I slept over this conclusion because I simply could not get over the timing of things. Had I reviewed the Niz Plum keyboard after this, would I have been more ecstatic? The Niz equivalent is the Atom 68 that is a more traditional 65% keyboard with 68 keys, which comes with Cherry MX-compatible keycaps, USB type-C connectivity, two switch options, with the lighter switches also coming with 10 gf add-on springs, and even Bluetooth and/or RGB-lit options. It also costs significantly less to where you can get the highest-end Niz Atom 68 Bluetooth RGB version for the same amount of money as this keyboard. Does the Leopold FC660C still have a place in 2021 thus?

As much as I hate to disappoint the reader who kindly loaned this keyboard to me for review, I have to say no—at least for me. The keyboard is still fantastic to type on, and sounds very good even without any lubing involved. But there are far too many drawbacks for the money, especially when you have to look at a community-made $50 add-on mod to get further customization at this price point. Yes, Topre switches are incredibly expensive, and all Topre keyboards typically cost a ton to begin with. These newer Topre Silent switches add further to the bill of materials, and I will give Leopold credit for only asking $10 over the standard versions.

This relatively new Low Noise edition of the FC660C was a prime opportunity for Leopold to update the much beloved keyboard design, which is showing its age so much that even the aforementioned alternative controller is over four years old now. Once there is a new FC660C, I would happily examine it further. For now, I can only say that you have to absolutely love the brand and Topre switches to shell out the cash in 2021.