AJAZZ AK820 mechanical gaming keyboard: what should you look for before buying?

A compact mechanical keyboard can free up a lot of desk space, but not every deal is suited to everyday use. When it comes to an AJAZZ AK820 mechanical gaming keyboard, it’s important to look beyond RGB lighting and terms such as “gaming” or “silent”.

Three common buying pitfalls to watch out for:

1. Overlooking the layout. A 75% keyboard usually has no numeric keypad, and a US QWERTY keyboard has a different layout from a Dutch ISO keyboard. The Enter key, punctuation and some shortcut keys may be in different places.
2. Assuming a mechanical switch will automatically be quieter. Linear switches generally feel smooth, but noise levels also depend on the keycaps, case, typing force and sound dampening.
3. Mistaking “hot-swappable” for unlimited compatibility. Check whether the PCB supports the 3- or 5-pin switches you want. The stabilisers, keycap profiles and software support also determine how much you can really customise.

The key specifications explained

1. Size and layout

A 75% keyboard combines a compact case with a function row, arrow keys and some navigation keys. According to the product information, the AJAZZ AK820 measures 327 × 136 × 40 mm and weighs around 0.8 kg. That makes it a good choice for a desk where you also need room to move a large mouse.

Before you buy, check:

• Is the US QWERTY layout suitable for the way you type?
• Do you need a numeric keypad for spreadsheets or admin tasks?
• Are the function keys available through an Fn shortcut?
• Is the height comfortable with your desk chair and wrist position?

If you’re looking for a full-size keyboard with a numeric keypad, a full-size model may be a better choice. If you mainly game, code or write, you’ll often benefit from a more compact design.

2. Switches and hot-swap functionality

The AJAZZ AK820 is available with linear switches. According to the product description, these switches are designed to provide a smooth keystroke without a tactile click. This can be useful for quick key combinations and repeated typing, but it doesn’t guarantee that the keyboard will sound quiet in every environment.

According to the product specifications, the hot-swappable PCB supports 3- and 5-pin mounting. This means you can replace switches without soldering. Keep the following in mind:

• Check that replacement switches are electrically compatible.
• Don’t use excessive force when changing switches.
• Disconnect the keyboard before removing switches.
• Keep the original switches in case you want to switch back later.

The stated lifespan of 50 million keystrokes is a manufacturer’s product specification. It isn’t a prediction of the lifespan of the complete keyboard; the cable, stabilisers, PCB and keycaps may wear out sooner.

3. Case, sound dampening and keycaps

According to the product information, the AK820 uses a gasket mount, a flex-cut PC positioning plate and multiple layers of Poron and IXPE dampening. AJAZZ says these components are designed to soften keystrokes and reduce resonance. Treat this as a design feature, rather than a guaranteed noise measurement.

The included OEM-profile PBT keycaps are a practical choice for heavy use. PBT is generally less prone to developing a smooth, shiny surface than ABS, but the exact rate of wear depends on use, hand contact and cleaning.

The lighting is also worth checking. One version is described as having white backlighting, while the product specifications mention RGB lighting. Check the selected variant on the product page before ordering. The listing also mentions a CNC volume knob, USB-C controls and support for Windows and Mac.

Which compact mechanical keyboard suits your needs?

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

AJAZZ AK820 75% Wired Mechanical Keyboard

Why it suits this profile: The 75% layout, wired connection and volume knob offer plenty of features without taking up a lot of desk space. The US QWERTY layout suits users who specifically want an ANSI layout.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information mentions hot-swap support for 3- and 5-pin switches and a gasket construction. Be sure to check the selected colour variant and the lighting listed.

Key benefit & highlights

75% size, linear switches, PBT keycaps, USB-C and a physical volume knob.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality

Turtle Beach Vulcan Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Why it suits this profile: This TKL model is designed for users who want a mechanical keyboard that frees up desk space and offers extensive media controls.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product specifications explicitly mention linear TITAN switches, a USB-C connection and a volume wheel. Please note: this version has an AZERTY layout.

Key benefit & highlights

TKL size, per-key RGB lighting, aluminium top plate and a volume wheel with mute button.

Suitable for: Specialist use & heavy users

Redragon M68 Magnetic Switch Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Why it suits this profile: The compact 68-key layout is aimed at PC gamers who want plenty of mouse space and value adjustable input settings.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The listing mentions a Hall Effect magnetic switch, adjustable actuation and Rapid Trigger. These features do require configuration through compatible software.

Key benefit & highlights

68 keys, aluminium top plate, 8,000 Hz polling rate, RGB and USB-C.

Wired or wireless?

A wired gaming keyboard such as the AJAZZ AK820 works without a battery or wireless receiver. That means fewer things to charge and a straightforward USB-C connection. It’s often a practical choice for a fixed PC setup.

A wireless model, such as the Rapoo 9010M, is more appealing if you switch between several devices. According to the product information, this combination supports 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth and can connect to up to four devices. On the other hand, you’ll need to manage the batteries, and the keyboard doesn’t use mechanical switches.

Frequently asked questions

Is the AJAZZ AK820 suitable for Mac?

According to the product information, the AJAZZ AK820 is compatible with Windows and MacOS. Check the available key combinations, and bear in mind that it has a US QWERTY layout. The physical keys are arranged according to the ANSI layout.

Can you replace the switches on the AJAZZ AK820?

Yes. The product description lists a hot-swappable keyboard that supports 3- and 5-pin switches. Disconnect the cable, carefully remove the keycap and switch, and check that the new switch is compatible with the PCB before installing it.

How long does a mechanical keyboard last?

The AJAZZ listing gives the switches a lifespan of 50 million keystrokes. This figure applies to the switches according to the manufacturer, and not necessarily to every component of the keyboard. Regularly removing dust, avoiding liquids and handling the USB-C cable carefully can help prevent unnecessary wear.