Mechanical keyboards have become more than just tools for typing— When it comes to standing out, the YUNZII AL65 is one of those keyboards that immediately grabs your attention. From its jaw-dropping hollow side-cut design to the dazzling 360° RGB lighting, this keyboard it’s a piece of art that sits proudly on your desk.
The AL65 is part of YUNZII’s lineup, and it’s clear they’ve put a lot of thought into making it unique. The CNC aluminum case gives it a premium feel, while the customizable keycaps let you tweak its look to match your vibe. But what really sets it apart is how it blends aesthetics with performance. It’s not just about looking good; this keyboard is packed with features like triple-mode connectivity, QMK/VIA support for endless customization, and switches that promise a smooth, quiet typing experience.
What makes the YUNZII AL65 even more intriguing is its versatility. You can go all-in on the RGB glow-up or switch to a sleek, understated look by swapping out the transparent keycaps for solid ones. Plus, the sound-dampening foam inside ensures that every keystroke feels as good as it sounds. Sure, it might be a bit pricier than some other options out there, but once you see it in action—or better yet, try it yourself—you’ll understand why so many people are raving about it.
Design and Build Quality
The YUNZII AL65 is one of those keyboards that immediately grabs your attention the moment you see it. Its bold and unique design screams premium quality without being over-the-top flashy. The hollow side-cut design is the star of the show here. It’s not just a random aesthetic choice—it actually enhances the keyboard’s overall vibe by letting the RGB lighting shine through in a way that feels intentional and artistic. This isn’t just some boring slab of metal; it’s a statement piece. Think of it as the Marvel Venom-inspired cousin of mechanical keyboards—edgy but still refined.
The CNC aluminum case is where things get even more impressive. You can tell right away that this isn’t your run-of-the-mill plastic build. The aluminum feels dense and sturdy, giving the keyboard a weighty presence on the desk that says, “I’m here to stay.” At 1.05 kg, it’s not exactly light, but that heft adds to the feeling of durability and luxury. The black bottom case contrasts beautifully with the aluminum frame, creating a sleek and modern look that would fit perfectly into any high-end desk setup. It’s the kind of keyboard that makes you want to clear off your desk just to give it the spotlight it deserves.
Flip the keyboard over, and you’ll find a clean, no-nonsense layout. No fold-out legs or unnecessary clutter here—just six screws holding everything together. Those screws are hex-style, which might be slightly annoying if you don’t have the right tool handy, but once you open it up, you’ll see why they went with this design. Inside, the sandwich-style construction is neatly organized, with layers of foam strategically placed to dampen sound and improve typing feel.
Speaking of performance, the RGB lighting deserves its own shoutout. The 360° surround effect isn’t just a gimmick—it genuinely elevates the entire experience. From the front to the sides, the glow is consistent and bright, turning the keyboard into a glowing centerpiece. And because the top housing is made of polycarbonate, the light diffuses evenly, avoiding harsh spots or uneven brightness. Even the USB-C port and connection switch are seamlessly integrated into the design, maintaining the keyboard’s clean lines and polished appearance.
The devil is always in the details, and the AL65 nails them. The edges are smooth, with no sharp corners or rough finishes to ruin the premium feel. Every corner, every screw, every bit of the frame feels meticulously crafted. Even the logo placement—a subtle yet stylish touch on the top left—is done in a way that doesn’t scream for attention but still catches your eye.
At the end of the day, the AL65’s design and build quality hit all the right notes. It’s sturdy without being clunky, stylish without being gaudy, and packed with features that make it stand out in a sea of generic options. For $129.99, it punches above its weight class in terms of aesthetics and craftsmanship. This is a keyboard that doesn’t just sit on your desk—it owns it.
Keycaps and Switches
The YUNZII AL65 doesn’t just stop at its stunning design and build quality—it also brings a lot to the table regarding keycaps and switches. You interact with These parts of the keyboard the most, so they better be good. And thankfully, the AL65 delivers in spades.
