QwertyKeys has announced the new QK100 Mk2 wireless mechanical keyboard, expanding its lineup of enthusiast-focused keyboards under the budget-oriented Owlab brand. The keyboard is scheduled to launch on July 24, 2026, through the QwertyKeys online store with an MSRP of $219. Unlike barebone kits aimed at custom keyboard builders, the QK100 Mk2 arrives fully assembled, allowing users to start using it immediately without installing switches or keycaps.
The QK100 Mk2 features an 1800 layout, offering nearly all the functionality of a full-size keyboard while reducing its overall footprint. It retains a dedicated number pad, including the full-size zero key, making it suitable for office work, data entry, gaming, and everyday productivity without occupying as much desk space as a traditional full-size keyboard.
The keyboard features a built-in LCD display positioned between the main typing area and the number pad. It can show information such as the battery level and current time, while also supporting animated themes for customization. In addition, QwertyKeys includes a small typing game called Animal Grocery, allowing users to interact with the display in a more engaging way beyond viewing system information.
The keyboard also includes a sound-reactive LED light strip above the number pad and a touch-sensitive strip that functions as a volume controller. Users can simply swipe across the touch panel to adjust system audio without using keyboard shortcuts. Besides the Escape key, a retro-inspired physical button provides quick control over the keyboard’s per-key RGB lighting.
Wireless connectivity includes Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, and USB Type-C wired mode. Dedicated switches on the rear of the keyboard allow users to change between connection modes and switch between Windows and macOS layouts without software.
Powering the wireless features is an 8,000mAh battery, one of the largest batteries found in a mechanical keyboard. According to QwertyKeys, the battery can deliver up to 800 hours of operation with both the LCD display and RGB lighting disabled. Battery life is rated at up to 100 hours with only the display enabled, while enabling both the display and RGB lighting reduces runtime to approximately 40 hours before recharging is required.
For the typing experience, the QK100 Mk2 uses a polypropylene (PP) plate, a material commonly preferred by keyboard enthusiasts for providing a softer typing feel and reducing harsh bottom-out sounds. The keyboard comes equipped with Neo Oat linear switches, featuring a 36gf operating force, 45gf bottom-out force, 3.6mm total travel, and nylon top and bottom housings.
QwertyKeys will offer the QK100 Mk2 in four color options: Radiant Silver, Black Knight, Aquamarine Blue, and Strawberry Pink. Each version includes matching Cherry-profile ABS keycaps designed to complement the aluminum chassis.
Key features of the QwertyKeys QK100 Mk2 include:
- 1800 compact layout with dedicated number pad
- CNC-machined aluminum case
- Tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, and USB Type-C)
- Built-in LCD display with battery information, clock, animations, and Animal Grocery typing game
- Touch-sensitive volume control strip
- Sound-reactive LED light bar
- Retro-style RGB lighting toggle button
- 8,000mAh rechargeable battery
- Up to 800 hours of battery life with lighting and display disabled
- Polypropylene plate for a softer typing feel
- Neo Oat linear switches
- Cherry-profile ABS keycaps
- Available in Radiant Silver, Black Knight, Aquamarine Blue, and Strawberry Pink
- Launching on July 24, 2026, for $219
With its aluminum construction, integrated LCD display, touch controls, large battery, and enthusiast-focused typing components, the QK100 Mk2 combines several premium features in a pre-built package. Its 1800 layout also makes it an option for users who want a compact desktop setup without giving up the convenience of a dedicated number pad.
