Fantech Maxfit Air Review
Specifications
- Layout: 75%, 96%
- Switches: Low Profile Red/Brown
- Connectivity: Bluetooth (5.0), 2.4 GHz, Wired (USB-C)
- Lighting: RGB (13 modes)
- Battery: 2500 mAh
- Battery Life: 400 hours (RGB off), 90 hours (RGB on)
- Charging Time: 2 hours
Packaging
The Fantech Maxfit Air comes with:
- Keyboard
- USB Type-C cable
- Extra keycaps
- Keycap puller
- User manual
Size and Layout
The Fantech Maxfit Air is available in two sizes:
- Maxfit Air83 (75% layout)
- Maxfit Air99 (96% layout)
Both models share identical features apart from their layouts.
One of the standout aspects of this keyboard is its ultra-low profile, with a height of just 23mm, significantly thinner than standard mechanical keyboards, which are typically 30–35mm tall. This slim design enhances comfort during extended gaming or work sessions. The lightweight construction also makes it easy to carry if you plan to use the keyboard on the go.
Build Quality
The Maxfit Air features an aluminum top plate paired with a plastic base. While this construction makes it more prone to flexing and a slight creaking sound under pressure, these issues are negligible during normal use. The upside is a lightweight build.
Switches
The Maxfit Air uses switches branded as "MINI", which I was unable to find any information about. They are available in two variants:
- Red (Linear)
- Brown (Tactile)
I opted for the red switches, as I prefer linear switches for gaming and low-profile keyboards. While they aren't as smooth as premium enthusiast-grade switches, they perform impressively well for the keyboard's price, easily better than a lot of linear switches in the same price-range.
Keycaps
The flat, low-profile keycaps are made from ABS plastic and feel decent to use. Notably, the keycaps lack shine-through lettering, which could be a downside for users who enjoy vibrant RGB effects. However, when using the keyboard in Bluetooth or 2.4 GHz wireless mode, I usually turn off RGB to save battery. In this case, the printed letters are far more visible compared to shine-through designs, which can appear muted without backlighting.
Design
The Maxfit Air boasts a retro gaming-inspired aesthetic. Its dark grey base case and accent keycaps are paired with a grey metallic aluminum plate and light grey main keycaps. The arrow keys feature classic retro colors, adding a nostalgic pop of flair to the overall design.
Conclusion
The Maxfit Air83 (75% layout) is priced at $60.8, while the Maxfit Air99 (96% layout) costs $68.8. Considering its low-profile design, solid switches, and retro aesthetic, this keyboard offers excellent value for the price.
While it lacks hall-effect switches, which are increasingly popular in gaming keyboards, this omission keeps the cost lower and may not be a requirement for all users. Overall, the Fantech Maxfit Air is a great choice for anyone seeking a budget-friendly, low-profile keyboard with a touch of retro charm.
