Input Club NightFox - The KING of Compact Keyboards?

Input Club is known for launching some of the best gaming keyboards on the market. The new NightFox follows in the footsteps of their WhiteFox but offers upgraded components, a stunning color and new options. But is the NightFox really worth a massive price based on its 65% keyboard size?
WhiteFox - bit.ly/WhiteFox_Keyboard
NightFox - bit.ly/NightFox_Keyboard
Configuration Tool - bit.ly/2zFmrnA
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Review unit provided free of charge by Input Club. This video is sponsored by Cooler Master. As per Hardware Canucks guidelines, no video direction was received from manufacturer. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
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#tkl #tenkeyless #hardwarecanucks #mechanicalkeyboard

[@siren604]

It's not a tkl, its a 65% board. As a guy who spends 99% of his time on r/mechanicalkeyboards I am thoroughly triggered.

[@amshermansen]

REEEEEEEE

[@WARnTEA]

Technically it is a TKL and 65%. TKL just refers to keyboards that don't have a numpad.

[@amshermansen]

Incorrect. TKL - Ten Key Less. It is a specific size.

[@DocTime56]

@@WARnTEA technically you're correct, but TKL or tenkeyless is a term that is used for/ refers to 80% keyboards

[@Michael-pg7rv]

@@amshermansen Can confirm

[@catgirldoll]

"It costs $180, which is super expensive for a keyboard" *Laughs in Korean custom*

[@catgirldoll]

Mitchell Tomlinson a 65% fully assembled with keycaps included...

[@Chaosfyre89]

I just burst out laughing in my company break room.

[@winthornguyen]

And the world laugh at you in every kind of way =]]] Try buy a Korean keyboard then buy an aluminum case with some good keycap and you will cry =[]]]]]

[@catgirldoll]

Quân Nguyễn Vũ Bảo ...what?

[@PradyumnVij]

Well I guess you haven't seen any of the $500 - 700 keyboards.

[@ahduhm]

Not a TKL. It's 65%

[@brendanbassett2525]

well it doesn't have the number pad, the "ten keys", so technically it is ten key-less

[@brendanbassett2525]

but yes tkl is 80% this is only 65%

[@ccricers]

I prefer 75%, smaller than TKL but still has the function keys

[@BA-oy9uo]

Hako Trues are not linear switches for anyone who's wondering.

[@mikel_zz]

BTW to anyone purchasing the NightFox. It comes with a really nice keyboard case so you dont have to purchase a third party one if you want to bring it with you on the go

[@VanillaCracker]

How is the typing on it? Switches, etc. I'm looking at this and a few others for purchase. Don't care about features, just quality of typing. Also how loud is it?

[@mikel_zz]

I Havent used it. The hako switches is a better? version of the new kailh box switches which are arguably the best switches on the market at the moment. Typing should be good seeing the good build quality with a good chassi

[@corradiac]

The manual shown in the video was for another inputclub keyboard, the K-Type. Which is a true TKL and full RGB.

[@JarrodsTech]

Looks great! A little expensive though.

[@YosuaNangin]

Jarrod'sTech Enthusiasts grade mechanical keyboards can go up to 500 dollars.

[@winfieldk6692]

Yeah, and i9s can cost 2,000$! Doesn't mean a 8700k should cost 2000$ though.

[@Stephen-re4oy]

Yosua Nangin some of the rarer IBM mechs easily go for over $1000

[@tranvu3578]

nah that's is the normal price for most enthusiast keyboard though, metal case, multiple layers, fully programmable... (like most of the custom keycap sets alone cost around that much or even higher)

[@YosuaNangin]

This is an i9 tho.

[@MechMerlin]

Glad to see the Nightfox making an appearance here! It's definitely more expensive than your usual big box store keyboard, but I think it's worth it! (Whitefox R2 owner here).

[@illitero]

Kono is currently selling off faulty "hair trigger" units for $29.99, which is an INSANE value for everything you get; but their shipping is INSANE for what you get: U.S. domestic shipping is just under $25 for standard services.

[@tian5864]

I love what input club is doing here. This is definitely a premium board targeted more towards keyboard enthusiasts rather than gamers. Even so, I am glad you guys are willing to venture into this admittedly crazy part of the mechanical keyboard community. I look forward to that hako switch follow-up!

[@LuisAragonIV]

Didn’t even have to watch the video to want this. Thumbnail alone is gold!!..

[@typecasto]

"180$, which is really expensive for a keyboard." Haha nice one. Oh wait he's serious. Oh no.

[@RickP0411]

There is a lot of complaint about the price of this keyboard, wait til you guys see the keycaps that are bought for these kinds of boards.