Starting with the keycaps, you have a mix of materials and styles catering to aesthetics and functionality. Most keycaps are made from double-shot PBT, which is a fancy way of saying they’re durable and won’t wear down easily. PBT is known for resisting the shiny, greasy look that some cheaper keycaps develop over time, so these should stay looking fresh even after months (or years) of heavy use. On top of that, the legends on the keycaps are crisp and clean, thanks to the double-shot molding process. This means the lettering isn’t going anywhere, no matter how much you type or game.
But here’s where things get interesting: the right side of the keyboard features transparent PC keycaps. These aren’t just for show—they’re designed to let the RGB lighting shine through in a way that’s hard to ignore. If you’re into vibrant, glowing setups, this feature alone might sell you on the keyboard. And if you’re not a fan of the transparent look? No worries.
The package includes extra keycap sets, including a gray set with MOS legends that blend seamlessly with Apple devices or any sleek, minimalist setup. Swapping them out is easy, thanks to the included keycap puller, so you can customize the look to match your vibe.
Now, onto the switches. The YUNZII AL65 gives you two solid options: YUNZII Milk V2 switches or Gateron Zero switches. Both are linear switches, meaning there’s no tactile bump or click when you press down—just smooth, consistent action all the way through. The Milk V2 switches are buttery smooth, almost creamy under your fingers, making them perfect for fast typists or gamers who need precision without noise.
They feel soft and light, with just enough resistance to keep things comfortable during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero switches offer a slightly firmer feel while still maintaining that silky-smooth actuation. They’re also quieter than many other linear switches, which is a big plus if you’re working in a shared space or don’t want to disturb anyone nearby.
For those who love tinkering, the AL65 supports hot-swappable switches. This means you can swap out the stock switches for something else without needing to solder anything. Want to try out tactile switches instead of linears? Go for it. Prefer a heavier switch with more feedback? That’s an option too. The flexibility to experiment with different switches makes this keyboard a great choice for beginners dipping their toes into the world of custom keyboards, as well as seasoned enthusiasts who know exactly what they want.
One thing worth noting is the south-facing RGB LEDs. This placement works perfectly with the transparent keycaps, allowing for side-printed legends if that’s your style. It also ensures that the lighting is evenly distributed, avoiding harsh spots or uneven brightness. Even the stabilizers benefit from the RGB glow, adding an extra layer of visual flair to the overall design.
Internal Structure and Sound Dampening
Popping open the case reveals a sandwich-style construction that’s as neat as it is functional. The keyboard uses a five-layer sound-dampening system, which is pretty impressive for a pre-built board at this price point. You’ve got layers of foam strategically placed to minimize resonance and unwanted noise, creating a typing experience that feels premium and polished.
Starting from the top, there’s a layer of sandwich foam right under the plate. This helps absorb vibrations before they can bounce around inside the aluminum case. Below that sits the switch pad, adding another layer of cushioning to soften the sound profile further. Then comes a transparent film to protect the PCB while still allowing light to pass through for that vibrant RGB glow. Underneath the PCB, you’ll find yet another layer of foam, this time specifically designed to dampen any residual noise from the switches themselves. Finally, there’s a PET film at the very bottom, adding one last touch of insulation. All these layers work together to create a muffled, “thocky” sound that’s satisfying without being too loud or hollow.
One thing worth mentioning is the flex-cut PC plate. While it doesn’t have massive flex like some gasket-mounted boards, it does add a subtle give to each keystroke, softening the impact and contributing to the overall sound. Paired with the silicone gaskets embedded in the frame, this design minimizes rattle and creates a more refined auditory experience. It’s not going to replace your favorite custom-built board, but for a pre-built keyboard, it’s hard to complain.
Another detail that stands out is the attention given to stabilizers. They’re plate-mounted and come pre-lubed, which makes them noticeably smoother than what you’d typically find on stock keyboards. Larger keys like the spacebar and shift keys feel stable and consistent, with minimal rattle or wobble. Sure, perfectionists might want to fine-tune them further, but most people will be happy with how they perform right out of the box.
The 8,000mAh battery takes up a good chunk of the interior real estate, but it’s neatly tucked away beneath the PCB. Two separate batteries combine to hit that capacity, ensuring long-lasting performance.
