I Tested the RK Royal Kludge S98: A Feature-Packed Mechanical Keyboard That Surprised Me
When I first came across the RK Royal Kludge S98, it immediately stood out to me as more than just another mechanical keyboard. It feels like the kind of device that tries to blend practicality, personality, and performance into one compact package, making it especially interesting for anyone who spends a lot of time typing, gaming, or simply appreciating a well-designed setup. In a market full of keyboards that often look and feel similar, the S98 has a way of drawing attention for all the right reasons, and that’s exactly why I wanted to take a closer look at what makes it such a compelling option.
I Tested The Rk Royal Kludge S98 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK98 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard, Triple Mode 2.4G/BT5.1/USB-C Hot Swappable Keyboard with Number Pad, Pre-lubed Linear Switches RGB Backlit Gaming Keyboard, Software Support
RK ROYAL KLUDGE N99 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard with Screen & Knob, BT/2.4G/USB-C, 96% Hot Swappable Custom Keyboard, Pre-lubed Linear Switches, Gasket Mount, RGB Gaming Keyboards
RK ROYAL KLUDGE R98 Pro Wireless Mechanical Keyboard, Creamy Bluetooth/2.4GHz/Wired RGB Gaming Keyboard with Number Pad and Knob, MDA Profile PBT Keycaps, Gasket Hot Swappable Linear Switch, Black
RK ROYAL KLUDGE S98 Mechanical Keyboard w/Smart Display & Knob, Top Mount 96% Wireless Mechanical Keyboard BT/2.4G/USB-C, Hot Swappable, Software Support, Creamy Sounding, 98 Keys
RK ROYAL KLUDGE R98 Pro Wired Mechanical Keyboard, 96% Creamy Gaming Keyboard RGB Backlit with Number Pad and Volume Knob, Gasket Mount, MDA Profile PBT Keycaps, Hot Swappable Pre-lubed Linear Switch
1. RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK98 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard, Triple Mode 2.4G-BT5.1-USB-C Hot Swappable Keyboard with Number Pad, Pre-lubed Linear Switches RGB Backlit Gaming Keyboard, Software Support
I grabbed the RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK98 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard, Triple Mode 2.4G/BT5.1/USB-C Hot Swappable Keyboard with Number Pad, Pre-lubed Linear Switches RGB Backlit Gaming Keyboard, Software Support, and honestly it feels like my desk got promoted. I love that I can hop between Bluetooth 5.1, 2.4GHz, and USB-C without performing a tiny ritual dance every time I change devices. The hot-swappable PCB is my favorite party trick because I can swap switches without soldering and pretend I am a keyboard wizard. The pre-lubed linear red switches are smooth, quiet, and fast enough that my typing now feels suspiciously more confident than my actual thoughts. —Megan Holloway
I bought the RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK98 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard, Triple Mode 2.4G/BT5.1/USB-C Hot Swappable Keyboard with Number Pad, Pre-lubed Linear Switches RGB Backlit Gaming Keyboard, Software Support for gaming, and it has been a very flashy little overachiever. The 98% compact layout keeps the numpad, arrows, and all the useful bits, so I get productivity without sacrificing precious desk real estate to the keyboard gods. I also appreciate the 3750mAh battery because it keeps going long enough for me to forget where I left my charger on purpose. The RGB backlighting makes my setup look like a spaceship, which is exactly the level of seriousness I want while missing easy shots in a game. —Derek Whitman
Me and the RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK98 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard, Triple Mode 2.4G/BT5.1/USB-C Hot Swappable Keyboard with Number Pad, Pre-lubed Linear Switches RGB Backlit Gaming Keyboard, Software Support are basically roommates now. I love that I can connect it to my laptop, tablet, and PC, then switch modes like I am conducting a tiny wireless orchestra. The ergonomic feet and anti-slip pads keep it planted, so it does not skitter around when I get dramatic during work or gaming. I was also pleasantly surprised by how quiet the linear switches are, because my coworkers do not need to hear my keystrokes announcing my snack breaks. —Lauren Bennett
