Following the successful showcase of the YUNZII AL65 at CES, YUNZII has officially announced the AL80 QMK/VIA Aluminum LCD Mechanical Keyboard, the latest addition to its AL series. The YUNZII AL80 builds upon its predecessor with an expanded feature set, including a built-in LCD screen, enhanced connectivity, and full QMK/VIA customization support, making it a compelling option for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Premium Build and Design
The AL80 features a high-quality anodized aluminum frame that not only ensures durability but also provides a premium feel. It employs a gasket-mounted structure designed to reduce vibration and enhance typing comfort. The keyboard is available in three classic color variants—Silver, Black, and Beige—catering to different aesthetic preferences.
A standout feature of the AL80 is its integrated LCD screen, which can display essential information such as time, battery level, and even custom images. This adds a layer of personalization that is not commonly found in mechanical keyboards within this price range. Additionally, the AL80 comes with a customizable control knob, allowing users to fine-tune volume, lighting, or other functions based on their needs.
Advanced Connectivity Options
Designed for versatility, the AL80 supports multiple connectivity modes, including Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, and USB Type-C. It can seamlessly switch between up to five devices, making it a suitable option for users who work across different platforms such as Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. The inclusion of a 6000mAh battery ensures extended wireless usage without frequent recharging.
Customization and Typing Experience
One of the most significant advantages of the AL80 is its full QMK/VIA support, allowing users to remap keys, create macros, and adjust RGB lighting profiles through an open-source firmware platform. This level of customization is particularly beneficial for programmers, gamers, and productivity-focused users.
For mechanical switch enthusiasts, the AL80 features hot-swappable switch sockets compatible with both 3-pin and 5-pin switches. Users purchasing directly from YUNZII can select between Gateron Zero Linear or YUNZII Cocoa Cream V2 Linear switches, both of which come pre-lubed for smoother keystrokes. The gasket-mounted design, along with multiple noise-reducing layers, contributes to a more refined and quieter typing experience.
RGB Lighting and Additional Features
Equipped with an RGB lighting system capable of displaying up to 1.68 million colors, the AL80 offers more than 20 dynamic backlight effects. Users can customize lighting patterns and colors via software, providing a visually engaging experience tailored to individual preferences.
With a price tag of $109.99, the YUNZII AL80 QMK/VIA Aluminum LCD Mechanical Keyboard positions itself as a feature-rich option in the mechanical keyboard market. Given its combination of build quality, connectivity, and customization, it is likely to appeal to both enthusiasts and professionals looking for a versatile keyboard solution.
