That said, with a detachable USB-C cable, the ENTR is the finest possible version of a simple, wired connection. 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. 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. Get the best of Windows Central in your inbox, every day! Go with RX 6800 XT or wait for 7900 XT price cut? 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. Finally, Keychron has taken their flagship keyboard and enhanced it. The choice of switches available from Drop includes Halo Clear, Halo True, Kaihua Box White, Cherry MX Blue RGB, and Cherry MX Brown RGB. The company is still running group buys as . 0:10 . The ENTR's main appeal is its the build quality; the components, and how theyre put together. The doubleshot PBT shine-through keycaps have a slightly rough feeling to them. The Drop CTRL is an expensive keyboard; there's no other way to look at the price. High profile of keys may lead to fatigue. Bug tracker, The shortcuts above was basic hotkeys for the keyboard. But what happens if you're unable to choose a specific model from a brand that ticks all the right boxes? LED Keys. The switches are north-facing, meaning they're mounted upside-down from the intended orientation of Cherry-style switches. Default Hot Keys. The Drop CTRL is very well designed. All Rights Reserved. The Drop CTRL is available as a barebones unit, which is essentially the keyboard without any keycaps or switches. $48.00 + $11.35 shipping. The included USB-C cable is basic, and the connector wobbles a bit when plugged in. We're your trusted local service and repair professionals. General Return Policy (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. You can't set macros directly from the board, and there's no native software for customizations. 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. 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. Free Returns in USA Members who purchase earn 387 Drop Rewards Amazon is currently offering the ASUS ROG Strix Scope TKL RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard for $89.99 shipped. So lets be careful out there! Fn + W: LED Brightness Increase. The stock keycaps feel nice to type on. The Drop ALT is a highly-customizable mechanical keyboard. Your browser is not supported or outdated so some features of the site might not be available. Even better, its sub-$100 price means that you won't spend an extraordinary amount of money . It's easily one of the better custom keyboard kits out there. This is a thankfully easy fix with a touch of dielectric grease and doesnt require disassembling the case. 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. Microsoft to Standardize RGB Control within Windows 11 Settings, NVIDIA RTX Video Super Resolution Tested, AI Enhanced Streaming That Barely Makes a Difference, LG Display Claims Samsung's QD OLED More Susceptible to Screen Burn Than LG's WOLED, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 Possibly Maxes Out AD107, NVIDIA's Smallest Ada Silicon, The Drop CTRL keyboard comes in a variety of color and switch options, with the cost ranging from $200 to $225 from, Fully open-source firmware and design language, Very customizable with spare/replacement parts, PBT doubleshot keycaps are of great quality, Hot-swappable mechanical switch socket, albeit limited to 3-pin switches, Vibrant side lighting courtesy 32 extra LEDs, Full programmability with Drop configurator, with up to 15 extra layers, Per-key RGB backlighting options to edit and create, Two add-on feet for different elevation options courtesy magnets and tilting, Low-profile, clean looks with no branding on the front or sides, The software experience is too complicated for the average customer, 1st-party configurator updates seem dead now, albeit QMK loader is still being worked on, Legends are not very clear without backlighting, Not very competitive at MSRP today, especially with 3-pin switch sockets, plate-mounted stabilizers, and north-facing LEDs. Fn + D: LED Pattern Select Next. Best Laptops This is the third mechanical keyboard in the Drop + Lord of the Rings . Since writing this entire article, there has been chatter about 5 times total. If you love the all-metal build quality, the Abkoncore AK87 is just shy of seven pounds and costs $170 (opens in new tab). The options are the following: Halo True, Kaihua Box White, Kaihua Speed Silver, Cherry MX Blue, Cherry MX Brown, and Halo Clears. On the contrary, I played everything from Doom Eternal and Battlefield V to slow-paced MMORPGs like Final Fantasy FFXIV using it just fine. - 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. It has low latency, though some gamers may prefer it lower. Skip to main content. Click to play video. Log into your account. You may have read or seen his tech and gaming coverage at IGN, Lifehacker, Gizmodo, Variety, Digital Trends, and, of course, PCMag. With dual USB-C connectors, the CTRL is outfitted with the fastest available connections. Details regarding registration can be Drop also sells different keycap sets to give it a unique aesthetic. See photos for exactly what is included. Content. The brightness of this ring can be independently controlled, but its worth keeping on for the slick underglow effect and appealing side profile. 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. 