I was extremely surprised when I first got to try DCX 9009, it’s a great implementation of classic colour scheme.
Quality:
This is a double shot ABS set with high quality crisp legends. A lot of manufacturers typically have issues with the legends on the modifier keys, namely Shift and Control, but as you can see from my pictures the legends on the mod keys are really well done and there are no orphan characters. Additionally, there is no warping on any of the keys. The spacebar I got was as straight as it gets, but that may vary from set to set.
Typing feel and sound:
It’s really pleasant to type on, the surface of the keys is not too smooth or too grainy, I would say it’s just the right amount. I have only been using them for about a week, so I hope they don’t shine as easily as other ABS sets. Only time will tell..
These keys are about 1.55mm of thickness and can produce a sound which is closer to the clacky spectrum, however take that with a pinch (or jar) of salt as this is highly dependent on your build, type of switches, usage of foams etc.
Compatibility:
The set has great compatibility and has support for 60%, 65%, 75%, TKL and 100%+ layouts.
Issues:
Nothing major, but I would have hoped the spacebar was also double shot. Also, I think there is a bit of room for improvement on the stems to better support stabs from various manufacturers. The space bar stems seem to be a tad short to grip with Staebies v2 stabs and the spacebar does not return. But if I install the space bar up-side-down, as shown in my pics, that problem goes away. This seems to be happening only with steabies as I tried owlstabs and gateron stabs and I did not face any problems.
Overall:
At 99 USD Drop sets a new benchmark for high quality sets at a reasonable price. Often, you may get them discounted during BOGO sales or discount periods which make them even more of a bargain!
Score:
4.7
This is a pretty unique artisan, and at a good price, too.
The keeb within a keeb is a funny concept; I think Xzibit would approve.
But besides looking good, this keycap has a functional profile. It’s probably closest to DCX Row 2, albeit with a slight downward angle. You could probably place it anywhere without disrupting your layout too much.
I hope Drop puts out more of these artisans, maybe one with each new DCX colorway?
It's 9009. Everyone knows what 9009 is. It has DCX kitting and the quality associated with it, so it'll fit most +60% boards.
It's boring, but sometimes boring is okay.
Honestly, from using their BoW dcx keycaps as a daily driver for such a long time, it is so refreshing to have a different colorway that still provides smooth, but rigid typing. I cant say anything but great design and beautiful execution. Also, the artisan keycap looks great!
These keycaps feel great to type on and have a quality feeling build. The legends are crisp and the design is subtle, but not boring.
Also, I did get these on a BOGO sale, so I paid ~$60 for the set. I believe they would be worth the full price ($99), however, I would wait for them to go on sale.
I'll revisit this review in the future if I feel the quality has deteriorated.
Got this for my SO.
She really likes the sound and feel. Colorway is decent.. "cute" according to her, but it could use some more accents.. Could also do with some extra R4 function keycaps as it doesn't quite populate a Keychron Q6