ZIFRIEND ZT98 – a mechanical keyboard with a 98-key layout that includes a separate numeric keypad, function keys, and navigation keys. The compact key layout allows for a fully functional keyboard within a single, seamless housing.
This keyboard is designed for gaming, everyday work, and typing. The English QWERTY layout and separate numeric keypad provide full functionality, while the more compact 98-key format helps you make better use of your workspace.
Mechanical Switches and Options for Replacing Them
The ZT98 uses linear “Silver Switch” mechanical switches. Their travel is smooth, with no distinct tactile resistance when pressed. This switch characteristic provides a smooth typing experience and is well-suited for fast and repetitive keystrokes.
Stabilizers are used on larger keys to help maintain a smoother key travel and reduce unwanted wobble when pressing the space bar, “Enter,” “Shift,” and other larger keys.
“Hot-Swap” Replaceable Switches
The keyboard features a “Hot-Swap” system that allows you to remove and replace mechanical switches without soldering. The design is compatible with most 3-pin mechanical switches available on the market.
This system allows you to replace switches according to your individual needs and select the desired operating characteristics. You can also replace an individual switch without the need for soldering equipment.
Internal construction and sound dampening
“Gasket”-type design
The ZT98 features a “Gasket” mounting system in its internal design. This design helps create a more consistent keystroke feel and reduces some of the vibrations transmitted inside the case.
Double layer of EVA sound-dampening material
Damping layers made of EVA material are installed between the key mechanism, the PCB, and the housing to reduce internal vibrations and resonance within the housing.
The double internal padding helps dampen the sound of keystrokes and provides a more seamless mechanical keyboard experience.
Keycaps and Their Design
The keyboard features two-layer keycaps manufactured using “Double-Shot” technology. The characters are molded from a separate layer of material rather than simply printed on the surface, so the markings remain clearly visible for longer and are more resistant to everyday wear and tear.
“Cherry” Profile Keycaps
It features a “Cherry” profile key design with a softly textured surface. The contoured key rows help you transition more naturally between different areas of the keyboard, whether you’re typing or gaming.
The keys, featuring a gradient of gray shades, complement the black keyboard housing, creating a cohesive and understated design even when the backlight is off.
Lighting and Connection
Integrated RGB lighting highlights the key zones and symbols. The lighting is visible around the switches and on the key labels, complementing the keyboard’s black-and-gray design.
Detachable 1.5-meter USB-C cable
The keyboard connects to the computer via a wired USB connection. The package includes a 1.5-meter detachable USB-C cable.
The detachable cable design makes it easy to transport and store the keyboard, while the wired connection ensures a stable connection and requires no batteries or additional charging.
Keyboard dimensions
The keyboard is 39 cm long and 14 cm wide. These dimensions allow for a functional 98-key layout in a relatively compact case.
The ZIFRIEND ZT98 keyboard comes with a detachable 1.5-meter USB-C cable, a user manual, additional buttons, and a key removal tool.
Technical specifications
- Product type: mechanical keyboard
- Number of keys: 98
- Key layout: English QWERTY
- Numeric keypad: yes
- Length: 391 mm
- Width: 149 mm
- Height: 31 mm
- Switch type: Silver Switch
- Switch operation: linear
- Replacing Switches: Hot-Swap
- Hot-swap compatibility: most 3-pin mechanical switches
- Key Technology: Double-Shot
- Key profile: Cherry
- Internal construction: Gasket
- Sound insulation: double layer of EVA
- Lighting: RGB
- Keyboard color: black / gray
- Key color: a gradient of shades of gray
- Connection: Wired
- Connector: USB-C
- Cable length: 1.5 m
- Cord: detachable
- Compatibility: Win2000/Win XP/Vista/Win7/Win8/Win10/Win11
- Package contents: keyboard, 1.5-meter USB-C cable, user manual, additional keys, key removal tool
- Purpose: for gaming, work, and everyday use