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's fine for most gamers and daily tasks, but competitive gamers may notice a delay. If you dont mind buying and installing your own switches and keycaps, the NovelKeys NK65 is available in aluminum for $185 and the plastic version for only $95. 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. The Drop ALT has outstanding build quality. There are two magnetic feet (optional) that you can attach to the bottom of the keyboard to raise the back or the front. Config apps, dedicated media keys, USB passthrough, wireless connectivity: These features have value, and it would be a mistake to dismiss what they offer. This is done so that the LEDs on the PCB can shine through more directly to the legends on the keys, as the more sloped side of the switch housing gives more room for that. Nice review, but there are definitely cheaper options in to the world of modded keyboards. Applying your new firmware is a complicated process that is in desperate need of revision. $39.99. I talked about it on our first article, guide to Cherry MX switches, where I discuss the difference between common switches. The Gatreon Yellow is a quick tap with smooth action; you arent waiting to feel the click. 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 Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. This keyboard is an absolute beauty. It does have volume up and down, pause and play, but only if you memorize the keys. The ENTR lacks configuration software that would let you remap keys or create macros. Free assistance is available for the first 60 days on new purchases, excluding internal hardware installations or networking support. Since theyre plate-mounted, it takes only minutes to completely replace them with a higher quality set (opens in new tab) and doesnt require disassembling the whole keyboard. So I went with the Halo Clears, and trust me, I Googled the heck out of this thing. 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. Partnering with global cooling component manufacturer Noctua, the new DROP + MiTo MT3 keycaps set has the colors and quality of build from both companies. Drop ALT Mechanical Keyboard PCBA. 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. This newsletter may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. If you opt for the build your own option using Drops Mech Keys Builder, the options expand to include a few other options at an added cost, but then youre stuck installing the switches yourself. The Ducky has better typing quality anda Windows Key lock. The tactile feedback is very satisfying. For that, the ENTR rides high as the PCMag Editors' Choice for budget mechanical keyboards. . Im going to be honest with you guys right now, since Im not selling this keyboard or gaining any affiliate whatever. 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. Unfortunately, it doesn't come with a wrist rest, and you may feel fatigue typing on it. The Massdrop CTRL mechanical keyboard is here! 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. You have a rainbow wave and breathe effect, a scrolling red line, and six static colors. The all-aluminum chassis feels premium, weighing in at just shy of 2kg. Neowin 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. The Drop CTRL is available for $270, which may put some potential buyers off. As a tenkeyless keyboard, the form factor is very traditional. Its worth noting that Drop has a web-based config tool for its other keyboards, so that support may come to the ENTR . Theyre quite expensive, however, ($85 when purchased through the Builder, $105 without) so to keep things in the ballpark of what many users would experience, I opted to use JWICK Yellow (opens in new tab) switches. Kaviso, LLC . The thick, sturdy base is made of metal and feels solid. 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. You can remap this key anywhere and have it function in a multitude of ways. Intro Drop CTRL Mechanical Keyboard Review: Tenkeyless and Hot-Swappable Switch and Click 686K subscribers Join Subscribe 547 Share Save 31K views 2 years ago Link to Drop CTRL:. The display of third-party trademarks and trade names on this site does not necessarily indicate any affiliation or the endorsement of PCMag. Also, you can position its magnetically attachable feet to give a negative incline. 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. I've taken this keyboard for a spin over the past couple of weeks and feel like I'm ready to discuss what makes this such a good choice, as well as where it could be improved. Digital Downloads What the keyboard does lack is supporting features for gaming. Changelog Mike Epstein is a freelance technology and culture critic based in New York. The Drop ALT keyboard is wired-only, and you can't use it with wireless devices. Then there's the height of the Drop CTRL, which makes it a little taller than most mechanical keyboards. Even NZXT launched its own mod-friendly keyboard, which we'll be reviewing shortly. I love that it has two USB-C connectors, one of the right and one on the left. The New Standard Our flagship model, the CTRL raises the bar with cutting-edge features and a premium build. Although it lacks many customization and quality-of-life features found in gaming and productivity keyboards, the ENTR is an excellent high-quality, low-feature keyboard that carries a reasonable price. 