Each of the rings more than thirty LEDs can be color customized within the online customization tool. Get the best of Windows Central in your inbox, every day! The Drop ALT has outstanding build quality. For review, I'm using the Drop CTRL with Kaihua Box White switches. Still, the higher force requirement dramatically reduces the number of unforced typing errors. Picture 1 of 4. Its more like the original silver than space grey, but its a bit darker. Please temporarily enable JavaScript in your browser to post text. Instructions for loading compiled firmware onto your keyboard: Another thing that Ive read within the discussion boards is that the chattering issues are mostly occurring with the Halo switches, so perhaps using another switch may help you avoid the problem altogether. $54.95. DROP CTRL Mechanical Keyboard Tenkeyless TKL (87 Key) Gaming Keyboard, Hot-Swap Switches, Programmable Macros, RGB LED Backlighting, USB-C, Doubleshot PBT, Aluminum Frame (Halo Clear, Gray) Visit the DROP Store 614 ratings | 39 answered questions $22000 FREE Returns Color: Space Gray Style: Halo Clear Barebones Cherry MX Blue RGB The low-profile version retails for $200 (opens in new tab) pre-built and $150 (opens in new tab) as a barebones kit. It's sold with a gray frame, and you can purchase just the frame (sold as 'Barebones') and add the switches yourself. You can't set macros directly from the board, and there's no native software for customizations. Videos for related products. It comes with incline feet that attach magnetically, so you can easily remove them, and they stay in place well while you're using them. Another minor complaint include it doesnt have any media keys. This may not be a big deal if you dont mind pressing them into place (and inevitably fixing a few bent pins in the process), but is worth considering if youd rather unbox it and get right to work. Today, its also available in a high-profile version with a taller case that hides the keycap housings. Easy peezy just like that. Our unit is quiet and won't disturb others around you. Search the Micro Center Job Access site to review our latest Openings. Featuring customizable RGB backlighting and underlighting, it puts on a colorful show; or you can set it to a single color for a more subtle look. The Massdrop CTRL mechanical keyboard is here! I know, theres a way to use the QMK software and program it myself to make my preferred setting the default, but as a noobie, I have no experience with QMK at all. While there are a number of function-key shortcuts for media commands, increasing and decreasing LED brightness, and launching basic Windows apps like Calculator, power users may find the lack of customization stifling. However, there's a QMK firmware available on their website, but we don't count it as dedicated software. 1 5 Related Topics Mechanical keyboard Computer Keyboard Computer hardware Computer Information & communications technology Technology 5 comments Best Add a Comment plac3b0guy 3 yr. ago Get a better switch remover.. So lets be careful out there! You can also flip them around to have it on a negative incline. It's a solid place to start on your keyboard modding journey. If youre willing to take the time to apply a handful of easy mods, it can become even easier. Heres how it works. The Drop CTRL can be purchased as a pre-assembled kit or as a barebones version that lacks switches and keycaps for a discount. Skip to main content. This is again an area where the CTRL shows its age. It offers excellent typing quality with the Cherry MX Brown switches on our unit, and you can get it with a variety of switches. Your browser is not supported or outdated so some features of the site might not be available. The ENTR is a simple, wired keyboard. When compared against other premium keyboards, it's not an obscene amount of cash. Riitek K18 Plus Wireless 3-LED Color Backlit Multimedia Keyboard ASUS ROG Strix Scope NX TKL Moonlight White Wired Mechanical RGB Logitech ERGO K860 Split Ergonomic Wireless Keyboard, Targus Compact Multi-Device Bluetooth Antimicrobial Keyboard, Microsoft N9Z-00001 Wireless Slim All-in-One Keyboard, Logitech K380 Bluetooth Slim Multi-Device Keyboard, Logitech MX Keys Mini Wireless Keyboard - Black, Logitech Signature K650 (Graphite) Wireless Keyboard. Do you have any useful tips for it? Your invoice reference number will be required for free assistance. The added density of the material and slight texturing present on their surface feels good under the fingers. The Drop ALT is very good for office use. Fn + N Toggle keyboard 6KRO/NKRO (Default state 6KRO) Custom configuration (2 shortcuts) # The shortcuts above was basic hotkeys for the keyboard. Drop CTRL allows you to create custom configurations on its. Drop CTRL Mechanical Keyboard - Black - Barebones MDX-31830-14. - Windows Central is part of Future US Inc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. For software, the Drop CTRL supports QMK and the company's own suite that lets you customize every inch of the keyboard. Then you can customize it further once you have it in your hands. What really sells the CTRL is