AJAZZ AK980 98% Wired Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Review – Compact Layout with Full Functionality

When it comes to going beyond the standard office OEM keyboard, there a vast number of options out there. Full and stripped-down layouts that are full of all the bells and whistles. You could end up, like this reviewer, spending hours on watching different keyboard videos on YouTube. A completely normal thing to do, surely? Finding a good keyboard within a video game accessories trawl is a must.

Coming off the back of a regular, full-sized Microsoft keyboard, the challenge was finding a keyboard that had a similar layout, but with the flexibility to customise the device where needed.

One keyboard contender that comes up often is the brand AJAZZ. The peripherals manufacturer has a range of different sized keyboards for those typing needs, including the AJAZZ AK980 98% Wired Mechanical Gaming Keyboard. Does this traditional mechanical “keeb” have what it takes to be a daily driver?

First impressions and the AK980 certainly looks the part. The keyboard comes well packaged, with the unboxing feeling like a premium experience – an instant wow factor. It’s surprisingly weighty, too, coming in just shy of 1.1kg. When it sits on the desk, this keyboard means business and has a presence, with the rubberised grips keeping it very much in place.

Part of what contributes to the weight is what lurks within the smart matt plastic shell: five layers of sound dampening. Essentially these are used to absorb a lot of the key strokes (handy for those early-morning gaming sessions) and provide a cushioned, comfortable typing experience. The gasket mount structure allows for a subtle flex with each keystroke, with each press being absorbed by the material, rather than smacking into the case’s plastic back.

The result creates a smooth, satisfying feel when battling through a Steam back-catalogue or frantically churning out an email. Typing on the AK980 has a deep, spongey feel that may not be for everyone, but it can help reduce finger fatigue. Reviewing video games and tech? A breeze. Out the box key caps have a premium, high quality finish, made from dual-injection PBT. Essentially these are made by moulding together two separate layers of plastic, to reduce wear and tear over time.

These keycaps, like most mechanical keyboards, are hot-swappable. Fancy changing the Esc key to a Super Mario Bros. inspired question block? It’s certainly possible! Alongside the keys are the mechanical switches. Switches sit underneath each keycap, transmitting the press to the board, which in turn sends those letters and numbers over to the PC. Simple. The default switches do vary depending on retailer, but the standard set are a pre-lubricated, linear variety. These offer a satisfying, rich and creamy “thock” with each press. The out-the-box set may not be the quietest out there, but these can be swapped out for standard 2-pin mechanical switches, unlocking a vast number of customisation options!

With a 98% layout, the AK980 keyboard layout is ever so slightly smaller than a full size model. The keys themselves are full size, the only major point of difference is a slightly condensed set of arrow keys and the travel distance to the numerical keypad. Coming off the back of a full-size behemoth, it does take a little adjustment, as it would with any compact keyboard. The key feel and gaps between each do make the transition a breeze, however.

The AJAZZ AK980 does come in a handful of different configurations, too, with the reviewed unit being a wired-only keyboard. Wireless options are available, supporting both Bluetooth and a 2.4Ghz dongle. Some configurations even come equipped with a nifty LCD screen for animated gif lovers. Neat. Feel and form wise, these units do all conform to the 98% form factor. All models also come with optional rainbow effect RGB. It’s nothing particular to shout home about – limited to a fixed colour palette, but the feature does elevate the keyboard with a “gamer feel” for 3AM Fortnite sessions.

Lighting and keyboard functions can be customised within an app, but finding the correct version can be an incredible chore with different software across multiple sites. Once past the hard-slog of finding compatible software, macros and remapping is possible. Basic, but usable. It is a shame – the keyboard offers a premium feel, yet the accompanying app does struggle.

Specifications

AJAZZ AK980 98% Wired Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Review – Compact Layout with Full Functionality

The AJAZZ AK980 98% Wired Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is an excellent choice for a premium feel keyboard in both case and keys. A creamy, satisfying typing experience that’s as close to a full layout as possible, with the all-important numerical pad. With a fully hot-swappable set of keys and switches, there's plenty of flexibility with the AK980, all housed within a solid, weighty frame for long-term durability. Wireless options are available, too. It is a shame, though, that the software can be a struggle to find and is a little basic.

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