Introduction
Today we are reviewing the Skyloong SK68 and Skyloong SK84 sent to us by TechArc. Until a couple of years ago, Pakistan barely had any options for keyboard, you could either get a typical Corsair or a Razer but that was it for the most part. Consequently, you could only get the conventional layout keyboards since small form factor was out of the question. On the contrary, the options are far and plenty ranging from 60% to full sized keyboards, so making a decision can seem like an arduous process.
Choosing A Size
The answer is fairly simple – you just need to evaluate your use and space needs.
The Skyloong SK68
As the name implies, the Skyloong SK68 has a 68% layout which literally denotes to it having 68 keys. It’s a perfect layout for those who want dedicated arrow keys but still want to keep a compact form factor.
The Skyloong SK84
Similar to the SK68, the Skyloong SK88 is also named after its form factor. If function keys are critical for you, this is the size for you.
Unboxing and Contents
The packaging is fairly simple and they both share identical packing apart from the size of the box to accommodate the different size.
On the top, you have the “Skyloong” embossed in the box in a metallic silver and that is pretty much the extent of branding on the box. At the top, you can find the product sticker which is the one way to tell which keyboard it is apart from opening it up. A simple text or illustration would go a long way in making it convenient.
Once you open the box up, you can find the keyboard neatly wrapped in an anti-static bag. Along with that, you will find a quick start guide, keycap/switch puller, and a type-C USB cable.
The QuickStart guide was surprisingly coherent and concise, which is a big ask when it comes to these sort of keyboards.
Sponsor break
We would like to thank Tech Arc for making this review possible.
Be sure to check them out for all your peripherals needs.
Design and Build
Skyloong SK68
The Skyloong SK68 is encased in is high-profile case which has slightly thicker bezels than most keyboards in this category, but this is one of those things that isn’t noticeable. While the Skyloong SK68 does not have kick-up feet, it has a natural incline which creates a conducive typing experience.
The Skyloong SK68 has thicker rubber feet than most keyboards but unfortunately they are quite slippery. The keyboard won’t slip away during usage, but compared to other keyboards, it has far greater leeway once force is applied.
There is only one sticker at the bottom which has the serial number and few certification logos along with the Skyloong branding.
It features a Type-C cable at the left side which is definitely a plus since you can later on get a custom case which is far more difficult when the Type-C placement is in the middle.
The Skyloong SK68 weighs about 0.64g which is one the heavier side but this is attributed to the battery fitted inside as it does have wireless functionality.
The keycaps are Dye-Subbed PBT in a GSA profile. They have a grainy feel to them but overall, the keycaps look and feel solid.
It has a white plate underneath which makes the RGB far more vibrant as white allows for the light to reflect compared to a black plate which is found in some keyboards.
Skyloong SK84
The Skyloong SK84 has a unique design as it features 84 keys so you’re getting the function row and the arrow keys, so you’re only losing out on the numpad cluster. As for the actual design, it features a very slim design that has a gradual incline. The switches are hidden but you can tell the chassis is lower than a traditional polycarbonate box. On the top edges, it has a shiny metal finish but as it isn’t actual metal, it gets scratched up really easily. The rest of the body is made out of matte white plastic.
I was pleasantly surprised with the rubber feet. Not only are they slightly elevated but the grip they offer is also remarkable. If the default height isn’t up to your liking, you can easily use the kick up feet.
The Skyloong SK84 weighs around 87g but given the form factor, you tend not to notice it.
The Skyloong SK84 has ABS double shot keycaps. Personally, I’m not a fan of the font used on the keycaps but since they’re doubleshot, it won’t ever be wearing off. The feel to the keycaps is about as you would expect from ABS plastic.
Switches and the PCB
The keyboards are fitted with a hot-swappable PCB which allows the user to change the switches at a whim. However, the PCB only supports optical switches, so it is important to ensure you do not purchase the 3 or 5 pin standard switches.
Skyloong SK68
Our unit came with Optical Gateron Yellow switches which are even lighter than the Cherry Silver Speed switches at only 35gf of actuation force and a travel of 1.1mm. For the layman, these switches are expectational for gaming due to the low actuation force and practically non-existent travel, but using these for typing is akin to stubbing your toe into a nail. Given how incredibly light these are, it is practically impossible to not make a typo if you’re coming down from heavier switches. However, at the end of the day, it all depends on personal preference as there are people who swear by light linear switches to type upon. The Optical Gateron Yellow are definitely scratchy. Almost 90% of the people won’t even notice it, but it is there. This isn’t really an issue as you can get some lube and fix it up real quick.
Skyloong SK84
The Skyloong SK84 came with Optical Gateron Red switches which are considered to be one of the best linear switches out there. They have an actuation force of 45gf and the actuation point is set at 2mm.
Stabilizers
Stabilizers is the achilleas heel for a lot of keyboard, and the same is true in this case. Both the Skyloong SK68 and SK84 struggle with shoddy stabilizers. The feel is incredibly mushy as if you’re pressing down on a membrane keyboard and the rebound time is also terrible.
Software
There are times where a keyboard can tick all the boxes but can be utterly disappointing due to a shoddy software. That isn’t the case with the Skyloong SK68 and Skyloong SK84 since it features a polished user software that gets updated frequently. It’s not flamboyant but it all the features you need such as RGB control, Layer adjustment, and even macro controls.
There are a lot of lighting options to go through and you can customize it further by making your own modes or side loading ones through the internet.
I have personally never utilized macros, especially in games but you do have the option of using the existing ones or creating your own which can used in games or on the desktop.
Where to buy
You can pick up the Skyloong SK68 and Skyloong GK84 from Techarc:
GE-48, Ground Floor, Techno City, I. I. Chundrigarh Road, New Chali, Karachi, Pakistan
Contact
Call : 021-37120437
Whatsapp : 0317-0263996
While you’re at it, be sure to check out our previous review: Anne Pro 2
