Company
Drop, formerly known as Massdrop, is a prominent player in the mechanical keyboard industry, revered for its commitment to delivering exceptional products and fostering a vibrant community. Founded in 2012 by Steve El-Hage and Nelson Wu, Drop initially began as a platform that facilitated group buys and collaborations with manufacturers, allowing enthusiasts to access premium products at competitive prices.
Over time, the company expanded its horizons, venturing into the development and production of its own line of mechanical keyboards, garnering a reputation for excellence and innovation in the process.
Brand
Drop’s brand identity revolves around the core principles of quality, customization, and community engagement. With a focus on catering to the discerning needs of keyboard enthusiasts, Drop ensures that each product showcases meticulous craftsmanship, cutting-edge technology, and thoughtful design.
The brand takes pride in offering keyboards that not only provide a superior typing experience but also allow users to personalize their setups with a wide range of keycap options, switch choices, and programmable features. Moreover, Drop maintains an active presence in the keyboard community, actively seeking feedback, collaborating with respected designers, and incorporating user suggestions into their product development process.
History
Drop’s journey began with the launch of their online platform, initially known as Massdrop.
The company gained popularity by organizing group buys, bringing together communities of like-minded individuals to secure exclusive deals on high-end products. This approach helped them build a strong foundation and establish trust within the enthusiast community. As the brand evolved, Drop ventured into the manufacturing realm, collaborating with renowned designers and manufacturers to create their own line of mechanical keyboards. This transition marked a significant turning point for Drop, propelling them to the forefront of the mechanical keyboard industry and cementing their status as a trusted and innovative brand.
Market
Today, Drop stands as a key player in the mechanical keyboard market, renowned for its commitment to quality and its ability to deliver exceptional products that cater to the diverse needs of keyboard enthusiasts. With a carefully curated lineup of keyboards, Drop has positioned itself as a brand that prioritizes both form and function. Their keyboards are known for their robust build quality, diverse switch options, programmability, and eye-catching aesthetics.
Furthermore, Drop’s dedication to fostering a strong community is reflected in their active engagement with users, partnerships with influential designers, and the continuous integration of community feedback into their product offerings. Through these efforts, Drop has solidified its position as a trusted and respected brand, ensuring that their keyboards continue to leave a lasting impression on the market.
Drop Most popular mechanical keyboard what you want to try!
DROP ALT High-Profile Mechanical Keyboard — 65% (67 Key) Gaming Keyboard
Overview: The DROP ALT High-Profile Mechanical Keyboard is a 65% gaming keyboard that offers an exceptional typing experience coupled with impressive customization options. Boasting a sturdy CNC-aluminum case, hot-swappable switches, programmable macros, and vibrant RGB LED backlighting, this keyboard caters to the needs of both gamers and enthusiasts.
In this review, we will delve into the unique parameters of the keyboard, identify its target audience, compare it with similar alternatives, and ultimately determine if it’s worth the investment.
Unique features: One of the key distinguishing features of the DROP ALT High-Profile is its tall CNC-aluminum case. This design choice not only adds a touch of elegance but also provides a solid and weighty feel to the keyboard, making it stay firmly in place even during intense gaming sessions.
The Cherry MX Brown RGB switches enhance the typing and gaming experience with their tactile bump, silent travel, and medium actuation force.
Moreover, the keyboard offers hot-swappable switch functionality, allowing users to effortlessly customize their switches without the need for soldering.
For Whom This Keyboard: The DROP ALT High-Profile appeals to a wide range of users. Gamers will appreciate its compact form factor and dedicated arrow keys, ensuring quick and precise movements. The programmable macros enable customization to suit individual gaming styles.
Moreover, typing enthusiasts will find delight in the satisfying tactile feedback provided by the Cherry MX Brown switches, making it ideal for both typing-intensive tasks and gaming.
Closest Competitors: When comparing the DROP ALT High-Profile to its closest competitors, two keyboards come to mind: the IDOBAO67 and the Aluminum Tofu 65.
The IDOBAO67 offers a similar compact form factor with customizable RGB lighting and a sturdy build quality. On the other hand, the Aluminum Tofu 65 provides a more simplistic design, customizable key layouts, and the option to fully personalize the build with a wider range of switch choices and keycaps.
