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geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: zangaby on Sun, 10 July 2022, 03:03:18

Title: 87 TKL Hot swap
Post by: zangaby on Sun, 10 July 2022, 03:03:18
Hello,

I am looking for a bit of help to decide on a new keyboard that is TKL and has hot swap support.

So far I am trying to decide between SMART DUCK XS87 and Tecware Phantom 87, but I am open to other similar suggestions(within this price range).

Pros for XS 87
Detachable cable
Gateron switch support

Pros for Tecware Phantom 87
Price
Overall Build quality

Thanks !

Title: Re: 87 TKL Hot swap
Post by: HungerMechanic on Sun, 10 July 2022, 10:10:45
Have you considered the MK870? It is the quintessential budget TKL right now.

-detachable cable [3 ports?]

-supports 3 and 5-pin switches

-RGB with different modes

-south-facing PCB [usually] for Cherry-profile support

-metal plate with included foam reduces case ping and echo

-good plate-mount stabilizers that are correctly pre-lubed

-goes down to 50 USD [65 CAD] including shipping during sales
Title: Re: 87 TKL Hot swap
Post by: zangaby on Mon, 11 July 2022, 01:27:40
Thank you for your reply !

MK870 is indeed a great option, and I have already bought one(https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=115665.msg3101347#msg3101347), however now I would like one that has north facing LED's.
Title: Re: 87 TKL Hot swap
Post by: CaesarAZealad on Mon, 11 July 2022, 14:41:19
Bit of a curveball, but if you're looking for something with a vintage style then I HIGHLY recommend the NCR80. For it's price it is surprisingly ****ing good, especially if paired with the right switches. I have mine setup with ZealPC clickiez and it sounds delicious. I've also heard it with linears and it's so nice. I'd recommend going plateless if you do get it.
Title: Re: 87 TKL Hot swap
Post by: zangaby on Tue, 12 July 2022, 08:36:30
Thank you for the recommendation!
That model is looks nice but I like to have a design that is a bit more compact.

In the end I ordered a Tecware Phantom 87 as I can receive it in few days as apposed to the SMART DUCK XS87 that would take few weeks.