RK55 VS. RK61: WHICH BUDGET KEYBOARD SHOULD YOU BUY?
You landed here because you want a mechanical keyboard under $50 but can’t decide between the RK55 and RK61. Both are hot sellers from Royal Kludge, both pack Bluetooth and wired modes, and both look nearly identical at first glance. The differences matter when you actually type. Below are the seven questions everyone asks before pulling the trigger—and the exact answers you need.
WHAT’S THE PHYSICAL DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE RK55 AND RK61?
The RK55 is a 75 % layout, the RK61 is 60 %. That means the RK55 keeps dedicated arrow keys and a column of four navigation keys (Delete, PgUp, PgDn, End) on the right side. The RK61 chops those off, leaving only the arrow cluster. Both are compact, but the RK55 gives you 84 keys versus the RK61’s 61.
If you use Excel, code, or write long documents, the extra keys save you from layer-tapping. Gamers who rely on WASD plus arrow keys also prefer the RK55. The RK61 is for minimalists who want the smallest footprint possible and don’t mind Fn combos.
WHICH ONE HAS BETTER SWITCH OPTIONS?
Both boards ship with Gateron or Outemu switches in red, blue, or brown. The RK55 lets you hot-swap every switch; the RK61 is soldered. If you want to experiment with linear, tactile, or clicky feels, the RK55 is the only choice.
Hot-swap sockets add a few dollars to the price but save you from desoldering later. The RK61 is cheaper up front, but you’re stuck with whatever switch it came with unless you’re comfortable with a soldering iron.
IS THE BUILD QUALITY THE SAME?
Both use a plastic top frame and aluminum bottom plate. The RK55 feels slightly sturdier because the larger PCB and extra keys distribute stress better. The RK61’s smaller footprint can flex if you press hard in the center.
Neither board is premium, but the RK55’s added rigidity is noticeable when you pick it up. If you travel with the keyboard, the RK61’s lighter weight (550 g vs. 650 g) is easier on your bag.
HOW DO THE CONNECTIVITY OPTIONS COMPARE?
Both offer Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4 GHz wireless via a USB-A dongle, and USB-C wired. The RK55 has three Bluetooth profiles; the RK61 has two. Both remember the last three devices you paired, so switching between phone, tablet, and laptop is quick.
The RK55’s extra profile is handy if you regularly use three devices. The 2.4 GHz dongle on both boards gives near-zero latency, so gaming or fast typing feels wired. Battery life is similar—around 8–10 hours with RGB on, 20+ hours with backlighting off.
WHICH ONE HAS BETTER RGB LIGHTING?
The RK55 has per-key RGB with 18 lighting modes. The RK61 has side-mounted RGB strips and only 7 modes. Both let you adjust brightness and speed, but the RK55’s per-key customization is far more flexible.
If you want to light up specific keys for gaming or productivity, the RK55 is the clear winner. The RK61’s side glow looks nice but doesn’t help with visibility. Both boards sync lighting with software, but the RK55’s software is more polished and stable.
WHICH KEYBOARD IS MORE COMFORTABLE FOR LONG TYPING SESSIONS?
The RK55’s larger size gives your wrists more room to rest, reducing strain. The RK61’s tighter layout forces your hands closer together, which can feel cramped after an hour. Both have adjustable feet, but the RK55’s wider stance keeps it planted better.
If you type 8+ hours a day, the RK55’s extra real estate and dedicated navigation keys make it the better ergonomic choice. The RK61 is fine for short bursts but can feel restrictive over time.
WHICH ONE SHOULD YOU BUY?
Buy the RK55 if you want hot-swap switches, dedicated arrow and navigation keys, per-key RGB, and a slightly sturdier build. It’s the better all-rounder for work, gaming, and customization.
Buy the RK61 if you prioritize portability, prefer the smallest possible footprint, and don’t care about hot-swap or extra keys. It’s cheaper and still a solid performer for casual use.
The RK55 costs about $10–$15 more, but the added features justify the price. Unless you’re tight on space or budget, the RK55 is the smarter long-term investment. Both keyboards deliver excellent value for under $50, but the RK55 simply does more. rk55.