YUNZII has expanded its mechanical keyboard lineup with the launch of the new C98 MAO Edition, introducing a fresh cat-inspired design while keeping the features that made the original C98 a popular choice among mechanical keyboard users. The new Pink & Purple version combines a compact 96% layout, tri-mode connectivity, hot-swappable switches, and customizable RGB lighting with a unique MAO-themed appearance that targets users looking for both functionality and personality in their desktop setup.
The keyboard features a 98-key, 96% layout that retains a dedicated numeric keypad while reducing the overall footprint compared to a traditional full-size keyboard. This design offers more desk space without sacrificing keys commonly used for office work, content creation, or gaming. Whether users are handling spreadsheets, editing documents, or playing games, the C98 provides a layout that balances productivity and entertainment.
The highlight of this release is its newly designed MAO keycap set. The keyboard uses side-printed shine-through legends along with transparent cat-ear accents that allow RGB lighting to shine through from multiple angles. The lighting effects become more visible while preserving the playful appearance of the keyboard. YUNZII has also equipped the keyboard with thick double-shot PBT keycaps and dye-sublimation printing to improve durability and maintain clear legends after long-term use.
The C98 MAO Edition is designed for users who regularly switch between multiple devices. It supports Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, and USB Type-C wired connectivity, allowing it to connect with up to five devices at the same time. Compatibility extends across Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, making it suitable for desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
Customization remains one of the keyboard’s key features. Its hot-swappable PCB supports both 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches, allowing users to replace switches without soldering. This makes it easy to experiment with different switch types or replace worn switches over time.
To improve the typing experience, the keyboard features a gasket-mounted structure combined with multiple sound-dampening layers, factory-lubed linear switches, pre-lubed stabilizers, and silicone padding. These components work together to provide smoother keystrokes while reducing unwanted noise during typing sessions.
Users can also personalize the keyboard using YUNZII’s web-based software. The software allows key remapping, macro creation, RGB lighting customization, and profile management without requiring complicated setup. The keyboard also features 360-degree side lighting that complements its transparent decorative elements and enhances the overall RGB effects.
Beyond its hardware specifications, the MAO Edition adds several cat-themed details throughout the design. Transparent cat-ear accents, cat paw decorations, a fish-shaped wireless dongle storage compartment, themed keycaps, and matching accessories give the keyboard a consistent visual identity that sets it apart from conventional mechanical keyboards.
The package also includes several matching accessories to complete the desktop setup, including a themed mousepad, stickers, extra keycaps, a dust cover, and a keycap puller.
Key features of the YUNZII C98 MAO Edition include:
- 96% compact layout with 98 keys and a dedicated numpad
- Cat-themed MAO shine-through PBT keycaps
- Transparent cat-ear accents with RGB lighting effects
- Double-shot PBT keycaps with dye-sublimation legends
- Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, and USB Type-C connectivity
- Multi-device support for up to five paired devices
- Compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS
- Hot-swappable PCB supporting 3-pin and 5-pin switches
- Gasket-mounted design with multiple sound-dampening layers
- Factory-lubed linear switches and pre-lubed stabilizers
- Full RGB lighting with 360-degree side illumination
- Web-based software for key remapping, macros, and RGB customization
- Matching accessories, including a mousepad, extra keycaps, stickers, dust cover, and keycap puller
With its combination of wireless connectivity, hot-swappable customization, gasket-mounted construction, and a distinctive cat-inspired design, the YUNZII C98 MAO Edition offers users a feature-rich mechanical keyboard that is suitable for work, gaming, and everyday use while adding a playful look to any desktop setup.