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. The keyboard features dual USB-C connectors. The Drop CTRL mechanical keyboard we tested is the Black color variant, but it's also available in a Space Gray colorway. Its more like the original silver than space grey, but its a bit darker. Riitek Rii X1 2.4G Mini Wireless Keyboard with Touchpad Mouse, Redragon K530 Draconic 61 Key TKL 60% Compact RGB Wireless Inland iC100 USB Keyboard & Mouse Combo - White, Logitech MX Illuminated Mechanical Wireless Performance Keyboard. In fact, the ENTR is the best typing experience you'll encounter at its $90 price. Please temporarily enable JavaScript in your browser to post text. They also share the same customization options through Drop's website and the QMK toolbox, which aren't very user-friendly. The following are available for selection: GMK Red Samurai, MT3 /dev/tty, XDA Canvas, and SA Pulse Noire. Please refresh the page and try again. Do you have any useful tips for it? But I was never sure until I got it in my hands. 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. With Razer youll be stuck with the Razer switches, whatever those may be. It has a USB passthrough and much lower latency. For review, I'm using the Drop CTRL with Kaihua Box White switches. Tom's Hardware is part of Future US Inc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. All Digital Download sales are final and are not eligible for return or refund under the Micro Center Return Policy. 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. How to Free Up Space on Your iPhone or iPad, How to Save Money on Your Cell Phone Bill, How to Convert YouTube Videos to MP3 Files, How to Record the Screen on Your Windows PC or Mac, Read Our Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT Gaming Keyboard Review, Read Our SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Gaming Keyboard Review, Read Our Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB Split Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Review, Read Our Razer Pro Type Wireless Mechanical Keyboard Review, Read Our Das Keyboard 4C TKL Mechanical Keyboard Review, Read Our Das Keyboard 4Q Mechanical Keyboard Review, Read Our Happy Hacking Professional Hybrid Wireless Mechanical Keyboard Review, How to Control Multiple Computers With One Keyboard and Mouse, MSI Clutch GM31 Lightweight Wireless Mouse Review. 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. Copy the html code below and embed it to a discussion forum or to any web page. Drop CTRL allows you to create custom configurations on its Configurator page and compile the firmware with your own configuration. You can find him on Twitter @Bombur. Other features include being fully programmable via QMK, which is available on Drops website as well. * We want you to be satisfied with your Micro Center purchase. 1. 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. He's been involved in technology for more than a decade and knows a thing or two about the magic inside a PC chassis. Riitek K18 Plus Wireless 3-LED Color Backlit Multimedia Keyboard ASUS ROG Strix Scope NX TKL Moonlight White Wired Mechanical RGB Logitech ERGO K860 Split Ergonomic Wireless Keyboard, Targus Compact Multi-Device Bluetooth Antimicrobial Keyboard, Microsoft N9Z-00001 Wireless Slim All-in-One Keyboard, Logitech K380 Bluetooth Slim Multi-Device Keyboard, Logitech MX Keys Mini Wireless Keyboard - Black, Logitech Signature K650 (Graphite) Wireless Keyboard. The ALT also has lower latency, better RGB color mixing for its backlighting, and it has an additional incline setting. 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. Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. (3 updates.) Unfortunately, the PCB is the same one that was released on the original CTRL back in 2018 and does have a few drawbacks that stand out more with each passing year. This is very much a matter of personal taste but is still something to keep in mind. It's sold with a gray frame, and you can purchase just the frame (sold as 'Barebones') and add the switches yourself. . Using the software may require the use of a computer or other device that must meet minimum system requirements. You can also connect your mouse if it has a USB-C cable ending or if you have an adapter. 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. 3.4 MSRP: $150. The Drop SHIFT is a customizable keyboard that's better for gaming than the NPET K20, which is a basic entry-level mechanical keyboard. 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However, if you need help or need to return an item, were here for you! Drops other keyboards are all smaller, and some have non-traditional layouts. You can your pick of which switches it comes with. 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. Whether you stick with what's included with the CTRL or go your own way with choosing switches, you're going to have a great time with this keyboard. What is your favorite Drop CTRL hotkey? Free shipping. $54.95. $250 for the high-profile version and $200 for the low-profile feels more expensive now that affordable custom kits are becoming more common. There's rubber underneath the feet and, combined with the weight of the aluminum frame, it doesn't slide around easily. But I dont think Ive ever experienced a super rattly keyboard in the first place. Out of the box, this keyboard is an upgraded essential for your workstation. The ENTR is a simple, wired keyboard. Just use the switch puller that comes with the keyboard and pull each one out individually. It sounds odd to explain the ENTR in such fashion, as weve reviewed similarly built TKL gaming keyboards, but the keys and layout arent a given with the enthusiast manufacturer. Bottom line: I'm a big fan of the Drop CTRL. Removing the keycaps and switches, using the included tools from Drop, reveals the main PCB. There is an occasional $21 discount to be had from Drop, if not more at times, bringing the prices to $179-204. Because the plate is a continuation of the top case rather than a separate part, there isnt any opportunity for flex, which can make bottom outs feel stiff. 