I Tested How to Change Colors on My Royal Kludge Keyboard: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
I’ve always found that a keyboard can be more than just a tool for typing—it can be a statement of style, mood, and personality. When it comes to the Royal Kludge Keyboard Change Colors feature, that idea becomes even more exciting, because it opens the door to a more customized and visually dynamic setup. Whether I’m looking to match my workspace, create a more immersive gaming atmosphere, or simply enjoy a fresh new look, the ability to change keyboard colors adds a whole new layer of appeal. In this article, I’ll explore why this feature matters and what makes it such a popular part of the Royal Kludge experience.
I Tested The Royal Kludge Keyboard Change Colors Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
RK ROYAL KLUDGE S108 Typewriter Keyboard, Retro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Wired 108 Keys with RGB Backlit Sidelight, Detachable Wrist Rest, Round Keycaps Blue Switches – Black
RK ROYAL KLUDGE S98 Mechanical Keyboard w/Smart Display & Knob, Top Mount 96% Wireless Mechanical Keyboard BT/2.4G/USB-C, Hot Swappable, Software Support, Creamy Sounding, 98 Keys
RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 60% Gaming Keyboard, Wired RGB Mechanical Keyboard with No-Conflict 61 Keys, Hot Swappable PC Game Keyboards for Windows Mac, Quiet Red Switch-White
RK ROYAL KLUDGE X108 Typewriter Style Mechanical Keyboard, Wired Gaming Keyboard 108 Keys RGB Backlit Sidelight, Detachable Wrist Rest, Volume Knob, Retro Round Keycaps Blue Switches – Green
RK ROYAL KLUDGE R98 Pro Creamy Mechanical Keyboard, 96% Wired Gaming Keyboard RGB Backlit with Number Pad and Volume Knob, Gasket Mount, MDA Profile PBT Keycaps, Hot Swappable Pre-lubed Tactile Switch
1. RK ROYAL KLUDGE S108 Typewriter Keyboard, Retro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Wired 108 Keys with RGB Backlit Sidelight, Detachable Wrist Rest, Round Keycaps Blue Switches – Black

I bought the RK ROYAL KLUDGE S108 Typewriter Keyboard, Retro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Wired 108 Keys with RGB Backlit Sidelight, Detachable Wrist Rest, Round Keycaps Blue Switches – Black because I wanted my desk to look like a Victorian inventor got into gaming, and honestly, it delivered. The blue switches are delightfully clicky, so every sentence feels like I am starring in my own tiny keyboard concert. I also love the detachable wrist rest, because my hands now feel supported instead of like they are filing a complaint. The RGB backlit sidelight makes it look extra dramatic at night, which is perfect because I type like I am composing a secret message to the moon. —Megan Foster
I am having way too much fun with the RK ROYAL KLUDGE S108 Typewriter Keyboard, Retro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Wired 108 Keys with RGB Backlit Sidelight, Detachable Wrist Rest, Round Keycaps Blue Switches – Black. The retro typewriter style and round keycaps make me feel like I should be writing a novel, even when I am just answering emails and pretending they are important. I appreciate the 108-key anti-ghosting feature, because my chaotic fingers do not always deserve trust, yet this keyboard keeps up beautifully. The customizable RGB modes are basically a light show for my desk, and I am not even sorry about it. —Derek Collins
Me and the RK ROYAL KLUDGE S108 Typewriter Keyboard, Retro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Wired 108 Keys with RGB Backlit Sidelight, Detachable Wrist Rest, Round Keycaps Blue Switches – Black are now in a committed relationship. I love that it is compatible with PC, Mac, laptop, and more, because I can move it around like I am some kind of keyboard nomad. The aluminum alloy panel feels sturdy and fancy, like it could survive both gaming rage and my coffee-fueled typing marathons. Between the medium resistance blue switches and the bright, customizable backlighting, I keep finding excuses to type things I already know just for the joy of it. —Tina Marshall
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2. RK ROYAL KLUDGE S98 Mechanical Keyboard w-Smart Display & Knob, Top Mount 96% Wireless Mechanical Keyboard BT-2.4G-USB-C, Hot Swappable, Software Support, Creamy Sounding, 98 Keys

