The KiiBOOM LOOP65 keyboard has garnered attention for its blend of aesthetics, functionality, and customization options, making it a solid choice for both enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Aesthetic Considerations and Construction Standards
Designed for minimalists who want to keep output without compromise, the 65-key layout of The LOOP65 is both compact and incredibly functional. Using anodized aluminium, the chassis guarantees remarkable durability as well as an attractive appearance.
The splicing block construction of the design combines multiple coloured metal components to produce a visually striking look. This structural choice enhances the luxury looks and tactile quality of the keyboard as well as improves its DIY appeal.
PBT dye-sublimated gradient keycaps on the keyboard have been chosen for their stunning resistance to wear & shine and endurance. The gradient design has a unique visual appeal and expertly mixes colours to improve the keyboard’s whole tactile experience and look.
Note: PBT keycaps resist wear and shine, they usually provide more durability than ABS keycaps. The dye-sublimation technology ensures that legends remain vivid throughout time, even under heavy use, therefore avoiding any fade-off.
Customizability and Switches
The KiiBOOM LOOP65 boasts a hot-swappable PCB that fits both 3- and 5-pin mechanical switches among additional benefit points. This lets users experiment with several switch types to get their perfect typing experience by swapping switches without the need of soldering. Factory-lubed for a more comfortable typing feel, the default KiiBOOM Matcha Latte 2.0 switches (linear with a 45g actuation force) offer smooth keystrokes.
The LOOP65 offers QMK/VIA firmware for people who prefer customising so that users may reprogram every key to suit their needs. For individuals who need specialised key mappings or shortcuts, this is especially helpful as the keyboard fits several use cases—from gaming to productivity.
Typing Experience
The flex-cut FR4 plate of the LOOP65’s gasket-mounted construction improves the typing experience. Together with multiple layers of sound-dampening material, this design greatly lowers noise and offers an easier typing feel. All of these factors taken together make typing comfortable and quiet, making it appealing to those who like a more subdued sound profile.
However, we have noticed variations in wireless performance. Periodically key repetitions or disconnects were observed when using Bluetooth or 2.4GHz wireless modes, especially during fast-paced gaming or quick typing sessions. Still, the wired mode runs perfectly free from all these problems.
Connectivity and Battery Life
A triple-mode communication is offered by the KiiBOOM LOOP65: Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, wired USB-C. For users who regularly switch between devices, its Bluetooth mode lets you simultaneously pair up to three devices, therefore enabling great flexibility. Another advantage is the 4,000mAh battery, which guarantees continuous performance particularly in wireless modes.
RGB Lighting
The south-facing RGB LEDs on the LOOP65 provide vibrant, customizable lighting. The south-facing orientation ensures that the light illuminates keys more evenly, especially for those using Cherry-profile keycaps. Users can choose from various colours and effects, allowing them to tailor the lighting to their personal preferences or match their setup. This feature not only adds aesthetic value but also improves visibility in low-light environments.
Verdict
For users who appreciate build quality, customising, and aesthetics, the KiiBOOM LOOP65 is a great mechanical keyboard. For mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, its aluminium casing, gradient keycaps, and hot-swappable switches make it a dream come true. Moreover, the gasket-mounted design offers a satisfying and quiet typing experience.
Having said that, should wireless connectivity be really vital for your operation, the issues observed with Bluetooth and 2.4GHz could cause trouble. The LOOP65 provides a strong, flexible, and aesthetically pleasing package for people who mostly use it in wired mode or who are ready to ignore occasional wireless problems.
Priced at around $160, the KiiBOOM LOOP65 offers plenty of value for its build and features, but some might expect more reliable wireless performance at this price point.
