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Chilkey ND104 Review | 64 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£200
Avg. price in US: ~$200
Layout size: Full-size
Connection type: USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth
Switch type: mechanical
Polling rate: 1000 Hz

Chilkey ND104 review. Compare 64 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among keyboards and if it is worth buying.

7.4

Very good

7.7

Very good

6.3

Good

6.6
Gaming
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Polling rate
24.0%
8.0
Rapid trigger
20.0%
8.0
Adjustable actuation
16.0%
10
Hot-swappable switches
12.0%
10
Onboard memory
5.8
Typing
Score components:
28.0%
4.0
Wrist rest included
24.0%
10
Legend method
20.0%
4.0
Adjustable feet
15.0%
1.0
Typing angle
13.0%
10
Pre-lubed stabilizers
8.4
Programming
Score components:
30.0%
10
QMK support
26.0%
10
VIA support
18.0%
1.0
Mac compatibility
14.0%
10
Multi-device pairing
12.0%
10
Connection type

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Verdict

The Chilkey ND104 is a premium full-size (104%) mechanical keyboard featuring a robust CNC 6063 aluminum chassis that weighs approximately 4.9 lbs, delivering a heavy, "endgame" build quality. It boasts tri-mode connectivity (USB-C, 2.4GHz, Bluetooth 5.0) powered by an 8000mAh battery, a 1000Hz polling rate, and an FR4 gold-immersion plate with a five-layer damping system for a deep, "thocky" acoustic profile. Its standout characteristics include a customizable LCD screen with calculator, clock, and weather functions, alongside a hot-swappable rotary knob and a quick-disassembly ball-catch structure. Main pros include its exceptional durability, satisfying stock WS Breeze or Silent linear switches, and high versatility with three different mounting styles (silica gel, elastic bar, and top mount). However, cons include a tall front edge that almost necessitates a wrist rest, occasional software/firmware glitches with the screen sync, and a slow charging time of up to 7+ hours.

Technical Specifications of Chilkey ND104

Overall score

7.4

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the keyboard.

When it matters: When you prefer a keyboard that has already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.

Switches

5.5

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Switch type

What it is: Identifies the switch technology used by the keyboard, such as mechanical, optical, or Hall effect.

When it matters: When you are choosing between different response technologies and their long-term behavior.

Importance: HIGH

mechanical

Switch feel

What it is: Describes the keypress character, such as linear, tactile, or clicky.

When it matters: When the sensation of each keypress changes comfort, control, and noise level for your use.

Importance: HIGH

linear

Switch name

What it is: States the specific switch model used by the keyboard.

When it matters: When the exact switch model matters because small tuning differences affect your preference.

Importance: MEDIUM

?

Actuation force

What it is: Measures how much force is needed to actuate a key.

When it matters: When finger fatigue, accidental presses, or key resistance matters to your typing style.

Importance: HIGH

40 g

Min actuation distance

What it is: Measures the shortest key travel needed to register an input.

When it matters: When faster key response matters and you want the shortest possible trigger point under your fingers.

Importance: MEDIUM

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Design

6.6

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Keyboard type

What it is: Identifies the keyboard technology, such as mechanical, membrane, optical, or Hall effect.

When it matters: When you need a keyboard built around a specific switch technology or feel profile.

Importance: HIGH

mechanical

Layout size

What it is: States the keyboard form factor and how much of the standard keyset it includes.

When it matters: When desk space, portability, or access to a full key set affects how you work or play.

Importance: HIGH

Full-size

Layout standard

What it is: Specifies the regional layout standard, such as ANSI, ISO, or JIS.

When it matters: When you need a regional key layout that matches your language habits or keycap set.

Importance: MEDIUM

ANSI

N. of keys

What it is: States how many keys are present on the keyboard.

When it matters: When you need a certain number of keys for shortcuts, navigation, or a numpad.

Importance: MEDIUM

Profile

What it is: Describes whether the keyboard uses a low-profile or standard-height design.

When it matters: When key height changes your typing comfort, travel distance, or the overall desk setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

standard

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Connectivity & Power

7.9

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Connection type

What it is: Specifies how the keyboard connects, such as USB, 2.4 GHz wireless, or Bluetooth.

When it matters: When latency, cable management, or wireless flexibility is part of your buying decision.

Importance: HIGH

Multi-device pairing

What it is: Shows whether the keyboard can stay paired with multiple devices for quicker switching.

