The Redragon EISA K686 PRO is a 96% mechanical keyboard designed to deliver a full-featured experience in a compact footprint. With 98 keys, tri-mode wireless connectivity, extensive sound dampening, and a gasket-mounted structure, it targets users who want both productivity and comfort without moving into premium pricing territory. After extended use, the K686 PRO stands out primarily for its typing acoustics, flexibility, and overall usability.
Design and Build Quality
The K686 PRO adopts a 96% layout, retaining the number pad and a dedicated Delete key while reducing excess spacing. This makes it well suited for office work, data entry, and general productivity without occupying the desk space of a full-size keyboard.
The chassis is constructed entirely from plastic, which keeps the keyboard lightweight and easy to reposition. While it lacks the premium feel of aluminum, the build quality feels solid and well assembled. The color scheme combines off-white keycaps with ice blue and dark blue accents, giving the keyboard a clean and modern appearance. The underside is finished in dark blue, adding contrast without appearing overly stylized.
Two adjustable feet on the bottom allow users to choose between flat, medium, or steep typing angles. Rubber pads help keep the keyboard stable during use, even on smooth desk surfaces.
Keycaps, Layout, and Controls
The keyboard uses side-printed, shine-through keycaps that allow RGB lighting to pass through the legends. This design keeps the top of the keys visually clean while still maintaining legibility during normal seated use. Visibility can drop slightly when RGB lighting is turned off, but this is a trade-off typical of side-printed designs.
A dedicated metal volume knob sits at the top-right corner of the keyboard. It allows for smooth volume adjustment and can be pressed to mute audio. With a function key combination, the knob can also be used to control RGB brightness and cycle lighting effects, reducing reliance on memorizing shortcuts.
Physical switches on the left side of the keyboard allow users to toggle between Windows and macOS layouts, as well as switch between Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, and powered-off states. These hardware switches make mode selection straightforward and prevent accidental input changes.
Switches and Typing Experience
The Redragon EISA K686 PRO ships with Redragon linear switches, which are factory-lubed and tuned for smooth, light keystrokes. The switches feel responsive and easy to press, making them suitable for long typing sessions and gaming alike. While they may feel slightly light for users who prefer heavier or tactile switches, they remain consistent and fatigue-free over extended use.
One of the defining characteristics of the K686 PRO is its sound profile. Internally, the keyboard features multiple layers of sound-absorbing foam combined with flexible gasket mounts. This results in a noticeably quiet and soft typing sound that is well controlled and free from hollow resonance. The keyboard produces a muted, “creamy” acoustic profile that is uncommon at this price point.
For shared workspaces or late-night use, the K686 PRO is among the quietest mechanical keyboards in its category.
The keyboard is also hot-swappable and supports both 3-pin and 5-pin switches, allowing users to easily customize the typing feel without soldering.
Connectivity and Battery Life
The K686 PRO offers tri-mode connectivity, supporting wired USB-C, 2.4GHz wireless via a USB dongle, and Bluetooth 3.0/5.0. Up to three Bluetooth devices can be paired simultaneously and switched using simple key combinations. In daily use, connections remain stable across all modes, with minimal latency in both productivity and gaming scenarios.
A built-in battery rated at 3,000mAh provides strong endurance. With RGB lighting enabled, the keyboard comfortably lasts several days of regular use, while disabling lighting extends battery life significantly. Battery status can be checked directly from the keyboard using a function shortcut, eliminating the need for software.
The 2.4GHz receiver is neatly stored in a compartment on the side of the keyboard, making it easy to carry when traveling.
Software and Customization
Redragon’s Windows-based software provides access to key remapping, macro recording, RGB customization, and profile management. Users can assign functions on a per-key basis, fine-tune lighting effects, and adjust performance-related settings such as debounce time and sleep timers.
While the software is feature-rich, it is limited to Windows systems and does not work over Bluetooth mode. macOS users will need to rely on onboard controls and default key mappings.
Daily Use and Practicality
In everyday use, the EISA K686 PRO proves to be a versatile keyboard. The compact 96% layout balances desk efficiency with functionality, while the quiet typing experience makes it suitable for offices, shared spaces, or home environments. Its lightweight construction also makes it practical for users who frequently move between setups or work with laptops.
For gaming, the light linear switches and low noise profile provide fast response without excessive finger fatigue or distracting sound.
Verdict
The Redragon EISA K686 PRO delivers a well-rounded mechanical keyboard experience with a strong emphasis on comfort and acoustics. Its quiet, cushioned typing feel, flexible connectivity options, and compact yet complete layout make it an appealing option for both productivity and casual gaming users.
While it does not aim to compete with high-end custom keyboards, it offers impressive value for its price. For users seeking a quiet, feature-rich 96% mechanical keyboard with wireless flexibility, the EISA K686 PRO is a compelling choice.
Also Read: Redragon ANTONIUM K745 PRO Review
