You have a rainbow wave and breathe effect, a scrolling red line, and six static colors. The Drop CTRL took the mechanical keyboard community by storm in late 2018. On the bright side, it had media hotkeys and RGB lighting to help you see the key legends when in the dark. The ALT also has lower latency, better RGB color mixing for its backlighting, and it has an additional incline setting. Your invoice reference number will be required for free assistance. With dual USB-C connectors, the CTRL is outfitted with the fastest available connections. Click to play video. It's very bright and looks great even in a well-lit area. Choose your keyboard Default ALT Default CTRL Default Carina Default Zslane Mercury Rocketeer Default SHIFT Configurations are compiled using QMK Firmware. You may have read or seen his tech and gaming coverage at IGN, Lifehacker, Gizmodo, Variety, Digital Trends, and, of course, PCMag. 0:10 . The Drop CTRL is available for $270, which may put some potential buyers off. We're sorry for inconvenience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. The Drop ALT is a wired-only keyboard that isn't designed for mobile devices. Logitech G Pro X Gaming Keyboard Best mechanical keyboard overall Jump to details $150 Logitech Razer BlackWidow Elite Best mechanical keyboard for gaming Jump to details $238 Amazon Das. LED Keys. Im currently typing up this review with my Massdrop CTRL itself, and so far, there are zero issues. The all-aluminum chassis feels premium, weighing in at just shy of 2kg. It is recommended that you familiarize yourself with the system requirements before making your purchase. Like the Drop, it lacks customization software, but you can set macros and create multiple profiles directly from the board. It's also available with Cherry MX Blue, Kaihua Speed Silver, Kaihua Box White, Halo Clear, and Halo True switches. Also see our recommendations for the best keyboards, thebest mechanical keyboards, and thebest keyboards for programming. 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. Both keyboards feel very well-built and offer very similar typing experiences with the Cherry MX Brown switches we tested, but they're available in a range of other switch types. The doubleshot PBT shine-through keycaps have a slightly rough feeling to them. 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. 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. Customized appearance of GMMK Pro with Premium GPBT Keycaps. It's available in several mechanical switches and is hot-swappable, so you can easily change the switches without any soldering. It's available in a wide variety of switches, so you can get the ones you prefer. Now to do the typing test. Config apps, dedicated media keys, USB passthrough, wireless connectivity: These features have value, and it would be a mistake to dismiss what they offer. 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. The keyboard has a dedicated Fn button that accesses the first layer by default when held. dition franaise Delivery times may vary, especially during peak periods. However, there's a QMK firmware available on their website, but we don't count it as dedicated software. There are three options for fans of tactile switches: Cherry MX Brown RGB, and Drops own Halo Clear and Halo True switches. The display of third-party trademarks and trade names on this site does not necessarily indicate any affiliation or the endorsement of PCMag. 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. 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. There is backlighting all through the outer rim as well as under each key. Riitek Rii i8 Smart TV 2.4G Mini Wireless QWERTY Keyboard with Logitech MX Keys Wireless Keyboard - Black. The Drop has magnetically attachable feet, which you can position to give a negative incline. It has 36.8 x 14 x 3.6 cm dimensions. Compare. If you love the all-metal build quality, the Abkoncore AK87 is just shy of seven pounds and costs $170 (opens in new tab). Constructed with a solid aluminum frame and Kaihua hot-swappable switch sockets, the CTRL allows you to change switches whenever you want without soldering. Partnering with global cooling component manufacturer Noctua, the new DROP + MiTo MT3 keycaps set has the colors and quality of build from both companies. 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). As an entry point to the mechanical keyboard hobby, its a solid option (as is the low-profile original) that doesnt require building the keyboard from scratch. Today, its also available in a high-profile version with a taller case that hides the keycap housings. NY 10036. Kaviso, LLC . There's no onboard memory for storing settings like RGB lighting, but this isn't a gaming keyboard. We've looked at a few here on Windows Central, including the brilliant Akko World Tour Tokyo R2 (3068B). The CTRL supports per-key RGB backlighting. Trke srm If you click an affiliate link and buy a product or service, we may be paid a fee by that merchant. Intro Drop CTRL Mechanical Keyboard Review: Tenkeyless and Hot-Swappable Switch and Click 686K subscribers Join Subscribe 547 Share Save 31K views 2 years ago Link to Drop CTRL:. 