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 the 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.

Previously I had gotten their Lime Boom! Dori and Hibernation Dori, then I saw the delicious Egg Dori and just had to get him. The invoice for Egg Dori was USD$50, including shipping. I paid S$70.57 via PayPal (no thanks to currency conversation😂). You can tell I am becoming a fan of Dori the bear... This already is my third Dori (and I am not going to stop)!

Unboxing Video

Artist Info

September brings the cozy vibes of autumn and the magic of the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival. So to celebrate, instead of the usual 1 artist, 2 artists who capture the essence of the season will be featured this month. 

Last week we had Jen, all the way from Australia, the wonderful lady behind kōyōkeys. This week we have pyuyucaps who is right across the causeway from Malaysia. Her adorable creations range from about US$30-55+ (about S$40-70+) and shipping to Singapore is US$15 (about S$20). 

What I appreciate about pyuyucaps is that she has an online shop as well as raffle sales and commission open on her Instagram page, so there are options. Her creations on her Big Cartel shop are simply adorable and have a nice clean finish to them. 

When I saw 'YU' bunny (玉兔), I simply fell in love with the sweet pink and adorable design! 

So into the shopping cart 'YU' bunny (玉兔) went along with her friends, and they soon made their way to me. 😆 It was a pleasant surprise that instead of delivery via the post office it was via a courier and arrived in a faster time (less than a week).

[Keycap Series: Featuring Artists of the Month] 

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

The shopping experience was straight forward and simple. It would be nice if the currency could be auto-converted to reflect the currency I am using but that was not a deal breaker. I appreciated the online store experience:

1. Paypal was a payment option.
2. No need to create an account just to make purchase. As long as you have your Order number, you are able to keep track of your order easily.
3. Once the order was confirmed and on the way, the tracking ID is provided.
   
4. Updates from the courier when the parcel is out for delivery.
   

Unboxing

 

Artist Info

• Style:  🐇 Animals / Pokemon / Cartoon & Game Characters
  
• Pricing (per keycap): an average of US$30-55+ (about S$40-70+)
  
• Shipping to Singapore: US$15 (about S$20)
• Shipping Internationally: shipping costs will be calculated at checkout. 
• Wait Time: Once my order was placed, it took less than a week for the cute keycap to reach me (from Malaysia to Singapore via courier).
  
• Material: Polymer clay + PBT
• Location: Malaysia
• Social Media: 
• Store 
• Instagram

💗 Loves

September brings the cozy vibes of autumn and the magic of the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival. So to celebrate, instead of the usual 1 artist, 2 artists who capture the essence of the season will be featured this month.  The first featured artist is kōyōkeys.

Hailing from Australia, Jen is the wonderful lady behind kōyōkeys. The name kōyō means autumn leaves changing color. The keycaps are primarily made from epoxy resin but some specialty designs may include other materials such as polymer clay and glitter. The overall result are designs which are minimalistic yet elegant. 

kōyōkeys  keycaps range from about S$64-120+ (US$45-88+), and shipping to Singapore is S$20. 

Most designs, or colorways as they are called, have about 6-12 units available while the more popular ones might have a little more in quantity (i.e. about 20 units). Each colorway is unique and it might be hard to replicate the same color exactly, so you can be assured that you would be getting a one of a kind little piece of art keycap.

Jen has an interesting take on Raffles Sales: instead of using Google Forms, she offers a range of designs (and quantity) on her online store. The new designs are then announced on her Instagram page. In a way they are raffled just on an online store instead of using Google Forms. Doing so allows interested buyers to "raffle" their luck and see if they are able to check out with their desired color way. 

This definitely saves time on administration and the manual effort having to individually contacting each buyer, send them an invoice and see if they have paid or not before packing etc... And for buyers, the result is almost instant in seeing if they are able to get the colorway which they wanted. I like this approach as the wait is practically more than halved and you can received the keycaps much earlier than your regular Raffle Sale method via Google Forms. 

