FL ESPORTS FL980: The 96% Compact Powerhouse Keyboard Review
If you’re in the market for a new mechanical keyboard that combines practicality, performance, and style, the FL ESPORTS FL980 deserves your attention. With its unique 96% compact layout, hot-swappable Kailh Box White switches, and customizable RGB lighting, this keyboard has a lot to offer. In this review, we’ll delve into its features, performance, and what makes it stand out from the competition.
Why Consider This Product?
The FL ESPORTS FL980 is not your average mechanical keyboard. It boasts a practical 96% compact layout that eliminates only 6 keys, resulting in a highly efficient and space-saving design. This keyboard offers you the functionality of a tenkeyless (TKL) keyboard while retaining all the standard keys you need.
Features
Compact and Efficient Layout: The 96% layout offers the best of both worlds — compactness and full functionality. It’s ideal for those who want a smaller footprint without sacrificing essential keys.
Improved Acoustic Experience: With built-in high-density sound-deadening silicone and pre-adjusted stabilizers, the FL980 delivers a quieter and more satisfying typing experience, minimizing rattly ping and hollow sounds.
Kailh Box White Switches: The keyboard is equipped with Kailh Box White switches, offering a clear tactile feel, smooth travel, and precise inputs. They provide a satisfying click while maintaining typing speed.
Durable PBT Keycaps: The keycaps are made of oil-resistant PBT material, ensuring a long-lasting and grime-free surface that won’t fade over time.
Customizable RGB Lighting: The FL980 features vibrant RGB lighting with more than 16.8 million colors and 10+ preset lighting modes. You can personalize your lighting to match your setup or mood.
Near-Infinite Customization: With various preset and custom lighting modes and endless shortcuts, the FL980 allows you to tailor your keyboard’s appearance and functionality to your liking.
What It’s Used For
The FL ESPORTS FL980 is a versatile keyboard suitable for various applications. It’s great for everyday use, whether you’re working, gaming, or a combination of both. The keyboard’s compact design makes it perfect for those who need to save desk space without compromising productivity.
Product Specifications
- Brand: FL ESPORTS
- Compatibility: PC
- Connectivity Technology: USB-A, USB-C
- Keyboard Description: 98 Keys Kailh Box White PBT Keycaps
- Recommended Uses: Everyday Use
- Special Feature: Travel
- Color: White Olivia
- Operating System: Windows 10
- Number of Keys: 98
- Keyboard Backlighting Color Support: RGB
Who Needs This
The FL980 is suitable for anyone seeking a compact yet fully functional keyboard. Whether you’re a professional who needs an efficient workspace or a gamer looking for a responsive and customizable keyboard, the FL ESPORTS FL980 caters to a wide audience.
Product Price
Priced at $99.99, the FL980 offers excellent value for its features and build quality. It’s a budget-friendly option compared to other mechanical keyboards with similar capabilities.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Efficient 96% compact layout
- Improved acoustic experience
- Tactile Kailh Box White switches
- Durable and oil-resistant PBT keycaps
- Customizable RGB lighting
- Near-infinite customization options
Cons:
- Limited compatibility (only works with Windows 10)
FAQs
Q: Where can I download the software/driver for customization?
You can download the software/driver at bit.ly/FLSOFTWARE. The software allows you to customize key assignments and reset profiles for optimal performance.
Q: Why can’t I adjust the keyboard backlight on the keyboard itself or reset it by pressing FN + ESC?
The ability to change backlight settings and reset the keyboard by pressing keys is supported only in on-board mode (when no software is running). Ensure the software is not active when making these adjustments.
What Customers Are Saying
The FL ESPORTS FL980 has received positive feedback from customers:
- Amanda N. (4.0 out of 5 stars): Amanda highlights the keyboard’s shape, weight, and overall design. She praises the keycaps and mentions the minor challenge of modifying the keyboard.
- Kaylan Lee-Kwai (5.0 out of 5 stars): Kaylan, a newcomer to mechanical keyboards, expresses satisfaction with the FL980. She describes the keyboard’s build quality, keycaps, and the joy of using it.
- DeeDee Brinee’ (5.0 out of 5 stars): DeeDee commends the keyboard’s sound, typing experience, and aesthetics. She mentions the keyboard’s suitability for office use and gaming.
Compare with Similar Items
If you’re exploring alternative options, you might consider the following mechanical keyboards:
- ROYALAXE L98 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard: A wireless keyboard with hot-swappable Gateron G Yellow Pro switches and a TFT LCD screen for $129.99.
- ROYALAXE R100 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard: Another wireless option with Gateron G Yellow Pro switches, RGB backlighting, and compatibility with both Windows and Mac for $94.99.
- AK515 Wired Mechanical Gaming Keyboard: A brown switch mechanical keyboard with white backlighting, multimedia keys, and PBT keycaps for $59.99.
Tips and Tricks For Best Results
To make the most of your FL ESPORTS FL980, ensure that you download the provided software for easy customization of lighting, shortcuts, and key assignments. Use it to personalize your keyboard to your liking.
Final Thoughts
The FL ESPORTS FL980 is a standout mechanical keyboard that combines practicality, performance, and style. Its unique 96% compact layout offers efficiency and space-saving benefits, while the Kailh Box White switches provide a delightful typing experience. The customizable RGB lighting adds a touch of personality to your workspace or gaming setup. If you’re looking for a versatile, budget-friendly keyboard, the FL980 is worth considering.
Disclaimer:
- This review is based on information obtained from Amazon.
- Please note that product ratings and availability may vary. Check the latest information on Amazon before making your purchase.
- This article was written by artificial intelligence. There may be some Some mistakes or wrong info in this review, sorry for our slip-up. Thanks!
