First time using a 65% layout, RK-R65 keyboard unboxing

Preface

Recently, wasn't I looking for a portable keyboard to pair with my laptop?

So I got two low-profile keyboards, but I realized I just couldn't get used to the feel.

As I mentioned in that unboxing post of the Red Dragon TL84, I decided to turn my attention back to regular mechanical keyboards.

75% layout keyboards might be a bit heavier, so this time I planned to try a 65% layout.

The RK-S75 I bought last time left a good impression.

I happened to see that the RK-R65 looks quite nice, and its weight of 712g is also acceptable, so I just went ahead and bought it.

This weight is about the same as my first low-profile keyboard, the AK832pro from Epomaker, which was around 700g.

Stole a photo from the official site

Official site address: https://www.rkgaming.com/product/41/

Packaging

Continues RK's minimalist packaging design

The cover is actually quite cute

Unboxing

Unboxing, simple and straightforward content

Accessories

Standard two-piece set: keycap puller + data cable

Plus one keycap

PS: Wait, why is there only an End key? Where's the Home key❓

Keyboard Body

The top one is my RK-S75 (I changed the keycaps myself).

Below is the keyboard for this review, there's also an ice cream-themed one. It looks nice, but it's too pink for me, so in the end, I chose this model.

There is a noticeable color difference from the promotional images; personally, I feel the color is darker than what was shown in the ads.

Knob

Don't forget the beloved knob!

The knob on this keyboard also works well, with one detent adjusting volume by 2 steps.

Interface

Has one fewer expansion interface than the RK-S75

Bottom

There is an RK brand label on the bottom of this keyboard.

I forgot to take a photo of the back. Like the RK-S75, it is very simple, with a metal brand label in the center.

Switch

I have the Smoke Cyan Switch (烟青轴), which feels excellent to use.

The Mahjong-like sound is very pleasant to the ear.

Usage Experience

Currently, this article is being typed using this new keyboard.

It feels great to use.

This 65% layout keyboard has 66 keys.

It's my first time using this layout, and without the F1-F12 function keys, it's definitely not something I'm used to.

The biggest adjustment is that there's no gap between the arrow keys on the right side and the other keys.

My previous keyboards all had spaces around the arrow keys, which made it easy for me to locate them.

This is really hard to get accustomed to.

Also, the driver is a bit strange. There is a dedicated driver for this specific model on the official website.

Since there isn't a driver available for my previous RK-S75 keyboard, I'm using the universal driver.

I tried it, and the universal driver also seems to allow modifying the keyboard's configuration.

These two drivers look different based on their installation packages, but I haven't noticed any difference in functionality.

Another thing: Although it supports dual-layer FN keys, the arrow keys seem to be hardcoded. It's frustrating enough that I can't modify the function of fn + arrow keys.

But the most infuriating part is that even setting fn2 + arrow keys doesn't work!

Well, that's about it. I'll try using the 65% layout for a while and see if I can get used to it. (The feel is really excellent👍)