Attack on Titan Keyboard Review: $140 Worth It?

content: Is This $140 Attack on Titan Keyboard a Glow-Up?

If you were burned by Hundred Thieves' first keyboard—thin keycaps, underwhelming sound, questionable value—you're right to be skeptical about their $140 Attack on Titan edition. After disassembling, modding, and testing both boards side-by-side, I'll give you the unfiltered truth. The new model boasts thicker 1.5mm PBT keycaps, exclusive TTC Titan Heart switches, and a silicone weight. But does it escape its budget chassis roots? Let's break it down objectively.

Build Quality & Keycaps: Real Upgrades

The 1.5mm dye-sublimated PBT keycaps (vs. the original’s 1.3mm) feel noticeably more substantial. Stem robustness is improved, and dye-sub clarity is decent—though side-printed legends are frustratingly faint. These are licensed keycaps, meaning a portion of the $140 covers Attack on Titan branding rights. Compared to premium unlicensed sets like Kinetic Labs' $25 options, the print quality justifies neither the $55 standalone price nor this board's total cost.

Switches & Stabilizers: Hits and Misses

TTC Titan Heart switches (42g linear, gold springs) are a genuine highlight. Factory lube is consistent, offering a smooth, light gaming feel without ping. However, north-facing LEDs create interference risks with Cherry-profile keycaps—a baffling choice since the switch art faces north. The stabilizers? Mediocre at best. My review unit had dry wires and rattled, requiring dielectric grease. I recommend swapping them for Durock plate-mount stabs immediately.

Sound Test & Modding Potential

Unmodded, the silicone weight dampens hollow echoes present in the first board. Tape modding the PCB and lubing stabs further reduced metallic reverb. Crucially, removing the silicone made the board sound worse—proving its effectiveness. But even modded, the acoustic profile lacks depth versus gasket-mounted competitors.

The $140 Question: Value Verdict

✅ Pros: Thick PBT keycaps, excellent TTC switches, effective silicone weight.
❌ Cons: North-facing LEDs, cheap stabilizers, $50 thin mousepad, $40 "jelly bag" accessory.
📊 Reality: You're paying $110+ for licensing and branding atop a $30 tray-mount chassis.

3 Actionable Steps If You Buy It

Replace stabilizers with lubed Durock plate-mounts ($15).
Apply a PCB tape mod (1 layer) to reduce hollowness.
Use Cherry-profile keycaps cautiously—test for interference first.

Final Judgment: For Superfans Only

Hundred Thieves fixed key tangible flaws: keycaps, switches, and weight. But north-facing LEDs and the high price for licensed goods remain hard pills to swallow. If Attack on Titan means everything to you, it’s serviceable post-mod. For others, $140 buys far better enthusiast boards.

Would you pay a premium for officially licensed gear? Share your deal-breakers below!