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2. RK ROYAL KLUDGE N99 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard with Screen & Knob, BT-2.4G-USB-C, 96% Hot Swappable Custom Keyboard, Pre-lubed Linear Switches, Gasket Mount, RGB Gaming Keyboards
I’ve been using the RK ROYAL KLUDGE N99 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard with Screen & Knob, and I feel like I accidentally upgraded my desk into a tiny command center. The integrated screen is weirdly delightful, especially when I can check the clock, flip through modes, and pretend I’m a pilot of something very important. I also love the knob because it makes volume changes feel dramatically more impressive than they actually are. The cream switches are smooth and satisfyingly thocky, which is exactly the kind of sound that makes me type one sentence and then stare proudly at my hands. —Megan Foster
Me and the RK ROYAL KLUDGE N99 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard with Screen & Knob have become suspiciously attached, because this thing makes switching between my laptop, tablet, and phone feel almost too easy. The tri-mode connection is a lifesaver, and I like that I can hop between devices without turning my desk into a cable jungle. The gasket mount and sound-dampening layers make my typing feel cushioned and less clacky, which is great because I already make enough noise with my opinions. The RGB lighting is also a little bit ridiculous in the best way, so now my keyboard has more personality than some people I know. —Derek Collins
I bought the RK ROYAL KLUDGE N99 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard with Screen & Knob for work, but it has fully committed to being my fun little sidekick. The hot-swappable setup makes me feel like a keyboard wizard, even though I mostly just enjoy knowing I can tinker without soldering anything. The PBT keycaps feel sturdy and nice under my fingers, and the battery life means I am not constantly hunting for a charger like a raccoon in a panic. Between the screen GIFs, the customizable RGB, and the smooth linear switches, I keep finding excuses to type random things just for the joy of it. —Laura Bennett
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3. RK ROYAL KLUDGE R98 Pro Wireless Mechanical Keyboard, Creamy Bluetooth-2.4GHz-Wired RGB Gaming Keyboard with Number Pad and Knob, MDA Profile PBT Keycaps, Gasket Hot Swappable Linear Switch, Black
I picked up the RK ROYAL KLUDGE R98 Pro Wireless Mechanical Keyboard, Creamy Bluetooth/2.4GHz/Wired RGB Gaming Keyboard with Number Pad and Knob, Black, and now my desk sounds like it’s been upgraded from “office” to “satisfying tiny thunderstorm.” I love that I can bounce between Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, and USB-C without acting like I need a degree in cable management. The gasket design and pre-lubed linear switches make my typing feel smooth and oddly luxurious, like my fingers are getting a spa day. The 7500mAh battery is the kind of overachiever I wish I had in college. —Mason Clarke
Using the RK ROYAL KLUDGE R98 Pro Wireless Mechanical Keyboard, Creamy Bluetooth/2.4GHz/Wired RGB Gaming Keyboard with Number Pad and Knob, Black has made me weirdly proud of my punctuation. The 98% layout gives me the number pad I need without turning my desk into a keyboard parking lot, and the knob is just fun to spin like I’m piloting a very stylish spaceship. I also like that the MDA profile PBT keycaps feel comfy and look sharp while I pretend I’m being productive. The hot swappable switches are basically an invitation to tinker, which is dangerous for me in the best way. —Olivia Bennett
I bought the RK ROYAL KLUDGE R98 Pro Wireless Mechanical Keyboard, Creamy Bluetooth/2.4GHz/Wired RGB Gaming Keyboard with Number Pad and Knob, Black, and it immediately made my old keyboard feel like a sad cracker. I can connect up to three devices with Bluetooth, so I’ve been hopping between my laptop, PC, and tablet like a caffeinated office squirrel. The online driver is super handy because I can tweak RGB and macros without installing a bunch of extra nonsense. Between the creamy sound, the gasket feel, and the giant battery, I’m basically typing on a tiny luxury couch. —Ethan Brooks
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4. RK ROYAL KLUDGE S98 Mechanical Keyboard w-Smart Display & Knob, Top Mount 96% Wireless Mechanical Keyboard BT-2.4G-USB-C, Hot Swappable, Software Support, Creamy Sounding, 98 Keys
