Introduction: The Return to Mechanical Roots
In recent years, the keyboard market has been flooded with magnetic switch keyboards, offering rapid trigger and adjustable actuation. While these are excellent for competitive gaming, many users still crave the authentic, satisfying feel of a traditional mechanical keyboard. The PADO 87 from Ziklicker enters the scene as a compelling alternative, offering a 87-key tenkeyless layout that promises a premium typing experience without the premium price tag. Priced at approximately 59,800 KRW (around $45 USD), it aims to be the perfect entry point for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
π Information Date: 2024-05-20
Design and Build Quality
The PADO 87 is available in four distinct colorways: White Marine, Green Light, Mercury Pink, and Crayon Yellow. The White Marine variant is expected to be the most popular, offering a clean, professional look. The keycaps are made from PBT material using a double-shot injection molding process, ensuring that the legends (the letters on the keys) will not fade over time, even with heavy use.
Keycap Texture and Feel
The texture of the PBT keycaps is slightly matte but smooth to the touch, providing a premium feel that belies the keyboard's budget price point. This material is known for resisting the oily shine that often plagues cheaper ABS plastic keycaps.
Connectivity and Layout
On the back of the keyboard, users can find a switch to toggle between wired, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz wireless modes. The 2.4GHz dongle can be conveniently stored right next to the switch, reducing the risk of losing it. The 87-key layout removes the numpad, saving desk space for mouse movement, which is ideal for gamers and users with limited desk real estate. For more insights on compact tech designs, you might find our analysis on the iPhone Air Long-Term Review interesting, as it shares a similar philosophy of balancing form and function.
Switches, Battery, and Performance
The standout feature of the PADO 87 is its use of Ziklicker's self-developed mechanical switches. These switches come in three linear variants: Jeju Sea Yellow, Jeju Deep Sea Lava Red, and Jeju Pebble Carrot Orange. All three are linear switches, meaning they provide a smooth keystroke from top to bottom without a tactile bump. They are also fully lubricated from the factory, resulting in a clean sound profile with minimal scratchiness.
Battery Life Advantage
Unlike magnetic switches, which require constant sensor polling and consume more power, mechanical switches only register a signal when a key is pressed. This makes the PADO 87 more power-efficient. It is equipped with a massive 4000mAh battery, which should last significantly longer than comparable magnetic switch keyboards on a single charge.
Comparison Table: PADO 87 vs. Typical Magnetic Switch Keyboard
| Feature | PADO 87 (Mechanical) | Typical Magnetic Switch Keyboard |
|---|---|---|
| Switch Type | Linear Mechanical (Hot-swappable) | Magnetic (Hall Effect) |
| Battery Capacity | 4000mAh | 2000mAh - 3000mAh |
| Power Consumption | Low (Signal-based) | High (Continuous Sensor Polling) |
| Typing Feel | Authentic mechanical feedback | Smooth, consistent, but less tactile |
| Price (Approx.) | $45 USD | $60 - $100 USD |
Latency Test Results
Performance tests show that the PADO 87 achieves a latency of 15.33ms in wired mode and 15.83ms in 2.4GHz wireless mode. These figures are well within the acceptable range for casual gaming and professional typing, offering a responsive experience. For those interested in the technical equations behind real-time simulations, our article on the Secret Equation Behind Hyper-Realistic Clothing Simulation provides a fascinating look at how physics engines handle complex calculations.
Conclusion: Who Should Buy It?
The PADO 87 is a solid choice for anyone looking to enter the mechanical keyboard hobby without breaking the bank. Its combination of a gasket mount design, sound-absorbing foam, and pre-lubricated linear switches delivers a typing experience that rivals keyboards costing twice as much. While the lack of a tactile or clicky switch option out of the box might disappoint some, the hot-swappable socket allows users to easily customize the feel later.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for money (approx. $45)
- Long battery life (4000mAh)
- Hot-swappable switches
- Sturdy build quality with PBT keycaps
Cons:
- Only linear switch options available
- Power switch is slightly recessed and hard to reach
π Information Date: 2024-05-20