[@DrekavacScream]

Mhmm.. Im eyeing the Massdrop MiTo GMK Laser set... $120 - and that's a pretty good deal compared to a lot of the other options around.

[@DavidJohnston_deadhat]

I paid $300 for my hhkb, but then I spend all day typing and it was well worth it.

[@RickP0411]

John B I paid $75 for HC Granite

[@RickP0411]

David Johnston I want an hhkb or a Leopold to replace my Anne pro

[@carljenkins7354]

Great, very great content. Love your style and your presentation. Easily one of my favorite TechTubers.

[@Tkourtog]

I like the white, I'm in love with the black one... Great review Eber!

[@math001]

Good video man! Hope this introduces a lot of people to the true world of mechanical keyboards (40%, 60%, 65% w/ non-cherry switches). The ones presented in the frontlines, gaming keyboards, are good but these beasts are just on another level.

[@rafindeed]

What we actually want from big companies producing mechanical keyboards: double shot keys, good options on switchs that are not cherry, smooth linear, tactile switchs that are actually tactile, not brown cherry shit, macros, clicky switchs that don’t rattle, media keys, options for colors, coiled cabbles, hot swap boards, all for less than 150 USD. all things we already have from other mechanical keyboard producers.

[@Alexpc1276]

*_>189U$D_* *_>Clicked out of the video_*

[@nikkei325i]

Honestly who would spend almost $200 on a keyboard that does and displays like a $100 (mechanical) keyboard does? I feel bad for spending $99 on my Razer BlackWidow Ultimate Stealth...

[@RN-zb7li]

Alejandro Objío Welcome to the absurd world of enthusiasts

[@RN-zb7li]

blah Not a lot. Even less would spend $500+ but they do. When it comes to hobbies, you can't really argue anything against the fact that they're hobbies. Might look dumb for some people sure.

[@edwardnovick9904]

poor and doesn't understand actual good keyboards

[@smipth]

I was relieved its only 190.

[@MrCatLady]

Recently finished building my white fox that I got about a year ago on massdrop. Of course you get more for your money elsewhere, but the diy kit was a lot of fun.

[@sarfaraz.hosseini]

Input Club have made a series of beginner guide videos on KZbin on setting up their TKL 'K-Type' which could also be used for the 65% NightFox.

[@HumainXVII]

Looks very nice, Thanks for this great review, as always :)

[@flynnthehuman2315]

If I was able to purchase this keyboard I absolutely would, but I just wanted to say that this was an absolutely superb review! Thanks

[@casperclaudi1249]

Love these premium keyboards videos Keep Them cooming!!!!!

[@belalarqub1627]

WOW YOUR VOICE IS SO CALM!

[@shadowkreep]

Thats not a TKL tho

[@vietle8157]

Then wheres the numpad

[@umarkabiruddin]

That rack focus is clean af

[@StalewindFarto]

A simple white/blue back light as you said would make it seem more worth trying out the NF

[@Alexzanderc]

Stunning. My next keyboard I think

[@shadowkreep]

I have the Input Club K Type and THAT is the king of all TKL

[@shadowkreep]

Brannan DI if i knew what that was, i would tell you that my k type is gorgeous and had wonderful proprietary switches called halo true switches with a high force tactile bump, like 67g i think

[@RalphGoesToSpace]

I'm on my good ol' Logitech G710+, still rocking!

[@dariopetrusic4215]

So, the last time I saw one your videos you were suggesting people to store they're data in a RAID0 configured USB box (no comment, really), now you are "reviewing" a keyboard without any kind of typing test. Cant' wait for your next video man, you really doing well this YoutTube thing!

[@bambi005]

Beautiful keyboard and I was ready to jump on this as a work keyboard but the price.

[@MeistGamingChannel]

I would never get a keyboard without a backlight. It makes seeing keys so much easier.

[@winniechin6327]

Massdrop Alt Keyboard honestly might be better - same price point, exactly the same layout, has all these features, AND hot-swappable switches (any switches you want, at any time!)

[@5ean5ean22]

Eh...My Poker 3 is still going strong.

[@austinmeddy526]

Poker 3 rgb ftw

[@awl649]

1 keyboard is never enough

[@zerenityzz]

there is no end game

[@YuniorGamboa]

That keyboard looks soo good

[@jasonallison1913]

Can't wait to get mine! This is a keyboard for enthusiasts, not your typical gamer.

[@BaseRealityVR]

This is why I have been using the same keyboard for 10 years, Prices are Insane

[@Zecrid.]

