Tomoko 87 Key – Unboxing
The Tomoko 87 Key Mechanical Keyboard is enclosed in a carton box with the Tomoko logo at the center.
The unit is cased in protective foam and is topped with foam rolls to protect the keyboard from scratches and other unwanted damage.
Inside the box, we have an instruction’s manual, a keycap puller, and a non-detachable 2.0 cable. I give a big thumbs up review to Tomoko because almost every device I’ve ordered from them comes with different tools just like this one. One great thing about the instruction’s manual is that it was specific about the N Key Rollover which allows you to press multiple keys simultaneously, perfect for gaming or work environment.
Build Quality
The Tomoko 87 Key Mechanical Keyboard has a simplistic design and is made out of durable plastic. The bottom surface feels rugged.
The opposite sides of the keyboard have rubber feet with a nose slip grip. You’ll also find three drainage holes under the keyboard which absorbs liquid if you spill your drinks. Above the rubber feet are the rubber pads that can prevent slippage.
Even though the keyboard is often called generic and has an understated look, the general appearance is pretty decent. The only distinctive design you will find on the keyboard is the Tomoko logo located at the top of the arrow keys.
Switches
Under the keycaps, you’ll find a Cherry MX blue clone manufactured by Switch Master.
These clone switches somehow blew me away. Even though they are not the most excellent set of switches in the world, but considering its price, they are beyond the ordinary. If the Cherry MX Blues has an actuation force of 50 grams, the Tomoko Switches have 60 grams, but the former certainly feels much heavier.
Compared to the Cherry MX switches, the one from Tomoko feels much lighter and creates a hollow sound, but overall, it is comfortable to type on.
Keycap Quality
The keycaps are made out of laser and grade ABS with a matte finish. The keycaps are pretty thin compared to top-quality brands, which is forgivable in my opinion because of the price.
The keycaps create a hollowed clack when you press down on the keys. It has a beautiful ergonomic design with raised and rounded keys.
There are only two LED lights you’ll find in this keyboard which are for the Caps lock and scroll lock keys.
Compared to other keyboards that have a 6.5-unit-long spacebar, this Tomoko keyboard is only 6.25 units long. With that, you can use a wide variety of keycaps to customize your keyboard.
Tomoko 87 Key – Features
- Splash-Proof Performance
The bottom surface of the keyboard has three drainage holes which let spilled liquid channel through.
The dents were designed to keep the keyboard working in case of water spills, but to test if the water-resistant features work just like how it was stated in the imprint, I let the keyboard sit in the sink with running water.
I let it wait outside for about an hour to dry. After plugging it back into my laptop, all the keys were functioning correctly.
- Anti-Ghosting
This keyboard is ideal for programmers, gamers, writers, and just about anyone because it lets all the 87 keys function even when you press them simultaneously.
After using the keyboard for a few hours playing Counter-Strike, I can say that the experience was pretty good. The keys on the Tomoko unit felt consistent and responsive with all the feedback that I could expect.
- Ergonomic Design
The keys are positioned in a curved point and slope, which allows you to type for hours without feeling any strain or fatigue.
The keys are in a raised position, which not only adds more comfort while typing but also boosts the overall design of the unit.
Overall Design
The Tomoko Keyboard appears to be simplistic in design. One can tag it as a generic-looking keyboard, but its minimalistic demeanor is just right not to make it look like an overly cheap product.
The only thing distinctive about it is the Tomoko logo which is found on top of the arrow keys.
Tomoko 87 Key – Editor’s Opinion
I think the fact that we can purchase a fully functioning mechanical keyboard at this price point is astounding in itself.
Compared to other ordinary keyboards that are over $100, the only thing people can hope for is desirable user experience. Meanwhile, the Tomoko keyboard, which is priced so cheaply, can already provide that.
The unit has a nice and sturdy construction. It even has a heft to it, which adds to the feel of a good-quality product.
My favorite about the product would be the minimalist and compact design. Even though it’s simplistic, it doesn’t look like a cheap product. Due to the lack of customized design and LED lights, the keyboard makes way for flexibility and is less distracting compared to other keyboard brands.
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