Is It Worth Buying? While the DROP ALT High-Profile boasts an impressive range of features and customization options, its worthiness as a purchase depends on individual preferences and requirements. The keyboard excels in aesthetics, solid construction, and customizable RGB lighting, making it a visually appealing option for gamers and enthusiasts. However, some drawbacks include the use of north-facing hot-swap sockets, limiting the compatibility with certain keycap profiles, and the need for modifications, such as stabilizer replacements, to achieve optimal sound and typing experience.
Therefore, potential buyers should carefully consider their priorities and willingness to invest in additional modifications before making a decision.
In conclusion, the DROP ALT High-Profile Mechanical Keyboard delivers an exceptional blend of aesthetics, customization, and typing/gaming experience. While it may require some additional modifications for optimal performance, the keyboard’s solid build, programmability, and striking RGB lighting make it a compelling choice for those seeking a compact and visually stunning mechanical keyboard.
DROP ALT Mechanical Keyboard — 65% (67 Key) Gaming Keyboard
Overview: The DROP ALT Mechanical Keyboard is a compact and customizable 65% keyboard that offers a solid build, hot-swappable switches, and RGB backlighting. With its aluminum frame, programmable macros, and versatile key mapping, it caters to both typing and gaming enthusiasts. In this review, we will explore its unique features, discuss its target audience, compare it to similar keyboards, and determine if it’s worth the investment.
Unique Features:
Compact Layout: The ALT keyboard features a 65% layout, eliminating the function keys to maximize space. It retains a full set of arrows and numerals, making it suitable for various tasks.
Solid Build: Constructed with a solid aluminum frame, built-in switch plate, and magnetic feet, the ALT keyboard offers a robust and stable typing experience. The quality materials enhance its durability and longevity.
Hot-Swappable Switches: One standout feature of the ALT keyboard is its hot-swappable switch sockets. This allows users to easily swap out switches without the need for soldering, providing flexibility and customization options.
RGB Backlighting: The ALT keyboard offers fully customizable per-key RGB backlighting and under-lighting, allowing users to personalize the lighting effects. The configurator software enables users to program macros, create custom keymaps, and fine-tune the keyboard’s lighting to their preferences.
For Whom This Keyboard Is Suitable: The DROP ALT Mechanical Keyboard is ideal for individuals who prioritize a compact layout and want a high-quality mechanical keyboard with customizable features. It appeals to both typists and gamers who value durability, versatility, and the ability to customize their typing experience.
Closest Competitors:
Ducky One 2 Mini SF: The Ducky One 2 Mini SF is another popular 65% keyboard with a compact layout and customizable RGB lighting. While it lacks hot-swappable switches, it offers a solid build quality and excellent keycap options.
Anne Pro 2: The Anne Pro 2 is a compact 60% keyboard with wireless connectivity, customizable RGB lighting, and software customization options. It also features a solid build and offers a good balance between price and features.
Is It Worth Buying? The decision to purchase the DROP ALT Mechanical Keyboard depends on individual preferences and requirements. It offers a premium build quality, hot-swappable switches, and extensive customization options, making it a desirable choice for enthusiasts. However, the higher price point compared to some competitors may deter budget-conscious buyers. Ultimately, if customization, durability, and a compact layout are essential to your keyboard needs, the DROP ALT is worth considering.
In conclusion, the DROP ALT Mechanical Keyboard stands out with its compact layout, solid build, hot-swappable switches, and customizable RGB lighting. It caters to both typists and gamers who value customization and durability in their keyboard. While there are competing options available, the ALT offers a unique combination of features that make it a compelling choice for keyboard enthusiasts.
DROP CTRL Mechanical Keyboard — Tenkeyless TKL (87 Key) Gaming Keyboard
Introduction: The Drop CTRL Mechanical Keyboard has gained popularity in the mechanical keyboard community, but is it worth the price tag? In this review, we will explore the keyboard’s unique features, discuss its target audience, compare it to similar alternatives, and determine if it is a wise purchase decision.
Overview: The Drop CTRL Mechanical Keyboard is a tenkeyless (TKL) keyboard designed with input from the Drop community. It boasts a solid aluminum frame, a built-in switch plate, and magnetic legs, providing a sturdy and premium feel. The keyboard offers hot-swappable switch functionality, allowing users to easily swap switches without the need for soldering. It features customizable RGB backlighting with millions of colors, programmable macros, and a double-shot PBT keycap set.
Unique Features:
- Sturdy Construction: The keyboard’s aluminum frame and built-in switch plate ensure durability and a solid typing experience.