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 Drop ALT is great for programming. But keep in mind those keyboards may not have some of the features that the Massdrop CTRL may have such as being hot-swappable, having custom switch choices. Some lubricant should help here. Please temporarily enable JavaScript in your browser to post text. Fn + N Toggle keyboard 6KRO/NKRO (Default state 6KRO) Custom configuration (2 shortcuts) # The shortcuts above was basic hotkeys for the keyboard. Free assistance is available for the first 60 days on new purchases, excluding internal hardware installations or networking support. You can view our Privacy Policy and information regarding our use of cookies here for more information about cookies. 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. What is your favorite Drop CTRL hotkey? You can create custom lighting schemes using Drops online Configurator, but the out-of-box experience is sorely lacking compared to the competition. Do you have any useful tips for it? I love that it has two USB-C connectors, one of the right and one on the left. However, the Drop ALT is a 65% compact prebuilt board witha USB passthrough. Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. The Drop CTRL is configured using Drops QMK-driven online Configurator tool. 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. Hi, it appears you may be new to this subreddit! And thanks to the hot-swap switch sockets, it allows you to change switches whenever you want with no soldering required. When compared against other premium keyboards, it's not an obscene amount of cash. With Razer youll be stuck with the Razer switches, whatever those may be. As a tenkeyless keyboard, the form factor is very traditional. Also, the ALT has a higher travel distance and a lower actuation force. Drop sent along a set of Holy Pandas (opens in new tab), which are a coveted option in the enthusiast community due to their enjoyable tactility. We guarantee your satisfaction on every product we sell with a full refund in accordance with our return policy no receipt needed if you have a Micro Center Insider Account. The Drop CTRL is an expensive keyboard; there's no other way to look at the price. The included USB-C cable is basic, and the connector wobbles a bit when plugged in. The ENTR is a simple, wired keyboard. Default Hot Keys. 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. A more universal downside is that the largely metal construction can cause reverberation on particularly hard bottom outs or when the switches being used have ping from their internal springs. Thats why the company call this the accessible model. Again, not a major concern, but something to note if you prefer silence. Competition is ramping up for custom mechanical keyboard kits like the Drop CTRL. The solid aluminum plate is a shiny space grey, not like the Macbook space grey. Over time, I got used to it and now I love it. Easy peezy just like that. You can control the brightness and effects directly with hotkeys, but you need the user manual to learn the full list of hotkeys. Fn + S: LED Brightness Decrease. 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. A flip side to this ability is cost. As a service to our customers, Micro Center offers in-store technical support. I talked about it on our first article, guide to Cherry MX switches, where I discuss the difference between common switches. The Drop ALT iswell-built andoffers better typing quality than most other mechanical keyboards of its size. The lighting is nowhere near as customizable. Updated: Updated program information. An integrated plate isnt ideal for sound or typing feel, however. I know, theres a way to use the QMK software and program it myself to make my preferred setting the default, but as a noobie, I have no experience with QMK at all. As a result, the ENTR is the PCMag Editors' Choice for budget mechanical keyboards. Our unit has Cherry MX Brown switches, but it's also available with Linear Kaihua Speed Silver switches, tactile Halo Clear or Halo true switches, and clicky Kaihua Box White or Cherry MX Blue switches. Bottom line: Build your own killer mechanical keyboard with the Drop CTRL. May have minor cosmetic issues as it is used. 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. It has a USB passthrough and much lower latency. Using the software may require the use of a computer or other device that must meet minimum system requirements. No complaints there. You can also pick custom keycap kits for additional costs. If you want to swap out the switches for something a little more tailored to your preference, this is entirely possible with the Drop CTRL. The anodized aluminum base and beefy, matte plastic top panel are premium materials and feel like a finer component grade than what you find on most mass-produced keyboards. It's a wired-only board, so you need to plug it in directly to the TV, and it lacks a built-in trackpad. Normally going for $110, this 18% discount, or solid $20 price drop marks a return to the third-best price we've seen to date while coming within $10 of the all-time low set back over the December holidays. The only gripe I have is that it still does chatter sometimes, although the frequency has decreased dramatically. 