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 For a clicky typing experience, you can choose from Cherry MX Blue RGB or Kailh (Kaihua) Box Whites. There was a problem. The Drop ALT is very good for office use. Today, its also available in a high-profile version with a taller case that hides the keycap housings. 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 Shop ALT | $139 Being hot-swappable means that using the switch puller that comes with the keyboard, you can pull out each individual switch and put new ones in. Picture 1 of 4. 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. The Drop CTRL is configured using Drops QMK-driven online Configurator tool. But then youre spending time building it yourself. There's no option for a smoother typing experience through the use of gasket mounting, for instance. You can create custom lighting schemes using Drops online Configurator, but the out-of-box experience is sorely lacking compared to the competition. At this point I had never used a high-end keyboard, I had been using the 2014 Razer Blackwidow Tournament Edition for about 5 years. It also has a USB passthrough feature. You must enter 10 digits for phone number. This is great for games where you may have a specific layout that helps you stay nimble in-game, but is also useful for adding things like LED controls and media keys to the CTRL without losing inputs on the primary layer. It has full RGB lighting and every key is macro-programmable, but without dedicated software, it's a bit difficult to set macros. I really enjoy this tactile feedback, but others may not. Unfortunately, neither has customization software, but you can adjust settings on either keyboard using the QMK firmware tool on Drop's website. If this isnt an issue for you, then just ignore this complaint entirely. your username. Its also fully programmable via QMK, meaning you can assign macros or custom keybindings to every key. Accelerate Your Returns with Micro Center's Online Return Check-in! The Drop ALT and the Dream Machines DreamKey are mechanical gaming keyboards, but they have different features. Micro Center is happy to honor its customary 30-day return policy for Aerial Drone returns due to product defect or customer dissatisfaction. It comes with incline feet that attach magnetically, so you can easily remove them, and they stay in place well while you're using them. Competition is ramping up for custom mechanical keyboard kits like the Drop CTRL. You use the function key and different letters on the keyboard to control the effects, brightness, turn on/off lights/rim light, and speed of pulsing. 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 Logitech G Pro X Gaming Keyboard Best mechanical keyboard overall Jump to details $150 Logitech Razer BlackWidow Elite Best mechanical keyboard for gaming Jump to details $238 Amazon Das. The biggest is that it only supports 3-pin switches. The top portion of the case includes an integrated mounting plate for the switches, simplifying assembly and disassembly should you decide to apply any mods or take a gander at the internals. The Drop ALT is slightly better than the Ducky One 2 SF. It has excellent typing quality. Mechanical keyboards are now the norm when it comes to choosing the best typing (or gaming) machine for your desktop PC. The ALT has full RGB lighting, and all of its keys are macro-programmable. Similar to how you can feel the quality in a thicker, more expensive paper stock, or sturdy durability in a fine piece of furniture, you can feel that this keyboard is built to last. Our expert industry analysis and practical solutions help you make better buying decisions and get more from technology. The mechanical keyboard section used to be lively with multiple other brands, and now it is overwhelmingly Drop-branded keyboards, like the $349 SENSE75. 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. 1996-2023 Ziff Davis, LLC., a Ziff Davis company. Over time, I got used to it and now I love it. HP GK320 Wired Full Size RGB Backlight . 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. It comes in a variety of switches, including clicky and linear ones, meaning you can get the ones you prefer. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. The LED-backlit PBT doubleshot keycaps are thick, with sharp legends and a smooth matte finish. Its always nice to have such a diverse selection of switches, because most product offerings make you pick between one or two switch types. 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. Some lubricant should help here. The Drop has magnetically attachable feet, which you can also position to create a negative incline, and it has a USB passthrough. Theyre louder than the other keys and the rattle can quickly become grating, especially if youre used to a quieter keyboard. *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.