Zifriend ZA68 is a widely recommended 60% gaming keyboard. It is one of the few mechanical keyboards that have sound-dampening foam at this price, about $30-$35. This is a superb keyboard that fills the gap between budget and functionality. This 68-key mechanical keyboard is perfect for gaming and has stunning RGB lighting. Let’s dive into the full review of Zifriend ZA68 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard.
Unboxing the Budget Killer
Zifriend ZA68 came in a compact and clean box. Packaging will get 4.9/5.
Now, it’s time to open the box. We find a user manual, a USB to Type C cable, two additional switches, and a puller along with the main keyboard. The puller was tiny, easy to grip and pull the keys and the cable was an average cable. This cable will connect the keyboard to the electric source. The variant we have is wired, another version is available (Zifriend ZA68 Pro) that supports wireless.
Here is the unboxing video of the Zifriend ZA68 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard. Watch it to learn exactly what we saw after opening the box.
First Impression
Any keyboard lover will fall in love at first sight with this keyboard, especially when he will know the price. The build quality, design, hot-swappable switch, and impressive RGB backlit will draw anyone’s attention. Hot-swappable keys and anti-ghosting features will impress the user at first sight.
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Build Quality
One of the notable features of this keyboard is its 5-pin hot-swappable switches. This is really too much incredible at this price range. This innovative design allows users to change and replace switches easily. This not only offers a level of customization but also simplifies maintenance and upgrades for the Zifriend ZA68 Mechanical Keyboard. Gamers and typists can customize the keyboard to their preferences, adjusting the feel and response of the keys to suit their needs.
The keyboard is equipped with anti-ghosting technology. It is a crucial aspect for gamers. With this feature, users can press multiple keys simultaneously, and each keystroke will be accurately registered. This is essential for fast-paced gaming scenarios where quick and precise input can make a difference.
Crafted from ABS plastic, the keyboard strikes a balance between durability and cost-effectiveness. While not as premium as certain other materials, ABS plastic ensures the keyboard’s longevity and provides a lightweight feel. This material choice contributes to the keyboard’s overall sturdiness, a crucial factor in any well-constructed keyboard.
Being a mechanical keyboard, it delivers tactile and audible feedback with each keypress. This mechanical aspect contributes to a satisfying typing and gaming experience. Users can feel the actuation point of each key, enhancing accuracy and comfort during prolonged use.
From a tactile standpoint, the keyboard provides a pleasant hand feel. The mechanical switches, likely Red switches, offer satisfying tactile feedback that improves the typing and gaming experience. Additionally, the keyboard’s construction ensures minimal bendability even under high pressure, which speaks to its durability and resilience.
The backside of the keyboard features a textured surface that enhances grip on different surfaces. This thoughtful addition eliminates the need for an extra table pad and ensures stability during use. This attention to detail enhances the overall user experience and usability of the keyboard.
Keys
The keycaps of the “Zifriend ZA68 60% Mechanical Keyboard” are crafted from ABS material, known for their durability and lightweight nature. The keyboard boasts a complete set of 5-pin hot-swappable switches. Enhancing the typing experience, the keyboard features Zifriend Pre Lubed switches that have been pre-lubricated for smoother keystrokes.
To mitigate sound, this 68 keys keyboard includes sound-dampening foam, ensuring a quieter operation. Adding a convenient utility, a volume knob is integrated into the design, providing easy control over audio output. The switches used in this keyboard are sourced from the TNT Brand, assuring a reliable and responsive typing experience.
Some keys have side labels like the photo given below, which will really impress you.
In addition, we do not have any complaints about the stabilizers of a keyboard that we get at this price. As it is a 60% keyboard, you will not find the Numpad and some function keys, that’s normal.
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RGB Lighting
The per-key RGB backlighting adds both visual appeal and customization options to the keyboard. The lighting is distributed throughout the keyboard, allowing users to personalize its appearance according to their preferences. The side RGB lighting and back RGB lighting will surely attract you. This not only contributes to the aesthetics of the setup but also enhances the overall experience.
How to Control the RGB Lighting of Zifriend ZA68 Keyboard
The RGB of this keyboard can be controlled in many ways. You can control it using the volume knob on the keyboard. Arrow keys can also control the lighting. Most importantly, you have software to control the per-key RGB lighting of this keyboard. It has 20 kinds of RGB lighting effects.
Sound
Enjoy the sound and one lighting effect of the Zifriend ZA68 mechanical keyboard in this short video.
Operating System
Windows and Mac-supported Zifriend ZA68 have two different keys on the keyboard to switch between the two OS. Features like this in a keyboard at this price are surely unpredictable.
User Experience
At this price range, you won’t deserve more than this keyboard provides. Gaming, typing, or for general use, Zifriend ZA68 is one of the budget killers. But if you increase the budget, you will get a better keyboard obviously, but considering all other features and the aesthetic design of the keyboard- it won’t be defeated easily by other competitors.
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Pros and Cons at a Glance
Specifications
| Specifications of Zifriend ZA68 Mechanical Keyboard | |
|---|---|
| Name | Zifriend ZA68 60% RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard |
| Brand | Zifriend |
| Origin | China |
| Material | ABS |
| Private Mold | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wired |
| Keyboard Standard | 68 |
| Backlit | Per-key RGB |
| Interface | USB 2.0 |
| Anti-ghosting | Multi-keys |
| Switches | 5-pin hot-swappable |
How to Buy?
You can buy this superb keyboard from local shops around you. If you want to buy it online, then you have some Chinese global e-commerce like Taobao, AliExpress, and Alibaba. You can also order it from Zifriend as well.
Conclusion
Finally, with confidence it can be said that the Zifriend ZA68 60% gaming keyboard impresses with its feature-rich design, incorporating rare sound-dampening foam at an affordable price, effectively bridging the gap between budget and functionality. Its build quality, anti-ghosting technology, and 5-pin hot-swappable switches stand out, while the tactile feedback of the mechanical keys enhances the typing experience. The keyboard’s per-key RGB backlighting and side illumination contribute to its aesthetic appeal, complemented by a volume knob for audio control and many other unexpected features at this price range.
Actually, I am a student of Textile Engineering. I love playing games and RGB components. Besides, I used to sell various RGB products. So I have some ideas and experiences. Here I am to share mine with you through RGB For Gamers.