- Hot-Swappable Switches: The hot-swappable switch sockets enable users to swap switches effortlessly, offering versatility and customization options.
- Halo Clear Switches: The CTRL model comes with Halo Clear switches, providing a light-yet-sharp tactile bump and discouraging bottoming out during typing.
- Customizable RGB Backlighting: The keyboard offers fully customizable per-key RGB backlighting and under-lighting, allowing users to create unique lighting effects.
For Whom is this Keyboard: The Drop CTRL Mechanical Keyboard is suitable for enthusiasts and gamers who value build quality, customization, and aesthetics. It appeals to individuals who enjoy typing on tactile switches and desire the flexibility to experiment with different switch options. The programmable macros make it appealing to users who require extensive customization for their workflow or gaming needs.
Closest Competitors:
- Keychron K8: The Keychron K8 is a compact wireless mechanical keyboard with hot-swappable switch options and RGB backlighting. It offers similar features at a more affordable price point.
- Ducky One 2 Mini: The Ducky One 2 Mini is a highly regarded 60% mechanical keyboard known for its build quality, customizable RGB lighting, and Cherry MX switches. It is a compact alternative for those who prefer a smaller form factor.
- Anne Pro 2: The Anne Pro 2 is a 60% wireless mechanical keyboard with RGB backlighting and customizable macros. It provides a balance of features, portability, and affordability.
Is It Worth Buying? While the Drop CTRL Mechanical Keyboard offers some compelling features, it may not be worth the price tag for everyone. The three-pin hot-swap sockets may limit switch compatibility for those who prefer five-pin switches. The plate-mount stabilizers can be prone to rattling and may require modification for optimal performance. The lack of foam dampening can result in a somewhat hollow and pingy sound profile. Additionally, the high price point may not be justified for users who prioritize value for money. Considering these factors, there are alternative keyboards available with similar or better features at a more affordable price.
In conclusion, the Drop CTRL Mechanical Keyboard has its strengths with its sturdy construction, hot-swappable switches, and customizable RGB lighting. However, the limitations in switch compatibility, stabilizer performance, sound quality, and high price tag may make it less appealing for some users. It is recommended to explore alternative options that offer similar features and better value for money before making a purchase decision.
DROP CTRL High-Profile Mechanical Keyboard — Tenkeyless TKL (87 Key) Gaming Keyboard
Introduction: The DROP CTRL High-Profile Mechanical Keyboard is an upgraded version of the original CTRL model, featuring a tall CNC-aluminum case that covers the switches. In this review, we will provide an overview of this keyboard, explore its unique features, discuss its target audience, compare it to similar alternatives, and determine if it is worth considering for purchase.
Overview: The DROP CTRL High-Profile Mechanical Keyboard is a tenkeyless (TKL) keyboard designed based on input from the Drop community. It stands out with its high-profile design, featuring a tall CNC-aluminum case that covers the switches and provides a premium and elevated typing experience. The keyboard offers hot-swappable switch functionality, allowing for effortless switch swapping without the need for soldering. It boasts customizable RGB backlighting with millions of colors and under-lighting, enhancing the aesthetics and creating a visually stunning keyboard.
Unique Features:
- Premium High-Profile Design: The tall CNC-aluminum case sets the CTRL High-Profile apart, giving it a sleek and sophisticated appearance. The high-profile design provides additional wrist support and creates a more pronounced typing angle, which some users may find more comfortable.
- Halo Clear Switches: The CTRL High-Profile model comes equipped with Halo Clear switches, known for their slight preload and light-yet-sharp tactile bump. These switches are primarily designed for typing, providing a satisfying tactile feedback while gently discouraging bottoming out with each keystroke.
- Hot-Swappable Switch Functionality: The keyboard features hot-swappable switch sockets, allowing users to customize their typing experience by easily swapping switches in a matter of seconds, without the need for soldering. This feature provides flexibility and the opportunity to experiment with different switch options.
- Customizable RGB Backlighting: The CTRL High-Profile offers fully customizable per-key RGB backlighting and under-lighting, enabling users to personalize their keyboard’s lighting effects. With millions of colors to choose from, users can create their desired lighting configurations, including static colors or custom rainbow wave patterns.