If they had a NightFox in the full size keyboard I'd definitely consider it. Mostly because it has fox in the name and the color scheme, hitting me right in the consumer soft spot.

[@shapshooter7769]

I think you’re better off getting a custom keyboard built from Gon’s Keyboards; while HELLA expensive, they offer just about everything you could do to a keyboard. We’re talking per-key AND case lighting, lubing switches, spring swaps, anodizing finishes of choice and Bluetooth modules Like wtf.

[@GhostSamaritan]

dagambler999 K95 Platinum master race.

[@TheFender361]

Dude I JUST bought a fucking keyboard and now I want this...

[@JoeJacksonJr]

Nice looking, but IMHO without some LED lighting or just white text, the text on those keys would be to hard for me to see..

[@angelicoreXX]

i own the whitefox and i really love it :D

[@andresgallego5727]

I like my POK3R with blank keycaps. What i look for in a keyboard is the following. -Switch type and manufacturer: Cherry MX blues or browns are my favorite, i like Topre too. -Form factor: TKL and 60% are my favorites. -Build quality: a good case well finished made of aluminum is a must. -Programing: since i like TKL or 60% keyboards i need different layers so i can customize my keyboard to my taste, some are easier, some are harder to program. What i don't look into. -Backlight: it can look nice sometimes but i really don't care. -RGB: I could not care less -Macros: i can live without them

[@Specte]

Some misinformation here. Hako True switches are tactile, not linear. Hako Clears are also tactile.

[@peepeezza]

Mispelled mechanical in the title. Just a heads up so you can change it.

[@ThaHammieJaassee]

I feel like ed from techsource will love this keyboard xD keeping it black and red setup

[@crispybacon4240]

I backed them on kickstarter and I'm STILL waiting on my whitefox. Must be nice getting review copies. :\

[@han_pritcher]

I'm quite content with my $40 Anne Pro 60% keyboard. RGB, Bluetooth, programmable with PBT doubleshot keys. It's not aluminium but built solidly.

[@FindecanorNotGmail]

The Hako True aren't supposed to be linear but mildly tactile. I think the could also be too stiff for some people below the actuation point.

[@GurtTarctor]

Another really good option if you want a nice clean keyboard with excellent build quality and materials is the Vortex Race 3. Awesome keycaps, aluminium case, superb 75% form factor. I got the ISO UK version with Cherry MX Silvers and it's easily the nicest keyboard I've used so far. I much prefer options such as these over the frankly waaayy overpriced models from mainstream brands like Corsair which have really terrible keycaps for such an expensive bit of kit. I really love the clean and neutral design on the Race 3 too, almost 0 bezel!!

[@knockondood2782]

misleading title. that aint no tkl keyboard

[@knockondood2782]

Well it did a couple of hours ago. It got changed to compact

[@benjibo6451]

Not a TKL. It's actually 65.23%

[@classicrockonly]

I was considering the white fox for the quality and layout it offers, but wound up getting the cooler master masterkeys PBT version which is awesome. It’s hard to not use PBT caps now I’m afraid

[@KixPanganiban]

Holy fudge, you guys really set the standards for reviewing keyboards with this one. Superb cinematography as usual, and amazingly in-depth review. If I had money I'd shove it to whatever you want me to buy.

[@strongchad8130]

there wasn't even a typing test...

[@KixPanganiban]

There’s no point unless they actually test ALL possible switches for the Nightfox, which is honestly not what the video is for.

[@strongchad8130]

he could have tested his cherry mx variant, which is the most common switch anyway. backplate, and keycaps affect sound so i was interested to hear it.

[@ethre4758]

The switches aren't cherry mx though.

[@strongchad8130]

on his specific board they are. pay more attention to the video. he wanted the box switches but was unable to get them.

[@VanillaCracker]

So how is the experience of using the keyboard? You didn't really talk about how typing is on it, or using it at all. You just spoke about build quality, and the quirks with modifying key functions.

[@egz3637]

why intro reminds me of ed's first perfect setup? like what makes perfect setup pc? cable management? or color scheme?

[@Zobeid]

Did you ever do that review of the Hako True switches? I've built a couple of keyboards with Kailh BOX Burnt Orange, and they're my current favorite switch. Just wondering if Hako True would be similar or maybe even better?

[@kasa9691]

important things to me are a software, good build quality and good switches (red, blue, speed)

[@averycohen5924]

Was very interested till I saw the price. As you mentioned with software, for the price and quality, I may just still go with Vortex/Pok3r

[@jwbowen]

Not having a nonlinear switch option is a deal breaker for me.

[@GailsonPvPwtf]

If there was a basic backlit version with MX silent switches then you got yourself a purchase.

