It has excellent typing quality. Its always nice to have such a diverse selection of switches, because most product offerings make you pick between one or two switch types. MASSDROP CTRL KEYBOARD - TIGHT PLATE Sorry, this post was deleted by the person who originally posted it. 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. See Source link below for more information. If you click an affiliate link and buy a product or service, we may be paid a fee by that merchant. If all goes well, the firmware will apply to the keyboard and completely rewrite what it shipped with. You also cannot swap out the plate, and there's no gasket mounting for a softer typing feel. NEW DROP ALT HP Custom Mechanical Keyboard Aluminum Enclosure Case Bronze $130. Delivery times may vary, especially during peak periods. It has okay ergonomics, but it doesn't come with a wrist rest, meaning some people may feel fatigued after long periods of use. You can find him on Twitter @Bombur. Remapping a key is as simple as clicking it and then selecting which function you would rather have there. The build quality, hot-swappable switches, and typing experience are a clear upgrade from the average gaming or productivity keyboard, even with the rattly stabilizers. If this is your first time remapping a keyboard, or if youre aiming for a particular hue with the backlight, you should be prepared to repeat this process multiple times as you dial it in. Another downside is that it only supports plate-mounted stabilizers for the larger keys. Kaviso, LLC . But what happens if you're unable to choose a specific model from a brand that ticks all the right boxes? 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. The Drop CTRL is an awesome mechanical keyboard with a floating keycap design and a sleek aluminum frame. There is backlighting all through the outer rim as well as under each key. 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. While I appreciate everything that the ENTR brings to the table, its important to talk about what it lacks. Our expert industry analysis and practical solutions help you make better buying decisions and get more from technology. You can control the brightness and effects directly with hotkeys, but you need the user manual to learn the full list of hotkeys. 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. On the other hand, the Drop has dedicated navigation keys, including arrow keys, and has a USB passthrough. Search the Micro Center Job Access site to review our latest Openings. It features a dastardly design with the Eye of Sauron, Black Speech keycaps (based on the language of Mordor), and an inscription from The One Ring. The Drop ALT doesn't have dedicated software. The Drop CTRL is configured using Drops QMK-driven online Configurator tool. The ENTR's compact design, measuring 1.19 by 14.06 by 5.09 inches (HWD), has a small desktop footprint. Desktop / notebook computers, tablets, processors, motherboards, digital cameras, camcorders and projectors, 3D printers, 3D scanners, and CD/DVD duplicators 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. 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) Visit the DROP Store 614 ratings | 39 answered questions $22000 FREE Returns Color: Space Gray Style: Halo Clear Barebones Cherry MX Blue RGB $250 for the high-profile version and $200 for the low-profile feels more expensive now that affordable custom kits are becoming more common. Free assistance is available for the first 60 days on new purchases, excluding internal hardware installations or networking support. Unfortunately, it doesn't come with a wrist rest, and you may feel fatigue typing on it. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. The Drop has magnetically attachable feet, which you can also position to create a negative incline, and it has a USB passthrough. All products come with 60 days of Complimentary Tech Support, For additional coverage and peace of mind, consider our service and replacement plans. Its been about 5 months since then. Using the software may require the use of a computer or other device that must meet minimum system requirements. 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. It also has a USB passthrough feature. Do you have any useful tips for it? This keyboard has okay ergonomics. This newsletter may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. All other products may be returned within 30 days of purchase. It was love at first sight. This is a wonderful feature that allows you to easily try new switches, which is one of the most fun aspects of the custom keyboard hobby. These include everything from standard keyboard commands, to simple Windows shortcuts, media controls, international symbols, and dedicated functions like Copy and Paste. The Drop ALT keyboard is wired-only, and you can't use it with wireless devices. However, it's not user-friendly and isn't considered dedicated software. If youre switching to a TKL to save space, the ENTR maximizes that benefit. 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. Competition is ramping up for custom mechanical keyboard kits like the Drop CTRL. The Obinslab Anne Pro 2 is a 60% wireless gaming keyboard, while theDrop ALT is a compact 65% wired gaming model. 