Hive98 V2 All Black Wired Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
- Compact 98-Key Layout: A streamlined full-size layout that retains the function row, arrow keys, navigation cluster, and numpad for productivity and gaming without the extra bulk of a traditional keyboard.
- True Gasket-Mounted Design + Polycarbonate Plate: Silicone dampeners suspend the plate and PCB inside the case for softer keystrokes, reduced vibration, and a cushioned premium typing feel.
- Dual-Layer Ultra-Soft Latex Foam: Strategically placed foam reduces case hollowness and dampens high-frequency noise for a deeper, cleaner, and more consistent sound profile.
- KTT Content Mechanical Switches: Available in Red Linear for smooth, fast keystrokes or Brown Tactile for added typing feedback with controlled noise.
- Double-Shot ABS Shine-Through Keycaps: Durable OEM-profile keycaps with legends that won’t fade, while shine-through characters stay clear and visible in low-light setups.
- 5-Pin Hot-Swap PCB: Supports both 3-pin and 5-pin switches, making it easy to swap switches without soldering and customize feel over time.
- Per-Key RGB with 16 Built-In Effects: Individual RGB lighting on every key with sixteen preset effects, plus Windows software support for deeper customization.
- Metal Volume Knob: CNC-machined metal knob delivers smooth, tactile volume control for quick adjustments during gaming or work.
- Windows Software Support: Customize RGB effects, remap keys, create macros, and manage multiple profiles for different use cases.
- Windows Key Lock: Prevents accidental Windows key presses during gameplay or focused work sessions for uninterrupted performance.
- Detachable USB-C Connection: Reliable wired connectivity with a removable cable that is easy to replace, carry, or customize.
- Two-Step Adjustable Feet: Dual-angle height adjustment helps improve comfort and reduce wrist strain during long sessions.
- Color Options: Available in White Purple, Black Purple, and All Black to match both minimal and bold desk setups.
KTT Content Red
Factory Lubed: No Type: Linear Operating Force: 45 gf
Total Travel: 3.9 mm Pre-Travel: 1.9 mm
Bottom-out Force: 53 gf Pin Type: 3-pin
Bottom Housing: Nylon Stem: POM Cover: Polycarbonate
Switch Life: 50 million presses
Buy this if you want a smooth, fast linear feel for gaming with low noise and consistent keypresses.
KTT Content Brown
Factory Lubed: No Type: Tactile Operating Force: 43 gf
Total Travel: 3.9 mm Pre-Travel: 1.9 mm
Bottom-out Force: 53 gf Pin Type: 3-pin
Bottom Housing: Nylon Stem: POM Cover: Polycarbonate
Switch Life: 50 million presses
Buy this if you enjoy a soft tactile bump for feedback without loud clicks, ideal for both typing and gaming.
Ultimate Switch Compatibility
Supports both 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches, giving you the freedom to customize your typing feel without soldering.
Built to Last Keyacps
Crafted using a double-shot molding process, these keycaps feature fade-proof legends that stay sharp even with heavy use.
Control at Your Fingertips
Precision-machined knob for instant and intuitive volume adjustment.
Plug. Pack. Go.
Detachable cable for easy portability and reliable connectivity.
Comfort That Adapts
Dual-angle adjustable feet for ergonomic typing over long sessions.
Features & Specs
General Info
Connectivity
Ergonomics
Customization
Build & Durability
Software
Compatibility
In The Box
Switches
Keycaps
You asked, we answered
If the issue persists, contact our support team.
Why are the Alt and Windows keys swapped on my keyboard?
If the Alt and Windows keys are swapped, press Fn + S and Fn + A to restore their default functions.
How do I turn Scroll Lock on or off?
Press Fn + I to toggle Scroll Lock on or off.
What should I do if a key is double-clicking or a switch isn't working?
Follow these steps:
- Hold Fn + Esc for a few seconds to reset your keyboard.
- Remove the keycap and clean the switch and PCB using a soft brush, cloth, or compressed air.
- If the issue continues, try replacing the switch with a spare one.
If none of these steps work, please contact our support team.
My RGB lighting isn't working. What can I do?
- Hold Fn + Esc for a few seconds to reset the keyboard.
- Check and adjust the RGB settings in the Hive software, which can be downloaded from the Kreo official website.
How do I reset my Kreo Hive keyboard?
To perform a full reset, simply hold Fn + Esc for a few seconds. This resolves most common issues.
What is a 96% layout, and how is it different from a full-size keyboard?
A 96% layout gives you all the functionality of a full-size keyboard — including the numpad, function row, and navigation keys — but with the gaps and spacing compressed to save desk space. You get everything you actually use from a 100% keyboard in a footprint closer to a TKL, which means more room for mouse movement and a cleaner setup without sacrificing the numpad for data entry or productivity work.
What's the difference between the Red Linear and Brown Tactile switches?
The KTT Red Linear switches offer smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes with low actuation force — ideal for fast-paced gaming where rapid repeated presses matter. The KTT Brown Tactile switches have a subtle tactile bump at the actuation point, giving you clearer typing feedback without the noise of clicky switches. Reds suit gamers; Browns suit typists and mixed-use setups.
What does "gasket-mounted" mean, and why does it matter?
Most budget keyboards use tray mounting, where the plate is rigidly screwed to the case, resulting in harsh bottom-out and a hollow sound. The Hive 96 uses a true gasket mount — the plate and PCB are suspended between silicone dampeners, isolating them from the case. Combined with the flexible polycarbonate plate, this produces a softer, cushioned keystroke and a deeper, more refined sound profile. It's the same construction technique used in enthusiast custom keyboards that cost several times more.
Can I change the switches without soldering?
Yes. The Hive 96 features a 5-pin and 3-pin hot-swap PCB, so you can pull out the stock switches and drop in different ones — linear, tactile, clicky, silent, or boutique variants — without any tools beyond a switch puller. It's perfect if you want to experiment with different typing feels over time.
Will the keycap legends fade over time?
No. The keycaps use a double-shot ABS molding process, where the legends are made from a separate piece of plastic rather than printed on top. They will never fade, wear off, or shine through, even after years of heavy use. The shine-through design also ensures RGB lighting illuminates the legends clearly in low-light environments.