NPET CR87 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard review Hot-Swappable RGB Keyboard for Gaming and Typing

Description

Sleek and Sturdy Design

From the moment I started using the NPET CR87 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, I couldn’t help but admire its compact and ergonomic design. The 87-key layout is a game-changer, especially for someone like me who constantly juggles between work and gaming. It saves a significant amount of desk space, allowing for effortless mouse movement during intense gaming sessions. The doubleshot ABS keycaps feel premium and durable, resisting wear even after hours of typing or gaming. Its reinforced polymer frame not only adds to its durability but also gives it a sleek, modern look. I found the 6° incline particularly helpful in keeping my wrists comfortable, even during extended use.

What surprised me was the IP56 dust and water resistance, which makes it ideal for those accidental coffee spills or snack crumbs during late-night gaming. It’s rare to find such a thoughtful feature in this price range.

Immersive RGB Lighting Modes

If you’re someone who loves a little flair in your gaming setup, the 19+ RGB lighting modes on this keyboard won’t disappoint. I spent a good amount of time exploring the 16.7 million colors and dynamic effects, ranging from music sync to wave and raindrop. These lighting effects can easily be switched via shortcuts, making it super convenient. I especially loved the three adjustable brightness levels, which allowed me to tone it down during late-night work or amp it up for intense gaming. Whether you’re into esports or just want a calm ambiance, this keyboard has an option for everyone.

The lighting not only looks good but also enhances visibility in dimly lit rooms. It’s not just decoration—it’s functional.

Hot-Swappable Switches for Customization

One of the standout features of the NPET CR87 is the 3-pin hot-swappable sockets. This allows you to replace switches without any soldering, which is a blessing for someone like me who’s not too technical. The keyboard comes with three extra linear red switches (45g actuation force), which I found to be smooth and responsive. These switches are perfect for gaming and typing, offering fatigue-free performance.

I had a blast swapping out switches to test different feels, and the included keycap and switch pullers made the process effortless. It’s clear that this keyboard is made for enthusiasts who appreciate customization without the hassle.

Compact yet Powerful Performance

Despite its compact size, the keyboard delivers top-notch performance. The full N-key rollover ensures that every keystroke registers, even during complex key combinations. I tested this extensively in fast-paced games, and there wasn’t a single instance of input lag.

Its anti-ghosting technology is another highlight. I tend to mash keys during high-pressure gaming moments, and this keyboard handled it like a champ. Whether you’re a competitive gamer or just someone who types a lot, the consistent and accurate input is a huge plus.

Key Benefits

• Compact design saves desk space while maintaining functionality.
• Hot-swappable switches make customization a breeze.
• IP56 rated, offering excellent protection against dust and spills.
• RGB lighting options enhance both aesthetics and usability.

Areas for Improvement

While I’m generally satisfied, there are a few shortcomings worth mentioning:

• The red switches may not suit everyone’s preference; tactile or clicky switch lovers might feel left out.
• While the keyboard is solidly built, the absence of a detachable wrist rest could be a downside for some users who prefer extra wrist support.
• The RGB lighting shortcuts could be slightly more intuitive for first-time users, as it took me some trial and error to figure them out.

Competing Products

When comparing this to other compact mechanical keyboards like the Keychron K6 or the Razer Huntsman Mini, I noticed a few differences. The Keychron K6, for instance, offers wireless functionality, which is missing here. However, the plug-and-play Type-C connectivity on this keyboard is hassle-free, and I didn’t miss wireless during my use.

On the other hand, the Razer Huntsman Mini features optical switches, which are faster but lack the hot-swappable capability. For someone who loves tinkering with switches, the NPET CR87 clearly wins in this department. Additionally, its IP56 rating is an edge over both competitors, making it more durable in everyday use.

Where this keyboard shines is in its balance of features and practicality. It’s not trying to be overly flashy; instead, it focuses on delivering reliable performance for both gaming and typing.

Bang for the Buck

I had my doubts initially, but this keyboard proved to be an excellent value for money. With its customization options, sturdy build, and RGB lighting, it offers features typically found in higher-priced models. While it may lack wireless functionality or additional bells and whistles, it more than makes up for it with performance and durability.

For gamers, office workers, or anyone looking for a compact mechanical keyboard, this one delivers without breaking the bank. It’s a solid investment for anyone who values reliable and customizable peripherals.

Additional information