We've looked at a few here on Windows Central, including the brilliant Akko World Tour Tokyo R2 (3068B). It's also showing its age slightly with the use of three-pin sockets. The Drop CTRL is an awesome mechanical keyboard with a floating keycap design and a sleek aluminum frame. The Razer Huntsman V2 Analog is listed for around the same price but is designed primarily for gamers without the ability to customize the switches and more. Layer keys can be set to activate associated layers when tapped or held, made active for one keypress before reverting, made active with set modifier keys already held (like Ctrl or Alt) or even made to become the default layer with a single keypress. You can also customize the RGB lighting through Drop's interface on their website and flash the settings onto your keyboard. As someone who uses a lot of gaming keyboards, I think of linear switches as having a hair-trigger: You can accidentally actuate a Cherry MX Red and Cherry Speed Silver key by brushing the keycap. This may put off some who can't justify spending nearly $300 on a keyboard, but if all you care about is quality, this is definitely worth a spot on your shortlist. The ALT also has lower latency, better RGB color mixing for its backlighting, and it has an additional incline setting. At the time, I was especially worried about keyboard chatter or double typing that everyone was discussing in the reviews/comments section of the product itself. 2. The Drop ALT has outstanding build quality. This allows you to truly the customize the board to what switch type feels the best for you. Keyboards dont need to be complicated to make a strong impression. Drop CTRL High-Profile Mechanical Keyboard bookmark_border star_borderstar star_borderstar star_borderstar star_borderstar star_borderstar 343 $ 250 Case Color: Black Space Gray Switch Type: Halo Clear (65g Tactile) Halo True (60g Tactile) Kaihua Speed Silver (Linear) MX Blue RGB (Clicky) MX Brown RGB (Tactile) check_box_outline_blank Options are quite limited compared to other keyboards, even at significantly less cost. Many jobs today require you to Over the last year, the custom keyboard hobby has exploded, bringing with it a plethora of new innovations and modifications. Model: Keychron Q2 Knob Edition Switches: Gateron Pro Reds (lubed) Programmable: Yes, QMK and VIA compatible Connection: USB-C RGB: Yes Hotswap: Yes Want: $180 Great keyboard, I've used it a lot but its just as good as new (and heavy). And thanks to the hot-swap switch sockets, it allows you to change switches whenever you want with no soldering required. View cart for details. Each of the rings more than thirty LEDs can be color customized within the online customization tool. Outside of gaming, which has embraced the value of mechanical keys, even the cheapest office-grade keyboards are wireless, so paying nearly $100 for a keyboard you have to plug in may seem backward to some people. 6 Best Mechanical Keyboard Brands (And 6 You Should Avoid At All Costs) Bottom line: I'm a big fan of the Drop CTRL. Details regarding registration can be Measuring 14.5 x 5.5 x 1.75 inches, its very close in size to other tenkeyless keyboards like the Corsair K70 RGB TKL but will still take up more space than even more compact keyboards like the Razer Blackwidow V3 Mini. Config apps, dedicated media keys, USB passthrough, wireless connectivity: These features have value, and it would be a mistake to dismiss what they offer. DROP + MiTo GMK Laser Custom Mechanical Keyboard Keycap Set *READ* Missing a total of 15 keycaps. All in all, I would recommend this keyboard to you guys to try out. Unfortunately, neither has customization software, but you can adjust settings on either keyboard using the QMK firmware tool on Drop's website. Its more like the original silver than space grey, but its a bit darker. The first few months after I bought this keyboard, I did experience keyboard chatter and double typing. My average typing speed hovers between 105 - 110 WPM on MonkeyType. