Corsair Vanguard 96
Score: 89/100ProtoArc Bluetooth Ergonomic Keyboard
Score: 93/100Rankings
ProtoArc's range of Bluetooth ergonomic keyboards offers split designs, long battery life and multi-device support, with models ranging from full-size backlit EK01 Plus to ultra-portable foldable XK03. They provide solid comfort but lack wired connectivity and programmable keys.
The Vanguard 96 is a compact 96% mechanical keyboard that combines hot-swap MLX Plasma switches, an 8,000 Hz polling rate, and a unique 1.9" IPS LCD screen. It targets power users who need a space-saving layout with premium features, though its underside USB-C port and navigation quirks may affect usability.
| Attribute | | ProtoArc Bluetooth Ergonomic Keyboard |
|---|---|---|
— | 4,320 hoursbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 995 grams | 400 gramsbest |
8,000 Hzbest | — | |
— | 5best |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | ProtoArc Bluetooth Ergonomic Keyboard |
|---|---|---|
Layout & Size(2) | ||
Keyboard Layout | 96% | Full-size |
Weight (grams) | 995 grams | 400 grams |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Connection Type | Wired USB-C | Bluetooth, 2.4GHz |
Switches(1) | ||
Switch Type | MLX Plasma | Scissor |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Vanguard 96 for its solid construction, smooth MLX Plasma linear switches, and the innovative combination of a rotary knob and a full-color LCD screen, calling the latter a game-changer while noting the 96% layout may alienate users who depend on a full navigation cluster.
Everyday users overwhelmingly praise the keyboard's typing experience, build quality, and the versatility of the LCD screen and rotary dial, with common complaints about the underside USB-C port and unintuitive navigation key access on macOS.
Professional reviewers view ProtoArc as a strong contender in the ergonomic keyboard niche, praising the EK01 Plus for its premium build and the XK03 as an excellent travel solution, while highlighting the lack of wired connectivity and occasional Mac compatibility quirks.
Everyday users generally appreciate the comfort and durability of ProtoArc keyboards, noting significant reductions in wrist strain and impressive battery longevity. Main pain points are the learning curve of the split layout and backlight auto-off on the EK01 Plus.
“I was stuck using Corsair stock wire… it's a bad design honestly.”
