The case is the only meaningful difference between the two versions, so its truly a matter of preference and what works best for your budget. If you need to return an item, simply bring it back to any Micro Center store for a full refund or exchange. It's also showing its age slightly with the use of three-pin sockets. Thank you to sellers! The ENTR is a simple, wired keyboard. We eventually ended up modding the stabilizers to make them sound and feel even better. The Drop CTRL took the mechanical keyboard community by storm in late 2018. It comes in a variety of switches, including clicky and linear ones, meaning you can get the ones you prefer. The thick, sturdy base is made of metal and feels solid. However, it's not user-friendly and isn't considered dedicated software. It absolutely sucked, and I was scared that I would have to return it. LED Toggle Mode (Keys + Edge, Keys Only, Edge Only, Only modifiers), Toggle keyboard 6KRO/NKRO (Default state 6KRO), Program name: Up for sale is a DROP CTRL Mechanical Keyboard Tenkeyless TKL 185801335788 French. DROP CTRL MECHANICAL Keyboard Tenkeyless TKL 87 Key Gaming Keyboard Parts/Used - $95.38. If you're looking for a keyboard with companion software that allows you to program macros to any key, check out the Dream Machines DreamKey. 2. 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. While there are a number of function-key shortcuts for media commands, increasing and decreasing LED brightness, and launching basic Windows apps like Calculator, power users may find the lack of customization stifling. The Drop ALT and the Drop SHIFT are very similar keyboards. Go with RX 6800 XT or wait for 7900 XT price cut? To put it simply, the CTRL mechanical keyboard has it all. As a result, the ENTR is the PCMag Editors' Choice for budget mechanical keyboards. Shortcut lists can be shared as long as you don't create a database. High profile of keys may lead to fatigue. The current stabilizers included with the Drops keyboards are loose and rattly. 3/5/2021 8:55:38 PM New program added. date, between 0.55 lb (8.82 oz, 250 g, 0.25 kg) and 55 lb take-off weight are required by While I appreciate everything that the ENTR brings to the table, its important to talk about what it lacks. Fn + Q: LED Scrolling Pattern Speed Decrease. 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. Refresh your browser window to try again. Its also fully programmable via QMK . 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, Black) Visit the DROP Store 612 ratings | 39 answered questions $22000 FREE Returns For users looking for a more compact option, its an effective choice without losing important keys, like the function row. Normally going for $110, this 18% discount, or solid $20 price drop marks a return to the third-best price we've seen to date while coming within $10 of the all-time low set back over the December holidays. 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. 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. We're your trusted local service and repair professionals. 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, Kaihua Speed Silver) Visit the DROP Store 213 ratings | 16 answered questions Deal -15% $22950 List Price: $270.00 FREE Returns Style: Kaihua Speed Silver Barebones 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. LED Keys. Originally released in 2018, the CTRL is now available in multiple configurations, including low- and high-profile case versions, two colors, six switches, and even more colors and switches if you purchase upgrades. The only gripe I have is that it still does chatter sometimes, although the frequency has decreased dramatically. Tech Support accepts the following credit cards: VISA; MasterCard; Discover; American Express. The ALT also has lower latency, better RGB color mixing for its backlighting, and it has an additional incline setting. I know, theres a way to use the QMK software and program it myself to make my preferred setting the default, but as a noobie, I have no experience with QMK at all. So long as you don't rely on the use of media keys and other physical features found on other keyboards, the Drop CTRL has everything you'll require. 