Software
The YUNZII AL65 has software features that make it a joy to customize and use. One of the standout aspects is its compatibility with QMK and VIA, two open-source tools that let you tweak almost every keyboard aspect without downloading sketchy third-party apps. This alone is a big deal for people who love personalizing their gear but don’t want to deal with complicated setups or shady downloads.
QMK and VIA are like magic wands for your keyboard. With these tools, you can remap keys, create macros, and adjust RGB lighting to your heart’s content. The VIA app, in particular, is super user-friendly. You just plug in the keyboard, load up the web app, and start customizing. It’s all done through a clean interface where you can drag and drop commands onto specific keys. Want to turn your Caps Lock into a dedicated media control? Done. Need a single keypress to type out an entire email signature? Easy. The possibilities are endless, and the best part is that it’s all saved directly to the keyboard, so your settings stick even if you switch devices.
One thing worth mentioning is that setting up VIA isn’t entirely plug-and-play—at least not yet. During the initial release, I had trouble finding the correct JSON file needed to get full functionality. This file essentially tells VIA how your keyboard is laid out and what features it supports. Thankfully, the process isn’t too complicated once you figure it out. Just head to the official YUNZII website, grab the file, unzip it, and upload it to VIA. After that, everything works smoothly. Hopefully, this step will become more streamlined as the firmware updates.
RGB customization is another area where the AL65 shines. You don’t need any fancy software to tweak the lighting; it’s all controlled via function keys right on the board. Want to change the brightness or cycle through effects? Just hit the right combo, and you’re good to go. But if you prefer more granular control, VIA has you covered there too. You can fine-tune the RGB animations, layer them across different zones, and even sync them with other compatible devices. The hollow side-cut design makes the RGB effects pop in a futuristic and artistic way. It’s the kind of glow-up that turns heads, whether you’re at your desk or showing off your setup to friends.
Another cool feature is the Mod-Tap functionality. For those unfamiliar, Mod-Tap lets you assign two actions to a single key. For example, when held down, you can set a key to act as a Shift key but send a different command when tapped quickly. This is especially useful for maximizing efficiency on a compact 65% layout with limited space. Setting this up requires diving into the QMK settings, but it’s surprisingly intuitive once you get the hang of it. That said, there is one hiccup—Mod-Tap doesn’t always work perfectly in wireless mode, particularly when switching between input methods like English or other language layouts. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s something to keep in mind if you plan to use the keyboard wirelessly for multilingual typing.
Performance and Typing Experience
The YUNZII AL65 delivers a typing experience that feels smooth, responsive, and just plain satisfying. Right out of the box, it’s clear this keyboard wasn’t designed with shortcuts in mind—it was built to impress. The switches, whether you go for the YUNZII Milk V2 or Gateron Zero options, are buttery smooth under your fingers. There’s no harsh scratchiness or awkward resistance when pressing down. Instead, you get a consistent, light feel that makes typing for hours on end surprisingly comfortable. It’s not too soft where it feels mushy, but also not so stiff that it tires out your fingers. It strikes a nice balance.
One thing that stands out is how quiet the keyboard is compared to other mechanical boards. Sure, there’s still a bit of a “clack” when bottoming out, but it’s more subdued than what you’d hear from louder switches like Blues or Greens. The sound has a slightly creamy tone to it, almost like a mix between a thock and a soft click. It’s pleasant without being overbearing, though some might find the higher-pitched release noise a little unexpected at first. If you’re sensitive to sounds, swapping out the stock switches for something quieter, like the Gateron Zeros, could help fine-tune it even further.
The stabilizers deserve a mention too. They’re plate-mounted and come pre-lubed, which means they don’t rattle or clatter when you hit larger keys like the spacebar or shift keys. That’s a big deal because rattling stabs can ruin an otherwise great typing experience. On the AL65, these keys feel stable and consistent, blending seamlessly into the board’s overall performance. Even the enter key, which often becomes a squeaky mess on lesser keyboards, stays smooth and reliable here.
