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Reader Question: What is the lightest mechanical keyboard I can get?


Q: What is the lightest mechanical keyboard I can get?

A: Very good question. We're probably looking for something in a plastic case, not metal. We're probably looking for something small, not full-size. And finally, we're probably looking for something low-profile, not full-size switches.

The actual weight of the keyboard is rarely if ever listed on various websites, but most keyboards weight over 1 kg.  Corsair K70 is listed as 2.6 pounds, which is 1.18 kg. And the K70 doesn't even have that much metal in it.

After a bit of research, I came upon the HAVIT HVKB390L which is based on the new Kailh Choc low-profile mechanical switch. Its listed weight is 0.52 kg, which is just under 1 lb. And it is a full 87-key TKL. When combined with low-profile keycaps, it is indeed very light.

Please also see CMKB Profile: HAVIT-HV-KB390L / DAREU EK820

Further research shows that this is actually a rebadged version of DAREU EK820 out of China. And the EK820 also comes in a Bluetooth wireless version and an even smaller 68-key BT version. However, those only seem to be available in China, with either blue or red switches.  If you really want the BT version, I'd suggest you check Gearbest or Banggood regularly, else order direct from China through a proxy such as Bhiner or Taobaoring and so on.

NOTE: If you have any questions for CMKB, send it to cmkbs(at)yahoo(dot)com with subject QUESTION.

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