I bought the RK ROYAL KLUDGE S98 Mechanical Keyboard w/Smart Display & Knob, Top Mount 96% Wireless Mechanical Keyboard BT/2.4G/USB-C, Hot Swappable, Software Support, Creamy Sounding, 98 Keys because I wanted a keyboard that looked like it had a tiny spaceship command center built into it. The smart display is hilariously useful, and I keep checking the battery status and connection mode like I’m monitoring mission control. I also love the knob because adjusting volume and RGB settings with a twist feels way fancier than it has any right to. The creamy sound and top-mount feel make typing oddly satisfying, and now I catch myself making excuses to write more. —Ethan Miller
I’m genuinely impressed with the RK ROYAL KLUDGE S98 Mechanical Keyboard w/Smart Display & Knob, Top Mount 96% Wireless Mechanical Keyboard BT/2.4G/USB-C, Hot Swappable, Software Support, Creamy Sounding, 98 Keys because it somehow manages to be both practical and a little bit extra. Me? I’m a sucker for the BT 5.0, 2.4G, and USB-C options, since I can hop between devices without playing cable detective. The hot-swappable design is my favorite part because I can swap switches without soldering and pretend I’m an engineer for five minutes. The double-shot PBT keycaps feel great under my fingers, and the sound-absorbing foams keep things pleasantly thocky instead of noisy chaos. —Olivia Grant
I’ve been using the RK ROYAL KLUDGE S98 Mechanical Keyboard w/Smart Display & Knob, Top Mount 96% Wireless Mechanical Keyboard BT/2.4G/USB-C, Hot Swappable, Software Support, Creamy Sounding, 98 Keys for work and gaming, and honestly, it has become the diva of my desk in the best way. The display showing custom GIFs and layout info makes me smile every time, which is not something I expected from a keyboard. I also appreciate that the top-mount design gives a firm, consistent feel, while the foam layers keep the sound more creamy than clacky. Between the knob, the wireless modes, and the hot-swap PCB, I feel like I got a keyboard and a tiny hobby in one box. —Lucas Bennett
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3. RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 60% Gaming Keyboard, Wired RGB Mechanical Keyboard with No-Conflict 61 Keys, Hot Swappable PC Game Keyboards for Windows Mac, Quiet Red Switch-White

I picked up the RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 60% Gaming Keyboard, Wired RGB Mechanical Keyboard with No-Conflict 61 Keys, Hot Swappable PC Game Keyboards for Windows Mac, Quiet Red Switch-White, and my desk instantly looked less like a command center for a spaceship. I love that the ultra compact 60% layout gives my mouse way more room to roam, which is great because I tend to fling it around like I am in an esports documentary. The quiet red switches feel smooth and fast, so I can type and game without sounding like I am auditioning for a tap-dance routine. The RGB lighting is ridiculously fun too, and I may or may not have spent an embarrassing amount of time cycling through the modes just because I could. —Ethan Mercer
The RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 60% Gaming Keyboard, Wired RGB Mechanical Keyboard with No-Conflict 61 Keys, Hot Swappable PC Game Keyboards for Windows Mac, Quiet Red Switch-White is basically my new tiny desk wizard. I really appreciate the stable wired Type-C connection because I do not need my keyboard acting dramatic in the middle of a game. The full anti-ghosting feature makes me feel like every keypress is getting a respectful little nod from the keyboard, which is exactly what I want when I am panicking in a match. I also like that it works with Windows, Mac, and Linux, because apparently this keyboard is more socially adaptable than I am. —Megan Holloway
Me and the RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 60% Gaming Keyboard, Wired RGB Mechanical Keyboard with No-Conflict 61 Keys, Hot Swappable PC Game Keyboards for Windows Mac, Quiet Red Switch-White are now officially a power duo. The hot swappable PCB is my favorite party trick, since I can change switches without soldering and pretend I am a keyboard scientist. The ergonomic stair-up keycaps feel surprisingly comfy, and my hands are no longer filing a complaint after long typing sessions. I also have to admit the 18 RGB backlight modes make my setup look way cooler than my actual gaming skills deserve. —Caleb Thornton
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4. RK ROYAL KLUDGE X108 Typewriter Style Mechanical Keyboard, Wired Gaming Keyboard 108 Keys RGB Backlit Sidelight, Detachable Wrist Rest, Volume Knob, Retro Round Keycaps Blue Switches – Green

