Mechanical keyboards have been a staple in the world of gaming and productivity for years now. With their tactile and satisfying key switches, they offer a superior typing experience compared to traditional membrane keyboards. However, as technology advances, so do the features and capabilities of mechanical keyboards. Many brands are now offering more than just the basics, making it challenging to find the perfect keyboard that strikes a balance between modern features and traditional functionality. But fear not, as YUNZII’s IF99 is here to fill that gap.
The IF99 is a 98% layout mechanical keyboard that boasts a full-size design without compromising on modern features. It is a perfect keyboard for those who prefer a more traditional layout but still want the convenience of advanced functions. Let’s take a closer look at what the YUNZII IF99 has to offer.
Design and Build Quality:
The IF99 features a sleek and minimalistic design with a full-size layout that includes all the essential keys. It measures 439mm x 140mm x 38mm, making it slightly larger than a standard full-size keyboard. However, this extra space is utilized well, as the IF99 comes with a built-in LCD screen and programmable rotary encoder. The keyboard is available in two colors – black and white – and is made from high-quality ABS plastic, making it durable and sturdy.
The keycaps are made from PBT material, which offers a more premium feel and better durability compared to the commonly used ABS keycaps. The keycaps are also double-shot, meaning the legends are molded into the keycaps rather than printed on, ensuring they will never fade or wear off. The IF99 also comes with a detachable USB-C cable, making it easy to transport and customize with different cables.
Key Switches:
One of the standout features of the YUNZII IF99 is its key switches. It comes with hot-swappable sockets, meaning you can easily change the key switches without any soldering. This feature allows for a more customizable experience, as you can choose from a variety of key switches such as Cherry MX, Gateron, or Kailh. The keyboard comes with Gateron Brown switches, which are known for their tactile bump and quiet operation, making them perfect for both typing and gaming.
LCD Screen and Rotary Encoder:
The IF99 comes with a 2.8-inch LCD screen and a programmable rotary encoder, which are located on the top right corner of the keyboard. This LCD screen can display various information, such as the time, date, CPU usage, and even your own custom animations. The rotary encoder can be programmed to perform different functions, such as adjusting volume or scrolling through webpages. This feature adds a modern touch to the traditional full-size layout and enhances the overall user experience.
QMK and VIA Support:
The YUNZII IF99 comes with QMK and VIA support, making it a dream for keyboard enthusiasts. QMK is an open-source firmware that allows for advanced customization of the keyboard, such as programming macros and remapping keys. VIA, on the other hand, is a user-friendly software that simplifies the process of customizing the keyboard for those who are not familiar with coding. With QMK and VIA support, the possibilities for customization are endless, making the IF99 a versatile and future-proof keyboard.
Final Thoughts:
In conclusion, the YUNZII IF99 is a well-built and feature-packed mechanical keyboard that offers the best of both worlds – a traditional full-size layout with modern features. Its hot-swappable key switches, LCD screen, and rotary encoder make it a highly customizable and versatile keyboard. The use of high-quality materials and the inclusion of QMK and VIA support make it a keyboard that will last for years to come. If you are in the market for a full-size mechanical keyboard that offers modern features without sacrificing traditional functionality, the YUNZII IF99 is definitely worth considering.