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. Drop CTRL I grew tired of the loud intense clicks, especially when talking to friends on Discord or streaming on Twitch, it was just too distracting. You can also pick custom keycap kits for additional costs. Sign up for Lab Report to get the latest reviews and top product advice delivered right to your inbox. The board comes with both a keycap puller and a switch puller, so no extra tools are required, and changing switches is as easy as pulling off the keycap, pulling out the old switch and pressing the new one into place. Since I was sent the barebones kit, I had to install my own switches. Typing on the CTRL High Profile is a mostly enjoyable experience with the exception of the larger stabilized keys. The Gatreon Yellow is a quick tap with smooth action; you arent waiting to feel the click. Details regarding registration can be Like I said, I got the Halo Clears, which are a 65g tactile switch. PCMag supports Group Black and its mission to increase greater diversity in media voices and media ownerships. Its latency is very good, but it may not be low enough for some gamers. I also enjoy the magnetic feet and the double USB-C cable connectors, all things that are convenient to a casual typist and new mechanical keyboard enthusiast. The switches are north-facing, meaning they're mounted upside-down from the intended orientation of Cherry-style switches. Theres a wealth of customization options to really match what feels best to you. There was a problem. Heres how it works. We've looked at a few here on Windows Central, including the brilliant Akko World Tour Tokyo R2 (3068B). It's easily one of the better custom keyboard kits out there. The display of third-party trademarks and trade names on this site does not necessarily indicate any affiliation or the endorsement of PCMag. For help getting set up, or if future issues arise, visit our Knowledge Bar technicians instore or contact our remote Tech Support services. Theyre made of PBT plastic, which is more resistant to wear and tear than ABS plastic and wont develop the telltale oily shine after months of regular use. Aerial Drones Welcome! That said, both options have similar build quality and ergonomics. Hi, it appears you may be new to this subreddit! 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. Note that the standard CTRL features backlit gray-hued keycaps. Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. 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. Although the ALT has no companion software, all of its settings are customizablevia the Drop website, unlike the ENTR. This may put off some who can't justify spending nearly $300 on a keyboard, but if all you care about is quality, this is definitely worth a spot on your shortlist. The Drop is available with a variety of switches, and it's hot-swappable, so you can choose whichever switches you prefer, and typing on it feels better than the NPET because it has stable keys with PBT keycaps. Visit our corporate site (opens in new tab). It's fine for most gamers and daily tasks, but competitive gamers may notice a delay. The Drop CTRL High Profile is a very good keyboard, but its not without its drawbacks. 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. Still, a lot has changed in the last three years since the CTRL released, and its not quite the killer value it used to be. The back edge of the keyboard features Type-C ports on each side, allowing you to choose which youd like to connect to your PC and leaving the other open for peripherals. 2023 - * We want you to be satisfied with your Micro Center purchase. After launching its Elvish and Dwarvish mechanical keyboards, DROP is back with a new Mordor-themed Black Speech keyboard. Also, you can position its magnetically attachable feet to give a negative incline. The Drop SHIFT is a customizable keyboard that's better for gaming than the NPET K20, which is a basic entry-level mechanical keyboard. Sadly, there's no dedicated software, so you can't customize the board as easily. For this review, I was sent the Drop CTRL High Profile Barebones Kit. DROP CTRL High-Profile Mechanical Keyboard Tenkeyless TKL (87 Key) Gaming Keyboard, Hot-Swap Switches, Programmable, Backlit RGB LED, USB-C, Doubleshot PBT, Aluminum (Black, Kaihua Box White) Visit the DROP Store 213 ratings | 16 answered questions $27000 FREE Returns Style: Kaihua Box White Barebones Cherry MX Blue RGB Cherry MX Brown RGB - There are two magnetic feet (optional) that you can attach to the bottom of the keyboard to raise the back or the front. In the work-from-home era, you can use it across many workspaces, such as your desk, coffee table, or kitchen table. You'll need to bear in mind that there's no wrist rest included either, which makes the pill harder to. Its a tenkeyless keyboard, which means it lacks a dedicated number pad. The ENTR lacks configuration software that would let you remap keys or create macros. The following are available for selection: GMK Red Samurai, MT3 /dev/tty, XDA Canvas, and SA Pulse Noire. The Drop ALT is a wired-only keyboard that isn't designed for mobile devices. Turkish There is minimal rattle with the stabilizers. Keyboards released these