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns. Unfortunately, it isn't very user-friendly. So lets be careful out there! The shine-through PBT keycaps only enhance the performance. Ill attach a link to the fix that I used to configure it so that it would stop chattering. NEW DROP CTRL Custom Mechanical Keyboard Aluminum Enclosure Case Keychron Q2 Custom Mechanical Keyboard Full Aluminum Wired Barebone The keyboard has a dedicated Fn button that accesses the first layer by default when held. The Drop ALT keyboard has low latency. It's sold with a gray frame, and you can purchase just the frame (sold as 'Barebones') and add the switches yourself. For review, I'm using the Drop CTRL with Kaihua Box White switches. Our review unit featured Gatreon Yellow, a quick-acting linear switch similar to the Cherry MX Reds found in many gaming keyboards, but with a high actuation force. Clearly, theres still a place for the Drop CTRL in the custom keyboard world. Because the plate is a continuation of the top case rather than a separate part, there isnt any opportunity for flex, which can make bottom outs feel stiff. The Drop ALT and the GLORIOUS GMMK PRO are both compact gaming keyboards. Bottom line: Build your own killer mechanical keyboard with the Drop CTRL. A side note Id like to make is that I put O-rings on all of my typing keys since I prefer it not to have the loud echo sound when it bottoms out. The Drop feels better built, and it's fully compatible with most desktopoperating systems. On the other hand, the GLORIOUS is sold as a barebones board only. The best mechanical keyboards | Digital Trends Stop in any of our store locations during regular business hours, and our expert staff will answer your computer questions or help you with things like: If you need help with products purchased from Micro Center, please contact one of our knowledgeable tech support reps using the online chat button below, or visit our Tech Support page for additional options and helpful information. I knew I wanted something quieter, but I didnt know the difference between tactile and clicky switches even. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Each side of the keyboard has its own USB-C connector as well. The ENTR lacks configuration software that would let you remap keys or create macros. Neowin link to Keychron Q1 Pro review: a remarkably great keyboard without getting your fingers dirty. 3.4 The thick, sturdy base is made of metal and feels solid. defkey.com (3 updates.) The ENTR's compact design, measuring 1.19 by 14.06 by 5.09 inches (HWD), has a small desktop footprint. The Drop CTRL and Hexgears Gemini I've compared this to over the course of the review both are variants of the, Kids want Minecraft Console for Multiplayer. The Drop ALT mechanical keyboard is a compact 65% model with dedicated arrow keys. Finally, the stabilizers for the larger keys aren't great. Get the best of Windows Central in your inbox, every day! . Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard for Mac - Lavender 1 x Keyboard, 1x 56-inch USB cable, 1x Keycap puller, 1x Switch puller, 1x Plate-mount stabilizers, 1x Switches and keycaps, Choose your store to see our full product selection with local pricing and availability. It's available in several mechanical switches and is hot-swappable, so you can easily change the switches without any soldering. A flip side to this ability is cost. The Drop ALT keyboard has incredible backlighting. Tom's Hardware is part of Future US Inc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Constructed with a solid aluminum frame with a built-in switch plate, its stable and fortified. DROP CTRL High-Profile Mechanical Keyboard - amazon.com Drop is not always the answer ;-). Why Drop's new custom mechanical keyboard is such a big deal Since I was sent the barebones kit, I had to install my own switches. Know more about our affliate disclosure terms. You can remap this key anywhere and have it function in a multitude of ways. While there are a number of function-key shortcuts for media commands, increasing and decreasing LED brightness, and launching basic Windows apps like Calculator, power users may find the lack of customization stifling. After scouring the discussion boards, they came up with a fix, thank goodness. Fn + Q: LED Scrolling Pattern Speed Decrease. The back edge of the keyboard features Type-C ports on each side, allowing you to choose which youd like to connect to your PC and leaving the other open for peripherals. The keycaps are shine-through PBT keycaps with a slightly rough feel to them. The lighting is nowhere near as customizable. Its worth noting that Drop has a web-based config tool for its other keyboards, so that support may come to the ENTR . Updated: Updated program information. For an expensive keyboard I was surprised there was such a glaring issue, although after further research I