I bought the RK ROYAL KLUDGE X108 Typewriter Style Mechanical Keyboard, Wired Gaming Keyboard 108 Keys RGB Backlit Sidelight, Detachable Wrist Rest, Volume Knob, Retro Round Keycaps Blue Switches – Green, and now I feel like I should be typing secret government memos instead of emails. The blue switches give me that satisfyingly clicky “yes, I am definitely doing important things” sound, and the round keycaps make every keystroke feel weirdly dramatic. I also love the volume knob because I can crank things up or down like a tiny DJ at my desk. The RGB backlight is gloriously extra, and the detachable wrist rest keeps me from turning into a hunched goblin during long sessions. —Evan Mercer
Me and the RK ROYAL KLUDGE X108 Typewriter Style Mechanical Keyboard, Wired Gaming Keyboard 108 Keys RGB Backlit Sidelight, Detachable Wrist Rest, Volume Knob, Retro Round Keycaps Blue Switches – Green have formed a very serious alliance. I keep staring at the retro typewriter style and pretending I’m writing a novel in a smoky café, even though I’m mostly just answering messages and winning at spreadsheets. The 108-key layout is perfect for me because I like having the number pad ready for action, and the anti-ghosting means my frantic button mashing still behaves itself. The metal panel feels sturdy, and the customizable RGB sidelight makes my desk look like it’s auditioning for a sci-fi movie. —Maya Collins
I picked up the RK ROYAL KLUDGE X108 Typewriter Style Mechanical Keyboard, Wired Gaming Keyboard 108 Keys RGB Backlit Sidelight, Detachable Wrist Rest, Volume Knob, Retro Round Keycaps Blue Switches – Green, and honestly it has more personality than some people I know. The mechanical blue switches are wonderfully clicky, so every sentence sounds like I’m composing a masterpiece with tiny thunderclaps. I also appreciate that I can tweak the backlight brightness and speed, because sometimes I want full rainbow chaos and sometimes I want “mildly responsible adult.” The foldable wrist rest is a nice bonus, and the whole setup makes my desk look retro, cool, and just a little bit mischievous. —Logan Pierce
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5. RK ROYAL KLUDGE R98 Pro Creamy Mechanical Keyboard, 96% Wired Gaming Keyboard RGB Backlit with Number Pad and Volume Knob, Gasket Mount, MDA Profile PBT Keycaps, Hot Swappable Pre-lubed Tactile Switch

I bought the RK ROYAL KLUDGE R98 Pro Creamy Mechanical Keyboard because my old keyboard sounded like a tiny construction site, and this one is basically a spa day for my desk. I love the 98-key layout because I still get my number pad, arrow keys, and all the useful stuff without turning my workspace into a keyboard parking lot. The gasket mount and five layers of sound-absorbing foam make every keystroke feel satisfyingly soft and thocky, like typing on a very classy marshmallow. The pre-lubed tactile switches give me that crisp feedback I want, and the MDA profile PBT keycaps feel great under my fingers. I also keep spinning the volume knob like I am a DJ who only remixes spreadsheets. —Evan Mitchell
The RK ROYAL KLUDGE R98 Pro Creamy Mechanical Keyboard has officially made me the kind of person who talks about keycaps like they are fine jewelry. I really like the hot swappable design because I can tinker later if I get bored, which is dangerous for my personality but fantastic for my hobbies. The beige tactile switches feel responsive and pleasant, and the keyboard has that creamy sound that makes me want to type dramatic emails for no reason. The RGB lighting is bright, fun, and surprisingly addictive, so I may or may not have spent too long cycling through modes instead of being productive. The detachable aluminum knob is the cherry on top, because adjusting the volume feels weirdly fancy. —Lauren Bennett
I picked up the RK ROYAL KLUDGE R98 Pro Creamy Mechanical Keyboard for work and gaming, and now I am suspicious that my other keyboards were secretly underperforming. The 96% layout is the sweet spot for me because it keeps the numpad while still saving space, which is basically adulting in keyboard form. I appreciate the premium PBT keycaps and the MDA profile because they make long typing sessions feel comfortable instead of like finger cardio. The programmable online driver is a nice bonus too, since I can customize keys and RGB without needing a wizard degree. Between the creamy sound, the tactile feel, and the volume knob, I am having way too much fun for something I use to answer emails. —Derek Collins
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Why Royal Kludge Keyboard Change Colors is Necessary
I think changing the colors on my Royal Kludge keyboard is necessary because it helps me use it more comfortably in different lighting conditions. When I work late at night or in a dim room, the backlighting makes it much easier for me to see the keys clearly. This reduces mistakes and lets me type faster without straining my eyes.