days include five-pin sockets with support for switches with enhanced stability. Black-LK67 RGB Modular DIY Mechanical Keyboard. The new group is a . When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. It's a nice touch to have a secondary RGB strip that wraps around the base of the keyboard. Corsair has announced the K100 AIR, its thinnest wireless mechanical keyboard ever. You can remap this key anywhere and have it function in a multitude of ways. From there, you need to change directory to your file location, type in a precise string to trigger the mdloader applet and direct it to your firmware file, and then flip the keyboard over within 60 seconds to press the reset button. Many jobs today require you to Over the last year, the custom keyboard hobby has exploded, bringing with it a plethora of new innovations and modifications. Other compelling pre-built options include the Ducky Shine 7, which is made of zinc, for $169 or the Mecha SF Radiant at $159, but neither have the same level of firmware-based programmability or the tenkeyless form factor. Removing the keycaps and switches, using the included tools from Drop, reveals the main PCB. Know more about our affliate disclosure terms. dition franaise This allows you to truly the customize the board to what switch type feels the best for you. This is again an area where the CTRL shows its age. NEW 2 Disney Cruise Line DCL Castaway Club PLATINUM Black Lanyards ID Holders (#155212240812), 4" Brass Ring Globe Ball Shade Holder Vintage Antique Kerosene Oil Lamp Parts (#165878793367), NEW Drop BIIP MT3 EXTENDED 2048 Keycap Set for 60% to 75% Keyboards MODIFIERS (#155396505096). Great! A more universal downside is that the largely metal construction can cause reverberation on particularly hard bottom outs or when the switches being used have ping from their internal springs. 300TB Flash Drives Due in 2026, Supplier Claims, Tested: No, Ryzen 7950X3D's iGPU Isn't 4X Faster Than 7950X's, Save Up to $160 With the AMD 7000-Series Combo Offer: Real Deals, Amazon Basics CPU Cooler is Its First Foray into PC Components, Halo Clear, Halo True, Kaihua (Kailh) Box White, Kaihua (Kailh) Speed Silver, Cherry MX Blue RGB, Cherry MX Brown RGB, Fifteen supported layers (firmware-based), 14.5 x 5.5 x 1.75 inches (368 x 140 x 44 mm). Choose your keyboard Default ALT Default CTRL Default Carina Default Zslane Mercury Rocketeer Default SHIFT Configurations are compiled using QMK Firmware. Bottoming out has a satisfyingly solid tactility that made typing an enjoyable experience. Shop CTRL | $200 Drop ALT star_borderstar star_borderstar star_borderstar star_borderstar star_borderstar 1325 A Smaller Take With 67 keys (compared to 87 on the CTRL), the fully-featured ALT is the perfect compact companion. Also, its latency is much lower. The Drop ALT doesn't have dedicated software. The ENTR's main appeal is its the build quality; the components, and how theyre put together. Partnering with global cooling component manufacturer Noctua, the new DROP + MiTo MT3 keycaps set has the colors and quality of build from both companies. 2017 - 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. The Drop ALT keyboard has two USB-C inputs, and you can use either one as a USB passthrough, meaning you can charge your devices at USB 2.0 charging speeds. The stabilized keys are terrible. may be returned within 15 days of purchase. Our review unit featured Gatreon Yellow, a quick-acting linear switch similar to the Cherry MX Reds found in many gaming keyboards, but with a high actuation force. Hold FN + listed keys to activate. Other features include being fully programmable via QMK, which is available on Drops website as well. Click to enlarge. The Drop ALT keyboard has low latency. An integrated plate isnt ideal for sound or typing feel, however. Anyways, thank you so much for the read, and happy typing! 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. Click to play video. The Cherry MX Brown switches on our unit provide good tactile feedback and excellent typing quality. Aesthetically, the keyboard is equally impressive. Youll need to download Drops mdloader application from its github, put it in the same folder as your firmware file, and open of Windows Command Line Terminal. Applying your new firmware is a complicated process that is in desperate need of revision. The Drop ALT is a highly-customizable mechanical keyboard. HP GK320 Wired Full Size RGB Backlight . 