Two Mechanical Keyboards, One Beautiful Build

Mechanical keyboards have reached a point where even budget models deliver vibrant designs and satisfying acoustics. Still, every now and then, a board arrives that truly commands attention. This time, two of them have done just that.

I’ve been testing a pair of stunning keyboards that debuted late last year: the Evoworks Evo75, a compact 75-percent layout known for its loud, deep typing sound, and the Dry Studio ATM98, an 1800-layout (98-percent) model with silent switches and a design that refuses to blend in, highlighted by a massive RGB-lit rotary dial. These are easily among the most impressive keyboards I’ve ever seen, heard, or typed on. And they won’t break the bank either, with the Evo75 priced around $170 and the ATM98 at $259, both coming prebuilt with switches and keycaps. What makes them especially intriguing is how these two small works of art cater to completely different tastes.

The Evo75 in its nebula finish wants to be heard, not necessarily seen. It’s a mostly black keyboard with colorful keycap accents, but look closer and you’ll notice a subtle glittery effect in its spray-coated surface , hence the name. (More eye-catching versions are available in purple, blue, sage green, and other shades.) Meanwhile, the ATM98 demands to be seen but stays nearly silent. Its keys are remarkably quiet, making it ideal for calls or livestreams unless your mic is extremely sensitive. Yet that muted sound still carries a gentle, raindrop-like quality. Its translucent top half and bright RGB-lit dial are loud enough in appearance to turn heads.

In today’s golden age of mechanical keyboards, there’s no wrong choice here. Both boards feature hot-swappable switches and tri-mode connectivity: wired, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz. They also employ internal gasket-mounted designs , the Evo75 adds leaf springs , with foam layers that shape the sound and deliver a slightly bouncy typing feel. Honestly, both are exquisite.

If I had to choose one, I’d lean toward the Evo75. I work from home, so a louder board doesn’t bother me, and I’m partial to the 75-percent layout , sorry, number pad fans. But the sound of the Evo75, much like its larger and equally lovely Evo80 sibling, is intoxicating. The linear Keygeek Neo Rye switches paired with an internal polypropylene plate maximize that deep, thocky tone. Each keystroke feels like a bag of marbles bouncing around, just tuned down an octave. That resonance hits home for me , I play bass guitar , and it makes long typing sessions feel indulgent. Like the Evo80, it’s astonishing that a keyboard sounding this good, feeling this excellent, and looking this unique comes ready to use right out of the box.

Among the 10 color options for the Evo75, the nebula black stands out. It’s the nicest painted finish I’ve encountered on a keyboard, especially when light catches those tiny flecks of color on the surface. The shiny weight beneath its plinth-like base adds another touch of class. If I’m nitpicking, the Evo75 lacks a spot to store its USB dongle , there’s no space under the ball-catch release cover on this smaller board , and the three-position toggle for wired, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz modes feels a bit loose. Otherwise, it’s nearly perfect.

As for the Dry Studio ATM98, it’s the best silent keyboard I’ve used. The preinstalled linear Bsun Light Sakura switches are even quieter than the Kailh Box Deep Sea Islet Pro switches I put into my personal Meletrix Zoom75 board. Yet they still sound velvety, like raindrops, and remain pleasant overall. They’re stealthy enough for confident typing during calls, and their soft tones won’t disturb anyone in even the quietest office. The ATM98’s look, especially in the frost whisper color scheme, definitely calls for attention.

No matter which color you choose , misty dusk (gray) or night ink (black with a translucent top) , the giant rotary dial in the corner is impossible to ignore. Even with the RGB lights turned off, most people will wonder what that mini colosseum above the number pad is. As silly as this oversized knob may seem, I love it. It features nice, audible detents that feel satisfying to turn. By default, it adjusts system volume, but using Dry Studio’s browser-based configuration tool, you can customize it with up to four functions to switch between on the fly. I used it for volume, Page Up and Page Down, previous and next tracks, and rotating between Windows virtual desktops. Some may see the giant ring as an eyesore, but I find it both fun and useful.

Combine the ATM98’s quiet yet bouncy typing feel with its slick translucent looks and handy dial, and you have a keyboard that delivers sensory satisfaction on multiple levels. If loud mechanical keyboards like the Evo75 or noisier models aren’t your thing, the ATM98 is worth serious consideration.

Ultimately, what makes a mechanical keyboard special comes down to personal preference , especially in the enthusiast space where boards like these live. Whether you crave big sound and impressive build quality or silent typing with unique looks, the Evoworks Evo75 and Dry Studio ATM98 each offer an amazing upgrade to your desk setup. Put down the headphones and enjoy the typing.