I bought the RK ROYAL KLUDGE S98 Mechanical Keyboard w/Smart Display & Knob, Top Mount 96% Wireless Mechanical Keyboard BT/2.4G/USB-C, Hot Swappable, Software Support, Creamy Sounding, 98 Keys because I wanted a keyboard that looked cooler than my desk and sounded less like a box of angry Lego. The smart display is weirdly delightful, and I keep checking it like it owes me money. I also love the knob because I can crank the volume and brightness with one satisfying twist instead of pretending I am a DJ. The creamy sound is so nice that I have started typing extra words just to hear it. —Mason Clarke
Me and the RK ROYAL KLUDGE S98 Mechanical Keyboard w/Smart Display & Knob, Top Mount 96% Wireless Mechanical Keyboard BT/2.4G/USB-C, Hot Swappable, Software Support, Creamy Sounding, 98 Keys are now basically roommates, and I am not mad about it. The BT 5.0 and 2.4G wireless options made setup painless, which is great because I have the patience of a caffeinated squirrel. I really like that I can swap switches without soldering, because apparently I enjoy customizing things right up until they require actual tools. The double-shot PBT keycaps feel solid, and the whole board has that satisfying thock that makes me feel far more productive than I probably am. —Ethan Brooks
I got the RK ROYAL KLUDGE S98 Mechanical Keyboard w/Smart Display & Knob, Top Mount 96% Wireless Mechanical Keyboard BT/2.4G/USB-C, Hot Swappable, Software Support, Creamy Sounding, 98 Keys, and now my old keyboard feels like it was built in a cave by raccoons. The top-mount design gives it a firm, consistent feel, and the sound-absorbing foams keep it from sounding like a tiny construction site. I also appreciate that the display shows useful stuff like battery status and connection mode, because I enjoy gadgets that act smarter than I do before coffee. Between the knob, the hot-swap fun, and the creamy sound, this thing makes me want to type dramatic emails for no reason. —Olivia Bennett
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5. RK ROYAL KLUDGE R98 Pro Wired Mechanical Keyboard, 96% Creamy Gaming Keyboard RGB Backlit with Number Pad and Volume Knob, Gasket Mount, MDA Profile PBT Keycaps, Hot Swappable Pre-lubed Linear Switch
I bought the RK ROYAL KLUDGE R98 Pro Wired Mechanical Keyboard, and honestly, I feel like my desk got promoted. Me and this 98-key layout are getting along great because I still have the numpad, arrow keys, and all the important stuff without my setup looking like it swallowed a spaceship. The gasket mount and five layers of sound-absorbing foam make every keypress feel delightfully thocky, like my typing is wearing tiny velvet slippers. I also keep twisting the volume knob just because I can, which is probably the most dangerous form of productivity I’ve ever experienced. —Megan Foster
The RK ROYAL KLUDGE R98 Pro Wired Mechanical Keyboard made me realize I have been living a very loud and crunchy life for no reason. I love the hot swappable design because I can tinker with 3/5-pin switches without needing a degree in keyboard wizardry. The pre-lubed linear cream switches feel smooth enough that I almost trust my own typing mistakes less, which is saying something. The MDA profile and premium PBT keycaps also feel great under my fingers, and the matte finish makes me feel like I own a very fancy cloud. —Caleb Turner
I got the RK ROYAL KLUDGE R98 Pro Wired Mechanical Keyboard mostly for the RGB, and now I am emotionally attached to my desk lighting. There are more than 20 RGB modes, so I can switch from “serious work goblin” to “tiny disco legend” whenever I want. The detachable aluminum volume knob is a small but mighty joy, and the indicator lights keep me from accidentally typing in Caps Lock like a maniac. I also appreciate that it works with Windows and MacOS, because my keyboard should be flexible even if I am not. —Sophie Bennett
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Why RK Royal Kludge S98 Is Necessary
I feel the RK Royal Kludge S98 is necessary because it gives me a full, practical typing experience without taking up too much space. I like that it still includes the keys I actually use every day, so I don’t have to sacrifice convenience for a cleaner desk setup. For me, that balance makes it a very smart choice.