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. The all-aluminum chassis feels premium, weighing in at just shy of 2kg. The Drop ENTR is a simple mechanical keyboard, but its premium build makes it feel like so much more. There are three options for fans of tactile switches: Cherry MX Brown RGB, and Drops own Halo Clear and Halo True switches. But keep in mind those keyboards may not have some of the features that the Massdrop CTRL may have such as being hot-swappable, having custom switch choices. Even NZXT launched its own mod-friendly keyboard, which we'll be reviewing shortly. Its starting to show its age but remains one of the best entry-level custom keyboards you can buy outside of the group buy model. All trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners. You can also customize the RGB lighting through Drop's interface on their website and flash the settings onto your keyboard. Search the Micro Center Job Access site to review our latest Openings. Keep an eye on your inbox! Trke srm PCMag, PCMag.com and PC Magazine are among the federally registered trademarks of Ziff Davis and may not be used by third parties without explicit permission. New York, The Dream Machines has companion software to customize the board, and every key is macro-programmable. 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 shine-through PBT keycaps only enhance the performance. Changelog 3/5/2021 8:57:42 PM Updated program information. This is a thankfully easy fix with a touch of dielectric grease and doesnt require disassembling the case. The board also comes in a TenKeyLess version called the Drop CTRL. The keyboard supports up to 15 layers and can be accessed in multiple ways. Layer keys can be set to activate associated layers when tapped or held, made active for one keypress before reverting, made active with set modifier keys already held (like Ctrl or Alt) or even made to become the default layer with a single keypress. I think that its Fn+PgUp or Fn+PgDn for the volume features. The Drop ALT is a better keyboard than the Drop ENTR. The all-aluminum chassis screams premium craftmanship, and this makes the CTRL an ideal starting place for those looking to customize their own mechanical keyboard. The doubleshot PBT keycaps feel nice, and the Cherry MX Brown switches provide good tactile feedback, but you can get the board in several switches. The CTRL supports per-key RGB backlighting. Notes - Delivery *Estimated delivery dates include seller's handling time, origin ZIP Code, destination ZIP Code and time of acceptance and will depend on shipping service selected and receipt of cleared payment. TheDrop ALT and theRazer Huntsman Miniare both compact boards, but the Drop is slightly larger and has dedicated navigation keys, including arrow keys. With dual USB-C connectors, the CTRL is outfitted with the fastest available connections. Chris is a regular contributor for Toms Hardware, covering mechanical keyboards, peripherals, and content creation gear. Outside of gaming, which has embraced the value of mechanical keys, even the cheapest office-grade keyboards are wireless, so paying nearly $100 for a keyboard you have to plug in may seem backward to some people. There's an RGB strip that goes around the frame, which is a nice touch. You can't set macros directly from the board, and there's no native software for customizations. But if you'd rather not hunt down either part alongside buying the keyboard or want something to use out the box, there are a few different configurations available. Our unit is quiet and won't disturb others around you. Fn + N Toggle keyboard 6KRO/NKRO (Default state 6KRO) Custom configuration (2 shortcuts) # The shortcuts above was basic hotkeys for the keyboard. Measuring 14.5 x 5.5 x 1.75 inches, its very close in size to other tenkeyless keyboards like the Corsair K70 RGB TKL but will still take up more space than even more compact keyboards like the Razer Blackwidow V3 Mini. It was love at first sight. Some lubricant should help here. It's sold with a gray frame, and you can purchase just the frame (sold as 'Barebones') and add the switches yourself. 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 an item you have purchased from us is not working as expected, please visit one of our in-store Knowledge Experts for free help, where they can solve your problem or even exchange the item for a product that better suits your needs. Embedded code will get the data from Defkey.com and will remain available. Click to play video. Free shipping. Shop ALT | $139 Default Hot Keys. Theres no native macro support or advanced features like one-button custom application launches, timers, or game-reactive lighting. Drop Icon Collection Keyboards Ready-to-Ship Keycaps Drop Studio Gaming Headsets NEW - Togekey KeyboardWeekend Deals SALE - SENSE75 Keyboard Save up to $100 per month on your favorite mechanical keyboard gear by joining Drop Keyboard Club. As Ive said before, this allows you to