KiiBoom Phantom 81 V2 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Review Hot Swappable RGB Backlit Design

Description

Eye-Catching Futuristic Design

I’ll admit, the KiiBoom Phantom 81 V2 immediately caught my attention with its crystal-clear acrylic frame. It’s not just a keyboard; it’s a statement piece for your desk. The gasket mount design combined with the PC mounting plate makes it feel solid yet modern. Every detail screams precision, and the south-facing LEDs? Those are not only functional but add a vibrant, futuristic glow that truly pops in both gaming and work environments. It’s like having a mini light show on my desk.

What I appreciated most is the balance between aesthetic appeal and build quality. While the transparent design might not suit everyone, it fits perfectly in setups that lean towards minimalism or tech-inspired themes. Some of my coworkers even joked that it looks like a keyboard from a sci-fi movie.

Customizable Features That Shine

Testing the full-key hotswappable PCB was a game-changer. I’ve tinkered with keyboards before, but this one takes it to another level. The colored PCB isn’t just for show—it adds a subtle pop beneath the transparent casing. Swapping out switches was seamless, and the plate-mounted stabilizers ensured a consistent and sturdy typing experience.

The customization doesn’t stop there. The south-facing RGB LEDs offer a wide range of lighting effects, from subtle glows to bold, dynamic patterns. Adjusting brightness and colors was easy, and I could tailor the lighting to match my mood or the vibe of my workspace. Whether I wanted a calm blue hue for late-night typing or a bold rainbow effect for gaming, it delivered.

Triple Modes Connectivity

The versatility of the triple-mode connectivity blew me away. Switching between Type-C Wired, Bluetooth 5.0, and 2.4GHz wireless mode was seamless. I tested it across multiple devices, including my Windows PC and MacBook, and it worked flawlessly every time.

The 4000mAh rechargeable battery provided ample juice, even when I was heavily using the RGB lighting. I didn’t experience any connectivity drops or lag, especially in 2.4GHz mode, which is perfect for gaming. Having Bluetooth as an option was also super convenient for quickly pairing with my tablet or phone when I needed to type out longer emails.

Enhanced Typing Experience

Typing on this keyboard feels luxurious. The gasket mount system, paired with the PC plate, creates a subtle, cushioned feel that’s incredibly satisfying. I found myself enjoying the sound of each keystroke—the keyboard produces this pleasant, almost melodic typing sound that’s hard to describe but very addictive.

It’s clear that the design isn’t just about looks; the structural enhancements genuinely improve functionality. Compared to some of my older mechanical keyboards, the typing experience here is smoother, more responsive, and far less fatiguing during extended use.

Favorable Aspects

Testing the KiiBoom Phantom 81 V2 made me appreciate its many standout features. Here are the highlights:

• Triple-mode connectivity (Type-C Wired, Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz) makes it versatile for various devices.
• Hotswappable PCB allows for seamless customization of switches.
• Enhanced gasket mount system improves typing comfort and sound.
• 4000mAh battery supports long usage hours with RGB lighting.
• Vibrant RGB LEDs are highly customizable and reduce glare.

Areas for Improvement

While the keyboard is impressive, there are a few areas where it could be refined:

• The acrylic frame, while stunning, is prone to fingerprints and smudges. I found myself constantly wiping it down to keep it looking pristine.
• It’s definitely on the heavier side at 4.74 pounds, which might not be ideal for portability.
• The keycap font could be more refined; some might find it less appealing compared to other premium keyboards.

Competitive Options

In the realm of transparent mechanical keyboards, there are a few notable competitors. For example, the Keychron Q1 offers a similarly premium typing experience and customizable features, but it lacks the futuristic RGB aesthetic that makes the Phantom 81 stand out. On the other hand, the GMMK Pro is another solid choice with a robust build and hot-swappable keys, yet it leans more towards traditional designs.

Where this product shines is its blend of style and functionality. The south-facing LEDs and gasket mount set it apart from most competitors. However, if portability or a lighter frame is a priority, you might lean towards alternatives like the Razer Huntsman Mini, though it sacrifices some of the customization options.

Bang for the Buck

The price-to-quality ratio of this keyboard feels justified to me. Every feature, from its triple connectivity modes to the hot-swappable PCB, adds tangible value. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but for what it delivers—especially the premium build quality and customization options—it’s worth the investment.

Whether you’re a hardcore gamer, a mechanical keyboard enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates a unique and eye-catching design, this keyboard has something to offer. It’s a solid choice for those who don’t want to compromise on features or looks.

Additional information