the combination of features, as the alternatives tend to lack one key feature or another. The Drop CTRL is an easy on-ramp to the custom keyboard hobby that delivers a mostly solid typing experience that becomes even better with mods. It has full RGB lighting and every key is macro-programmable, but without dedicated software, it's a bit difficult to set macros. DROP CTRL High-Profile Mechanical Keyboard Tenkeyless TKL (87 Key) Gaming Keyboard, Hot-Swap Switches, Programmable, Backlit RGB LED, USB-C, Doubleshot PBT, Aluminum (Gray, Cherry MX Blue) Visit the DROP Store 212 ratings | 16 answered questions $29500 FREE Returns Style: Cherry MX Blue RGB Barebones Cherry MX Blue RGB Cherry MX Brown RGB Once you select your keyboard, the site will present you with a layout of your keyboard, and clicking on a key will open up all of the available commands for that key. It's extensive and incredibly intuitive. Outside of gaming, which has embraced the value of mechanical keys, even the cheapest office-grade keyboards are wireless, so paying nearly $100 for a keyboard you have to plug in may seem backward to some people. link to Keychron Q1 Pro review: a remarkably great keyboard without getting your fingers dirty. I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. On the other hand, the GLORIOUS is sold as a barebones board only. Fn + W: LED Brightness Increase. NY 10036. Click to play video. Fn + A: LED Pattern Select Previous. Default Hot Keys. DROP CTRL High-Profile Mechanical Keyboard Tenkeyless TKL (87 Key) Gaming Keyboard, Hot-Swap Switches, Programmable, Backlit RGB LED, USB-C, Doubleshot PBT, Aluminum (Black, Kaihua Box White) Visit the DROP Store 213 ratings | 16 answered questions $27000 FREE Returns Style: Kaihua Box White Barebones Cherry MX Blue RGB Cherry MX Brown RGB The stock keycaps are very good. You can remap keys and program up to fifteen layers of keymaps (which are similar to profiles on gaming keyboards), so having keysets for individual games is entirely possible. The build quality, hot-swappable switches, and typing experience are a clear upgrade from the average gaming or productivity keyboard, even with the rattly stabilizers. - eBay Money Back Guarantee - opens in a new window or tab, NEW DROP CTRL Custom Mechanical Keyboard Aluminum Enclosure Case MIDNIGHT GREEN, cleared payment - opens in a new window or tab, Report this item - opens in new window or tab. Know more about our affliate disclosure terms. It lets you set macros and customize the RGB lighting, but you need to download the profile and flash it onto your keyboard. The all-aluminum chassis feels premium, weighing in at just shy of 2kg. Youll need to download Drops mdloader application from its github, put it in the same folder as your firmware file, and open of Windows Command Line Terminal. While you can set macros through Drop's QMK firmware on their website, it isn't user-friendly, so it might take some time to learn how to use it. It ticks most of the right boxes, including excellent build quality, a great selection of switches, and USB-C connectivity. It has excellent typing quality. The Drop CTRL took the mechanical keyboard community by storm in late 2018. The doubleshot PBT shine-through keycaps have a slightly rough feeling to them. 0:10 . If you need to return an item, simply bring it back to any Micro Center store for a full refund or exchange. One of two new models released this fall, the ENTR, is the company's take on a classic tenkeyless (TKL) keyboard. The keyboard has a dedicated Fn button that accesses the first layer by default when held. Click to play video. The Drop ALT is a better keyboard than the Drop ENTR. Please check out the wiki for general information about mechanical keyboards and consider posting questions in the daily sticky post at the top of the subreddit for any smaller questions.. The thick, sturdy base is made of metal and feels solid. We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. Its been a while since the CTRL first hit the scene, so it doesnt have the benefit of following a lot of the recent trends in custom mechanical keyboards. Keyboards dont need to be complicated to make a strong impression. We guarantee your satisfaction on every product we sell with a full refund in accordance with our return policy no receipt needed if you have a Micro Center Insider Account. The Drop CTRL High Profile is a very good keyboard, but its not without its drawbacks. Over time, I got used to it and now I love it. And thanks to the hot-swap switch sockets, it allows you to change switches whenever you want with no soldering required. Where the potential of the keyboard really shows is when you expand into secondary layers. It's also showing its age slightly with the use of three-pin sockets. Double-clicking will select all of the LEDs under each switch or wrapping around the keyboard, allowing you to then select the color or preset effect. Many of the most popular key switches have five pins to aid in stability and alignment. What the keyboard does lack is supporting features for gaming. There is minimal rattle with the stabilizers. The mechanical