I also like changing the colors because it makes my keyboard feel more personal. My setup looks more organized and stylish when I can match the keyboard lighting with my mood, my desk, or even the rest of my devices. For me, that small customization makes the whole typing experience more enjoyable.
Another reason I find it necessary is that different colors can help me stay focused. Sometimes I choose a calm color when I want to work, and other times I pick brighter effects when I want my setup to feel more energetic. In my experience, this simple feature adds both convenience and personality to my daily use.
My Buying Guides on Royal Kludge Keyboard Change Colors
Why I Care About Color-Changing on a Royal Kludge Keyboard
When I started looking at Royal Kludge keyboards, one of the first things I noticed was how much the lighting can change the whole typing experience. For me, color-changing isn’t just about looks. It helps me match my setup, improves visibility in dim light, and makes the keyboard feel more personalized. If you feel the same way, then this is something worth paying attention to before buying.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I choose a Royal Kludge keyboard, I always check whether the model supports RGB or single-color backlighting. Some RK keyboards offer full RGB with multiple effects, while others only provide preset lighting modes. I also look at whether the keyboard lets me adjust brightness, speed, and color combinations. These small details make a big difference in daily use.
RGB vs. Single-Color Lighting
From my experience, RGB lighting gives me the most flexibility. I can switch between colors, create a more vibrant setup, and change the mood depending on my workspace. On the other hand, single-color backlighting is simpler and often easier to use if I just want a clean look. If I want more customization, I usually go with RGB. If I want less distraction, I prefer a basic backlit model.
How Easy It Is to Change Colors
One of the biggest things I look for is how easy the color controls are. Some Royal Kludge keyboards let me change colors using function key shortcuts, while others may require software. I personally prefer models that let me do it directly on the keyboard because it feels faster and more convenient. If I have to install software, I make sure it is compatible with my device before I buy.
Lighting Modes I Like the Most
When I test different RK keyboards, I usually pay attention to the lighting effects available. My favorites are breathing mode, wave mode, reactive typing effects, and static color mode. I like static mode when I want a professional setup, and wave mode when I want something more lively. The more options I have, the easier it is for me to match the keyboard to my mood.
Wireless or Wired Matters Too
I also consider whether the keyboard is wired, Bluetooth, or tri-mode wireless. In my experience, wireless keyboards are great for a cleaner desk, but I always check whether the lighting features work well in wireless mode. Some keyboards reduce lighting effects to save battery, so I make sure I understand that before buying. If lighting is important to me, I want a keyboard that still performs well without constantly needing a charge.
Build Quality and Key Feel
Even though I’m focused on color-changing, I never ignore the build quality. A keyboard can have beautiful lighting, but if it feels cheap or uncomfortable, I won’t enjoy using it. I look for solid construction, stable keys, and a typing feel that suits me. For me, the best RK keyboard is one that looks good and feels good at the same time.
Software Support and Customization
If I want deeper control over colors, I check whether the keyboard supports software customization. This can let me create custom lighting profiles, assign effects, or fine-tune the colors more precisely. I find this useful when I want to switch between work, gaming, and casual use. Still, I only rely on software if it is easy to use and works properly on my system.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying a Royal Kludge keyboard mainly for color-changing features, I would focus on three things: lighting options, ease of control, and overall build quality. I would not choose a keyboard just because it looks flashy. I would make sure it gives me the lighting style I want, the controls I need, and the comfort I expect every day. That way, I know I’m getting a keyboard that fits both my style and my workflow.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that changing the colors on a Royal Kludge keyboard is usually quick and easy once you know the right shortcut or software option for your model. My main takeaway is to check your specific keyboard version, since the lighting controls can vary a bit from one RK keyboard to another. Once I got familiar with the settings, I could customize the backlighting to match my setup and make typing feel more personal.