For Whom is this Keyboard: The DROP CTRL High-Profile Mechanical Keyboard caters to enthusiasts and gamers who value aesthetics, premium build quality, and a unique typing experience. The high-profile design and additional wrist support make it suitable for users who prefer a more ergonomic typing position. The hot-swappable switch functionality appeals to those who enjoy customization and want the freedom to experiment with different switches. The programmable RGB lighting adds a touch of personalization and visual flair.
Closest Competitors:
- Keychron K6: The Keychron K6 is a compact wireless mechanical keyboard with a hot-swappable switch option and customizable RGB backlighting. It offers a similar layout and portability, making it a viable alternative for those seeking a TKL keyboard.
- Ducky One 2 SF: The Ducky One 2 SF is a compact 65% mechanical keyboard known for its build quality, programmability, and Cherry MX switches. Although not a TKL keyboard, it offers similar features in a more compact form factor.
- Drop ALT High-Profile Mechanical Keyboard: The Drop ALT High-Profile is another high-profile keyboard option with a similar design philosophy to the CTRL High-Profile. It features a tall CNC-aluminum case, hot-swappable switches, and customizable RGB backlighting.
Is It Worth Buying? The DROP CTRL High-Profile Mechanical Keyboard offers several unique features, including its premium high-profile design, hot-swappable switch functionality, and customizable RGB backlighting. The high-profile case provides an elevated typing experience and enhances the aesthetics of the keyboard. The ability to swap switches easily without soldering offers flexibility and customization options. However, the keyboard’s higher price point may deter some budget-conscious users. Additionally, the availability of alternative keyboards with similar features at a lower price could make the CTRL High-Profile less appealing for some individuals. Consider your preferences, budget, and specific requirements before making a purchasing decision.
In conclusion, the DROP CTRL High-Profile Mechanical Keyboard excels in delivering a premium typing experience with its high-profile design, hot-swappable switches, and customizable RGB backlighting. While it may not be the ideal choice for those on a tight budget, users seeking a visually striking and customizable keyboard with enhanced typing ergonomics will find value in the CTRL High-Profile.
DROP + Tokyo Keyboard Tokyo60 Keyboard Kit V4 - HHHK-Style 60%
Introduction: The DROP + Tokyo Keyboard Tokyo60 Keyboard Kit V4 is a compact 60% keyboard designed by Tokyo Keyboard. With its sleek and seamless design, this HHKB-style keyboard offers programmability, hot-swap sockets, and a high-profile CNC aluminum case. In this review, we will provide an overview of the Tokyo60 keyboard, explore its unique features, discuss its target audience, compare it to similar alternatives, and determine if it is worth considering for purchase.
Overview: The DROP + Tokyo Keyboard Tokyo60 Keyboard Kit V4 is a programmable 60% aluminum keyboard known for its compact form factor and HHKB-style layout. Designed in Japan, it features a seamless design and is constructed from two pieces of 6000-series aluminum, giving it a robust and premium feel. The keyboard comes with hot-swap sockets on the PCBA, enabling users to swap switches quickly without requiring soldering. It utilizes the QMK firmware, allowing for extensive customization and keymapping options. The Tokyo60 also offers RGB underglow with an optional acrylic diffuser, providing customizable lighting effects.
Unique Features:
- HHKB-Style Layout: The Tokyo60 features a layout inspired by the Happy Hacking Keyboard (HHKB), renowned for its minimalist and efficient design. With its compact form factor and absence of dedicated arrow keys and function row, it offers a clean and ergonomic typing experience.
- Optimized Ergonomics: The Season 4 version of the Tokyo60 introduces new case colors and a USB-C PCBA. The keyboard is machined with a 5-degree angle, optimizing ergonomics and providing a more comfortable typing position.
- Hot-Swap Sockets: The inclusion of hot-swap sockets on the PCBA allows for effortless switch swapping without the need for soldering. This feature grants users the ability to experiment with various switches, tailoring their typing experience to their preferences.
- Programmability with QMK: The Tokyo60 is fully programmable using the QMK firmware. Users have complete control over each key, allowing for customization and fine-tuning to suit different use cases, such as gaming, work, or personal preferences.
- RGB Underglow with Optional Diffuser: The keyboard offers customizable RGB underglow, which can be enhanced with an optional acrylic diffuser. Users can position the diffuser either on the bottom or sandwich it between the aluminum pieces, adding a touch of aesthetic flair.