When it matters: When you switch regularly between a laptop, tablet, and other devices on one desk.

Importance: HIGH

Bluetooth version

What it is: States the Bluetooth generation supported for wireless pairing.

When it matters: When wireless stability, compatibility, and energy efficiency are part of what you compare.

Importance: MEDIUM

Mac compatibility

What it is: Shows whether the keyboard is intended to work properly with macOS layouts, shortcuts, or legends.

When it matters: When you need the keyboard to work properly with macOS shortcuts and key mapping.

Importance: HIGH

Battery life

What it is: Estimates how long the keyboard can run on a full charge.

When it matters: When the keyboard needs to last through workweeks, travel, or long gaming stretches without constant charging.

Importance: HIGH

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Features

9.3

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RGB lighting

What it is: Shows whether the keyboard includes customizable RGB lighting effects.

When it matters: When visual customization and desk aesthetics matter to your setup.

Importance: HIGH

Per-key RGB

What it is: Shows whether each key can be lit and controlled independently instead of sharing one uniform lighting zone.

When it matters: When customizing each key individually matters for visuals, games, or shortcut visibility.

Importance: HIGH

RGB zones

What it is: States how many RGB lighting zones can be controlled separately.

When it matters: When you want more lighting control than a simple all-at-once backlight can provide.

Importance: LOW

Underglow / side lighting

What it is: Shows whether the case includes lighting around the underside or outer edges in addition to the keys themselves.

When it matters: When edge lighting is part of the visual style you want from the keyboard.

Importance: MEDIUM

Backlight direction

What it is: Specifies whether the switches use north-facing or south-facing backlighting.

When it matters: When you care about switch compatibility, keycap interference, or lighting placement.

Importance: LOW

south-facing

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Materials

10

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Case material

What it is: Describes the main material used for the keyboard case.

When it matters: When build feel, rigidity, and overall finish influence your sense of quality.

Importance: HIGH

aluminum

Plate material

What it is: Describes the material used for the mounting plate beneath the switches.

When it matters: When keyboard stiffness, sound profile, and bottom-out feel matter more than the switch spec sheet alone.

Importance: HIGH

FR4

Keycap material

What it is: Describes the material used to make the keycaps.

When it matters: When surface texture, wear resistance, and sound of the keycaps affect your choice.

Importance: HIGH

PBT

Keycap profile

What it is: Describes the shape and height profile of the keycaps.

When it matters: When key shape and sculpting affect comfort, wrist angle, and the sound of each press.

Importance: MEDIUM

Cherry

Legend method

What it is: Describes how the legends are applied to the keycaps, which affects durability and visibility.

When it matters: When you care about how long key legends stay readable after heavy use.

Importance: MEDIUM

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Chilkey ND104 vs the average keyboard

Why is Chilkey ND104 better than the average keyboard?