realized it was the Halo Clear switches and not the keyboard itself. The Drop CTRL took the mechanical keyboard community by storm in late 2018. International edition, With a 1ms response time, the keyboard lacks little in responsiveness against dedicated gaming keyboards. From there, you need to change directory to your file location, type in a precise string to trigger the mdloader applet and direct it to your firmware file, and then flip the keyboard over within 60 seconds to press the reset button. So I went with the Halo Clears, and trust me, I Googled the heck out of this thing. Measuring at 368mm by 140mm and 44mm thick, it's in line with the competition if not a little on the thick side. Future US, Inc. Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, We guarantee your satisfaction on every product we sell with a full refund and you wont even need a receipt. Drops other keyboards are all smaller, and some have non-traditional layouts. Other compelling pre-built options include the Ducky Shine 7, which is made of zinc, for $169 or the Mecha SF Radiant at $159, but neither have the same level of firmware-based programmability or the tenkeyless form factor. On the contrary, I played everything from Doom Eternal and Battlefield V to slow-paced MMORPGs like Final Fantasy FFXIV using it just fine. Heck, even the sounds are satisfying.I initially used it for gaming, but after I stopped gaming, I still completed a ton of typing on it. How to quickly & easily fix coil-whine(coil choke noise). Picture Information. While I appreciate everything that the ENTR brings to the table, its important to talk about what it lacks. Its been a while since the CTRL first hit the scene, so it doesnt have the benefit of following a lot of the recent trends in custom mechanical keyboards. The high-profile version features a much thicker (and heavier) metal case which raises the price to $250 (opens in new tab) pre-built and $200 (opens in new tab) without switches and keycaps. The Drop CTRL is an expensive keyboard; there's no other way to look at the price. LED Toggle Mode (Keys + Edge, Keys Only, Edge Only, Only modifiers), Toggle keyboard 6KRO/NKRO (Default state 6KRO), Program name: It's not a deal-breaker, but worth bearing in mind when shopping around for aftermarket switches. Partnering with global cooling component manufacturer Noctua, the new DROP + MiTo MT3 keycaps set has the colors and quality of build from both companies. The Drop ENTR is a full TKL with 87 keyseverything youd expect from a full-size keyboard except for the number pad, and it's laid out in the exact the same way. This is great for games where you may have a specific layout that helps you stay nimble in-game, but is also useful for adding things like LED controls and media keys to the CTRL without losing inputs on the primary layer. Its always nice to have such a diverse selection of switches, because most product offerings make you pick between one or two switch types. You can remap keys and program up to fifteen layers of keymaps (which are similar to profiles on gaming keyboards), so having keysets for individual games is entirely possible. The choice of switches available from Drop includes Halo Clear, Halo True, Kaihua Box White, Cherry MX Blue RGB, and Cherry MX Brown RGB. The Drop CTRL comes with an array of options for linear, tactile, and clicky switches. Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Even better, its sub-$100 price means that you won't spend an extraordinary amount of money for an excellent typing experience. Theres a wealth of customization options to really match what feels best to you. The brightness of this ring can be independently controlled, but its worth keeping on for the slick underglow effect and appealing side profile. The Drop CTRL is an awesome mechanical keyboard with a floating keycap design and a sleek aluminum frame. Drop CTRL Mechanical Keyboard | Newegg.com Rather than rely on solder to hold them in place, the PCB (printed circuit board) features special sockets that allow switches to be plugged and unplugged, even while the keyboard is receiving power. ASUS' ROG Strix Scope TKL RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard drops within Free assistance is available for the first 60 days on new purchases, excluding internal hardware installations or networking support. For software, the Drop CTRL supports QMK and the company's own suite that lets you customize every inch