Rapoo KX

Rapoo KX
Branding	Rapoo KX
Manufacturer	Rapoo
Layouts	Compact ANSI with cursor keys
Keyswitches	Rapoo yellow switch
Switch mount	PCB mount
Keycaps	ABS
Interface	USB, wireless
Rollover	2 Key
Dimensions	313 x 135 x 20 mm; (12.3 x 5.3 x 0.78 inches)
Weight	635 g / 1.4 lbs
Introduced	2014
Price	~ $40 - $100

This article requires restructuring

Rapoo KX is a rather solid, compact wireless keyboard that does not particularly excel in either gaming or is well suited for extended typing, but it delivers some nice wireless features that are very user-friendly and affordable. For users that prefer to install their own keycaps -- the keyboard is not well suited for frequent keycaps replacements since the top metal panel needs to be removed and the factory keycaps shape needs to be matched.

Key features

The big selling point is its 5G wireless and the small form factor. The function row is placed above the numbers row but in a digital, touch/pressure-sensitive form with the vibration and light feedback. The function row also contains media controls functions. Other strengths of this, primarily, multimedia keyboard are:

rechargeable lithium battery;
dual wireless/wired operation (the included micro usb charges the battery and you can work/play as wired);
wireless reach of up to 10 m makes it ideal for multimedia purposes
backlit (2 levels); and
key legends are nicely visible without backlight

The yellow switch branding issue

The Rapoo KX originally came with Kaihua switches that use Cherry MX mount and are yellow. Initially they were branded as PG1511^[1], then later as Kailh^[2]. On Amazon.com online store the title for Rapoo KX page was: "Rapoo KX 5G Multimedia Wireless Mechanical Keyboard With Smart Backlight LED and 2mm Trigger Stroke Original Factory MX Yellow Switches for Laptops Desktops PC". In some circles the switch is also known as "Kaihua homemade switch". The feel and performance is in between Kaihua (Kailh) Red and Black switches, but closer to Kaihua Red switches.

In most recent revisions (circa June 2015), the Rapoo KX has been equipped with Rapoo's own Cherry MX lookalike switch from an unknown OEM^[3]. These switches are distinct from all currently known switches produced by other Chinese/Taiwanese manufacturers such as Kaihua and Gateron. The Rapoo KX is currently only available in the yellow colored variant (linear), while Rapoo has announced that a variety of linear, tactile, and clicky switches from the same family are available.

Full specs

Dimensions:	313 x 135 x 20 mm / 12.3 x 5.3 x 0.78 inches
Weight:	635 g / 1.4 lbs
Available keycaps colors:	white, black, red, blue, orange
Switch:	Rapoo Yellow (post-2015), Kaihua Yellow (branded as PG1511 or Kailh) (pre-2015)
Switch type:	Linear
Multimedia/F-row keys:	yes, tactile vibration feedback
Interface:	USB and 5.8 GHz wireless
Cable:	Detachable (also charging)
Actuation force:	~ 50 g (+/- 10 g)
Trigger:	2 mm (+/- 0.6 mm)
Wireless power supply:	built-in rechargeable lithium battery
Wireless reach:	up to 10 m
Backlight:	yes, white, 2 adjustable levels
OS requirements:	Win XP/Vista/7/8; USB port