If you are looking for a gaming keyboard that does not sacrifice battery capacity for a compact design, Thunderobot has introduced an interesting option. The company has launched the ZERO98 mechanical keyboard on JD.com in China, combining a 98-key layout with tri-mode connectivity, a 1kHz polling rate, and a large 10,000mAh battery.
The Thunderobot ZERO98 is available with two switch options: Cardamom Switch and Silent Blue Switch. Both versions use original-height PBT keycaps and a matte black finish, while the textured exterior takes inspiration from forged carbon fiber. The keyboard also features a multi-function toggle switch on the upper-right side, which can be used to control volume and change lighting modes without relying on software.
RGB lighting is handled through a top-mounted LED design and supports 16.77 million colors. Thunderobot also includes music-synchronized lighting along with several other lighting effects, giving users different options for customizing the keyboard during gaming or everyday use.
The internal design is also aimed at controlling the sound and feel of each keystroke. The ZERO98 uses a leaf spring GAS structure with a slotted PC mounting plate and a 1.2mm slotted PCB. Five layers of sound-dampening material are placed inside the keyboard, including Poron foam inserts, switch pads, sound-absorbing pads, noise-dampening base foam, and silicone base pads.
For users who like to change switches, the ZERO98 comes with hot-swappable sockets for every key. The PCB supports both three-pin and five-pin mechanical switches, making it possible to replace the stock switches without having to solder new ones.
The keyboard supports tri-mode connectivity and can connect with multiple devices. Thunderobot lists a 1kHz polling rate and claims input latency as low as 0.25ms, which should appeal to PC gamers who want faster key registration during competitive games.
The 10,000mAh battery is another major part of the package. Thunderobot claims up to 640 hours of battery life, although actual runtime will depend on factors such as RGB usage, connection mode, and other settings.
- 98-key mechanical keyboard layout
- Cardamom Switch and Silent Blue Switch options
- Original-height PBT keycaps
- Matte black, forged-carbon-fiber-inspired texture
- 16.77 million-color RGB lighting
- Music-synchronized lighting effects
- Leaf spring GAS structure
- 1.2mm slotted PCB
- Five layers of sound-dampening material
- Hot-swappable sockets
- Support for three-pin and five-pin switches
- Tri-mode connectivity
- 1kHz polling rate
- Claimed input latency as low as 0.25ms
- 10,000mAh battery
- Up to 640 hours of claimed battery life
The Thunderobot ZERO98 is now listed on JD.com in China. The company has not yet provided details about wider international availability in the information available for the launch. For buyers considering a new mechanical keyboard, its combination of a 98-key layout, hot-swappable switches, wireless connectivity, and a 10,000mAh battery makes it worth keeping an eye on.
