Review: NovaBlade X1 Mechanical Keyboard  Worth the Hype?

The NovaBlade X1 arrived with a lot of buzz: low-profile design, hot-swappable switches, per-key RGB, and an appealing price point. We spent two weeks testing it across typing sessions, long gaming sessions, and customizations to see if it really delivers on the promises. Spoiler: it gets a lot right, but there are trade-offs.

First impressions and build

The X1 ships in a compact box with a detachable braided USB-C cable, switch puller, and keycap puller. The case is aluminum top plate with a sturdy ABS bottom. Weight is satisfying but not overly heavy, which makes it portable for LAN events. Keycaps are textured PBT in the retail package, a welcome touch at this price tier.

Switches and typing feel

The keyboard supports hot-swappable MX-style sockets and comes with three switch options: linear NovaSilk, tactile NovaTact, and clicky NovaClick. We tested the NovaTact 65g variant and found the tactile bump crisp without being harsh. Typing feel is precise, and anti-ghosting is solid even with multiple simultaneous keypresses during competitive matches.

Software and customization

The NovaSuite software offers per-key RGB, macro recording, and profile management. While the UI is cleaner than previous versions, advanced users may miss deeper scripting capabilities. Key remapping is fast, and profiles can be saved onboard so you keep settings without the app running.

Gaming performance

Latency is low in wired mode, which is crucial for competitive FPS titles. Wireless mode uses a 2.4GHz dongle and does increase latency slightly, but it's still within acceptable bounds for casual play. Battery life in wireless mode with full RGB was about 45 hours in our mixed-use tests (typing and intermittent gaming), which is respectable.

Durability

Stabilizers needed a bit of lubrication out of the box for the larger keys to stop rattling. Once tuned, they performed well. PBT keycaps resist shine, and the hot-swap sockets hold switches securely. The aluminum top plate gives a premium feel when typing and reduces flex.

Pros and cons

• Pros: Affordable PBT keycaps, hot-swap support, good tactile switch option, onboard profiles, solid build.
• Cons: Stabilizers require minor tuning, software lacks advanced scripting, wireless latency slightly higher than wired.

Who should buy it?

If you want a feature-rich mechanical keyboard that doesn't demand a pro-level budget, the NovaBlade X1 is a compelling option. Enthusiasts who enjoy modding will appreciate the hot-swap sockets and PBT keycaps. Competitive players should stick to wired mode for lowest latency.

Value and alternatives

At its launch price, the NovaBlade X1 sits between entry-level boards and premium enthusiast models. Alternatives at similar price points may offer slightly better software or factory-stabilized builds, but few include PBT keycaps and hot-swap sockets in the same package.

"The NovaBlade X1 proves you don't have to pay premium to get premium-feeling basics."

Bottom line

Overall rating: 8.3 / 10. The NovaBlade X1 is a balanced keyboard that delivers strong value for gamers and typists alike. It has minor polish issues out of the box, but with a little tuning it becomes an excellent daily driver.