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Black and silver 98-key mechanical keyboard with PBT keycaps and RGB lighting

Explus-C

Explus-C ZA-981 98-Key Hot-Swappable Red Switch RGB Gaming Keyboard

SKU CH-E7C3-PGW20

A compact 98-key mechanical keyboard with hot-swappable Red linear switches and PBT keycaps

  • Keyboard colorBlack / Silver
  • 96 % layout keeps arrows and number pad while freeing desk space
  • Hot-swappable linear Red switches give smooth, consistent actuation
  • PBT dual-colour keycaps resist shine and wear over time
  • Per-key RGB with 10 onboard presets lets you customise lighting instantly
  • USB 1.0 / 2.0 wired connection works on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android and iOS

Compact 96% Layout

The Explus-C ZA-981 is a 98-key wired gaming keyboard that keeps a dedicated number pad and arrow cluster while freeing desk space compared to a 104-key board. Linear red switches deliver a smooth keystroke with a 1 ms response time. PBT dual-colour keycaps resist shine and the black-and-silver chassis suits both gaming setups and office desks.

Who It Suits And Who Should Look Elsewhere

Gamers and typists who want a compact mechanical keyboard with hot-swappable red switches and per-key RGB lighting will appreciate the ready-to-use USB 1.0/2.0 connection across Windows, Mac, Linux, Android and iOS. Users who require wireless connectivity, low-profile switches, a TKL form factor or dedicated macro keys should consider other options.

Installation And Common Issues

Plug the USB cable into any compatible port and the keyboard works immediately without drivers. The 10 built-in lighting presets are selectable via onboard shortcuts. Hot-swappable sockets let you replace switches using the included puller, but take care not to bend pins when inserting new ones. The extra keycap set and puller simplify customisation.

How it compares

Measured against everything we stock in Keyboards for PC Gaming, at today’s prices. Recalculated every night.

Price $22.99
Cheaper than about 95% of the 3,966 comparable items (median $68.99).

Specifications

Product
Keyboard colorBlack / Silver

Questions about this item

Does the Explus-C ZA-981 need any special driver or software to function on Windows or Mac?

No, the keyboard uses a standard USB 1.0 / 2.0 connection and works immediately on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android and iOS without extra drivers.

Will the 98-key compact layout feel cramped if I am used to a full 104-key board?

The 96 % layout keeps separate arrow keys and a number pad, so muscle memory for navigation and data entry stays the same while freeing desk space.

How can I verify the per-key RGB lighting is working correctly after plugging it in?

Cycle through the 10 built-in lighting presets using the keyboard shortcuts; every key should illuminate smoothly across the full colour range.

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