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, Halo True) (MDX-31831-2) (Renewed) $108.73 (4) Works and looks like new and backed by the Amazon Renewed Guarantee Consider a similar item Amazon's Choice You can also flip them around to have it on a negative incline. Instructions for loading compiled firmware onto your keyboard: The first few months after I bought this keyboard, I did experience keyboard chatter and double typing. - Hover to zoom. - The Drop ALT and the Drop SHIFT are very similar keyboards. The display of third-party trademarks and trade names on this site does not necessarily indicate any affiliation or the endorsement of PCMag. The solid aluminum plate is a shiny space grey, not like the Macbook space grey. Theres no need to desolder the old switches and solder new ones on. + Reasonably priced for a complete custom keyboard, + Available in a barebones version at a reduced price. To put it simply, the CTRL mechanical keyboard has it all. 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. Its also fully programmable via QMK . All default keys work on Windows, macOS, and Linux. $39.99. https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/drop-entr-mechanical-keyboard. It's also available with Cherry MX Blue, Kaihua Speed Silver, Kaihua Box White, Halo Clear, and Halo True switches. Aerial Drones International edition, Besides typing experience, we expect our results to be valid for the other variants. Subscribing to a newsletter indicates your consent to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. We absolutely love this keyboard and consider it one of the best hot-swappable keyboards currently out there. 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. And thanks to the hot-swap switch sockets, it allows you to change switches whenever you want with no soldering required. Software system requirements are typically found on the Product information specification page. The Drop CTRL keyboard comes in a variety of color and switch options, with the cost ranging from $200 to $225 from Drop directly. Future US, Inc. Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, That said, if you want a compact keyboard that has two USB-A ports in addition to two USB-C ports, check out the System76 Launch. Drop CTRL allows you to create custom configurations on its Configurator page and compile the firmware with your own configuration. We guarantee your satisfaction on every product we sell with a full refund and you wont even need a receipt. 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. date, between 0.55 lb (8.82 oz, 250 g, 0.25 kg) and 55 lb take-off weight are required by The keyboard has a dedicated Fn button that accesses the first layer by default when held. Free shipping. Theyre also doubleshot, which means the legends are made from a second piece of plastic, so will never chip or fade with time. View cart for details. Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated. Then there's the height of the Drop CTRL, which makes it a little taller than most mechanical keyboards. 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. You can your pick of which switches it comes with. Mechanical Keyboards Shop All Fully Built TKL 65% Full Size DIY Kits Keycaps Shop All Full Keycap Sets Changelog The RGB lighting isn't the brightest but makes good use of the reflective metal to create quite the effect. Let other users know below. Double-clicking will select all of the LEDs under each switch or wrapping around the keyboard, allowing you to then select the color or preset effect. DROP + MiTo GMK Laser Custom Mechanical Keyboard Keycap Set *READ* Missing a total of 15 keycaps. 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. At the same time, a pricier keyboard like the $199.99, Editors' Choice award-winning Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT brings more utility to the table. Anyways, thank you so much for the read, and happy typing! Bottom line: I'm a big fan of the Drop CTRL. The Drop ALT is an excellent gaming keyboard. Tech Support accepts the following credit cards: VISA; MasterCard; Discover; American Express. It does have volume up and down, pause and play, but only if you memorize the keys. Just use the switch puller that comes with the keyboard and pull each one out individually. Click to play video. This makes it convenient for all sorts of desk set-ups and doesnt limit you from only using one side awkwardly. GamaKay . The lighting is nowhere near as customizable. I talked about it on our first article, guide to Cherry MX switches, where I discuss the difference between common switches. Please refresh the page and try again. - eBay Money Back Guarantee - opens in a new window or tab, NEW DROP CTRL Custom Mechanical Keyboard Aluminum Enclosure Case MIDNIGHT GREEN, cleared payment - opens in a new window or tab, Report this item - opens in new window or tab. They feel good to type on and lend a nice solidity to the experience, but arent as thick as some of the premium aftermarket sets like the GMK Blue Samurai that was sent with my sample and photographed for this review. In addition, you need a specialized USB-C power cable for this keyboard, I tried using my custom cable, but ran into some issues with not having enough power delivered to the keyboard. 