For Whom is this Keyboard: The DROP + Tokyo Keyboard Tokyo60 Keyboard Kit V4 is best suited for keyboard enthusiasts, professionals seeking a compact and portable keyboard, and individuals who appreciate the HHKB-style layout. Its small form factor makes it ideal for those with limited desk space or who prefer a clutter-free setup. The programmability and customization options cater to users who desire complete control over their keyboard’s functionality and keymapping. The hot-swap sockets provide a convenient solution for users who enjoy experimenting with different switch types to find their preferred typing experience.
Closest Competitors:
- Keychron K6: The Keychron K6 is a compact wireless mechanical keyboard that offers hot-swappable switches and a similar 60% layout. It provides Bluetooth connectivity and compatibility with multiple operating systems, making it a strong alternative for users seeking portability and flexibility.
- Ducky One 2 Mini: The Ducky One 2 Mini is another compact 60% keyboard renowned for its build quality and customizable features. It offers multiple switch options and a sturdy construction, making it a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts.
- Drop ALT High-Profile Mechanical Keyboard: The Drop ALT High-Profile keyboard shares similarities with the Tokyo60 in terms of its high-profile design and hot-swap functionality. It features a larger form factor with dedicated arrow keys and a function row, providing additional convenience for some users.
Is It Worth Buying? The DROP + Tokyo Keyboard Tokyo60 Keyboard Kit V4 offers a unique combination of a compact HHKB-style layout, hot-swap sockets, and customizable programmability. Its sleek design, high-profile aluminum case, and optimized ergonomics contribute to a premium typing experience. The QMK firmware provides extensive customization options, appealing to users who prefer personalized key mappings. However, it is worth considering the price point and availability of alternative keyboards with similar features. While the Tokyo60 caters to a specific niche of enthusiasts and professionals, budget-conscious buyers or those seeking a more standard layout may find other options more suitable.
In conclusion, the DROP + Tokyo Keyboard Tokyo60 Keyboard Kit V4 stands out as a compact and customizable HHKB-style keyboard. Its unique features, including the hot-swap sockets, programmability via QMK, and sleek aluminum case, make it a compelling choice for keyboard enthusiasts and professionals seeking a premium typing experience in a compact form factor.
DROP Planck Mechanical Keyboard Kit V6 — DIY Compact 40% Ortholinear Layout
Introduction: The DROP Planck Acute Keycaps are a set of keycaps designed specifically for ortholinear keyboards, with a focus on compatibility with the popular Planck and Preonic models. These keycaps offer a unique aesthetic appeal, slim legends, acute angles, and are crafted from dye-sublimated PBT material in OEM profile. In this review, we will provide an overview of the DROP Planck Acute Keycaps, explore their unique features, discuss their target audience, compare them to similar alternatives, and determine if they are worth considering for purchase.
Overview: The DROP Planck Acute Keycaps are designed to enhance the typing experience on ortholinear keyboards, particularly the Planck and Preonic models. With their compact 40% layout and ortholinear form factor, these keycaps minimize finger travel and provide a unique typing experience. The keycaps are sculpted in OEM profile, ensuring a comfortable and familiar feel for users. Crafted from dye-sublimated PBT material, the keycaps offer durability and resistance to wear and shine. Designed by Jack of OLKB, these keycaps feature slim legends and acute angles that complement the aesthetic of ortholinear keyboards.
Unique Features:
- Ortholinear Compatibility: The DROP Planck Acute Keycaps are specifically designed to fit ortholinear keyboards, such as the Planck and Preonic models. The keycaps are sculpted to match the layout of these keyboards, providing an optimized typing experience.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The slim legends and acute angles of these keycaps add a unique visual appeal to ortholinear keyboards. They enhance the overall look and feel of the keyboard, giving it a distinct and stylish appearance.
- Dye-Sublimated PBT Material: Crafted from high-quality dye-sublimated PBT material, these keycaps offer durability, resistance to fading, and excellent texture. The PBT material ensures long-lasting keycap legends that won’t wear off easily and provides a satisfying typing experience.
- OEM Profile: The keycaps are sculpted in the OEM profile, which is a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts due to its comfortable shape and compatibility with a wide range of keyboards and keycap sets.
- Perfect Companion for DROP + OLKB Planck Mechanical Keyboard: The DROP Planck Acute Keycaps are specifically designed as a companion set for the Drop + OLKB Planck Mechanical Keyboard Kit. This compatibility ensures a seamless integration of the keycaps with the keyboard, both aesthetically and functionally.