keyboard section used to be lively with multiple other brands, and now it is overwhelmingly Drop-branded keyboards, like the $349 SENSE75. Updated. The Drop ALT is slightly better than the Ducky One 2 SF. Kaviso, LLC . The lighting is nowhere near as customizable. (Image: Rich Edmonds / Windows Central), (Image credit: Source: Rich Edmonds / Windows Central), You want a great foundation for a custom keyboard, You aren't comfortable spending nearly $300 on a keyboard. Bug tracker, The shortcuts above was basic hotkeys for the keyboard. Intro Drop CTRL Mechanical Keyboard Review: Tenkeyless and Hot-Swappable Switch and Click 686K subscribers Join Subscribe 547 Share Save 31K views 2 years ago Link to Drop CTRL:. If an item you have purchased from us is not working as expected, please visit one of our in-store Knowledge Experts for free help, where they can solve your problem or even exchange the item for a product that better suits your needs. Another complaint I have is that every time I turn off and turn back on my computer, the keyboard will go back to its initial rainbow RGB lighting. Rich Edmonds was formerly a Senior Editor of PC hardware at Windows Central, covering everything related to PC components and NAS. Our review unit featured Gatreon Yellow, a quick-acting linear switch similar to the Cherry MX Reds found in many gaming keyboards, but with a high actuation force. Thank you to sellers! The Drop ALT and the Drop SHIFT are very similar keyboards. Heck, even the sounds are satisfying.I initially used it for gaming, but after I stopped gaming, I still completed a ton of typing on it. The Drop ALT and the Dream Machines DreamKey are mechanical gaming keyboards, but they have different features. The Drop CTRL is an easy on-ramp to the custom keyboard hobby that delivers a mostly-solid typing experience that becomes even better with mods. Hi, it appears you may be new to this subreddit! You can also pick custom keycap kits for additional costs. One of the most special things about this keyboard is that it features hot-swappable switches. Drop Icon Collection Keyboards Ready-to-Ship Keycaps Drop Studio Gaming Headsets NEW - Togekey KeyboardWeekend Deals SALE - SENSE75 Keyboard Save up to $100 per month on your favorite mechanical keyboard gear by joining Drop Keyboard Club. As a service to our customers, Micro Center offers in-store technical support. Thank you for signing up to Windows Central. LED Toggle Mode (Keys + Edge, Keys Only, Edge Only, Only modifiers), Toggle keyboard 6KRO/NKRO (Default state 6KRO), Program name: Free shipping. It has two incline settings, but unfortunately, it doesn't come with a wrist rest. Platform detected: Windows or Linux (not macOS), Other languages: The first thing youll notice upon picking up the ENTR is that its surprisingly heavy. Still, a lot has changed in the last three years since the CTRL released, and its not quite the killer value it used to be. Its been about 5 months since then. When hes not playing video games or checking out new gear, he is probably asleep. Its a tenkeyless keyboard, which means it lacks a dedicated number pad. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns. Corsair has announced the K100 AIR, its thinnest wireless mechanical keyboard ever. Work with the latest in computer and digital technology. The Ducky has better typing quality anda Windows Key lock. But for clean, comfortable typing, this is as good as it gets at a sub-$100 price. Our expert industry analysis and practical solutions help you make better buying decisions and get more from technology. Keychron Q1 Pro review: a remarkably great keyboard without getting your fingers dirty. So long as you don't rely on the use of media keys and other physical features found on other keyboards, the Drop CTRL has everything you'll require. Shortcut lists can be shared as long as you don't create a database. Just use the switch puller that comes with the keyboard and pull each one out individually. Aesthetically, the keyboard is equally impressive. The tactile feedback is very satisfying. The CTRL is light on additional features there are no tilt feet, DIP switches, or cable routing channels but it does have one cool trick up its sleeve: a built-in USB Type-C hub. You can remap this key anywhere and have it function in a multitude of ways. Ask your Support Technician about additional options available through our exclusive Priority Care Program. The Drop ALT is a highly-customizable mechanical keyboard. The New Standard Our flagship model, the CTRL raises the bar with cutting-edge features and a premium build. The stock keycaps feel nice to type on. Best Products; See All; Computing. There's no option for a smoother typing experience through the use of gasket mounting, for instance. Theyre quite expensive, however, ($85 when purchased through the Builder, $105 without) so to keep things in the ballpark of what many users would experience, I opted to use JWICK Yellow (opens in new tab) switches. Its worth noting that Drop has a web-based config tool for its other keyboards, so that support may come to the ENTR . The Drop ALT mechanical