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0.5 mm shorter key travel
Chilkey ND104 has 3.5 mm of total travel, while the average keyboard has 4 mm.
What it is: Measures the full distance a key can move from top to bottom.
When it matters: When full key movement changes comfort, speed, or the way the keyboard feels under your fingers.
Importance: MEDIUM
Chilkey ND104 has 3.5 mm of total travel, while the average keyboard has 4 mm.3.5 mm vs 4 mm
2x larger battery capacity
Chilkey ND104 has a larger battery than the average keyboard (8,000 mAh vs 4,000 mAh). The average keyboard has a battery capacity of 4,000 mAh.
What it is: Measures how much electric charge the battery can store, usually in mAh.
When it matters: When you want rough battery context behind the runtime claim instead of trusting the advertised hours alone.
Importance: HIGH
Chilkey ND104 has a larger battery than the average keyboard (8,000 mAh vs 4,000 mAh). The average keyboard has a battery capacity of 4,000 mAh.8000 mAh vs 4000 mAh
19 more keys
Chilkey ND104 has more keys than the average keyboard (106 vs 87). The average keyboard has 87 keys.
Includes F13 and numpad control keys.
What it is: States how many keys are present on the keyboard.
When it matters: When you need a certain number of keys for shortcuts, navigation, or a numpad.
Importance: MEDIUM
Chilkey ND104 has more keys than the average keyboard (106 vs 87). The average keyboard has 87 keys.106 vs 87
Built-in display
Chilkey ND104 has a built-in display, the average keyboard does not. 9.5% of keyboards have a built-in display.
What it is: Shows whether the keyboard includes a built-in screen for status information, controls, or custom widgets.
When it matters: When onboard information or direct controls on the keyboard are useful in daily use.
Importance: MEDIUM
Chilkey ND104 has a built-in display, the average keyboard does not. 9.5% of keyboards have a built-in display.
Underglow lighting
Chilkey ND104 includes underglow lighting, the average keyboard does not. 31.6% of keyboards include underglow lighting.
What it is: Shows whether the case includes lighting around the underside or outer edges in addition to the keys themselves.
When it matters: When edge lighting is part of the visual style you want from the keyboard.
Importance: MEDIUM
Chilkey ND104 includes underglow lighting, the average keyboard does not. 31.6% of keyboards include underglow lighting.
Volume control wheel
Chilkey ND104 includes a volume wheel, the average keyboard does not. 38.8% of keyboards include a volume wheel.
What it is: Shows whether the keyboard includes a dedicated wheel or roller for hardware volume control.
When it matters: When frequent hardware volume control matters enough that you do not want to rely on function-key shortcuts.
Importance: MEDIUM
Chilkey ND104 includes a volume wheel, the average keyboard does not. 38.8% of keyboards include a volume wheel.
Supports QMK
Chilkey ND104 supports QMK, the average keyboard does not. 28.8% of keyboards support QMK.
What it is: Shows whether the keyboard supports QMK firmware for deeper remapping and behavior customization.
When it matters: When deep remapping, macros, and firmware-level customization matter to your workflow.
Importance: HIGH
Chilkey ND104 supports QMK, the average keyboard does not. 28.8% of keyboards support QMK.
23 more RGB zones
Chilkey ND104 has more RGB zones than the average keyboard (106 vs 83). The average keyboard has 83 RGB zones.
What it is: States how many RGB lighting zones can be controlled separately.
When it matters: When you want more lighting control than a simple all-at-once backlight can provide.
Importance: LOW
Chilkey ND104 has more RGB zones than the average keyboard (106 vs 83). The average keyboard has 83 RGB zones.106 vs 83
19 more keys
Chilkey ND104 has more keys than the average keyboard (106 vs 87). The average keyboard has 87 keys.
2 newer release date
Chilkey ND104 is newer than the average keyboard (2,025 vs 2,023). The average keyboard was released in 2,023.
2x larger battery capacity
Chilkey ND104 has a larger battery than the average keyboard (8,000 mAh vs 4,000 mAh). The average keyboard has a battery capacity of 4,000 mAh.
0.5 mm shorter key travel
Chilkey ND104 has 3.5 mm of total travel, while the average keyboard has 4 mm.
Built-in display
Chilkey ND104 has a built-in display, the average keyboard does not. 9.5% of keyboards have a built-in display.
Underglow lighting
Chilkey ND104 includes underglow lighting, the average keyboard does not. 31.6% of keyboards include underglow lighting.
Volume control wheel
Chilkey ND104 includes a volume wheel, the average keyboard does not. 38.8% of keyboards include a volume wheel.
Supports QMK
Chilkey ND104 supports QMK, the average keyboard does not. 28.8% of keyboards support QMK.
23 more RGB zones
Chilkey ND104 has more RGB zones than the average keyboard (106 vs 83). The average keyboard has 83 RGB zones.
Supports VIA
Chilkey ND104 supports VIA, the average keyboard does not. 27.1% of keyboards support VIA.

Connectivity & Power

Why is Chilkey ND104 worse than the average keyboard?