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. The Drop CTRL is available as a barebones unit, which is essentially the keyboard without any keycaps or switches. PCMag.com is a leading authority on technology, delivering lab-based, independent reviews of the latest products and services. Shortcut lists can be shared as long as you don't create a database. Also, ithas magnetically attachable feet, which you can position to give a negative incline. The Drop CTRL is very well designed. On the contrary, I played everything from Doom Eternal and Battlefield V to slow-paced MMORPGs like Final Fantasy FFXIV using it just fine. Theyre louder than the other keys and the rattle can quickly become grating, especially if youre used to a quieter keyboard. Shop ALT | $139 Heres how it works. Every key is macro-programmable, but there isn't dedicated software and setting macros through the QMK software on the website isn't user-friendly. $54.95. Its also fully programmable via QMK, meaning you can assign macros or custom keybindings to every key. Unlike those keyboards, theres no expectation of softness to the typing experience (and is a fairly modern trend in custom mechanical keyboards). The Gatreon Yellow is a quick tap with smooth action; you arent waiting to feel the click. I really enjoy this tactile feedback, but others may not. 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. A fairly generic linear switch produced by JWK, they do a good job of representing the typing experience of the Drop CTRL High Profile with other low-cost linears. The tall top half of the case and thicker bottom combine to add under three pounds of weight to the keyboard, bringing its mass to a respectable 4.4 pounds. Like I said, I got the Halo Clears, which are a 65g tactile switch. Is it normal to not be able to change wifi channels on a modem? 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. What is most realistic all core overclock I could get on a Ryzen 7 7700X and 7950X or 13900K/13700K with e-cores off using Noctua NH-D15, HardDrive going bad , but passing all test ? 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. Anyways, thank you so much for the read, and happy typing! The tenkeyless sized board has an solid aluminum frame with a built-in switch plate. On the other hand, the Razer has much lower latency, and it has customization software to set macros, reprogram keys, and create profiles. Big brands are also taking notice of the increased activity with custom keycaps, switches, and other features found on keyboards like the CTRL. There's a USB-C port on both sides of the keyboard, and you can use either one to connect to your computer. 3/5/2021 8:55:38 PM New program added. Also, its latency is much lower. It has low latency, though some gamers may prefer it lower. See Source link below for more information. The Drop CTRL keyboard comes in a variety of color and switch options, with the cost ranging from $200 to $225 from Drop directly. Software system requirements are typically found on the Product information specification page. The Ducky has better typing quality anda Windows Key lock. Since I was sent the barebones kit, I had to install my own switches. If this isnt an issue for you, then just ignore this complaint entirely. General Return Policy 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). When youre done, clicking Compile and Download will download a firmware file thats ready to be loaded onto your keyboard. On the other hand, the Drop is has a USB passthrough and much lower latency. Windows Central is part of Future US Inc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Copyright 1995-2023 eBay Inc. All Rights Reserved. There's very little flex in the keyboard without applying considerable force. TheDrop ALT and theRazer Huntsman Miniare both compact boards, but the Drop is slightly larger and has dedicated navigation keys, including arrow keys. DROP CTRL High-Profile Mechanical Keyboard Tenkeyless TKL (87 Key) Gaming Keyboard, Hot-Swap Switches, Programmable, Backlit RGB LED, USB-C, Doubleshot PBT, Aluminum (Gray, Kaihua Speed Silver) Visit the DROP Store 213 ratings | 16 answered questions Deal -15% $22950 List Price: $270.00 FREE Returns Style: Kaihua Speed Silver Barebones I had extra O-rings from when I tried to quiet/dampen down my Razer Blackwidow with little success. found at: https://www.faa.gov/uas/getting_started/, Wireless Phones & Devices However, if you need help or need to return an item, were here for you! For that, the ENTR rides high as the PCMag Editors' Choice for budget mechanical keyboards. Out of the box, this keyboard is an upgraded essential for your workstation. But for clean, comfortable typing, this is as good as it gets at a sub-$100 price. may be returned within 15 days of purchase. The ENTR lacks configuration software that would let you remap keys or create macros. The pre-travel and total travel distance are in line with Cherry MX's advertised 2mm pre-travel and 4mm travel distance, but these may change per unit due to manufacturing tolerances. Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. We really dig into whether or not the Drop Alt/CTRL are worth it in this article. The company is still running group buys as . This is done so that the LEDs on the PCB can shine through more directly to the legends on the keys, as the more sloped side of the switch housing gives more room for that. (Hardware). NY 10036. Shop CTRL | $200 Drop ALT star_borderstar star_borderstar star_borderstar star_borderstar star_borderstar 1325 A Smaller Take With 67 keys (compared to 87 on the CTRL), the fully-featured ALT is the perfect compact companion. Our professional technicians can help find the right solution for you backed by our Service Guarantee. HP GK320 Wired Full Size RGB Backlight . The keyboard supports up to 15 layers and can be accessed in multiple ways. Each side of the keyboard has its own USB-C connector as well. This newsletter may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. If youre willing to take the time to apply a handful of easy mods, it can become even easier. The ALT also has lower latency, better RGB color mixing for its backlighting, and it has an additional incline setting. Unfortunately, there's no dedicated customization software, so you can't easily set macros or reprogram keys. Drop CTRL allows you to create custom configurations on its. Overview of the Drop CTRL Its clear that Drop had typists in mind before gamers when designing this keyboard, as the linear option is currently limited to Kaihua (Kailh) Speed Silver. If you prefer a bigger model with a numpad, check out the Drop SHIFT instead. Desktop / notebook computers, tablets, processors, motherboards, digital cameras, camcorders and projectors, 3D printers, 3D scanners, and CD/DVD duplicators You can follow him on Twitter at @RichEdmonds. The legends are also backlit to show off the RGB backlighting. Intel to Go Ahead with "Meteor Lake" 6P+16E Processor on the Desktop Platform? You can pair the Obinslab with up to four devices via Bluetooth, but you can also use it wired. You also cannot swap out the plate, and there's no gasket mounting for a softer typing feel. The modding scene has been around for years, and it's starting to become mainstream as more customizable keyboards are released. By clicking the plus sign under the layer sidebar, an entire second keyset is generated and can house whole separate key sets. Mechanical Keyboards Shop All Fully Built TKL 65% Full Size DIY Kits Keycaps Shop All Full Keycap Sets It ticks most of the right boxes, including excellent build quality, a great selection of switches, and USB-C connectivity. Just use the switch puller that comes with the keyboard and pull each one out individually. What the keyboard does lack is supporting features for gaming. After the first few times applying firmware in this way, the process does speed up substantially, but its arduous enough that I could see many users giving up before theyve even begun. But I was never sure until I got it in my hands. Drop is not always the answer ;-). 3.4 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. It's louder if you get the clicky Kaihua Box White or Cherry MX Blue switches, like on the Corsair K95 RGB PLATINUM XT. Its a tenkeyless keyboard, which means it lacks a dedicated number pad. The CTRL is Ready for Action The day has finally come. Theres no need to desolder the old switches and solder new ones on. Typing on the CTRL High Profile is a mostly enjoyable experience with the exception of the larger stabilized keys. Ask your Support Technician about additional options available through our exclusive Priority Care Program. 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. I looked up multiple sound tests on Youtube. Microsoft to Standardize RGB Control within Windows 11 Settings, NVIDIA RTX Video Super Resolution Tested, AI Enhanced Streaming That Barely Makes a Difference, LG Display Claims Samsung's QD OLED More Susceptible to Screen Burn Than LG's WOLED, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 Possibly Maxes Out AD107, NVIDIA's Smallest Ada Silicon, The Drop CTRL keyboard comes in a variety of color and switch options, with the cost ranging from $200 to $225 from, Fully open-source firmware and design language, Very customizable with spare/replacement parts, PBT doubleshot keycaps are of great quality, Hot-swappable mechanical switch socket, albeit limited to 3-pin switches, Vibrant side lighting courtesy 32 extra LEDs, Full programmability with Drop configurator, with up to 15 extra layers, Per-key RGB backlighting options to edit and create, Two add-on feet for different elevation options courtesy magnets and tilting, Low-profile, clean looks with no branding on the front or sides, The software experience is too complicated for the average customer, 1st-party configurator updates seem dead now, albeit QMK loader is still being worked on, Legends are not very clear without backlighting, Not very competitive at MSRP today, especially with 3-pin switch sockets, plate-mounted stabilizers, and north-facing LEDs. View cart for details. Videos for related products. This keyboard has okay ergonomics. He's been involved in technology for more than a decade and knows a thing or two about the magic inside a PC chassis. We absolutely love this keyboard and consider it one of the best hot-swappable keyboards currently out there. It's well-made with an aluminum frame, and the RGB lighting gets very bright and looks great. Its also fully programmable via QMK . Looks like the same innards as the Input.Club K-Type and the previous CTRL that have been available for years. Instructions for loading compiled firmware onto your keyboard: The Drop ENTR is a simple mechanical keyboard, but its premium build makes it feel like so much more. The Drop CTRL isnt designed to be a gaming keyboard, but that doesnt mean youll be stuck swapping keyboards when you want to play games.

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