The Keydous NJ80 is a versatile mechanical keyboard favored by both gamers and professionals who demand customization and performance. It features a hot swappable PCB, allowing users to change switches without the need for soldering, catering to a variety of typing preferences. With wireless connectivity options including Bluetooth and 2.4GHz, alongside a traditional wired connection, the NJ80 provides flexibility for different workspaces and setups.
A distinctive feature of the NJ80 is the inclusion of an impressive RGB backlighting system, which not only adds to the aesthetic but also serves as a functional aspect for users who prefer to work in low-light environments. The keyboard is also equipped with a durable aluminum knob, enhancing its functionality and design. Compatibility with Windows and Mac operating systems ensures a wide user base can enjoy the benefits of the NJ80.
I find the NJ80-AP version noteworthy for its customizable features and magnetic switches, which offer a unique and satisfying typing experience. The variety of choices in switch types, keycap materials, and layouts allows me to tailor the keyboard to my specific needs, whether for gaming, coding, or writing. The Keydous NJ80 stands out as a strong contender in the mechanical keyboard market, balancing aesthetic appeal with technical prowess.
Overview of Keydous NJ80
In my examination of the Keydous NJ80 series, I have uncovered a collection of mechanical keyboards distinguished by their build quality, layout options, and the reputable Keydous brand commitment to performance.
Design and Build Quality
The Keydous NJ80 series showcases a robust design featuring a case that may come in varied material choices such as aluminum, which contributes to both the sturdiness and the aesthetics of the keyboard. Users typically seek a balance between a keyboard’s visual appeal and its resilience over time, and the NJ80’s construction seems to deliver that with a well-crafted frame that could encompass steel or even a brass plate, providing a stable typing platform.
Layout and Dimensions
Adopting a 75% layout, the NJ80 strikes a balance between space-saving and functionality. This layout ensures that essential keys like Delete, Page Up, and Page Down are readily accessible—beneficial for both gaming and productivity tasks. The dimensions, often measuring around 235x141x42mm, offer a compact footprint while retaining a weighted presence on the desk, reportedly around 1kg (or approximately 2.2 lbs), underscoring its solid construction.
Keydous Brand
My familiarity with the Keydous brand, particularly with their NJ80 model variations such as the Keydous NJ80-AP, indicates a reputation for integrating quality with innovation. These mechanical keyboards cater to a wide range of users, from gamers to professionals who require reliable performance. Known for wireless capabilities, including sought-after features like Bluetooth and 2.4Ghz connections, the Keydous NJ80 is a testament to the brand’s emphasis on versatility without sacrificing the responsiveness essential for various computing environments.
Key Features and Technology
In analyzing the Keydous NJ80, I focus on its technical sophistication and the seamless integration of features it offers to improve typing efficiency and enjoyment.
Switches and Keycaps
The Keydous NJ80 employs hot-swappable switches, providing the flexibility to change switches without soldering. The keyboard often comes with box strawberry ice cream or Kailh switches, tailored to deliver a smooth and responsive keystroke. The keycaps are made from PBT, a robust material that is resistant to shine and wear over time. These PBT keycaps are known for their durability and the textured feeling they provide during typing.
Connection Options
I find the versatility in connectivity of the NJ80 truly commendable. Users can choose between a wired USB-C connection, Bluetooth 5.0, which supports pairing with up to 3 devices, and a 2.4GHz wireless connection via the included USB dongle. This multitude of options ensures that the keyboard can easily switch between devices and environments without any interruption to workflow.
Lighting and Aesthetics
Equipped with south-facing RGB lights, the NJ80 provides dynamic light effects and uniform backlighting across the keyboard. Users can customize the per-key RGB lighting among 16 million colors, with 17 pre-set light effects available right out of the box. You get not only functionality but also a visually pleasing aesthetic, which can be further personalized through the Keydous driver.
Functionality and Compatibility
The NJ80 comes with an impressive 4800mAh battery, ensuring long-lasting wireless use before needing to recharge. The keyboard also offers a Mac mode, which I appreciate for its optimized compatibility with Mac systems. The NJ80 is confirmed to be compatible with a variety of operating systems including Mac, Windows, iOS, Android, and Linux. The onboard memory allows for saving preferences directly to the keyboard, which adds convenience for users who switch between different devices.
Performance and Experience
I find that the Keydous NJ80 performs admirably, thanks to its quality build and feature set designed to enhance typing and connectivity. My examination of its performance will focus on the typing experience, wireless capabilities, as well as the keyboard’s enhancements and customizations.
Typing Feel and Acoustics
When I type on the Keydous NJ80, I notice the keys are well-spaced, which reduces the chance of accidental key presses—a common issue with compact keyboards. The keycaps are made from dye-sub PBT, a material known for its durability and resistance to shine from extended use. Another feature that adds to the overall feel is the inclusion of foam within the keyboard, which can dampen the sound of typing and provide a more pleasant acoustic experience. The aluminum alloy knob, often used for volume control, offers a sturdy and premium manual interface. The polling rate in its wired mode is 1000Hz, which ensures minimal latency for a responsive typing experience.
Wireless Capabilities and Battery Life
The NJ80 boasts impressive wireless functionality, featuring both Bluetooth and 2.4Ghz connectivity options via a USB dongle. I’ve found that you can pair it with up to four devices and freely switch between them without delay. The keyboard includes a substantial 4800mAh battery, which allows for extended use without the need for frequent charging. The presence of a power switch helps save battery life when the keyboard is not in use.
