I've used this keyboard for a week and I'm impressed. I've used dozens of keyboards (mechanical or otherwise), and this one has quickly become my main driver. Initially I was hesitant about not having a number pad, but I've found that the smaller size works much better on my desk and I don't miss the number pad nearly as much as I thought I would.
The keyboard itself is an aluminum body which gives it a premium look and feel. The keys themselves have a slight texture to them which I found nice. The magnetic stands provide the ability to use different angles of incline. They attach quickly and are secure. The LEDs on the keys themselves and around the base are bright (and can be adjusted to your preferred level).
Changing key strokes/LED colors/patterns is pretty simple. While the keyboard supports using QMK, I found it easier to use the Drop Keyboard Configurator on their website. QMK likely offers significantly more options, but the website tool allows me to change colors and key mappings. Additionally they plan to add macro support to their tool in the future (per their website), which will add even greater customization options.
My main reason for getting this keyboard is the hot-swappable switches. I prefer to type on Cherry Blue switches (which is the version I purchased), but when playing an FPS I tend to prefer Cherry Red switches for a number of keys. Now instead of having to deal with my blue switches or switch to an entirely new keyboard, I can swap out the 10-ish keys to new switches in two minutes and be on my way. Maybe not an issue for most people but it's made the keyboard entirely worth it for me.
The bottom line is this is a top-notch keyboard. It has tons of customization options (which will get even better when macro support is added). The hot-swappable switches are awesome. I will likely order another for my second PC.
| Brand | DROP |
|---|---|
| Series | CTRL Mechanical Keyboard |
| Item model number | MDX-31830-7 |
| Hardware Platform | Laptop, PC |
| Operating System | Windows NT, DOS, Windows 2000, Linux, Windows Vista, Windows ME, Windows XP, Windows 8, MacOS, Windows 7, Windows 95, Windows 10, Windows 98 |
| Item Weight | 2.13 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 14.5 x 5.5 x 1.4 inches |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 14.5 x 5.5 x 1.4 inches |
| Color | Space Gray |
| Manufacturer | Drop |
| ASIN | B083TJ7T1B |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Date First Available | January 13, 2020 |
