An aluminum keyboard refers to a keyboard where the entire casing is made of thick aluminum alloy. Keyboards with an aluminum top cover and a plastic bottom casing (e.g., Akko 6104) or those with a thin aluminum decorative weight (e.g., Akko 5098B Plus) are not considered aluminum keyboards.

Compared to plastic keyboards, aluminum keyboards generally offer three key advantages: better texture, heavier weight, and enhanced typing sound potential.

1) Texture

Aluminum keyboards naturally have a metallic silver color and a rough surface. After being processed into a keyboard shell, they typically undergo several surface treatments (such as spraying, anodizing, and electrophoresis) to smooth the surface and add different colors. Anodized aluminum, in particular, retains the metal’s original luster while allowing for coloring, which gives it a premium feel. Visually and tactically, aluminum keyboards are a significant upgrade from plastic-cased keyboards. As a result, the quality of the surface finish is an important factor when evaluating an aluminum keyboard.

It’s important to note that the coatings from these surface treatments can be relatively fragile and may scratch easily, causing wear and tear. That’s why we apply protective films on aluminum keyboards before they leave the factory to better protect them during transport.

2) Weight

Because aluminum alloy is denser than plastic, aluminum keyboards generally weigh over 1.5 kg, with some models reaching up to 2.5 kg—much heavier than plastic keyboards (which typically weigh around 1 kg). This added weight often gives the keyboard a solid and stable feel, which is highly appreciated by keyboard enthusiasts. However, if portability is a priority, aluminum keyboards may not be the best choice.

3) Typing Sound

With the rise of the internet, people have become more eager to share new trends. As a result, typing sound has become a significant factor in evaluating keyboard quality. The high density of aluminum alloy not only adds weight but also provides acoustic dampening, which theoretically results in a more muted, focused typing sound—often described as the “thocky sound” many keyboard enthusiasts favor.

However, typing sound is also influenced by other factors, such as the switch type, structural design, and dampening materials. While the aluminum alloy shell can enhance the sound, don’t automatically assume that “aluminum keyboards always sound better” (just like Gasket doesn’t necessarily mean soft and bouncy). An aluminum keyboard simply offers more potential for better sound quality.

In addition to these advantages, aluminum keyboards have been a staple for high-end mechanical keyboards. Akko has been working for years to make aluminum mechanical keyboards accessible and affordable through mass production.

This means that keyboard enthusiasts no longer need to wait months or even years for a high-end aluminum keyboard. Now, they can simply shop online and receive their dream aluminum keyboard in just a few days or weeks.

The MOD series is Akko’s very first aluminum keyboard, and it has quickly become a favorite among users. The MOD-K01 is set to launch soon, so stay tuned for its release in Q1 2025!