
PBTfans Athena 1800 XRay Mechanical Keyboard
PBTfans
Price Comparison
The PBTfans Athena 1800 XRay is a high-end mechanical keyboard designed for discerning users who demand both performance and aesthetics. With its 95% layout, this keyboard offers a full suite of keys, including a numpad, in a compact form factor that saves desk space without sacrificing functionality. Its robust wired connectivity ensures ultra-reliable performance, making it ideal for gamers, office professionals, and keyboard enthusiasts alike. The Athena 1800 XRay stands out with its premium materials, customizable mounting options, and hot-swappable PCB, allowing users to tailor their typing experience to their exact preferences. Whether you’re seeking a refined typing feel for long work sessions or a responsive platform for gaming, this keyboard delivers a blend of durability, customization, and style that appeals to anyone serious about their typing tools.
Specifications
Name | PBTfans Athena 1800 XRay |
Release year | 2025 |
Switch Options | - |
Profile | Normal Profile |
Hot Swappable | ✔︎Yes |
Layout Size | 95%? |
Layout Standard | ANSI |
Layout Ergonomics | Normal |
Knob Support | ✖︎No |
Display Support | ✔︎Yes |
Mac/Win Support | ✖︎No |
Multi-Media Keys | ✖︎No |
USB-C | ✔︎Yes |
USB passthrough | ✖︎No |
Connection | Wired, Wired Only |
Polling Rate | - |
Battery capacity | - |
Hall Effect Support | ✖︎No |
QMK Support | ✖︎No |
VIA Support | ✖︎No |
N-Key Rollover | ✖︎No |
Rapid Trigger | ✖︎No |
Mount Style | Top Mount |
Screw in Stabilizers | ✖︎No |
Sound Dampening | ✔︎Yes |
Backlight | ✔︎RGB |
Case Colors | PurpleWhiteBlackGreyBlueGreenRedPink |
Case Material | Aluminum |
Keycaps Material | - |
Dimensions | - |
Weight | 3000g(6.61 lb) |
Description
Essential Features
This keyboard is engineered with a focus on versatility and user experience. Its 95% ANSI layout provides nearly all the functionality of a full-size keyboard while maintaining a streamlined footprint, making it suitable for both productivity and gaming. The hot-swappable PCB allows users to easily change switches without soldering, enabling experimentation with different switch types for a personalized feel. The Athena 1800 XRay features two distinct mounting styles: a classic top mount for a firm, direct typing response, and a PCB silicone gasket mount for a softer, quieter, and more cushioned typing experience. This duality caters to a wide range of preferences, ensuring that both traditionalists and those seeking a modern, dampened sound profile are satisfied. The inclusion of an RGB LCD indicator and support for advanced firmware customization via VIAL and VIA software further enhances its appeal, offering extensive programmability and visual feedback. Key highlights include:
95% compact ANSI layout with full numpad Hot-swappable PCB for easy switch changes Dual mounting options: top mount and silicone gasket RGB LCD indicator for status and customization Advanced programmability with VIAL and VIA support USB-C wired connectivity for reliable performance
These features combine to make the keyboard a standout choice for users who value both function and form.
Material and Build
Aesthetically, the Athena 1800 XRay boasts a modern, industrial design with a premium anodized or e-coated aluminum case. The keyboard’s construction is solid and substantial, with a built weight ranging from approximately 2.5kg to 3kg depending on the chosen cover plate material. Options for the cover plate include stainless steel, brass, or carbon fiber, each offering unique visual and acoustic characteristics. The internal stainless steel weight bar adds heft and stability, contributing to a satisfying typing experience and a premium feel on the desk. The keyboard features a 9-degree typing angle, promoting ergonomic comfort during extended use. Attention to detail is evident in the finely machined “toolpath” engravings on the interior of the stainless steel version, reflecting a commitment to craftsmanship. The overall build quality ensures durability and longevity, making it a reliable investment for heavy daily use.
Cross-Platform Compatibility
Connectivity is handled exclusively via a high-speed USB-C wired interface, ensuring low latency and maximum reliability for demanding applications such as gaming and professional work. The wired-only design eliminates concerns about wireless interference or battery life, providing a consistent and uninterrupted typing experience. The keyboard is fully compatible with all major operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, thanks to its ANSI layout and standard USB HID compliance. Switching between devices is straightforward—simply plug the keyboard into any USB-C or USB-A port using the appropriate cable. The inclusion of advanced firmware support via VIAL and VIA means that users can easily remap keys, create macros, and adjust settings regardless of their operating system. This cross-platform flexibility makes the Athena 1800 XRay an excellent choice for users who work across multiple environments or require a dependable keyboard for both home and office setups. The USB-C connection also supports fast data transfer and efficient power delivery, ensuring that the keyboard remains responsive and ready for action at all times.
Tailoring Your Typing
Personalization is at the heart of the Athena 1800 XRay’s design. The hot-swappable PCB allows users to swap out mechanical switches without soldering, enabling experimentation with different switch types to achieve the perfect tactile or auditory feedback. Key remapping and macro programming are made easy with support for VIA and VIAL software, both of which offer intuitive graphical interfaces for customizing key functions, layers, and lighting effects. The keyboard’s RGB LCD indicator can be configured to display a variety of statuses or custom animations, adding a unique visual element to your setup. For those who value aesthetics, the choice of cover plate materials—stainless steel, brass, or carbon fiber—allows for further customization of both look and sound profile. Enthusiasts can also take advantage of the included foam kit to fine-tune acoustics, reducing unwanted noise and enhancing the overall typing feel. The keyboard supports custom GIFs on its LCD screen, providing an additional layer of personalization for users who want their setup to stand out. Whether you prioritize performance, comfort, or style, this keyboard offers the tools and flexibility to create a truly individualized typing experience.
Beyond Basics
Beyond its core functionality, the Athena 1800 XRay incorporates several thoughtful extras that enhance usability and appeal. The inclusion of an RGB LCD indicator not only provides visual feedback but also enables dynamic customization, such as displaying system statuses or personalized animations. The keyboard’s internal weight bar and premium cover plate options contribute to a unique acoustic signature and tactile feel, setting it apart from standard mechanical keyboards. The foam kit and force break tape included in the package allow users to further refine sound and vibration dampening. With its combination of advanced features, robust build, and extensive customization options, this keyboard goes well beyond the basics to deliver a truly exceptional typing experience.
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