of the keyboard. Another minor complaint include it doesnt have any media keys. Something went wrong. All trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners. may be returned within 15 days of purchase. Changelog *If you are a Micro Center Insider or if you have provided us with validated contact information (name, address, email address), you wont even need your receipt. Typically, I type above 90wpm, but lets see how we do and if theres any chattering. Menu Search Best Products Best Products. Im currently typing up this review with my Massdrop CTRL itself, and so far, there are zero issues. The added height of the high profile case did leave me reaching for a palm rest to elevate my wrists and maintain a comfortable typing posture. Welcome! This is to avoid comment bots. GamaKay . For that, the ENTR rides high as the PCMag Editors' Choice for budget mechanical keyboards. PCMag supports Group Black and its mission to increase greater diversity in media voices and media ownerships. The trend in custom keyboards today is a softer typing experience, usually created from flexible plate materials (like polycarbonate) or foam gaskets. The switches are north-facing, meaning they're mounted upside-down from the intended orientation of Cherry-style switches. Thats why the company call this the accessible model. Getting more complex requires clicking individual keys (you can select more than one by holding Shift) before choosing the color. Model: Drop Alt Switches: Halo True, with o-rings installed Programmable: Yes, QMK The ENTR's main appeal is its the build quality; the components, and how theyre put together. If you dont mind buying and installing your own switches and keycaps, the NovelKeys NK65 is available in aluminum for $185 and the plastic version for only $95. Kaviso, LLC . There's also a high-profile version of the CTRL that comes with a shroud to cover the switch sockets. This is very much a matter of personal taste but is still something to keep in mind. It lacks the software of the best gaming keyboards. We eventually ended up modding the stabilizers to make them sound and feel even better. I was stuck with the Razer green switches for forever, and Im not looking to go back anytime soon. On the other hand, the Drop has dedicated navigation keys, including arrow keys, and has a USB passthrough. Riitek Rii i8 Smart TV 2.4G Mini Wireless QWERTY Keyboard with Logitech MX Keys Wireless Keyboard - Black. found at: https://www.faa.gov/uas/getting_started/, Wireless Phones & Devices The legends are also backlit to show off the RGB backlighting. Update 12/17/2021: We initially listed our Macro Programmable Keys test result to 'All', but this is incorrect. Hands On: Drop CTRL Mechanical Keyboard. The top portion of the case includes an integrated mounting plate for the switches, simplifying assembly and disassembly should you decide to apply any mods or take a gander at the internals. The RGB lighting isn't the brightest but makes good use of the reflective metal to create quite the effect. Since theyre plate-mounted, it takes only minutes to completely replace them with a higher quality set (opens in new tab) and doesnt require disassembling the whole keyboard. This is, on the surface, a great thing as youll be able to take these keymaps to any machine without the need for software. Its a tenkeyless keyboard, which means it lacks a dedicated number pad. On the plus side, the lighting effect is enhanced thanks to its wrap-around diffuser sandwiched between the halves of the case. This keyboard is an absolute beauty. They are available with the same Cherry MX, Kaihua, or Halo switches, and bothoffer an excellent typing experience. The Drop CTRL and the Drop ALT are similar hot-swappable mechanical keyboards, but the CTRL is TenKeyless, while the ALT is a compact (65%) sized keyboard. You can see the specs on the product page, but Ill summarize them below: I received my keyboard on August 12, 2019 with Halo Clear switches and the original keycap kit. The Drop has magnetically attachable feet, which you can position to give a negative incline. Then there's the integrated USB passthrough with dual rear USB-C ports allowing one to connect a mouse or other accessories through the Drop CTRL as opposed to hunting for a free USB port. However, it's not user-friendly and isn't considered dedicated software. I didnt experience any learning curve or slow down in my typing speed getting started on the