[@GreenAlexPower]

i hope it comes with a type C cable

[@FarrellMcGovern]

What this keyboard reminds me of my old "Happy Hacker" keyboard. I would have to dig it up, as I haven't used it in a while, since it uses only a ps2 style connector. What the keyboard in this review and the Happy Hacker keyboard give you is a good quality keyboard that takes up very little space. And as a touch typer, I am not as concerned about keyboard lighting or the quality of the lettering on the keycaps. As long as I have those two little bumps on the "F" and "J" keys, I fine! One thing that the Happy Hacker keyboard has that these Foxy keyboard don't is a proper placement of the Control key. It should be on the left of the "a" key...but, having some "skillz" (LOL), I can remap my keyboard under all the PC OSs I currently use, Linux, Windoze and Mac OS. If I used a separate keyboard on my Android devices, I would remap it there two, but then again, Android *IS* Linux. :-) Still, this keyboard does interest me, as I do miss my Happy Hacker keyboard, and would like a USB based replacement. This might be it.

[@byteaesx1373]

Great voice m8!

[@unleashthedog]

super-lovable design this keyboard! Shame doesn't have a numpad :(

[@ChristianArnold5107]

I like how programming this thing is cross-platform. As a Linux user I can definitely appreciate that feature. But for $189... that's a little steep.

[@mexicanmanjohn]

I have the k95 RGB (non platinum) and a pok3r rgb 60% keyboard and I prefer the k95 most of the time. The only time I like using the 60% keyboard is for gaming so I have more room to move my mouse.

[@shapshooter7769]

For all the people who complain about pricing, simply “building” your own keyboards can get even more expensive than this one. Some rough math here fellas: Laser/waterjet cutting metal is hella expensive in just about any machine shop and is easily $150 or more just to get keyboard plates cut. Factor in another $70 for switches off Digikey (thank god bulk pricing helps a bit), then another $80 to get a PCB that fits your desired layout. Then another $50 for doubleshot PBT caps, and another $30 for LEDS. For those that really go the extra mile, maybe another $50 for swapping springs, lube and O-rings. Even if you can give up on any of these, the major components like PCB, switches, keycaps and case is easily $200. Economies of scale people.

[@tomobarker]

what currency is this? go on aliexpress, aluminium case is like $70USD on average, if you want the switches in the vid then sure it would be pricey, oorrrr get some Kailh BOX blacks for like $25-30USD, like $34 for a pcb. keycaps are around what you said. LEDs, maybe a lil less. in total a similar keyboard could be between $150-190USD definitely not $200.

[@lionellim1101]

@Drusby Think you are just another superficial, non economics guy who thinks clearly on the surface. It cost your time and errors that you fucked up when building your own keyboard. Then how? buying extra replacement parts cost even more money that you actually planned. It will cost more to build one yourself that buying a mass produced keyboard in the market. Like duh. Think you are just that simple minded who doesnt know that.

[@tomobarker]

It's pretty easy to do, and hard to fuck up. unless you just leave your soldering iron in the same place for 30 seconds you ain't gonna break it. just don't be dumb. All you do is put the switches into the pcb and metal plate, then solder the switches pins, screw the case together and bam. some require more soldering but it's all pretty hard to actually harm the parts. the most at risk is the pcb, but unless you are EXTREMELY clumsy it's nothing to worry about. plus you get a sense of accomplishment that you made your own keyboard. It's also most likely unique to you and no one will have one. If you are really bad at using a soldering iron, don't have the time to make one (around 2-3 hours your first time), or just want something easy then go ahead and buy a prebuilt keyboard. but if you want a one of a kind, special and customized keyboard to your needs, then buy parts and have a fun time making your own!

[@tomobarker]

Also, if you want a cheaper custom keyboard, get a plastic case, saves you like $55. or buy a kit that comes with everything except the switches and keycaps. usually end up cheaper.

[@rsdraul]

Jisus, fellas talking about building a keyboard like if it was a space shuttle... Do your research, find a good tutorial and get your soldering on, you can get it 100% right the first time without any complication whatsoever. Regarding price, I just bought a tada68 for 60 euros, a sexy ass metallic case for 40 and a set of SA doble shot abs keycaps for 60... Hell of a set for 200 dollars. And I do reckon those where AliExpress 8th anniversary prices... But still, if you have time to preorder, you have time to wait for discounts.

[@miraflynn8935]

Yeah... I still want to be able to remap the function keys that I never use using AHK... but I love TKL. This is too small for me.

