Logitech Alto Keys K98M Review: A Surprisingly Good Mechanical Keyboard

Initial Impressions and Pricing

• 💡 The reviewer expresses surprise at Logitech releasing a new keyboard, given their past unresponsiveness to emails.
• 💰 The Logitech Alto Keys K98M is priced at a competitive $99, which is unexpected for Logitech, a brand often associated with overpriced gaming peripherals.
• 🎯 The reviewer notes that custom mechanical keyboards are becoming more accessible, with solid aluminum options available for $100-$150.

Design and Build Quality

• 📦 The unboxing experience is minimal, lacking essential tools like a switch or keycap puller, despite Logitech's slogan "you've got options."
• ♻️ The keyboard features a translucent plastic build, reminiscent of an old-school Game Boy, and uses recycled materials, which is a positive touch.
• 🔊 It incorporates a uni cushion gasket system, claimed to provide a more refined typing sound and feel, though the reviewer is initially skeptical.
• ⌨️ The keyboard includes a number pad, a feature often missing in smaller form factor keyboards, but lacks additional features like knobs or screens.

Typing Experience and Features

• ☁️ The gasket mount provides a relatively soft typing feel but lacks the substantial bounce expected from premium gasket-mounted keyboards.
• 📶 The keyboard offers both Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity, both of which performed well, with convenient dongle storage.
• 💡 It features white, shine-through keycaps that are aesthetically pleasing, though custom keycaps are likely to be preferred by enthusiasts.

Internals and Moddability

• 🛠️ The Alto Keys K98M is hot-swappable, allowing users to easily replace the switches without soldering, a significant plus for moddability.
• 🎶 It comes with linear marble switches designed for smooth typing, feeling like a lightweight 36-gram switch that contributes to a pleasant clacky sound.
• 🔊 Internally, it features a large silicone cushion that wraps the plate and PCB, along with foam on the back of the PCB, enhancing sound dampening.

Downsides and Value Proposition

• ⚠️ A major con is the flimsy on/off switch which snapped off during reassembly, a potential durability concern despite the one-year warranty.
• 💰 While priced at $99, it's slightly more expensive than other plastic full-sized keyboards, and aluminum options are available for only $10 more.
• ✨ Despite its flaws, the keyboard offers a distinct aesthetic and an interesting feel, making it a solid, decently priced option from a major brand, suitable for users seeking a custom keyboard experience without much hassle.