Royal Kludge introduced the Kunpeng T98 mechanical keyboard to address the growing demand for high-performance peripherals that do not break the bank. This launch matters because it brings enthusiast-grade features like rapid polling and premium build materials to a price point that appeals to budget-conscious gamers and typists.

Aluminum chassis and 8kHz polling rate define the new budget option
The T98 is a 98% layout keyboard that prioritizes durability and customization. It features a powder-coated aluminum alloy top and bottom case to provide a solid, heavy feel. The internal structure uses a five-layer gasket mount system to isolate key strikes and reduce noise.
Specifications
- Layout: 98%
- Connectivity: Tri-mode (USB-C, 2.4GHz, Bluetooth)
- Polling Rate: 8kHz (USB-C and 2.4GHz)
- Battery: 8000mAh to 12000mAh
- Construction: Powder-coated aluminum alloy
Connectivity is handled by a tri-mode setup that includes USB-C, 2.4GHz wireless, and Bluetooth. The keyboard supports an impressive 8kHz polling rate when using the USB-C or 2.4GHz connections. This high frequency ensures minimal input latency for competitive gaming scenarios.
Power comes from a large battery with a capacity ranging from 8000mAh to 12000mAh depending on the specific configuration chosen. The keyboard also supports full hot-swappable switches, allowing users to change the typing experience without soldering. RGB lighting includes under-key illumination and a side strip described as the 'Eye of the Sky'.
Pricing in China starts at 319 CNY (around $47.58) and goes up to 399 CNY (around $59.51) based on switch and color options. The keyboard became available on September 21, 2024. This pricing makes the T98 one of the more affordable options for a tri-mode aluminum keyboard with high polling rates.



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