The Drop CSTM80 keyboard stands out in the world of mechanical keyboards with its innovative quick-swap magnetic top case feature. This design allows users to effortlessly alter the keyboard’s appearance by simply pulling off the top case and replacing it with another, enabling a swift and comprehensive change in the keyboard’s visual aesthetic.
Design and Customization Options
The Drop CSTM80 is a sleek tenkeyless board that offers a variety of customization options to suit any user’s preference. The keyboard’s design is not only compact but also highly adaptable thanks to the array of top case colors available.
- White Polycarbonate Case
- Black Polycarbonate Case
- Laser Purple Polycarbonate Case
- Skiidata Orange Polycarbonate Case
- Jasmine Green Polycarbonate Case
Each of these vibrant polycarbonate cases can be purchased for an additional $25, allowing for easy personalization. For those who prefer a more premium finish, there are also anodized silver and black aluminum top cases available at $59 each.
Keyboard Features and Components
The Drop CSTM80 keyboard is packed with features that enhance both its aesthetics and functionality. A standout feature is the gasket-mounted design, which provides a more cushioned keystroke by incorporating a dampening material between the top frame housing and keys and the lower case.
Each key is illuminated with per-key RGB LEDs, allowing for a customizable backlighting experience. The keyboard also boasts custom ABS south-facing keycaps with shine-through side legends, which are optimized for south-facing switches. These keycaps are paired with PCBA mounted stabilizers, ensuring a stable and consistent keypress.
Furthermore, the CSTM80 supports 5-pin switches, giving users the freedom to choose their preferred switch type. Speaking of switches, the keyboard is available with either Gateron Brown Pro 3.0 or Gateron Yellow KS3 key switches. These options cater to different typing preferences, with the Gateron Brown offering a tactile feel and the Gateron Yellow providing a smoother linear action.
The gasket-mount design is particularly significant as it aims to deliver a premium feel that is often lacking in more conventional fixed-plate keyboards, including Drop’s own V2 series. This design choice reflects a commitment to providing a superior typing experience.
Pricing and Configuration
The Drop CSTM80 keyboard offers flexibility not only in design but also in pricing and configuration. For those who prefer to start from scratch, the barebones version of the CSTM80 is available for $99. This option allows enthusiasts to customize their keyboard with their choice of keycaps, stabilizers, and switches.
On the other hand, the fully-assembled version of the CSTM80, which comes with a black polycarbonate case, is priced at $149. This could be a more sensible value proposition for many, as it includes all the necessary components for a complete setup.
| Configuration | Price |
|---|---|
| Barebones CSTM80 | $99 |
| Fully-Assembled CSTM80 (with black polycarbonate case) | $149 |
When considering the additional cost of top cases, keycaps, stabilizers, and switches, it may be more economical to purchase the fully-built board. This approach allows users to customize their keyboard further down the line, rather than investing upfront in separate components.
Long-Term Appeal and Investment Potential
The Drop CSTM80 keyboard is more than just a peripheral; it’s a long-term investment for those who value customization and quality in their typing experience. The keyboard’s modular design and the wide array of swappable components cater to users who enjoy personalizing their setup to match their evolving tastes and preferences.
While the initial cost may be higher than some standard keyboards, the CSTM80’s durability and adaptability make it a worthwhile purchase for enthusiasts. The ability to update the look and feel of the keyboard without purchasing a new unit entirely adds to its appeal as a sustainable choice in the long run.
In conclusion, the customizable element of the Drop CSTM80 keyboard significantly enhances its allure, making it an appealing option for users looking for a high-quality, adaptable, and future-proof typing companion.
