YUNZII AL98 specifications and in-depth review

YUNZII AL98

Manufacturer: YUNZII

The YUNZII AL98 is a mechanical keyboard designed for users who want flexibility and performance. It features a full (96%) layout and is equipped with YUNZII Milk V2 linear switches for a smooth typing experience. With both wireless and wired connectivity options, this keyboard offers a versatile setup for any workspace.

Technically, the YUNZII AL98 boasts a 1000 Hz polling rate and a battery life of up to 960 hours. It includes a gasket mount design, is compatible with Mac systems, and supports both QMK and VIA customization. The keyboard also has hot-swappable switches and south-facing RGB backlighting, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics.

Pros
  • Supports both wireless and wired connectivity options, including Bluetooth 5, 2.4GHz wireless, and USB.
  • Hot-swappable switches provide flexibility for users to customize their typing experience without soldering.
  • Has RGB lighting and south-facing backlighting, offering a customizable and visually appealing design.
  • Designed with Mac compatibility, making it a good choice for macOS users.
  • Sturdy build with a combination of plastic and aluminum materials in the case and plate.
  • Features NKRO support, allowing for reliable multi-key presses without ghosting.
Cons
  • Does not include a wrist rest, which may reduce comfort for extended typing sessions.
  • Lacks dedicated media keys, requiring the use of the Fn key for media control.
  • Does not support analog input, rapid trigger, dual actuation, or adjustable actuation, limiting some advanced functionalities.
  • No USB passthrough or display, which may limit convenience and additional features for some users.
  • Does not feature a rotary dial for customizable controls.
Who is this for?

The YUNZII AL98 is ideal for users who seek a versatile, durable mechanical keyboard with both wireless and wired connectivity, including Bluetooth 5 and USB options. Its hot-swappable switches and Mac compatibility make it well-suited for users who want a customizable typing experience and need seamless integration with macOS. The long-lasting battery life of 960 hours and the added flexibility of RGB lighting are great for those who prefer both aesthetics and performance for extended use.

Who is this NOT for?

This keyboard may not be the best choice for users who require advanced features like dedicated media keys, rapid trigger, or dual actuation, as it relies on the Fn key for media controls and lacks some high-end customization options. Additionally, its lack of a wrist rest and USB passthrough might make it less comfortable or convenient for long-term, ergonomic use. Gamers or users needing ultra-fast inputs may also find its absence of features like analog input limiting.

General info:

Keyboard type Mechanical
Keyboard layout size Full (96%)
Profile Standard
connectivity Wireless & wired
connection type Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, USB
polling rate 1000 Hz
Mount type Gasket mount
Battery life 960 hours
designed for Mac
has a detachable cable
height 137 mm
width 407 mm
thickness 44 mm
weight 2175 g
Bluetooth version 5
release date August 2025
warranty period 1 years

The YUNZII AL98 features a mechanical keyboard with a full (96%) layout and a standard profile, offering both wireless and wired connectivity options. It supports Bluetooth 5, 2.4GHz wireless, and USB connections, providing flexibility in device pairing. With a 1000 Hz polling rate and a battery life of up to 960 hours, this keyboard is designed for long-lasting performance. It also includes a detachable cable for easy storage and portability. Additionally, the YUNZII AL98 is designed with Mac compatibility in mind, ensuring seamless integration with macOS devices.

Design:

has RGB lighting
Has a backlit keyboard
Case material Plastic, Aluminum
Plate material Aluminum
Case colors Black, White, Pink
has adjustable feet
includes a wrist rest
Backlight facing direction South-facing

The YUNZII AL98 offers a sleek design with RGB lighting and a south-facing backlight, creating a vibrant and visually appealing setup. Its case is crafted from a combination of plastic and aluminum, while the plate is made of aluminum for a sturdy, premium feel. Available in three colors—Black, White, and Pink—the keyboard also features adjustable feet for customizable typing angles, though it does not include a wrist rest.

Switches:

Switch type Mechanical
Switch feel Linear
Hot-swappable switches
Switch name YUNZII Milk V2 Linear Switch
Actuation distance (min) 2 mm
Actuation distance (max) 2 mm
Actuation force 40 g
Total travel distance 3.6 mm

The YUNZII AL98 features mechanical switches with a linear switch feel, specifically the YUNZII Milk V2 Linear Switch. These switches offer a minimal actuation distance of 2 mm, with a consistent 40 g actuation force, providing a smooth typing experience. The keyboard also supports hot-swappable switches, allowing users to easily customize their setup. The total travel distance for each key is 3.6 mm, ensuring precise and responsive key presses.

Features:

has analog input
has rapid trigger
has dual actuation
has adjustable actuation
has NKRO
has USB passthrough
Has a display
has QMK support
has ZMK support
has VIA support

The YUNZII AL98 offers a range of advanced features including NKRO support for simultaneous key presses without interference. It also supports QMK and VIA for customizable key mapping and configurations. However, it does not include features like analog input, rapid trigger, dual actuation, or adjustable actuation. Additionally, the keyboard does not have USB passthrough or a display, making it focused on essential, high-performance functionality.

Keys & layout:

Keyboard layout ANSI (United States)
Keycap type PBT, Double-shot
Keycap profile Cherry
uses a standard key layout
Media keys Via Fn key
has a rotary dial

The YUNZII AL98 uses a standard ANSI (United States) layout with high-quality PBT, double-shot keycaps in a Cherry profile, ensuring durability and a comfortable typing experience. Media controls are accessible via the Fn key, though the keyboard does not feature dedicated media keys or a rotary dial. The layout follows a standard key arrangement, providing a familiar and efficient setup for most users.

Final Verdict

The YUNZII AL98 is a well-rounded mechanical keyboard that caters to users seeking flexibility and performance, especially with its hot-swappable switches and long-lasting battery life. Its versatile connectivity options, including Bluetooth and USB, and Mac compatibility make it an appealing choice for both work and casual use. While it may not offer advanced features like dedicated media keys or a wrist rest, it provides a solid, customizable typing experience. Overall, the YUNZII AL98 is a strong option for users looking for a reliable, aesthetically pleasing keyboard with practical functionality.