Given how Akko tends to go with multiple different takes, or skins if you prefer that term, on the same base design, this review of the Black&Gold 3098B can be applied to other Akko 3098B and 3098N keyboards for a better idea of the feature set of those. As such, I am going to refrain from commenting on some of the used keycaps, which may well be inspired by other creations since there are others that are clearly Akko's own designs. Somehow, I haven't yet managed to repeat a single such design across all the different Akko keyboards, kits, and keycaps covered, which is also a testament to the vastness of the Akko product line, and how expansive it gets with officially licensed designs that have yet to be covered here—think Dragon Ball, Doraemon, Sailor Moon, One Piece, etc., and you get the point.

Assuming you have a design that appeals to you, this means the base features of the keyboard are already good enough for the money. The aesthetics can then be considered icing on this cake, which I am very impressed by. Akko has addressed most of my complaints from the previous generation, including compared to the same 3098 series of 98-key, 95% keyboards. These are rare as-is and provide the functionality of a full-size keyboard while taking up much less space. The missing functions may now be added via layers and software key mapping too, let alone the potentially hard-to-remember pre-programmed functions. The software drivers are in need of some UI tweaks, no doubt, but are fully functional and worked really well, also because we didn't have to use the older Macro V1.0 for onboard macro recording, which wasn't very user-friendly. Then there are the RGB LEDs that add some flair on top of the keycaps, but more useful is the incorporation of hybrid wireless connectivity in the form of both 2.4 GHz via a dongle and Bluetooth 5.0, and a decently sized 3000 mAh battery powers them.

While there are only three switch choices, the hot-swappable nature of the TTC sockets means that most 3 and 5-pin MX-style mechanical switches will work, which had Akko even create another set of keyboards under the 3098N moniker, presumably because of chip shortages. It is in turn available in a completely different set of switch options. I am not the biggest fan of the CS Jelly White switches on this sample, but can certainly see the use case for it. I would probably go with the CS Jelly Pink myself, with the silicone and foam sheets adding positively to the typing experience and sound signature as a whole. Nicely done, Akko. Now just improve the software drivers and make the pre-lubed CS switches an option to further sweeten the deal.