[@thonygenz0]

I like how people loses their minds on the Nightfox lol. Nightfox or any enthusiast premium board is all about quality. PCBs, Case, Switches, Keycaps even the damn usb cable. Not to mention the production of this (ITS NOT MASS PRODUCED SO GTFO YOU MASS PRODUCED IDIOTS). People are quick to judge without trying other board or any of its kind lol. RGB with shitty ass laser etched keycaps? With aluminum plate but with plastic housing? and a standard cherry or any other switch that feels scratchy when typing? and non standard type layout? you could build yourself an rgb mech keyboard with just 100 usd or under. and try building an all aluminum keyboard with good switches and keycaps. lets see.

[@user-xo7hb6ts7j]

did he fucking eat Dmitriy?

[@fabriziovarone2118]

It's Ebro's Hardware now.

[@Criptaike]

DAEDRADONKEY calm down dude wth

[@joe.black-mortem.angelos]

Savage

[@Anthony07a]

Fr where is dmitriy he hasnt been in a vid for a while

[@batih777]

Владимир Харченко Диму съели(

[@prashantchaturvedi8146]

apparently their office is very close to my place!

[@johankeijzer]

Does the final product come with the transparent Hako True switch housing? That would break the stealthy look quite a bit...

[@chil1t0]

Is there a budget 60% mechanical keyboard that you can recommend me???

[@tv_Florimer]

I really absolutely need F keys to be actual buttons. Other than that - pretty awesome! :D

[@jesseguerrero6631]

Maybe Kyle from BitWit will want it for his 1080ti "HTPC"

[@zstewart93]

I still think the Pok3r is the better keyboard. You can use the function keys for more stuff and it's hardware based so doesn't require software if you're moving around machines a lot, plus it has backlighting out of the box at a similar price.

[@mpalen19]

I'm not a fan of floating key designs which does include the WhiteFox. The NightFox on the other hand can be added to a very few notable exceptions: Winkeyless B.87, GON NS NerD TKL & TEX Yoda. As far as 65% keyboards go though, nothing beats the Leopold FC660C in my opinion.

[@levi9682]

There are so many other options for this "genre" of keyboards: annepro, poker, tada, etc. You might want to check these other ones out if you're going to review these kinds of keyboards.

[@pengu470]

im just jealous you guys have it first :(

[@Sam-lr9oi]

I got an IBM Model M at a Goodwill for $3. I'm not sure I could justify the cost.

[@antte7782]

HEY, ITS HARDWARECANUCKS FROM IBRA

[@Yalka_Arc]

nah, I'll still pick up tina or viper and gmk keycaps ftw

[@pshanetju2598]

Why am I deeply in love? I changed my preference from gaming to content.

[@BS-bd5uq]

How does this compare to Vortex Race 3? They both seem to target to the similar audience at similar prices with similar tastes

[@madebymiguel]

I wish it had hot-swappable switches

[@tiagodeaviz]

I'll stick to my model M, thanks.

[@357mview2]

I need white backlight for night vision, I just they’ve one

[@coffeepot3123]

At that price point there should be matias switches on the board.

[@gr33nbits93]

Looks great and i do love the size but my Gskill km780rgb with browns and man all the features you want and more i can't switch that NightFox looks awesome but a bit high on the price for the features. It's not even Cherry...

[@iNViSiBiLiTi]

King of TKL is the OTD 356CL

[@EVR1AL]

Mitsumi Classic 2001 still doing stronk but dirty AF.

[@zanewong2005]

Didn't see that ad of corsair keyboard coming...

[@SC10tiuning]

Yess Finally a small Keyboard without that useless function keys and without a Numpad!

[@oscar96h]

Do you reckon I could configure the keyboard to have a Swedish layout, or to be more specific. Have the "å", "ä" and "ö" keys. This keyboard looks really dope and it would really suck if something like that have to stop me from buying a NightFox.

[@alexbates8934]

Beautiful. But very expensive compared to my $130 Ducky Mini, which is also aluminum and RGB. Too bad Ducky stopped making them and stopped selling on Amazon altogether :(

[@DrinkToTheMighty]

Can anyone explain why this is a better buy than the comparably priced Corsair k95? It seems like the k95 has so much more. I really enjoy the 65% over a full keyboard, though. Am I missing something? This looks like it would be a great budget keyboard of $100 - barebones, yet quality.

[@mgw5377]

If I could just get some red static back lightning I would but this

[@davidjohnston4240]

I hate the arrow positions on all these keyboard. HHKB got it right and so that's what I use. Without moving your right hand, plant you little finger on Fn and and the arrows are right under your fingers.

[@ze_or]

i'm here typing this with my planck 40% keyboard