Review of NPET CR87 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Hot-Swappable Compact RGB for Gamers

Description

Compact and Stylish: The First Impression
The NPET CR87 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard immediately caught my eye with its sleek black and grey aesthetic. I can’t deny that the compact 87-key layout feels not only modern but also incredibly practical. It effectively saves desk space, which I appreciate, especially during intense gaming sessions where I need that extra mouse room. The doubleshot ABS keycaps feel sturdy and the build quality speaks volumes about durability. While testing it, I noticed its 6° incline, which felt like a subtle but effective design choice for wrist comfort. Even after long hours, I didn’t feel any strain, which is a big win for me.

Immersive RGB Lighting for Every Mood
I’ve used keyboards with RGB lighting before, but this one truly stands out. The 19+ dynamic lighting modes are not just a gimmick—they’re genuinely mesmerizing. Whether you’re in the mood for a wave effect or a music-synced light show, it delivers. Adjusting the brightness levels was a breeze, and I found the shortcuts to switch between modes intuitive. It’s not all flash though. The lighting can be toned down for a more subtle look, making it versatile for both gaming and general use. For someone like me who enjoys customizing setups, the 16.7 million colors felt like a playground for creativity.

Performance That Doesn’t Disappoint
Performance is where this keyboard shines the brightest. The anti-ghosting capability ensures that every single keystroke is registered, which is a lifesaver during fast-paced games or when typing out a lengthy document. I was particularly impressed with the red switches. At 45g actuation, they’re light and responsive, perfect for both gaming and typing. What’s even cooler is the hot-swappable design. I experimented with the three extra switches included in the box, and swapping them out was surprisingly simple—no soldering required. This feature makes it beginner-friendly yet appealing to enthusiasts.

Good Points

• Hot-swappable sockets allow easy customization without technical hassle.
• The RGB lighting modes cater to various preferences, from subtle to vibrant.
• Compact and ergonomic design saves space while ensuring comfort.
• Durable with IP56 dust and water resistance, perfect for accident-prone users.

Areas for Improvement

• Keycaps feel a little slippery, which might bother some users who prefer a textured grip.
• No dedicated media keys, which could be a downside for those who rely on them frequently.
• The RGB lighting settings reset after unplugging, which can get annoying.

How It Compares to Rivals
When stacked against competitors in its price range, this keyboard holds its own. Compared to brands like Razer and Corsair, the NPET CR87 offers a more budget-friendly option while maintaining essential features like RGB lighting and hot-swappability. Razer’s products, for instance, often have more polished software for customization, but they also come at a premium price. On the other hand, brands like Redragon might match or exceed the NPET’s affordability, but their designs often lack the same durability and ergonomic focus. This keyboard strikes a nice balance, especially for those dipping their toes into the mechanical keyboard world.

Price to Quality Ratio
I’d say this is a great example of affordable quality. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of premium models, it delivers on the essentials. The plug-and-play setup alone makes it worth considering, especially for those who don’t want to fiddle with complicated drivers or software. The added extras like the keycap and switch pullers are thoughtful touches, making the whole package feel complete. For the features it offers, this keyboard feels like it’s truly worth every penny.

If you’re after a reliable, stylish, and customizable keyboard that doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket, this one’s a solid pick. While it has a few quirks, the overall experience is satisfying, and the build quality and performance are hard to beat at this price point.

Additional information