Gaming on the AL65 is equally enjoyable. The linear switches provide quick actuation without any tactile bump slowing you down. And since the keyboard supports triple-mode connectivity, you can switch between wired, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz wireless depending on your setup. Gamers who prefer low-latency connections will likely stick to the wired or dongle modes, but the Bluetooth option holds its own for casual play. Just keep in mind that Mod-Tap functionality, useful for remapping inputs, doesn’t always behave perfectly in wireless mode—something to watch out for if you plan to use it for multilingual setups or advanced macros.
Another aspect worth noting is how well the gasket mount design works. Paired with the five layers of foam inside, the keyboard manages to absorb vibrations effectively, creating a typing sound that’s muted yet crisp. You won’t hear any hollow echoes or unwanted resonance, even during intense typing sessions. This attention to detail really shines through, giving the AL65 a premium feel despite its relatively affordable price tag.
Battery life
The YUNZII AL65 doesn’t mess around regarding battery life—it’s packing a whopping 8,000mAh capacity. To put it into perspective, most keyboards in this category hover around 4,000mAh or less, so having double that is a big deal. This means you can go weeks, if not months, without needing to recharge, depending on how you use it.
What makes the battery setup even cooler is that it’s split into two 4,000mAh cells tucked neatly inside the aluminum case. Now, the real kicker is how the battery performs across different modes. If you’re using the keyboard in Bluetooth mode, it sips power like a pro. Bluetooth is generally more energy-efficient than 2.4GHz wireless, so you’ll get the longest life out of this connection type. Switching over to the 2.4GHz dongle will drain the battery faster, but even then, the 8,000mAh capacity ensures you won’t be tethered to a charger anytime soon. And if you prefer wired mode, the USB-C port keeps things simple by charging quickly while also letting you use the keyboard during the process.
One thing worth noting is how the RGB lighting impacts battery life. Sure, those vibrant 360° RGB effects look amazing, but they do take a toll on the battery. Cranking the brightness up and running all the animations will naturally shorten your usage time between charges. That said, you can always dial it back or switch to a static color if you want to stretch out the battery life. It’s all about finding that sweet spot between aesthetics and practicality.
Charging the keyboard is straightforward thanks to the USB-C port, which feels modern and reliable. There’s no proprietary nonsense here—you can use pretty much any USB-C cable lying around. And since the battery is so large, it does take a bit of time to fully charge, but that’s a small trade-off for the convenience it offers.
Final Thoughts
The YUNZII AL65 is one of those keyboards that leaves a lasting impression. From its hollow side-cut design to the vibrant 360° RGB lighting, it’s clear this isn’t just another run-of-the-mill mechanical keyboard. After spending time with it, testing its typing feel, sound profile, and customization options, it’s hard not to appreciate the thought and effort that went into creating this board.
One of the standout aspects of the AL65 is how well-rounded it feels. The CNC aluminium case gives it a premium look and feels, while the five-layer sound-dampening foam ensures the typing experience is smooth and refined. The switches—whether you opt for the YUNZII Milk V2 or Gateron Zero—offer a buttery smooth actuation that’s quiet enough for shared spaces but still satisfying for gaming or long typing sessions. And the ability to swap out keycaps or even switches, thanks to its hot-swappable design, means you can tweak it to fit your preferences without much hassle.
That said, it’s not without its quirks. The clattering noise when rubbing keycaps might bother some people, though swapping out the switches could help mitigate that issue. Additionally, the Mod-Tap functionality in wireless mode doesn’t always behave as expected, which could be frustrating for users who rely on multilingual input setups. These aren’t dealbreakers by any means, but they’re worth noting if you plan to use the keyboard in specific ways.
Regarding value for money, the YUNZII AL65 sits at $129.99 during sales, which feels like a fair price given what it offers. You get a fully aluminium case, customizable RGB lighting, QMK/VIA support, and high-quality components like double-shot PBT keycaps and pre-lubed stabilizers. For comparison, many other aluminium keyboards with similar features often cost significantly more. Sure, there are cheaper options out there, but few combine this level of build quality, aesthetics, and functionality at this price point.