keyboard is a compact 65% model with dedicated arrow keys. The following are available for selection: GMK Red Samurai, MT3 /dev/tty, XDA Canvas, and SA Pulse Noire. The brightness of this ring can be independently controlled, but its worth keeping on for the slick underglow effect and appealing side profile. The Drop ALT iswell-built andoffers better typing quality than most other mechanical keyboards of its size. The Drop is available with a variety of switches, and it's hot-swappable, so you can choose whichever switches you prefer, and typing on it feels better than the NPET because it has stable keys with PBT keycaps. Model: Drop Alt Switches: Halo True, with o-rings installed Programmable: Yes, QMK Since writing this entire article, there has been chatter about 5 times total. Click to enlarge. That said, both options have similar build quality and ergonomics. A fairly generic linear switch produced by JWK, they do a good job of representing the typing experience of the Drop CTRL High Profile with other low-cost linears. DROP CTRL Mechanical Keyboard Tenkeyless TKL (87 Key) Gaming Keyboard, Hot-Swap Switches, Programmable Macros, RGB LED Backlighting, USB-C, Doubleshot PBT, Aluminum Frame (Barebones, Black) Visit the DROP Store 614 ratings | 39 answered questions $17500 FREE Returns Color: Black Style: Barebones Barebones Cherry MX Blue RGB Cherry MX Brown RGB Using the software may require the use of a computer or other device that must meet minimum system requirements. The Drop ALT keyboard has two USB-C inputs, and you can use either one as a USB passthrough, meaning you can charge your devices at USB 2.0 charging speeds. Its latency is very good, but it may not be low enough for some gamers. This is to avoid comment bots. Tested and works. If you prefer a bigger model with a numpad, check out the Drop SHIFT instead. Subscribing to a newsletter indicates your consent to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Is it normal to not be able to change wifi channels on a modem? New York, Many jobs today require you to Over the last year, the custom keyboard hobby has exploded, bringing with it a plethora of new innovations and modifications. But I was never sure until I got it in my hands. It has a bunch of RGB lighting features built-in. The Drop ENTR is a simple mechanical keyboard, but its premium build makes it feel like so much more. Visit our corporate site (opens in new tab). 1. Digital Downloads Neowin The biggest is that it only supports 3-pin switches. LED Keys. The Drop ALT keyboard has low latency. As an entry point to the mechanical keyboard hobby, its a solid option (as is the low-profile original) that doesnt require building the keyboard from scratch. The company is still running group buys as . At the time, I was especially worried about keyboard chatter or double typing that everyone was discussing in the reviews/comments section of the product itself. We eventually ended up modding the stabilizers to make them sound and feel even better. They also share the same customization options through Drop's website and the QMK toolbox, which aren't very user-friendly. Even NZXT launched its own mod-friendly keyboard, which we'll be reviewing shortly. It doesn't take up much space on your desk, and it's about the same size as the Ducky One 2 SF. Across nearly a dozen tests with the keyboard, I rounded out at 106 WPM. It lacks the software of the best gaming keyboards. 2000-2023 Newegg Inc. All rights reserved. Whats more, the keyboard comes with your choice of switches, so you can get just the feel you likewhether you prefer something heavy and tactile or lightweight and linear. The Drop CTRL was originally released with a low-profile case and floating key design to show off the RGB. DROP CTRL Mechanical Keyboard Tenkeyless TKL (87 Key) Gaming Keyboard, Hot-Swap Switches, Programmable Macros, RGB LED Backlighting, USB-C, Doubleshot PBT, Aluminum Frame (Halo Clear, Black) Visit the DROP Store 612 ratings | 39 answered questions $22000 FREE Returns Measuring at 368mm by 140mm and 44mm thick, it's in line with the competition if not a little on the thick side. Its also fully programmable via QMK, meaning you can assign macros or custom keybindings to every key. I prefer the blue and purple lighting with no rim light at a low brightness. We absolutely love this keyboard and consider it one of the best hot-swappable keyboards currently out there. New York, To put it simply, the CTRL mechanical keyboard has it all. So every time I turn it on, I just press Fn+D a few times, Fn+Z to turn off the rim light, and Fn+S to turn down the brightness. Log into your account. To put it simply, the CTRL mechanical keyboard has it all. The options are the following: Halo True, Kaihua Box White, Kaihua Speed Silver, Cherry MX Blue, Cherry MX Brown, and Halo Clears. * We want you to be satisfied with your Micro Center purchase. My average typing speed hovers between 105 - 110 WPM on MonkeyType. A side note Id like to make is that I put O-rings on all of my typing keys since I prefer it not to have the loud echo sound when it bottoms out. We guarantee your satisfaction on every product we sell with a full refund and you wont even need a receipt. 