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2.28x higher weight
Chilkey ND104 weighs more than the average keyboard (2,225 g vs 976 g). The average keyboard weighs 976 g.
No adjustable feet
Chilkey ND104 does not have adjustable feet, the average keyboard does. 85.5% of keyboards have adjustable feet.
2 ° higher typing angle
Chilkey ND104 has a higher typing angle than the average keyboard (7 ° vs 5 °). The average keyboard has a typing angle of 5 °.
82.6 mm wider width
Chilkey ND104 is wider than the average keyboard (437.6 mm vs 355 mm). The average keyboard width is 355 mm.
Limited Mac support
Chilkey ND104 is not Mac compatible, the average keyboard is. 55.8% of keyboards are Mac compatible.
48 h shorter battery life
Chilkey ND104 lasts less long on a charge than the average keyboard (118 h vs 166 h). The average keyboard lasts 166 h on a charge.
0.3 mm longer minimum actuation distance
Chilkey ND104 has a longer minimum actuation distance than the average keyboard (2 mm vs 1.7 mm). The average keyboard has a minimum actuation distance of 1.7 mm.
Limited Mac support
Chilkey ND104 is not Mac compatible, the average keyboard is. 55.8% of keyboards are Mac compatible.
What it is: Shows whether the keyboard is intended to work properly with macOS layouts, shortcuts, or legends.
When it matters: When you need the keyboard to work properly with macOS shortcuts and key mapping.
Importance: HIGH
Chilkey ND104 is not Mac compatible, the average keyboard is. 55.8% of keyboards are Mac compatible.
2.28x higher weight
Chilkey ND104 weighs more than the average keyboard (2,225 g vs 976 g). The average keyboard weighs 976 g.
What it is: Measures the total mass of the keyboard.
When it matters: When you care whether the keyboard feels easy to carry or heavy enough to stay planted on the desk.
Importance: HIGH
Chilkey ND104 weighs more than the average keyboard (2,225 g vs 976 g). The average keyboard weighs 976 g.2225 g vs 976 g
0.3 mm longer minimum actuation distance
Chilkey ND104 has a longer minimum actuation distance than the average keyboard (2 mm vs 1.7 mm). The average keyboard has a minimum actuation distance of 1.7 mm.
What it is: Measures the shortest key travel needed to register an input.
When it matters: When faster key response matters and you want the shortest possible trigger point under your fingers.
Importance: MEDIUM
Chilkey ND104 has a longer minimum actuation distance than the average keyboard (2 mm vs 1.7 mm). The average keyboard has a minimum actuation distance of 1.7 mm.2 mm vs 1.7 mm
2 ° higher typing angle
Chilkey ND104 has a higher typing angle than the average keyboard (7 ° vs 5 °). The average keyboard has a typing angle of 5 °.
What it is: Measures the incline of the keyboard during use.
When it matters: When wrist posture and typing comfort depend on how steeply the keyboard sits.
Importance: MEDIUM
Chilkey ND104 has a higher typing angle than the average keyboard (7 ° vs 5 °). The average keyboard has a typing angle of 5 °.7 ° vs 5 °
48 h shorter battery life
Chilkey ND104 lasts less long on a charge than the average keyboard (118 h vs 166 h). The average keyboard lasts 166 h on a charge.
What it is: Estimates how long the keyboard can run on a full charge.
When it matters: When the keyboard needs to last through workweeks, travel, or long gaming stretches without constant charging.
Importance: HIGH
Chilkey ND104 lasts less long on a charge than the average keyboard (118 h vs 166 h). The average keyboard lasts 166 h on a charge.118 h vs 166 h
No adjustable feet
Chilkey ND104 does not have adjustable feet, the average keyboard does. 85.5% of keyboards have adjustable feet.
What it is: Shows whether the keyboard includes feet that let you raise or tilt the typing angle.
When it matters: When your comfort depends on changing typing angle without buying a separate stand or wrist support.
Importance: MEDIUM
Chilkey ND104 does not have adjustable feet, the average keyboard does. 85.5% of keyboards have adjustable feet.
53.9% more expensive
Chilkey ND104 is more expensive than the average keyboard (£200 vs £130).
Chilkey ND104 is more expensive than the average keyboard (£200 vs £130).£200 vs £130
27.9% lower user score
Chilkey ND104 has a lower user score than the average keyboard (6.25 vs 8.000).
What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the keyboard.
When it matters: When you want to understand how a keyboard performs in daily use or gaming and how reliable it is in terms of typing feel, noise level, comfort, and long-term durability.
Chilkey ND104 has a lower user score than the average keyboard (6.25 vs 8.000).6.25 vs 8

Connectivity & Power

Graphic comparison of Chilkey ND104 and

Attribute category

Attribute

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

What customers like about Chilkey ND104?

Exceptional build quality with a heavy, durable CNC-milled aluminum chassis.
Unique built-in LCD screen with calculator, clock, and GIF support.
Excellent tri-mode connectivity (Wired, 2.4GHz, and Bluetooth) with low latency.
Massive 8,000mAh battery providing long wireless life.
Satisfying 'thocky' sound and feel out of the box with pre-lubed WS Breeze switches.
Easy tool-less disassembly thanks to the ball-and-latch housing system.
Highly modular design with swappable components like the LCD/knob and navigation cluster.

