First Impressions, Royal Kludge F68

So I was taken by the idea of a foldable mechanical keyboard, when I first learned of the Royal Kludge F86, that I could use with my iPhone as a portable writing setup. I’m not sure where I first learned of the F86, so if it happened to be anyone reading this, linking to it once upon a time, my thanks.

Granted, being a mechanical keyboard, even when folded, it’s not going to be as compact as other foldable keyboards, given it only folds the one way, and using mechanical switches, is thick. So if you’re looking for ultra-portability, this likely isn’t the keyboard for you.

I bought the black version on Amazon, where it was cheaper than direct from RK thanks to a 10% off coupon. Key text is white, with Functions in gray.

There is software available for it, but looks to be Windows-only (.exe). However, for remapping keys for use between Windows or macOS/iOS, this is handled on the keyboard itself. Fn+S gets you Mac layout; Fn+A is Windows. So in Mac mode, the Alt key becomes Command, Win key becomes Option. Ctrl remains Ctrl.

It uses “Low Profile Tactile Brown Switches,” to try and minimize key height. Sound seems to be typical for Brown switches. This has been a work-from-home week, so I’ll have to see next week when we’re in office if it’s too loud for some of my coworkers.

As for how it feels: not as good as my NuPhy Air75, but better than my older Keychron K2, which also has brown switches. I’m no mechanical keyboard aficionado, after all; this is just the fourth one I’ve ever owned. For what I want to do, it does the job with the tactile feedback.

You can connect three different devices to the keyboard. Currently I have my iPhone and my PowerBook M4 Pro (Yes, I am committed to this bit). I will likely connect my work laptop when in the office next week. Switching is pretty seamless:

Device 1 – Fn+Q

Device 2 – Fn+W

Device 3 – Fn+E

When it’s flat on the desk, it feels like a typical mechanical keyboard. If you pick it up, there is a little inward flex from the two halves. I haven’t tried it on my lap, but given it’s a 60% size keyboard, I probably wouldn’t ever do that anyway. But if I did, I’m sure there’s going to be both inward and outward flex from the keyboard’s halves on such an uneven surface.

Keyboard is backlit, which is nice. Using Fn+\ you can cycle through the backlight settings, of which are three: on, slow pulse, and off. Fn+up or down arrows will adjust backlight intensity. There’s only about 4-5 settings. When you hit the max on Fn+Up arrow, the backlight flashes at you, as if to say, “I can’t go any higher!” If you Fn+Down arrow enough, the backlight will turn off.

It has two arms that fold flat against the top of the case to support your smartphone. Haven’t tried it as of yet with my iPad Air. The arms each have a dimple near the end, and that slots in to a notch on the casing, so they stay in place when folded.

The F68 charges via USB-C. It has a physical On/Off switch, which is rather stiff.

There is no carrying case for the keyboard, just a sleeve you slide the folded F68 in to. So there is minimal protection from being scratched or scuffed while in your bag, but that’s it. It’s a snug fit, but the sleeve does close all the way.

All in all, considering I’ve only had this a few days, I’m liking it. It does what I want it to do. Took it to Kid3’s lacrosse practice this past Thursday at the indoor facility, where they have tables and chairs, and used it there, so it’s fulfilling its purpose.

Time will tell if it sticks!