For Whom is this Keyboard: The DROP Planck Acute Keycaps are tailored for enthusiasts and individuals who own ortholinear keyboards, specifically the Planck and Preonic models. The keycaps are ideal for those who appreciate the unique typing experience offered by ortholinear layouts and want to enhance the aesthetics of their keyboards. Additionally, keyboard enthusiasts who prefer PBT keycaps and OEM profile will find these keycaps appealing due to their high-quality construction and compatibility with various Cherry MX switches and clones.
Closest Competitors:
- Signature Plastics SA-P Industrial Keycaps: These keycaps offer a different aesthetic compared to the DROP Planck Acute Keycaps, featuring a tall, sculpted profile. The SA profile provides a retro look and a unique typing experience suitable for ortholinear keyboards.
- EnjoyPBT Keycaps: EnjoyPBT produces a wide range of keycap sets in various colors and profiles, including the popular OEM profile. Their keycaps are known for their high-quality PBT material, durability, and compatibility with Cherry MX switches.
- GMK Keycaps: GMK is renowned for producing high-quality keycap sets with double-shot ABS construction. While not specifically tailored for ortholinear keyboards, GMK sets offer a wide range of aesthetic options and compatibility with various keyboard layouts.
Is It Worth Buying? The DROP Planck Acute Keycaps are an excellent choice for owners of ortholinear keyboards, particularly the Planck and Preonic models. Their unique design, including slim legends and acute angles, adds a touch of style to the keyboard’s appearance. The use of dye-sublimated PBT material ensures durability and a satisfying typing experience. However, it is important to note that these keycaps are specifically designed for ortholinear layouts, limiting their compatibility with other keyboard types. Additionally, individuals who prefer different keycap profiles or materials may find alternative options more suitable.
Overall, if you own an ortholinear keyboard and are seeking keycaps that enhance both aesthetics and functionality, the DROP Planck Acute Keycaps are a worthy investment.
DROP Carina Mechanical Keyboard Kit — 60% Form Factor, Hotswap Kaihua Sockets
Introduction: The DROP Carina Mechanical Keyboard Kit is a compact and customizable keyboard designed to elevate your typing experience. With its frosty acrylic case, fully programmable RGB LEDs, tray mount construction, and hot-swap capability, the Carina offers a unique combination of aesthetics and functionality. In this review, we will provide an overview of the DROP Carina Mechanical Keyboard Kit, explore its unique features, discuss its target audience, compare it to similar alternatives, and determine if it is worth considering for purchase.
Overview: The DROP Carina Mechanical Keyboard Kit is a 60% form factor keyboard that combines a frosty acrylic case with fully programmable RGB LEDs. Its compact size makes it space-efficient and portable, ideal for those who value portability without compromising on functionality. The tray mount construction and hot-swap capability allow for easy switch replacement on the fly, giving users the flexibility to experiment with different switch types and plate materials. With the ability to customize every key using the QMK firmware, the Carina offers extensive control and personalization options.
Unique Features:
- Frosty Acrylic Case: The Carina’s frosty acrylic case sets it apart from traditional keyboard designs. The translucent material gives it a unique and eye-catching appearance, while also allowing the RGB LEDs to shine through, creating a vibrant and visually appealing keyboard setup.
- Fully Programmable RGB LEDs: The Carina’s RGB LEDs offer millions of color options, allowing users to create stunning lighting effects and personalize their keyboard to match their workspace or mood. Whether you prefer a single color or a dynamic spectrum, the Carina provides endless possibilities to illuminate your typing experience.
- Tray Mount Construction and Hot-Swap Capability: The combination of tray mount construction and hot-swap capability is a standout feature of the Carina. This design allows for easy switch replacement without the need for soldering. Users can effortlessly experiment with different switch types or even switch plate materials to achieve a customized typing experience.
- QMK Firmware and Keymapping: With the Carina’s compatibility with QMK firmware, users have complete control over every key. The configurator enables easy customization of keymapping, catering to individual preferences and specific use cases, whether it be for gaming, work, or play.
For Whom is this Keyboard: The DROP Carina Mechanical Keyboard Kit caters to a wide range of users. Its compact size and portability make it suitable for those who are frequently on the move or have limited desk space. Keyboard enthusiasts who value customization and lighting effects will appreciate the fully programmable RGB LEDs and QMK compatibility. Additionally, individuals who enjoy trying different switch types or want the option to experiment with switch plate materials will find the tray mount construction and hot-swap capability appealing.