What customers dislike about Chilkey ND104?

Web-based customization software is often described as 'half-baked' or buggy.
LCD screen and calculator can feel laggy or unresponsive at times.
The front edge is quite tall, making a wrist rest almost necessary for comfort.
Stock keycaps on some models have low contrast, making legends hard to read.
Lack of offline drivers for users with strict security or privacy needs.
Some units reported minor quality control issues with the double-shot molding on keycaps.
The software does not fully support certain browsers like Safari.

Expert reviews

appleinsider.com

30/10/2025

Chilkey ND104 review: Extremely solid construction for a mechanical keyboard

The Chilkey ND104 is an exceptionally sturdy, full-size mechanical keyboard constructed from a heavy 4.9-pound anodized aluminum case designed for maximum durability. It features an innovative layout that incorporates vibrant, south-facing dynamic RGB backlighting, a customizable tactile knob, and an LCD screen for displaying real-time information like the time and weather. The...Read more

forums.appleinsider.com

31/10/2025

Chilkey ND104 review: Extremely solid construction for a mechanical keyboard

The AppleInsider review of the Chilkey ND104 highlights its exceptionally rugged 4.9-pound CNC-milled aluminum chassis and durable, high-quality construction. The 104-key mechanical keyboard offers a minimalist aesthetic paired with functional features, including an integrated LCD screen for status data, a dedicated calculator button, and a solid media control knob. However, the...Read more

lttlabs.com

09/12/2025

Chilkey ND104 | LTT Labs

The Chilkey ND104 is a robust, full-aluminum mechanical keyboard featuring an FR4 plate, plate-mounted stabilizers, and smooth WS Breeze linear switches that produce a deep, "thocky" sound profile without metallic ping. It delivers impressive latency performance with a 3.99ms wired average, complemented by a high-quality build that includes a sturdy USB-C cable and a unique,...Read more

igorslab.de

23/01/2026

Chilkey ND104 review: A pre-assembled full-size ISO-DE aluminum keyboard

The Chilkey ND104 is a premium, full-size ISO-DE aluminum mechanical keyboard that offers extensive customization options and high-quality workmanship for a fair price of $279. Key advantages of this pre-assembled board include its clean, stable housing design, magnetic case construction, hot-swap functionality, and a highly versatile layout flexibility that supports a split...Read more

gadgetoid.com

07/11/2025

Chilkey ND104 full-sized mechanical keyboard - Gadgetoid

The Chilkey ND104 is a highly durable, cost-effective full-sized mechanical keyboard featuring a premium solid aluminium build and innovative modular hardware. It stands out for its exceptional typing experience, driven by high-quality stock tactile switches, crisp stabilisers, and an isolated PCB/plate assembly utilizing push-fit silicone feet and large rubber corner gaskets. A...Read more

mmorpg.com

18/10/2025

Chilkey ND104 Review

The Chilkey ND104, a premium full-size mechanical keyboard developed with Wuque Studio, features a durable, CNC-milled aluminum chassis and a unique tool-less ball-and-latch assembly system for easy customization. It offers excellent performance with smooth tri-mode wireless connectivity, a 1,000Hz polling rate, high-quality PBT keycaps, and a functional LCD screen with calculator...Read more

igorslab.de

23/01/2026

Chilkey ND104 Review – Full-sized ISO-DE aluminium keyboard in a pre-assembled version with a touch of luxury

The keyboard's clear strengths lie in its high-end build quality, excellent acoustics, and "top-shelf" component selection that eliminates the need for tedious manual modifications. The 1.6 mm multi-layout hot-swap PCB offers versatile connectivity, while the substantial aluminium base provides excellent structural stability. On the downside, the high price tag of €280 represents a...Read more

igorslab.de

23/01/2026

Chilkey ND104 review: Full-size ISO-DE aluminium keyboard in a pre-assembled design with a touch of luxury

The igor’sLAB review of the Chilkey ND104 highlights it as a high-quality, full-size mechanical keyboard that blends functional design with a touch of luxury. Priced at 280 euros for this pre-assembled special collaboration edition with MonacoKeys, the board stands out for its rock-solid CNC-milled aluminum housing and its spacious layout. The key pros noted in the review include...Read more

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