CIDOO ABM081 Stellar 75% Mechanical Keyboard Review

The Cidoo ABM081 Stellar represents a sophisticated blend of functionality, aesthetics, and performance in the mechanical keyboard market. Designed with a 75% compact layout, this keyboard caters to both gaming enthusiasts and professionals who demand a high level of customization and comfort. This review delves into its various features, build quality, and overall performance to help you determine if it’s the right fit for your setup.

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Unboxing Experience

Unboxing the Cidoo ABM081 Stellar is an exciting experience that sets the stage for the quality and innovation packed into this keyboard. The packaging is sleek, with a bold visual presentation featuring the keyboard and its specifications. Inside, you’ll find the keyboard itself, a braided coiled USB Type-C cable, a keycap puller, a switch puller, and a dust cover. Additional accessories include a comprehensive user manual that guides you through setup and customization.

Design and Build Quality

The first impression of the Cidoo ABM081 Stellar is its solid build and compact form factor. Despite being a budget-friendly option, the keyboard does not compromise on quality. The plastic case is durable and well-constructed, ensuring long-term usage without signs of wear and tear. However, some users might prefer an aluminum case for added sturdiness, though this would likely increase the price point.

Layout and Ergonomics

With a 75% layout, the ABM081 Stellar strikes a balance between compactness and functionality. It retains essential keys while saving desk space, making it an ideal choice for minimalistic setups. The keyboard features ergonomic double-stage feet, allowing users to adjust the typing angle to their preference, reducing strain during extended typing sessions.

1.14-Inch TFT Screen

One of the standout features of the Cidoo ABM081 Stellar is the 1.14-inch TFT screen. This screen enhances the keyboard’s utility by displaying essential information such as the date, time, and even custom GIFs, adding a personalized touch to your workspace. This feature is particularly useful for those who enjoy having quick access to such data without needing to glance at their primary monitor.

Triple Connection Modes

The keyboard supports three types of connections: USB Type-C, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz wireless. This versatility ensures that the Stellar can seamlessly integrate into various setups, whether you prefer a wired connection for gaming or wireless for a clutter-free desk. The included 3000mAh battery provides impressive longevity, reducing the need for frequent recharges.

VIA Compatibility

Customization is a key aspect of the Cidoo ABM081 Stellar, made possible through VIA compatibility. This allows users to reassign keys, create macros, and adjust the keyboard layout to suit their needs. The VIA software is intuitive and user-friendly, making it accessible even for those new to keyboard customization.

Hot-Swappable PCB

Including a hot-swappable PCB is a significant advantage for those who enjoy experimenting with different switches. This feature allows you to easily swap out switches without soldering, providing flexibility in achieving the perfect typing feel. The south-facing RGB lighting adds to the visual appeal, ensuring that your custom switches are illuminated beautifully.

Performance

Switches and Keycaps

The Cidoo ABM081 Stellar features a variety of switch options, including the renowned Carda Linear switch, celebrated for its smooth actuation and consistent performance. In addition, the keyboard supports other switches like the CIDOO Matte Switch, which offers a unique typing experience with a 40g actuation force and a 45g bottom-out force. The UPE linear switch is designed with a POM upper and bottom housing, ensuring a smooth and consistent keystroke experience.

Featuring an operating travel distance of 2.00±0.5mm and a total travel distance of 3.50±0.3mm, it provides precise actuation with an operating force of 50±5gf and an initial force of at least 35gf. The maximum actuation force reaches up to 60, offering a tactile and responsive feedback. Pre-lubricated for enhanced performance, this switch also includes an 18mm spring, contributing to its durability rated at 60 million strokes, making it a reliable choice for heavy typists and gamers alike.

The keycaps are made from high-quality PBT plastic with an MDA profile. These keycaps are durable and resistant to shine, ensuring they maintain their texture over time. The MDA profile offers a comfortable typing experience, though some users might prefer the Cherry or OEM profiles depending on their typing style.

Sound Dampening and Gasket Structure

One of the highlights of the Cidoo ABM081 Stellar is its sound-dampening capabilities. The keyboard features a gasket-mounted structure, flex-cut PC plate, and various layers of sound-absorbing materials, including Poron foam, case foam, IXPE switch pads, and PET sheets. These materials minimize typing noise and provide a satisfying acoustic profile.

Stabilizers

The plate-mounted stabilizers on the ABM081 Stellar are finely tuned to reduce rattle and noise. They provide a stable and smooth keystroke, which is crucial for larger keys like the spacebar and shift keys. The factory lubing ensures that the stabilizers perform optimally out of the box, though enthusiasts may choose to re-lube them for an even better experience.

RGB Lighting

The RGB backlighting on the Cidoo ABM081 Stellar is vibrant and customizable. With 16.8 million colors to choose from and various lighting effects, users can personalize their keyboard to match their aesthetic preferences. The south-facing LEDs ensure that the keycap legends are well-lit, enhancing both functionality and style.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Compact and Durable Design: The 75% layout is perfect for saving desk space while retaining essential keys. The plastic case, while budget-friendly, is durable and well-constructed.
• Triple Connection Modes: The versatility of USB Type-C, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz wireless connections ensures compatibility with various setups.
• 1.14-inch TFT Screen: This feature adds a unique and functional element to the keyboard, allowing for customization and quick access to information.
• VIA Compatibility: Customizing the keyboard’s layout and functions is easy and intuitive.
• Hot-Swappable PCB: Allows for easy switch customization without soldering.
• Excellent Sound Dampening: The gasket-mounted structure and sound-absorbing materials provide a quiet and satisfying typing experience.
• RGB Lighting: Vibrant and customizable lighting enhances the keyboard’s aesthetic appeal.

Cons

• Plastic Case: While durable, some users might prefer an aluminum case for added sturdiness.
• MDA Profile Keycaps: The MDA profile may not be preferred by all users; some might favor Cherry or OEM profiles.
• Difficult to Open: The keyboard’s design makes it somewhat challenging to open for further customization or repairs.

Conclusion

The Cidoo ABM081 Stellar is a feature-rich mechanical keyboard that offers a high degree of customization, solid build quality, and impressive performance. Its compact layout, versatile connectivity options, and unique features like the 1.14-inch TFT screen make it a standout choice in the market. While there are minor drawbacks, such as the plastic case and the challenging opening mechanism, the overall package delivers excellent value for both gamers and professionals. If you’re looking for a keyboard that combines functionality, aesthetics, and customization, the Cidoo ABM081 Stellar is an excellent choice.

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