Leopold
Leopold FC980M Vapor
Best compact mechanical keyboard for professionals needing a full numeric keypad.
The Leopold FC980M Vapor is a compact 1800-layout mechanical keyboard featuring genuine Cherry MX switches and durable Double Shot PBT keycaps. Its space-saving design retains a full set of keys, including a numeric keypad, making it ideal for productivity. The keyboard offers dip switches for layout customization and comes with a keycap puller and cable. It is compatible with Windows and Linux operating systems, utilizing a USB-C connection for reliable performance. The Vapor edition boasts a unique color scheme, though actual colors may vary from initial depictions.
$85.50
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
1055
/ 3786
#1055 in Keyboards
Price vs Category Average
-39%
Below average
Size
Full-size
/ Full-size
Who it's for
- Professionals needing a numpad in a space-saving footprint
- Users who value a quiet and rattle-free acoustic profile
- Typists seeking a refined and durable tactile experience
Who should skip it
- Gamers wanting RGB lighting and hot-swappable switch flexibility
- Minimalists preferring a clutter-free wireless desk setup
- Keyboard hobbyists who enjoy swapping custom keycap sets
Performance breakdown
Build integrity
Premium PBT keycaps and rigid construction ensure long-term typing stability.
Space efficiency
The 1800-layout packs a full numeric keypad into a compact footprint.
Typing experience
Genuine Cherry MX switches provide the gold standard for tactile feedback.
Customization depth
Hardware dip switches offer basic layout tweaks but lack modern software.
Maintenance ease
Soldered switches prevent easy customization or repairs without advanced soldering skills.
Aesthetic impact
The unique Vapor colorway offers a bold, distinctive look for desks.
Key Specs
Size
Full-size
Series
FC980M
Key Count
98 keys
Logical Layout
US QWERTY
Color
Red
Keycap Material
PBT
Physical Layout
ANSI
USB Key Rollover
Full
Features
- Compact 1800 layout saves desk space while retaining full functionality.
- Genuine Cherry MX mechanical switches for reliable and tactile typing experience.
- Durable Double Shot PBT keycaps ensure longevity and prevent wear.
- Dip switches allow for easy customization of keyboard layout.
- Includes essential accessories like a keycap puller and cable.
- Unique Vapor colorway for a distinctive aesthetic.
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Leopold FC980M Vapor for its exceptional build quality and superior typing experience. The robust construction, premium PBT keycaps, and well tuned stabilizers contribute to a remarkably satisfying and durable feel. Users frequently highlight the thoughtful layout and attractive Vapor aesthetic as significant advantages. This keyboard is often regarded as a top tier choice for those prioritizing a premium, long lasting input device with a distinctive look.
Know before you buy
The 1800 layout compresses the navigation cluster and numeric keypad into a tighter footprint, saving significant desk space while still providing all the keys found on a traditional full-size board.
No, the switches are soldered to the PCB. You cannot swap them out without desoldering, so it is important to choose your preferred Cherry MX switch type at the time of purchase.
The FC980M is officially compatible with Windows and Linux. While it may function for basic typing on a Mac, the specific media keys and layout customization features are not supported.
The dip switches located on the bottom of the keyboard allow you to perform hardware-level layout adjustments, such as swapping the Caps Lock and Left Ctrl keys or toggling the Windows key lock, without needing extra software.
The keyboard features Double Shot PBT keycaps, which are highly resistant to shine and wear over time. The double-shot molding process ensures the legends will never fade, as they are molded into the plastic rather than printed on the surface.
No, the Leopold FC980M Vapor does not have backlighting. It is designed for a clean, professional aesthetic that prioritizes build quality and typing feel over RGB or LED lighting.
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$86