Final Thoughts
When Melgeek first reached out about taking a look at this keyboard I was quite excited as I was a big fan of the previous Melgeek keyboards we’ve reviewed. On top of that the colorways that were offered just looked so unique. If there is one thing that Melgeek does right is they create these really awesome colorways that looks like nothing else that is out there and the Modern97 is no exception to that. The Ocean colorway that we have looks amazing and is definitely going to catch the attention of anyone walking by your desk.
Another thing that Melgeek does well is give you many of the same features you would expect from a custom-built keyboard in a pre-built. These include things like a gasket-mount design with multiple dampening pads, factory-lubed mechanical key switches, a hot-swappable design, and much more! All of this makes for a great overall typing experience and of course sound. We have a sound test on the previous page if you want to check out it, but this keyboard with the Kailh Sonic53 sounds amazing. The Sonic53’s are designed as a linear speed switch, which makes them ideal for gaming. Of course you have other switch options as well.
While I am a fan of smaller keyboards, the 97% layout is not too bad as its not massive like many other full-size keyboards. And for those who can’t work without a full-size you are going to love this keyboard as it gives you your full compliment of keys, full number pad, arrow keys, and full function row.
It was nice to see Melgeek update their software and the new Hive software is pretty straight forward and easy to use, plus it has a ton of customization options.
I think the only thing Melgeek could improve on this keyboard is the keycaps themselves. They are using ABS double-shout keycaps which do feel pretty good, but I think having PBT keycaps would have really made this keyboard special. Not only would they feel better and stronger but they would show less shine and wear.
Right now Melgeek is offering this keyboard for $139, which I think is an excellent price for what you are getting here. Overall ThinkComputers gives the Melgeek Modern97 Mechanical Keyboard a 9 out of 10 score and our Recommended Award!
Pros:
– Unique colorways
– Sounds and feels great
– Multiple connectivity options
– New Hive software
– Gasket-mount design with multiple dampening layers
– Hot-swappable switch design
– Price
Cons:
– Only ABS keycaps, not PBT
