It looks like YUNZII is leaning hard into the “keyboard as art” trend with their latest release. If you’re tired of the clinical, grey-on-black aesthetic of most mechanical decks, the C98 Cake Meow might be the sugar rush your desk needs.
YUNZII C98 Cake Meow
That being said, the C98 Cake Meow isn’t just about the aesthetics; it’s a functional 96% layout keyboard designed to reclaim your desk space without sacrificing the numpad. By packing 99 keys into a tighter footprint, it offers a more ergonomic experience for gamers who need extra room for mouse flicks, while still keeping accountants happy with that dedicated number crunching area.
The board leans into a “creamy” typing experience, which is the current gold standard for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. This is achieved through a gasket-mounted design and multiple layers of sound-absorbing material, ensuring that every keypress sounds deep and “thocky” rather than thin or rattly.
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Connectivity is a major highlight here. YUNZII has opted for a “Tri-Mode” approach, meaning you aren’t tethered to your PC by a cable unless you want to be. You can switch between a low-latency 2.4 GHz wireless connection for gaming, Bluetooth for juggling multiple devices like tablets or laptops, and a standard USB-C wired connection for charging and stability.
Visually, the board stands out with its “Sandwich Side Light”, which casts a halo glow around the chassis. There is also a “Kitty-Eye LOG Light,” a playful nod to the cat-themed branding that adds a bit of character to the top-right of the board.
Key Features and Specifications
- Layout: 96% compact layout with 99 keys (includes numpad).
- Connectivity: Tri-Mode (2.4 GHz wireless, Bluetooth, and USB-C wired).
- Build Quality: Anodised aluminium frame for a premium, durable feel.
- Mounting Style: Gasket-mounted design for enhanced sound and comfort.
- Acoustics: Multiple layers of sound-absorbing foam to reduce ping and noise.
- Lighting: RGB Sandwich Side lighting and “Kitty-Eye” logo light.
- Colour Options: Pink, Beige, and Purple.
What We Think
I’m honestly quite impressed with the design of these keyboards. The inclusion of an anodised aluminium frame and a gasket mount system suggests that YUNZII is serious about build quality, not just relying on cutesy colours and design. The 96% layout is also a personal favourite for productivity; you get the utility of a full-sized board without the massive footprint that hits your mouse pad. It’s a bold look, for sure, but the specs underneath the “Cake Meow” branding are pretty damn good.
Where to Buy
The YUNZII C98 Cake Meow is currently available for pre-order directly from the YUNZII website. Early adopters can often snag a pre-order discount and an exclusive gift, though specific pricing can vary based on your region and shipping preferences.
