Qwertykeys Evo 80: Premium TKL keyboard with wireless features at a top price

1 - Introduction and unboxing 2 - Technical data and features 3 - Software, JSON file and firmware update 4 - Sound check, latencies and conclusion

Technical data and features

The Qwertykeys Evo 80 is a high-quality TKL keyboard that combines premium quality with flexible wireless and wired use. Thanks to tri-mode connectivity, the keyboard can be used via USB-C, 2.4 GHz wireless or Bluetooth. Particularly noteworthy is the Butterfly Leaf Spring Mounting System, which, in combination with high-quality materials such as aluminum and stainless steel, ensures a precise typing experience. With a weight of almost 2 kg, solid construction and a sophisticated damping concept, the Evo 80 is clearly in the premium segment. The Tyrian color variant also gives the board an elegant and modern look. Whether for frequent writers, gamers or enthusiasts – the Evo 80 offers a well thought-out overall package at a very attractive price.

Ball catch mechanism

The ball-catch mechanism and the magnetic connections are recognizable. This technology has already been used in the Neo Studio and has proven itself in practice. Thanks to this design, the housing can be opened without tools – a simple push and a slight lift are enough. This allows users to easily dismantle the keyboard, for example to change keycaps or for maintenance work, without running the risk of damaging the top case. Although the Evo 80 is ready to use straight out of the box, this modular structure allows a high degree of flexibility for enthusiasts who value easy customization and maintenance.

The keycaps

The Qwertykeys Evo 80 is equipped with Dye-Sub PBT keycaps, which not only impress with their high resistance, but also positively accentuate the sound character of the installed switches. In order to achieve an optimum result, new shapes have even been developed for this model to eliminate previous problems inside the keycaps. This results in a clearer, richer sound when typing and an overall improved typing feel.

The keycaps have a Cherry profile, which is already familiar to many users and provides a comfortable, ergonomic typing experience right from the start. In combination with the internal damping elements and the sturdy housing, the choice of PBT keycaps makes a decisive contribution to the Evo 80 leaving a high-quality impression both acoustically and haptically. They really are top quality and also have strong walls. There is nothing to complain about here.

“The board is not quite as open when it comes to changing the keyboard layout, but that’s okay. At least the Caps Lock key can be changed, which isn’t a bad thing.”

The hotswap sockets

The Qwertykeys Evo 80 uses Kailh hot-swap sockets, which make it easy to change the switches. These sockets are installed directly on the circuit board and allow switches to be plugged in and out without soldering. This allows you to try out different switch types at any time, whether for a different sound character or a different typing feel.

The Kailh sockets are considered to be particularly reliable and durable. They are designed to withstand multiple insertions and removals without losing stability. Thanks to their precise manufacturing, they create a secure contact between the switch and PCB, which ensures clean signal transmission.

The stabilizers

Plate-mount rods are installed here, but they fit well and have also been well prepared. Plate-mount rods can also be purchased and are therefore fully compatible with all options. And by the way… Take a look at the wall thickness of the caps. That’s how it should be, top! These keycaps also make a significant contribution to the sound.

The Leaf Spring System

With the Evo 80, Evoworks has fundamentally revised the previous leaf spring design and developed a new construction known as the Butterfly Leaf Spring Mount. The pivot point is no longer at one end but in the middle. This change creates a more stable and even spring action, which ensures a more controlled feel. In addition, the built-in gasket structure serves as a buffer between the plate and the leaf spring. This combination significantly reduces unwanted hollow noises and improves both the acoustic performance and the haptic experience when typing. The Butterfly Leaf Spring Mount is therefore one of the central technical features of the Evo 80, which sets it apart from classic designs and gives it a special character.

I like that very much. And the whole thing also looks high quality. By the way, if you take the foams out, you even get a real gasket mount feeling

The switches

If you are looking for a keyboard with a rich, “thocky” and slightly “marbled” sound, you should go for the version with the Oat Switches. In combination with the PP plate, these switches produce a rounder, creamier typing sound, which is particularly suited to users who value a warm, full sound character when typing.

The second option for the Evo 80 uses Azure Linear Switches in combination with an FR4 plate. This variant delivers a clearer, crisper sound profile with a fresh and precise attack. In combination with the FR4 plate, a significantly “clackier” typing feel is created, which contrasts with the rounder and softer characteristics of the Oat Switch variant.

This gives buyers two distinctly different sound profiles to choose from: creamy and full with Oat PP or crisp and clear with Azure FR4. This means that every user can choose between a rather warm or a precise, clacking typing sound, depending on their preference.

The colors

The Qwertykeys Evo 80 is available in a total of “ten” attractive color variants, so there really is a suitable version for every taste. There are five anodized versions and five painted versions to choose from. The anodized models are Nimbus, Tyrian, Sandgold, Scarlet and Ink. They impress with their elegant, matt surface and particularly durable coating. The colors range from subtle and elegant to bold and eye-catching.

The range is complemented by spray-coated models in the colors Iceberg, Spark, Cream, Butter Yellow and Baby Pink. These variants bring even more variety into play and focus on fresh, vibrant tones that make the board stand out visually. With a total of ten color options, Qwertykeys covers a broad palette. From serious and restrained to playful and colorful, there is the right version for every user.

ISO-DE and ANSI format

Important! What I would like to point out at this point is the following. I have received the board here in the ANSI version and have also asked for it. But of course this board is also available in ISO-DE format! Please note that. I personally prefer ANSI. You can also assign them in Deutch with corresponding keycaps. But of course an ANSI or ISO-DE board is delivered with unique corresponding caps. So you can choose what you want when you order. Both versions look great.