Review: Vissles V84 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
I think back to my elementary school days in the late 80s, and the single computer in the library that students could take turns using. I’m pretty sure it was a Compaq, but what I remember most is the clicky keys you could hear from a classroom or two away.
So many of today’s standalone keyboards or the ones built into laptops are so very quiet, but I prefer the satisfying feedback you get from a mechanical keyboard. That’s why I use a full-fledged gaming keyboard for my home office setup, even though I’m not a PC gamer.
I have a decent amount of real estate on my desk, but I realize for many who transitioned to working from home over the past year-plus, that’s just not the case. If you’re looking for a space-saving keyboard with a retro feel, the one I’m reviewing might just check the boxes. But is it worth it?
Vissles V84 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
Above is the Vissles V84 Mechanical Keyboard that was shipped to me for review, and here are the most important specs to know:
- 75% layout with 84 keys (including F key row)
- Bluetooth 5.1 – wired or recharged via USB-C
- Hot-swappable switches
- Programmable macro keys
- RGB backlight with 19 dynamic effects
- Up to 180-hour battery life (with lights off)
- Pair with up to five devices
- Compatible with Apple (Mac and iOS), Windows and Android
- 12.5” W x 4.9” H x 1.5” D and weighs 1.8 lbs.
- $99 – typical retail price
If you like to customize your typing experience, the hot-swappable switches are a nice feature. That basically means the switches are removable (not soldered) so you can replace them with various other brands for a different tactile experience.
Setting it up
Let me first say Vissles was able to fit quite a bit of stuff into a relatively small box. Aside from the keyboard itself, there’s a USB-C cable to charge it for a wired connection, key puller, tweezers, a wrist rest (with optional non-slip pads), magnetic feet to tilt it up and three keys.
Out of the box, the V84 is set up for default use with Macs due to the Option and two Command keys. The three replacement keys are PC-based: a Windows (Win) key and two Alt keys.
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Regardless of whether you’re working from home, checking personal email or surfing online, you’ll want a nice tech upgrade with things like a new monitor, webcam or keyboard.
Many haven’t really thought much about the keyboard they use, and that’s in no small part because at the office you may not get to pick your hardware. At home, though, the world is your oyster, and there are many keyboards that can make your computing experience a lot easier. Read on to find out which keyboard is right for you!