CTRL. Theyre made of PBT plastic, which is more resistant to wear and tear than ABS plastic and wont develop the telltale oily shine after months of regular use. Utilizing its BLD service, NZXT allows you to configure the keyboard of your dreams from the get-go on its website, including a choice of switches, colors, keycaps, and accessories. With Razer youll be stuck with the Razer switches, whatever those may be. Its still possible to use these switches if youre willing to clip off the two additional feet, but the last thing you want to do with a set of expensive aftermarket switches is clip the feet off and make them irrevocably less stable. Another thing that Ive read within the discussion boards is that the chattering issues are mostly occurring with the Halo switches, so perhaps using another switch may help you avoid the problem altogether. See photos for exactly what is included. As an entry point to the mechanical keyboard . Your browser is not supported or outdated so some features of the site might not be available. - Drop Icon Collection Keyboards Ready-to-Ship Keycaps Drop Studio Gaming Headsets NEW - Togekey KeyboardWeekend Deals SALE - SENSE75 Keyboard Save up to $100 per month on your favorite mechanical keyboard gear by joining Drop Keyboard Club. Drop CTRL keyboard shortcuts defkey The keyboard is composed of two halves. All products come with 60 days of Complimentary Tech Support, For additional coverage and peace of mind, consider our service and replacement plans. Drop CTRL vs. CTRL High Profile : r/MechanicalKeyboards - reddit It's available in a variety of Cherry MX, Kaihua, and Halo switches. Drop Ctrl Mechanical Keyboard - Micro Center Our expert industry analysis and practical solutions help you make better buying decisions and get more from technology. The board also comes in a TenKeyLess version called the Drop CTRL. 2000-2023 Newegg Inc. All rights reserved. The LED-backlit PBT doubleshot keycaps are thick, with sharp legends and a smooth matte finish. Anyways, thank you so much for the read, and happy typing! But then youre spending time building it yourself. The CTRL is light on additional features there are no tilt feet, DIP switches, or cable routing channels but it does have one cool trick up its sleeve: a built-in USB Type-C hub. New York, Thank you to sellers! How to Free Up Space on Your iPhone or iPad, How to Save Money on Your Cell Phone Bill, How to Convert YouTube Videos to MP3 Files, How to Record the Screen on Your Windows PC or Mac, Read Our Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT Gaming Keyboard Review, Read Our SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Gaming Keyboard Review, Read Our Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB Split Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Review, Read Our Razer Pro Type Wireless Mechanical Keyboard Review, Read Our Das Keyboard 4C TKL Mechanical Keyboard Review, Read Our Das Keyboard 4Q Mechanical Keyboard Review, Read Our Happy Hacking Professional Hybrid Wireless Mechanical Keyboard Review, How to Control Multiple Computers With One Keyboard and Mouse, MSI Clutch GM31 Lightweight Wireless Mouse Review. The spacebar, right shift and enter keys on the TKL model I reviewed are loose and clatter slightly with keystrokes. You can view our Privacy Policy and information regarding our use of cookies here for more information about cookies. There's rubber underneath the feet and, combined with the weight of the aluminum frame, it doesn't slide around easily. 300TB Flash Drives Due in 2026, Supplier Claims, Tested: No, Ryzen 7950X3D's iGPU Isn't 4X Faster Than 7950X's, Save Up to $160 With the AMD 7000-Series Combo Offer: Real Deals, Amazon Basics CPU Cooler is Its First Foray into PC Components, Halo Clear, Halo True, Kaihua (Kailh) Box White, Kaihua (Kailh) Speed Silver, Cherry MX Blue RGB, Cherry MX Brown RGB, Fifteen supported layers (firmware-based), 14.5 x 5.5 x 1.75 inches (368 x 140 x 44 mm). The options are the following: Halo True, Kaihua Box White, Kaihua Speed Silver, Cherry MX Blue, Cherry MX Brown, and Halo Clears. Whether you stick with what's included with the CTRL or go your own way with choosing switches, you're going to have a great time with this keyboard. Its easy to unplug, pack up, and carry with you on a trip. Your subscription has been confirmed. . General Return Policy Unfortunately, the PCB is the same one that was released on the original CTRL back in 2018 