KiiBOOM Phantom 98 Review: A Transparent Keyboard That’s Built to Last

Key Points:

  • Unique Design: The keyboard features a transparent aesthetic that is both captivating and impressive, even for those who usually dislike see-through gadgets.
  • Premium Feel: From the unboxing to the daily use, the keyboard feels very robust and high-quality, highlighted by its significant weight.
  • Fully Equipped: It comes with everything you need, including a premium cable, extra switches, screws, and a full tool kit.
  • Packed with Features: Key features include bright RGB lighting, a handy volume knob, and a massive 8000mAh battery for extended wireless use.
  • Great Experience: The keyboard offers a true joy in typing thanks to its comfortable height and satisfying gasket-mounted design.
  • Built to Last: Despite minor, fixable issues like a loose knob, the overall impression is that of a durable keyboard that is a fantastic choice.

I’ll be honest, I usually avoid transparent gadgets. They often feel more like a gimmick than a sign of quality. But the KiiBOOM Phantom 98 is different. From the moment you lift it out of the box, you can tell this keyboard is something special. It’s heavy, in a good way, with a design that is both unique and impressive. This is a keyboard that manages to be see-through without feeling cheap, and it might just change your mind about what a transparent keyboard can be.

First Impressions and What’s in the Box

The unboxing experience feels very premium. KiiBOOM makes sure you have everything you need to get started and keep the keyboard in top shape. Inside the box, you’ll find the Phantom 98 keyboard itself, a high-quality braided USB-C cable, and a 2.4 GHz wireless dongle.

What’s really great is the inclusion of extra tools and parts. KiiBOOM gives you a keycap and switch puller, a small screwdriver, and even provides backup switches and screws. This is a nice touch that shows they care about the long-term use of their product. They also include a user manual and a large cleaning cloth, which is essential for keeping the crystal-clear case looking its best.

A Design That Turns Heads

The main draw of the Phantom 98 is its look. The entire case is made of a thick, transparent acrylic that lets you see the inner workings of the keyboard. It’s a futuristic design that feels incredibly well-built and solid on your desk. The sheer weight of it means it won’t be sliding around during intense work or gaming sessions. Even if you aren’t a fan of transparent tech, the unique and clean aesthetic of the Phantom 98 is captivating.

The keyboard’s design truly comes to life with the RGB lighting. With ample settings to explore, the lights shine brightly through the clear case and keycaps, creating a stunning effect that makes the keyboard glow on your desk. It’s a look you’ll either love or find a bit over the top, but it’s undeniably impressive.

Features and Daily Use

Beyond its looks, the Phantom 98 is packed with useful features. The expanded 98-key layout gives you a full number pad without the bulk of a traditional full-size keyboard. It’s a great middle-ground that saves desk space while keeping all the keys you need.

One of the most convenient features is the volume knob. It allows you to quickly mute or adjust volume, which is perfect for when you need to answer someone without fumbling with on-screen controls. On my unit, the knob was a bit loose out of the box, but it was easily fixed by tightening a small screw, a one-minute job.

The keyboard also has a massive 8000mAh battery, which gives you hours and hours of wireless use, even with the bright RGB lights on. You can connect it via Bluetooth or the included 2.4 GHz dongle for a stable wireless connection, or plug it in with the USB-C cable. Plus, there’s a simple switch on the back to toggle between Windows and macOS layouts.

The Typing Experience

Credit: KiiBOOM Phantom 98 Mechanical Keyboard ASMR by daizedreams

A keyboard can look great, but it has to feel great to type on. The Phantom 98 delivers here, too. The gasket-mounted design gives the keyboard a soft, cushioned feel, and the switches provide a satisfying sound that’s pleasant without being overly loud. It makes typing a true joy.

The keyboard is quite high, which might take a day or two to get used to if you’re coming from a flatter keyboard. However, the angle is comfortable, and I adjusted to it very quickly, even during long sessions of typing and gaming.

Final Thoughts

The KiiBOOM Phantom 98 is a very robust keyboard with a high-quality build and an aesthetic that made me fall in love with it. It successfully combines a unique, crystal-clear design with the solid performance and features you need for daily work and play.

While the transparent case might need a wipe-down now and then to stay pristine, and the knob might need a quick tighten, these are minor points for an otherwise excellent product. If you’re looking for a keyboard that is built to last, feels great to use, and has a look that truly stands out from the crowd, the KiiBOOM Phantom 98 is a fantastic choice.

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