2023 - There is also an option to pair it with different keycap sets, get an optional extended warranty, or . The added density of the material and slight texturing present on their surface feels good under the fingers. There is minimal rattle with the stabilizers. All Rights Reserved. This keyboard is an absolute beauty. All in all, I would recommend this keyboard to you guys to try out. Hi, it appears you may be new to this subreddit! One of its best features is that it is hot-swappable. The brightness of this ring can be independently controlled, but its worth keeping on for the slick underglow effect and appealing side profile. 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). Refresh your browser window to try again. If you need to return an item, simply bring it back to any Micro Center store for a full refund or exchange. Its up to you. Digital Downloads Fn + S: LED Brightness Decrease. Both boards are available in several switches, and neither has dedicated software; however, you can still set macros on the Ducky by using a combination of hotkeys. And thanks to the hot-swap switch sockets, it allows you to change switches whenever you want with no soldering required. We're sorry for inconvenience. Overall, this keyboard is great, but I have 3 main issues. The CTRL is Ready for Action The day has finally come. Many of the most popular key switches have five pins to aid in stability and alignment. Weve tested out several different switches on this keyboard to give them a go. I was stuck with the Razer green switches for forever, and Im not looking to go back anytime soon. You can also connect your mouse if it has a USB-C cable ending or if you have an adapter. Something went wrong. This may not be a big deal if you dont mind pressing them into place (and inevitably fixing a few bent pins in the process), but is worth considering if youd rather unbox it and get right to work. Unfortunately, we cannot accept returns with damage due to pilot error. It's also showing its age slightly with the use of three-pin sockets. You can pair the Obinslab with up to four devices via Bluetooth, but you can also use it wired. Drop, formerly known as Massdrop, primarily deals in limited-run keyboard components for enthusiast mechanical keyboard builders, but it also makes a few complete units. The ENTR lacks configuration software that would let you remap keys or create macros. I prefer to keep my fingers on the home row, so I map my Caps Lock key to access Layer 1 when held and send Caps Lock when tapped. However, for its price, it's disappointing that it doesn't come with dedicated software, and there are cheaper options with software, such as the Razer Huntsman Mini. You can follow him on Twitter at @RichEdmonds. Is it normal to not be able to change wifi channels on a modem? What the keyboard does lack is supporting features for gaming. 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. The Configurator allows you to set the color of each key, but doing so is cumbersome unless youre applying one color or effect to every key. For help getting set up, or if future issues arise, visit our Knowledge Bar technicians instore or contact our remote Tech Support services. Drop CTRL allows you to create custom configurations on its. Driven by data, run by a passionate team of engineers, testers, technical writers, developers, and more. I love that it has two USB-C connectors, one of the right and one on the left. Such keyboards allow the swapping of switches and keycaps, as well as other components, to personalize everything to your personal preference. The Drop CTRL High Profile is a very good keyboard, but its not without its drawbacks. You will receive a verification email shortly. DROP CTRL MECHANICAL Keyboard Tenkeyless TKL 87 Key Gaming Keyboard Parts/Used - $95.38. Intel to Go Ahead with "Meteor Lake" 6P+16E Processor on the Desktop Platform? There was a solution, which well talk about later. Config apps, dedicated media keys, USB passthrough, wireless connectivity: These features have value, and it would be a mistake to dismiss what they offer. The current stabilizers included with the Drops keyboards are loose and rattly. Fn + Q: LED Scrolling Pattern Speed Decrease. 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 with many different switch types, and you can also buy it barebones if you prefer to add the switches and keycaps yourself. After launching its Elvish and Dwarvish mechanical keyboards, DROP is back with a new Mordor-themed Black Speech keyboard. I really enjoy this tactile feedback, but others may not. Its not the heaviest keyboard in the custom or even premade world (the Abkoncore AK87 (opens in new tab) tops it by more than two pounds), but its certainly heavy enough to elicit a wow moment the first time you feel it for yourself. (Image: Rich Edmonds / Windows Central), (Image credit: Source: Rich Edmonds / Windows Central), You want a great foundation for a custom keyboard, You aren't comfortable spending nearly $300 on a keyboard. If youre used to a standard plastic or even premium gaming keyboard with a metal top plate, youll be in for a surprise the first time you hold it in your hands. Providing the means for hot-swappable switches within an all-aluminum chassis really drives up the price of a keyboard, and the CTRL is no exception. 