One day, I happened to be browsing Instagram and came across Jen's post announcing that there was going to be sales (along with some new releases) on her online store. Sales day come, I went to check out the online store and checked out a sunflower rakuyō keycap. 😍

[Keycap Series: Featuring Artists of the Month] 

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

It was the typical Shopify platform experience but I appreciated the online store experience:

1. Auto-currency conversion on the site and displayed it already in S$.
2. Paypal was a payment option.
3. No need to create an account just to make purchase. As long as you have your Order number, you are able to keep track of your order easily.
4. Once the order was confirmed and on the way, an estimated date period was included in the update email.
5. Taxes and shipping calculated at checkout.
6. Email updates from Australian Post on the status of the delivery so you can travel virtual with your package.

Unboxing

Artist Info

• Style: 🍁 Nature-Inspired 
• Pricing (per keycap): an average of  S$64-120 (US$45-88)
• Shipping to Singapore: S$20
• Shipping Internationally: shipping costs will be calculated at checkout. 
• Wait Time: Orders within 3-5 days to be processed after being placed, My order took 3 working days to get processed and shipped out. It took another 8 working days (a total of 16 days) to reach me. 
• Material: Resin
• Location: Australia
• Social Media: 
• Store 
• Instagram

💗 Loves

The iconic arcade classic, Bubble Bobble, makes a triumphant return with "Bubble Bobble 4 Friends" on the Nintendo Switch.  Spoiler alert: it’s a bubbly joyride that fans old and new will adore.

Nostalgic Charm Meets Modern Fun

"Bubble Bobble 4 Friends" brilliantly captures the essence of the original 1986 game while infusing it with modern graphics and gameplay mechanics. The vibrant, colorful visuals are a treat for the eyes, and the updated character designs maintain the charm of our beloved bubble-blowing dragons.

Gameplay: Simple Yet Addictive

At its core, Bubble Bobble 4 Friends retains the simple yet addictive gameplay that made the original a hit. The objective remains the same: trap enemies in bubbles and pop them to clear the stage. The game's  levels are thoughtfully designed, offering a balanced mix of challenge and fun. Each level introduces new elements and enemies, keeping the gameplay fresh and engaging.

One of the standout features is the inclusion of power-ups that add a strategic layer to the game. Collecting letters to spell "EXTEND" grants you special abilities, making it easier to tackle tougher stages. This mechanic encourages replayability as you strive to unlock and utilize these power-ups effectively.

Co-op Play: Fun for All Ages

Bubble Bobble 4 Friends shines in its co-op mode, allowing up to four players to join the fun. Whether you're playing with family or friends, the cooperative gameplay is a blast. The game strikes a perfect balance, ensuring that both newcomers and seasoned players can enjoy it together. The joy of working together to trap enemies and clear stages is amplified in multiplayer mode, making it a fantastic choice for social gaming sessions.

Classic Mode: A Nostalgic Treat

For those who crave a pure nostalgia trip, Bubble Bobble 4 Friends includes the original arcade version of Bubble Bobble. This mode is a faithful recreation, letting you experience the classic gameplay in all its retro glory. It's a wonderful addition that showcases the timeless appeal of the original game.

Verdict: A Must-Have for Fans and Newcomers Alike

Bubble Bobble 4 Friends on Nintendo Switch is a delightful homage to a classic game. It manages to capture the nostalgic essence of the original while introducing modern enhancements that make it even more enjoyable. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, this game is a must-have for your Switch library. Its charming visuals, addictive gameplay, and fun co-op mode ensure hours of bubbly fun. Dive in and relive the magic of Bubble Bobble with this fantastic modern update!

Pros:

1. Captures the nostalgic charm of the original
2. Engaging and addictive gameplay
3. Fun co-op mode for up to four players
4. Includes the original arcade version
5. Vibrant and colorful graphics

Cons:

1. Some levels can be quite challenging for younger players
2. Limited variety in enemy types

Overall, Bubble Bobble 4 Friends is a joyful addition to the Nintendo Switch lineup, providing a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern gaming fun. Don't miss out on this bubbly adventure!

It is available on the Nintendo e-shop for US$39.90, but do look out for sales for more savings. If you would prefer the physical edition then Amazon or Shopee (if you are in Singapore / South East Asia).

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. 

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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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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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