change the switches on this keyboard very easily without having to solder anything. Subscribing to a newsletter indicates your consent to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Copyright 1995-2023 eBay Inc. All Rights Reserved. The modding scene has been around for years, and it's starting to become mainstream as more customizable keyboards are released. The RGB lighting isn't the brightest but makes good use of the reflective metal to create quite the effect. Another complaint I have is that every time I turn off and turn back on my computer, the keyboard will go back to its initial rainbow RGB lighting. It doesnt solve the problem but does make a substantial difference. As an entry point to the mechanical keyboard hobby, its a solid option (as is the low-profile original) that doesnt require building the keyboard from scratch. 3/5/2021 8:56:46 PM Added some shortcuts. Out of the box, this keyboard is an upgraded essential for your workstation. It's not a deal-breaker, but worth bearing in mind when shopping around for aftermarket switches. The Drop CTRL mechanical keyboard we tested is the Black color variant, but it's also available in a Space Gray colorway. It is recommended that you familiarize yourself with the system requirements before making your purchase. How to quickly & easily fix coil-whine(coil choke noise). NY 10036. It's a solid place to start on your keyboard modding journey. your password It has 36.8 x 14 x 3.6 cm dimensions. The Drop CTRL is available as a barebones unit, which is essentially the keyboard without any keycaps or switches. You can follow him on Twitter at @RichEdmonds. It's all interconnected, meaning you don't need to mess around with anything other than the switches, but this does limit the amount of modding that can be done. Digital Downloads Over time, I got used to it and now I love it. 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. Options are quite limited compared to other keyboards, even at significantly less cost. The best budget-priced mechanical keyboard. The high-profile version features a much thicker (and heavier) metal case which raises the price to $250 (opens in new tab) pre-built and $200 (opens in new tab) without switches and keycaps. That said, with a detachable USB-C cable, the ENTR is the finest possible version of a simple, wired connection. 0:10 . The Drop CTRL and Hexgears Gemini I've compared this to over the course of the review both are variants of the, Kids want Minecraft Console for Multiplayer. Big brands are also taking notice of the increased activity with custom keycaps, switches, and other features found on keyboards like the CTRL. Fn + S: LED Brightness Decrease. Find out more about how we test. DROP CTRL Mechanical Keyboard Tenkeyless TKL (87 Key) Gaming Keyboard, Hot-Swap Switches, Programmable Macros, RGB LED Backlighting, USB-C, Doubleshot PBT, Aluminum Frame (Barebones, Black) Visit the DROP Store 614 ratings | 39 answered questions $17500 FREE Returns Color: Black Style: Barebones Barebones Cherry MX Blue RGB Cherry MX Brown RGB It's very bright and looks great even in a well-lit area. Also, the ALT has a higher travel distance and a lower actuation force. (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. At the time, I was especially worried about keyboard chatter or double typing that everyone was discussing in the reviews/comments section of the product itself. If you love the all-metal build quality, the Abkoncore AK87 is just shy of seven pounds and costs $170 (opens in new tab). It has full RGB lighting and every key is macro-programmable, but without dedicated software, it's a bit difficult to set macros. So lets be careful out there! On the plus side, the lighting effect is enhanced thanks to its wrap-around diffuser sandwiched between the halves of the case. Typically, I type above 90wpm, but lets see how we do and if theres any chattering. However, the Drop ALT is a 65% compact prebuilt board witha USB passthrough. The pre-travel and total travel distance are in line with Cherry MX's advertised 2mm pre-travel and 4mm travel distance, but these may change per unit due to manufacturing tolerances. They are available with the same Cherry MX, Kaihua, or Halo switches, and bothoffer an excellent typing experience. When hes not playing video games or checking out new gear, he is probably asleep. On the other hand, the Drop has dedicated navigation keys, including arrow keys, and has a USB passthrough. 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. Unlike those keyboards, theres no expectation of softness to the typing experience (and is a fairly modern trend in custom mechanical keyboards).
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