Enhancements and Customizations
The Keydous NJ80 is not only a performer but also a canvas for personal customizations. Its fold-out feet allow me to adjust the angle of the keyboard for a more ergonomic typing position. The potentials for enhancements extend to the firmware level, where users can personalize their experience according to their specific needs or preferences. The versatility of connectivity and the ability to customize the keyboard settings make the NJ80 a strong candidate for both office and gaming setups.
Connectivity and Power Management
In my experience, the Keydous NJ80 offers versatile connectivity options and reliable power management, a combination that ensures seamless integration with multiple devices and sustained usage.
Multi-Device Pairing
I’ve found the Keydous NJ80 to be quite adept at handling multiple devices. Bluetooth 5.0 allows for pairing with up to three devices, simplifying the transition between my computer, tablet, and smartphone. The pairing process is straightforward; turning on the keyboard, I hold down FN+1 for three seconds to pair via Bluetooth. For a more stable connection, a 2.4GHz wireless dongle is included, which grants a quick connection just by plugging the dongle into a USB port and pressing FN+4.
Charging and Energy Efficiency
The keyboard’s energy efficiency is supported by a built-in lithium battery, which ensures long-term usage without frequent recharging. When the battery does run low, recharging is handled via a USB-C cable. This modern standard for cables offers a faster charge, and I can continue to use the keyboard while charging without experiencing any interruptions. On a full charge, the battery life tends to be quite satisfactory, although exact duration can vary based on backlit settings and usage intensity.
In summary, I manage my NJ80’s power and connectivity through a smart blend of Bluetooth, 2.4GHz connection, and efficient USB-C charging.
Build and Customization
In crafting the Keydous NJ80, I pay close attention to the materials and customizable features that contribute to its structural integrity and visual appeal. Let’s explore the build quality and the extensive customization options available.
Material Quality and Aesthetics
Materials: The Keydous NJ80 is notable for its robust build quality. It often includes an aluminum alloy knob and a brass plate which lend the keyboard a premium feel and heft. For the enthusiasts who prefer different textures and sounds, the option to have either an aluminum or steel plate is available. The PCB (printed circuit board) is engineered for durability and consistent performance.
Aesthetics: The keycaps provided with the NJ80 are typically made of dye-sub PBT, known for their durability and resistance to shine over time. The aesthetics of this keyboard is further enhanced by RGB lighting, which is accompanied by dynamic light effects, adding a vibrant and personalized touch to the typing experience.
Customization Options
Switches: I find that an important aspect of the NJ80’s customization is its hot-swappable switch sockets, which accommodate a range of mechanical switches without the need for soldering. You can opt for different switches to get the tactile response that suits your typing or gaming needs.
Stabilizers and Mods: The keyboard usually comes with pre-lubed stabilizers, but you can further modify them. For example, users often perform a ‘Holee mod’ to reduce rattle and improve keypress smoothness. I also came across builds where enthusiasts added plate foam and modded the keyboard with tape or PE foam for acoustic dampening.
Personalized Layouts and Functionality: The inclusivity of custom key mapping allows me to assign functions as preferred, optimizing my workflow or gaming macros. Users frequently share their unique layouts optimized for their use-cases, showcasing the keyboard’s versatility.
By providing a solid foundation with quality materials and enabling a broad spectrum of customization options, the NJ80 appeals to both newcomers and veterans in the mechanical keyboard community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Navigating through the various features and options of the Keydous NJ80 can raise several questions. I aim to address the most common inquiries to better acquaint you with this mechanical keyboard.
How can I connect the Keydous NJ80 to Bluetooth devices?
To connect the Keydous NJ80 to Bluetooth devices, turn on the keyboard and hold the Fn key plus the corresponding Bluetooth key (usually labeled as B1, B2, or B3) to put it into pairing mode. Then, find the keyboard in your device’s Bluetooth settings and connect.
What are the differences between the Keydous NJ80 and NJ80-AP models?
The Keydous NJ80-AP includes a built-in lithium battery and can be used in a wireless mode, whereas the standard NJ80 model may not include a battery and be designed for primarily wired use.
Where can I find the Keydous NJ80 manual for setup and troubleshooting?
The Keydous NJ80 manual can be downloaded from the Keydous official website or from online repositories like ManualsLib, which often host user manuals for electronic devices.
What software is available or compatible with the Keydous NJ80 for customization?
Keydous provides proprietary software that can be used to customize the NJ80’s keys and lighting. This software is usually available for download from the Keydous official website and supports various operating systems.
Can you provide an objective review of the Keydous NJ80’s performance and features?
As the keyboard comes with reprogrammable keys and different switch options, the NJ80 is noted for its typing experience. Users commonly highlight its right spacing to reduce the chance of pressing unintended keys.
What is the estimated delivery time once I order a Keydous NJ80?
Delivery times for the Keydous NJ80 can vary based on the location and the chosen shipping method. For more accurate estimates, it’s best to consult with the Keydous official store or the retailer from which you are making the purchase.
I’m Marcus Bextor, a seasoned software engineer passionate about demystifying technology. With over a decade in the tech industry, my journey began with a Computer Science degree, evolving through various roles in software development, system architecture, and project management. At MWTA, I leverage my expertise to provide in-depth, unbiased reviews of the latest tech products, from smartphones to smart homes. My blogs aim to be accessible to all, breaking down complex jargon into simple language. Besides reviews, I share insights on tech trends and practical tips. Connect with me for questions and suggestions as we explore the tech world together.