300TB Flash Drives Due in 2026, Supplier Claims, Tested: No, Ryzen 7950X3D's iGPU Isn't 4X Faster Than 7950X's, Save Up to $160 With the AMD 7000-Series Combo Offer: Real Deals, Amazon Basics CPU Cooler is Its First Foray into PC Components, Halo Clear, Halo True, Kaihua (Kailh) Box White, Kaihua (Kailh) Speed Silver, Cherry MX Blue RGB, Cherry MX Brown RGB, Fifteen supported layers (firmware-based), 14.5 x 5.5 x 1.75 inches (368 x 140 x 44 mm). I love that it has two USB-C connectors, one of the right and one on the left. The trend in custom keyboards today is a softer typing experience, usually created from flexible plate materials (like polycarbonate) or foam gaskets. Our professional technicians can help find the right solution for you backed by our Service Guarantee. The high-profile version of the CTRL feels much more premium than most pre-built keyboards available currently. NEW 2 Disney Cruise Line DCL Castaway Club PLATINUM Black Lanyards ID Holders (#155212240812), 4" Brass Ring Globe Ball Shade Holder Vintage Antique Kerosene Oil Lamp Parts (#165878793367), NEW Drop BIIP MT3 EXTENDED 2048 Keycap Set for 60% to 75% Keyboards MODIFIERS (#155396505096). The Drop ENTR is a simple mechanical keyboard, but its premium build makes it feel like so much more. Constructed with a solid aluminum frame with a built-in switch plate, its stable and fortified. Layer keys can be set to activate associated layers when tapped or held, made active for one keypress before reverting, made active with set modifier keys already held (like Ctrl or Alt) or even made to become the default layer with a single keypress. The stabilized keys are terrible. Another downside is that it only supports plate-mounted stabilizers for the larger keys. Driven by data, run by a passionate team of engineers, testers, technical writers, developers, and more. The Drop CTRL isnt designed to be a gaming keyboard, but that doesnt mean youll be stuck swapping keyboards when you want to play games. However, it's not user-friendly and isn't considered dedicated software. From there, you need to change directory to your file location, type in a precise string to trigger the mdloader applet and direct it to your firmware file, and then flip the keyboard over within 60 seconds to press the reset button. Turkish With dual USB-C connectors, the CTRL is outfitted with the fastest available connections. The heavy aluminum case and integrated top plate do a good job of deadening out key presses, making them feel solid under the finger. The Dream Machines has companion software to customize the board, and every key is macro-programmable. Changelog It is also expensive for a keyboard that might not behave the way its supposed to, which is unfortunate. MASSDROP CTRL KEYBOARD - TIGHT PLATE Sorry, this post was deleted by the person who originally posted it. If all goes well, the firmware will apply to the keyboard and completely rewrite what it shipped with. High profile of keys may lead to fatigue. Menu Search Best Products Best Products. The Drop ALT is a wired-only keyboard that isn't designed for mobile devices. There's also a high-profile version of the CTRL that comes with a shroud to cover the switch sockets. The Drop ENTR is a full TKL with 87 keyseverything youd expect from a full-size keyboard except for the number pad, and it's laid out in the exact the same way. After scouring the discussion boards, they came up with a fix, thank goodness. Also see our recommendations for the best keyboards, thebest mechanical keyboards, and thebest keyboards for programming. Big brands are also taking notice of the increased activity with custom keycaps, switches, and other features found on keyboards like the CTRL. The spacebar, right shift and enter keys on the TKL model I reviewed are loose and clatter slightly with keystrokes. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. If you need to return software, a game or a movie, remember that you may not retain any copies its not legal, and its not nice. You also cannot swap out the plate, and there's no gasket mounting for a softer typing feel. The best budget-priced mechanical keyboard. It is recommended that you familiarize yourself with the system requirements before making your purchase. It's available in a wide variety of switches, so you can get the ones you prefer. It's fine for most gamers and daily tasks, but competitive gamers may notice a delay. I had extra O-rings from when I tried to quiet/dampen down my Razer Blackwidow with little success. This is a wonderful feature that allows you to easily try new switches, which is one of the most fun aspects of the custom keyboard hobby. 1996-2023 Ziff Davis, LLC., a Ziff Davis company. Please refresh the page and try again. Copy the html code below and embed it to a discussion forum or to any web page. Out of the box, this keyboard is an upgraded essential for your workstation. The Razer Huntsman V2 Analog is listed for around the same price but is designed primarily for gamers without the ability to customize the switches and more.