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. On the contrary, I played everything from Doom Eternal and Battlefield V to slow-paced MMORPGs like Final Fantasy FFXIV using it just fine. On the plus side, the lighting effect is enhanced thanks to its wrap-around diffuser sandwiched between the halves of the case. This is to avoid comment bots. Turkish 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. Model: Drop Alt Switches: Halo True, with o-rings installed Programmable: Yes, QMK 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. Today we will be covering the PE Foam mod, a sound-altering solution We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Platform detected: Windows or Linux (not macOS), Other languages: The tenkeyless sized board has an solid aluminum frame with a built-in switch plate. This item: DROP + Invyr Holy Panda Mechanical Keyboard Switches - Plate Mounted Tactile Switches, Cherry MX Style, 67g Spring, by Kailh (110 PCS) SAR 492.84 SAR 342.98 SAR 108.15 Product description THE MOST TACTILE SWITCHES IN THE WORLD: With a name like Holy Panda, these switches had to be epic. *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. 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. QMK is a popular keyboard firmware that allows users to remap their keyboards eliminating the need for software and opening the door for more advanced access to layers of keysets. However, if you need help or need to return an item, were here for you! High profile of keys may lead to fatigue. As a tenkeyless keyboard, the form factor is very traditional. It's available in a variety of Cherry MX, Kaihua, and Halo switches. Over time, I got used to it and now I love it. Big brands are also taking notice of the increased activity with custom keycaps, switches, and other features found on keyboards like the CTRL. 2000-2023 Newegg Inc. All rights reserved. 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. As of December 21, 2015 all drones, regardless of purchase Tested and works. I grew tired of the loud intense clicks, especially when talking to friends on Discord or streaming on Twitch, it was just too distracting. They also share the same customization options through Drop's website and the QMK toolbox, which aren't very user-friendly. While many modern custom keyboards support VIA, a downloadable QMK tool that automatically remaps keys as you enter them, the CTRL relies on downloading a firmware file and a very specific process to write that file to the keyboard. It's sold with a gray frame, and you can purchase just the frame (sold as 'Barebones') and add the switches yourself. You can view our Privacy Policy and information regarding our use of cookies here for more information about cookies. Shortcut lists can be shared as long as you don't create a database. You have a rainbow wave and breathe effect, a scrolling red line, and six static colors. Each of the rings more than thirty LEDs can be color customized within the online customization tool. GlobaleParts StoreVisit Store. The Drop ALT and the Dream Machines DreamKey are mechanical gaming keyboards, but they have different features. It offers excellent typing quality with the Cherry MX Brown switches on our unit, and you can get it with a variety of switches. Merchandise must be in new condition, with original carton / UPC, and all packaging / accessories / materials. It is beyond the passable, and even good, craftsmanship you find in mass-produced keyboards from major manufacturers, including ones that charge more money for their more feature-rich designs. 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. The Drop has magnetically attachable feet, which you can position to give a negative incline. We updated the review accordingly. 1. Sadly, it doesn't come with a wrist rest, which is a bit disappointing considering the higher profile of the keys. defkey.com I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Finally, the stabilizers for the larger keys aren't great. There's a USB-C port on both sides of the keyboard, and you can use either one to connect to your computer. One of two new models released this fall, the ENTR, is the company's take on a classic tenkeyless (TKL) keyboard. 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 Also, you can position its magnetically attachable feet to give a negative incline. MSRP: $150. Kinda lame. We eventually ended up modding the stabilizers to make them sound and feel even better. It's fine for most gamers and daily tasks, but competitive gamers may notice a delay. Its worth noting that Drop has a web-based config tool for its other keyboards, so that support may come to the ENTR . With Razer youll be stuck with the Razer switches, whatever those may be.