and does have a few drawbacks that stand out more with each passing year. Theres a good chance youll want to look into replacing the stabilizers, too, because the ones included with the keyboard are poor and rattle terribly. All Rights Reserved. You can control the brightness and effects directly with hotkeys, but you need the user manual to learn the full list of hotkeys. The CTRL supports per-key RGB backlighting. Drop CTRL Mechanical Keyboard Tenkeyless TKL (87 Key) Gaming Keyboard, Hot-Swap Switches, Programmable Macros, RGB LED Backlighting, USB-C, Doubleshot PBT, Aluminum Frame (Halo Clear, Gray) $ 322.99 (2 Offers) Free Shipping from United States. The CTRL is a hot-swappable keyboard, so changing switches is a breeze. Our professional technicians can help find the right solution for you backed by our Service Guarantee. To put it simply, the CTRL mechanical keyboard has it all. MSRP: $150. The Drop CTRL is very well designed. It comes with Cherry MX Brown / Blue RGB or Halo True / Clear switches. It has dedicated navigation keys as the Drop does, but the GLORIOUS also has a programmable rotary knob and a dedicated F-row. Corsair announces the K100 AIR ultra-thin mechanical keyboard Click here and follow these directions to get started. Fn + A: LED Pattern Select Previous. Constructed with a solid aluminum frame and Kaihua hot-swappable switch sockets, the CTRL allows you to change switches whenever you want without soldering. Skip to main content. The Drop CTRL is an easy on-ramp to the custom keyboard hobby that delivers a mostly-solid typing experience that becomes even better with mods. Being hot-swappable means that using the switch puller that comes with the keyboard, you can pull out each individual switch and put new ones in. The Drop CTRL is available as a barebones unit, which is essentially the keyboard without any keycaps or switches. When hes not playing video games or checking out new gear, he is probably asleep. Just use the switch puller that comes with the keyboard and pull each one out individually. You can pair the Obinslab with up to four devices via Bluetooth, but you can also use it wired. While you can set macros through Drop's QMK firmware on their website, it isn't user-friendly, so it might take some time to learn how to use it. Drop ALT Review - RTINGS.com Source: Drop.com Originally released in 2018, the CTRL is now available in multiple configurations, including low- and high-profile case versions, two colors, six switches, and even more colors and switches if you purchase upgrades. Fn + S: LED Brightness Decrease. There is also an option to pair it with different keycap sets, get an optional extended warranty, or . The Drop ENTR is a finely crafted keyboard. Free shipping. After launching its Elvish and Dwarvish mechanical keyboards, DROP is back with a new Mordor-themed Black Speech keyboard. On the bright side, it had media hotkeys and RGB lighting to help you see the key legends when in the dark. But for clean, comfortable typing, this is as good as it gets at a sub-$100 price. There was a problem. We're your trusted local service and repair professionals. Great! Drop also sells different keycap sets to give it a unique aesthetic. A key important detail is that the keyboard is not cheap, you are paying a bit extra for features such as an anodized aluminum frame with hot-swappability. Micro Center is happy to honor its customary 30-day return policy for Aerial Drone returns due to product defect or customer dissatisfaction. Theyre louder than the other keys and the rattle can quickly become grating, especially if youre used to a quieter keyboard. The doubleshot PBT shine-through keycaps have a slightly rough feeling to them. If you click an affiliate link and buy a product or service, we may be paid a fee by that merchant. The included Kaihua Box White switches are excellent for typing up thousands of words a day and some gaming on the side. How to Build a Custom Mechanical Keyboard. But I dont think Ive ever experienced a super rattly keyboard in the first place. For this review, I was sent the Drop CTRL High Profile Barebones Kit. Im going to be honest with you guys right now, since Im not selling this keyboard or gaining any affiliate whatever. Keyboards released these days include five-pin sockets with support for switches with enhanced stability. There's a USB-C port on both sides of the keyboard, and you can use either one to connect to your computer.