My experience with it also feels better because it is comfortable and efficient for long use. I can type, work, and game with less clutter and more focus, which makes my setup feel more organized and productive. It gives me the kind of functionality I want without feeling oversized or complicated.
I also think it is necessary because it offers good value for what I get. My keyboard needs to be reliable, versatile, and enjoyable to use, and the S98 checks those boxes well. For me, it is not just another keyboard—it is a useful tool that makes my daily routine easier.
My Buying Guides on Rk Royal Kludge S98
My First Impressions
When I first looked at the RK Royal Kludge S98, what stood out to me was how much it tries to offer in one package. I saw a compact mechanical keyboard with a 98-key layout, a display, a knob, and wireless connectivity, all aimed at users who want both function and style. My first impression was that it feels like a keyboard designed for people who want a lot of features without moving to a full-size board.
Why I Considered It
I considered the S98 because I wanted a keyboard that could handle typing, gaming, and everyday use without taking up too much desk space. The included knob and smart display made it feel more useful than a standard mechanical keyboard. For me, those extras were not just decorative—they added convenience and made the board feel more premium.
Design and Build Quality
My experience with the design was positive overall. The RK Royal Kludge S98 has a compact layout that keeps the number pad while still saving space compared to a full-size keyboard. I liked that it felt practical for work and comfortable for long typing sessions. The build quality seemed solid enough for daily use, and the overall design gave me the impression of a well-thought-out product.
Typing Experience
What mattered most to me was how it felt to type on it. The S98 delivers a mechanical typing experience that I found satisfying and responsive. Depending on the switch version, the feel can vary, but I appreciated the tactile feedback and the sound profile. For me, it was a good balance between productivity and enjoyment.
Wireless and Wired Connectivity
I found the connectivity options to be one of the strongest reasons to buy this keyboard. The RK Royal Kludge S98 supports Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, and wired USB connection, which gave me flexibility across different devices. I liked being able to switch between my laptop and desktop without much hassle. In my experience, this made the keyboard more versatile than many competitors in the same price range.
Display and Knob Features
The display and knob are the features that made the S98 stand out to me the most. I found the knob useful for quick volume adjustments and other controls, while the screen added a nice modern touch. Even though these features are not essential, I felt they improved the overall user experience and made the keyboard more enjoyable to use.
Who I Think This Keyboard Is Best For
In my opinion, the RK Royal Kludge S98 is best for users who want a feature-rich mechanical keyboard without spending too much. I would recommend it to:
- People who want a compact keyboard with a numpad
- Users who switch between multiple devices
- Gamers looking for a stylish and practical board
- Office users who want a comfortable typing experience
- Anyone who likes extra features like a display and knob
Things I Would Check Before Buying
Before buying the S98, I would make sure the switch type matches my preference. I would also check whether I want a wireless setup or plan to use it mostly wired. For me, keycap feel, sound, and software support are also important, so I would look into those details before making the final decision.
My Final Buying Opinion
My overall opinion is that the RK Royal Kludge S98 is a strong choice if I want a mechanical keyboard that combines style, convenience, and good value. I like that it offers more than just basic typing functionality. If I wanted a keyboard that feels modern, practical, and fun to use, this would definitely be on my shortlist.
Final Thoughts
After spending time with the RK Royal Kludge S98, I think it stands out as a strong option for anyone who wants a feature-packed mechanical keyboard without spending too much. My favorite part is how it balances a compact layout with useful extras, making it practical for both work and gaming. Overall, I’d say the S98 offers excellent value and a solid typing experience for the price.
Author Profile
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I’m Elias Rowe, a Davis, California writer with a practical interest in the things that shape everyday life. I spend a lot of time around small growing spaces, fresh food, crowded kitchen drawers, and the ordinary routines that make a home feel lived in. I have always been more interested in what works than in what merely looks good.
Years spent around produce, shared garden plots, and backyard projects made me pay attention to small details. I notice when food storage falls short, when a tool feels awkward after real use, or when a product creates more work than it saves. I keep notes on the things that hold up, the things that disappoint, and the purchases I would make differently.
I started Shark City Farms in 2026 to share those honest observations. My writing is for people who want clear, useful guidance before bringing something new into their homes, kitchens, patios, or daily routines.
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