactile switches, is a dream setup for anyone who appreciates both smooth typing and soothing ASMR. Each keystroke on this board offers gentle resistance, delivering a refined "thock" that’s music to the ears of keyboard enthusiasts and ASMR fans alike.

 

In this quick ASMR sound check, I’ll guide you through the unique sounds of this setup. You'll get to experience the tactile feedback and subtle, relaxing tones that make the Cidoo ABM066 so enjoyable to type on. The Akko Cream Pro V3 switches add just the right amount of bounce and resistance, making each press satisfying without being overwhelming.

 

Whether you're exploring different switches for your own setup or simply looking for a moment of relaxation, plug in your headphones, sit back, and enjoy the rhythmic typing sounds of the Cidoo ABM066. It’s the perfect way to unwind or maybe... discover a new favorite switch.

 

 If you want a deeper dive into this board, be sure to check out my full review of the CIDOO ABM066 Barebones Kit with its Alice-layout linked below. Enjoy the ASMR and happy typing!

 

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

 

 

Thursday, October 24, 2024

Guide: The Best Mechanical Keyboards for Newbies

October 24, 2024 0 Comments


What is the appeal of mechanical keyboards?

So you may be wondering what is the appeal: these keyboards are built to last, with switches meant for millions of key presses, and often time have a faster response and better accuracy for gaming and typing. 


The laptop membrane keyboard did it's job, there was really nothing to complain. While I could accept the membrane keyboard which is on the laptop, I stumbled into the world of mechanical keyboards and have never looked back since. 


[Mechanical Keyboard Switches Explained: Your Complete Guide to Types and Characteristic]


I enjoy discovering the different types of switches (i.e. tactile and linear, I don't really like clicky) along with their different sound profile and typing experience they offer. The various designs of keycap sets and artisan keycaps also opened a whole new world for me.  The best part of mechanical keyboards is that they are customizable from the switches to the keycaps all the way down to the internal parts to make it feel and sound a certain way. 


If you think mechanical keyboards are too noisy, with the exception of click switches, there are silent switches or linear switches are no more louder than your colleague typing very furiously on their membrane laptop keyboard.  Just saying... 😂 


Typically, a budget mechanical keyboard can range from as low as S$40 to as much as $200 or more. The keyboards I am about to introduce to you today also range within that price range. So far, I have not yet gotten one which is above S$300, but it is not impossible one day (I'd really have to love that keyboard a lot to get it). 


For a newbie looking for a budget-friendly mechanical keyboard, there are several options available that provide a good balance of quality and affordability.  If the idea of opening a board up to mod it with tape etc, or a switch to lub it is a little too advance for you,  and all you are looking for is to either use the keyboard out of the box—with maybe the occasional keycap or switch swap— then this list might be useful for you. It is based on my own experiences and what I have gotten so far in terms of mechanical keyboards.




Sumreda SK82:

This mechanical keyboard is the most basic of them all which cute details like a paw or ghost detail, and has a knob. 


[Review: SK82 Mechanical Keyboard - A Blend of Functionality and Style on a Budget]


The SK82 mechanical keyboard is usually priced between US$45-60 on AliExpress, with variations depending on the model and features, such as wired or wireless options. This pricing positions it in the lower mid-range for mechanical keyboards, reflecting its balance of build quality, features, and versatility.


Features: 

    1. Lightweight and tri-mode (Bluetooth, 2.4ghz and Wired).
    2. Has a knob and cute details.
    3. Hotswappable - switches and keycap can be swapped. But do note hat you can only use 3 pin switches. 
    4. Tenkeyless (not have a 10-key numeric keypad on the right side).
    5. RGB light effects.




CIDOO ABM066 Alice Layout:

If you want to take up the challenge of starting to build you own mechanical keyboard, the CIDOO ABM066 might be a good choice to start. Or if you prefer they also have aready made one for you with switches and keycaps. It is available on Amazon from US$70+.


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


Features: 
    1. Lightweight and tri-mode (Bluetooth, 2.4ghz and Wired).
    2. Has a knob and alice layout.
    3. Hotswappable - switches and keycap can be swapped.
    4. Tenkeyless (not have a 10-key numeric keypad on the right side).
    5. RGB light effects/
    6. Customizable screen.  [Cidoo ABM066: Setting up the display screen]




Royal Kludge RK71:

The Royal Kludge RK71 is a compact powerhouse, offering a tenkeyless design without compromising on features. It comes with71 keys, along with multi-device Bluetooth connectivity and Wired mode, and RGB lighting options. 

 

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

 

Features: 
  1. Lightweight and tri-mode (Bluetooth, 2.4ghz and Wired).
  2. Compact size and portable.
  3. Hotswappable - switches and keycap can be swapped.
  4. Tenkeyless (not have a 10-key numeric keypad on the right side).
  5. RGB light effects.




MACHENIKE K500W:

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

The MACHENIKE K500W  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. 

 

[Unleashing the Power of Precision Typing: MACHENIKE K500W Mechanical Keyboard Review]

 

Features: 

    1. Lightweight and more compact than a full keyboard.
    2. Has a tri-mode and wired version.
    3. Hotswappable - switches and keycap can be swapped.
    4. Has numpad.
    5. RGB light effects.

 

 

 

As always, availability and pricing may vary, so it's a good idea to check current reviews and prices from reliable sources before making a purchase.


When choosing a mechanical keyboard, consider the type of switches you prefer (linear, tactile, or clicky), whether you want backlighting, and any specific layout preferences (full-sized, tenkeyless, 60%, etc.). Additionally, read user reviews to get an idea of the typing experience and build quality.


Remember that personal preference plays a significant role in choosing a mechanical keyboard, so if possible, try to test different switch types before making a final decision. The keyboards listed above should provide a good starting point for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard scene.





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