Closest Competitors:
- Ducky One 2 Mini: The Ducky One 2 Mini is a popular 60% keyboard known for its solid construction, reliable performance, and customizable RGB lighting. While it may not offer the same level of customization as the Carina, the Ducky One 2 Mini appeals to users seeking a compact and well-built keyboard with a dedicated fan base.
- Anne Pro 2: The Anne Pro 2 is another 60% keyboard that offers wireless connectivity, customizable RGB lighting, and a range of switch options. Its compact design and competitive pricing make it an attractive alternative to the Carina for users seeking a portable and customizable keyboard.
- Keychron K6: The Keychron K6 is a 65% wireless mechanical keyboard that combines wireless functionality, RGB lighting, and hot-swappable switches. While slightly larger than the Carina, the Keychron K6 offers similar features and customization options, making it a potential competitor for those who prefer additional keys and wireless connectivity.
Is It Worth Buying? The DROP Carina Mechanical Keyboard Kit stands out as a visually striking and customizable 60% keyboard. Its frosty acrylic case and fully programmable RGB LEDs add a vibrant touch to any workspace. The tray mount construction and hot-swap capability provide versatility for switch customization. Moreover, the compatibility with QMK firmware offers extensive keymapping options. However, it is essential to consider the preferences and requirements of individual users. If portability, visual aesthetics, and customization options are high on your priority list, the DROP Carina Mechanical Keyboard Kit is a worthy investment.
However, those seeking a wireless option or a larger layout may find alternative keyboards more suitable to their needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the DROP brand has made a significant impact in the mechanical keyboard market, offering a wide range of high-quality and innovative products. The keyboards we discussed, including the DROP CTRL High-Profile, DROP + Tokyo Keyboard Tokyo60, DROP Planck Acute Keycaps, and DROP Carina Mechanical Keyboard Kit, all showcase the brand’s commitment to delivering exceptional keyboards with unique features.
In terms of overall quality, DROP keyboards consistently demonstrate superior craftsmanship and attention to detail. The materials used, such as CNC-aluminum frames, frosty acrylic cases, and dye-sublimated PBT keycaps, contribute to their durability and aesthetic appeal. The inclusion of hot-swap sockets and programmability options, enabled by firmware like QMK, further enhances the usability and versatility of these keyboards.
Each keyboard we reviewed has its own set of standout features. The DROP CTRL High-Profile impresses with its tall CNC-aluminum case, hot-swappable switches, and customizable RGB backlighting. The DROP + Tokyo Keyboard Tokyo60 excels in its HHHK-style design, hot-swap sockets, and programmability. The DROP Planck Acute Keycaps offer a unique set of acute angles and dye-sublimated PBT keycaps tailored specifically for ortholinear layouts. Lastly, the DROP Carina Mechanical Keyboard Kit shines with its frosty acrylic case, fully programmable RGB LEDs, and tray mount construction with hot-swap capability.
When it comes to the price-quality balance, DROP keyboards are generally positioned in the mid-to-high price range. While they may be pricier compared to mainstream options, the overall quality, design, and features justify the investment for keyboard enthusiasts and those who prioritize customization and premium build quality. Additionally, the ability to customize and swap components in many of these keyboards adds long-term value and reduces the need for purchasing entirely new keyboards when preferences change.
The target customers for DROP products are diverse. They appeal to keyboard enthusiasts who appreciate the finer details and seek unique and customizable options to enhance their typing experience. Professionals who spend extended periods at their desks, gamers looking for precise and responsive input, and creatives desiring visually striking setups can all find something to appreciate in the DROP lineup.
If you’re new to the world of DROP mechanical keyboards, a great starting point would be the DROP CTRL High-Profile. It offers a blend of premium design, hot-swappable switches, programmability, and customizable RGB lighting, catering to a wide range of users and use cases. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for both newcomers and experienced keyboard enthusiasts.
Overall, DROP keyboards exemplify quality, innovation, and customization. With their attention to detail, unique features, and commitment to delivering exceptional typing experiences, DROP has cemented its position as a leading brand in the mechanical keyboard market. Whether you’re a professional, gamer, or enthusiast, exploring the offerings from DROP is highly recommended for those seeking to elevate their typing experience to new heights.
