Yenkee ODYSSEY mechanical keyboard discounted by 840 CZK. It features premium switches and hotswap sockets

Mechanical keyboards with hotswap sockets and premium Gateron switches typically range around 3,500–5,000 CZK. However, you can now buy the Yenkee YKB 31 ODYSSEY with code ALZADNY20 for 2,159 CZK instead of 2,999 CZK. This is a white 75% variant with an English US/US INTL layout — if you prefer a Czech layout, this keyboard is less suitable.

Quick Summary:
✅ Makes sense if you want to enter the world of mechanical keyboards with customization options — hotswap allows changing switches without soldering.
⚠️ Consider if you need a Czech layout with diacritics — this is an English US INTL variant.
💡 For 2,159 CZK you get pre-lubed Gateron switches and dampening foam. Most keyboards in this price range do not have these features.

Why this keyboard is interesting

The Yenkee ODYSSEY targets users who want to experience the world of “custom” mechanical keyboards without the need to build from scratch. The key is the hotswap feature — switches can be changed without soldering; you just pull them out with tweezers and snap in new ones. If you get tired of linear switches in six months and want clicky ones, changing them is a matter of 10 minutes.

The second advantage is the Gateron G Pro 2.0 Yellow switches. These are pre-lubed switches — lubricated by the manufacturer before installation. The result is noticeably smoother operation and quieter sound compared to standard mechanical keyboards. Users repeatedly confirm this in reviews: “The feel and sound of typing are comparable to much more expensive custom-built keyboards.”

Gateron G Pro 2.0 Yellow switches in practice

Yellow switches are linear switches with an actuation force of 50 gf (±15 gf), a total travel distance of 4.0 mm, and an actuation distance of 2.0 mm. This means a smooth press without a tactile bump — ideal for fast gaming and long typing sessions. A lifespan of 80 million keystrokes means the keyboard will survive years of intensive use.

The construction also includes dampening foam, which reduces keyboard body resonance and improves the acoustic profile of keystrokes. This is a feature rarely found in keyboards under 3,000 CZK — manufacturers typically add it only to higher-end models.

75% format and rotary knob

The ODYSSEY has a 75% layout with 82 keys — it retains the F1–F12 function row and arrow keys but removes the numeric keypad on the right. In practice, it’s the best compromise between space-saving and retained functionality. Dimensions of 330 × 138 × 41 mm and a weight of 922 g mean a stable keyboard that doesn’t move around on the desk.

In the upper right corner, you’ll find a perforated metal rotary knob, which controls volume and media pause/play. Practical for gaming or listening to music. One detail that users criticize in reviews: the knob is not programmable. You are limited to volume control functionality.

Triple connectivity and battery

The keyboard offers three connection methods: USB-C wired, 2.4GHz wireless via dongle (hidden in the bottom of the keyboard), and Bluetooth 5.0. The integrated 4,000 mAh battery, according to the manufacturer, lasts up to 240 hours without backlighting; with RGB, this value is significantly reduced. For typical work use, this means 5–10 days between charges.

However, one user in reviews points out: switching between connection methods is not seamless — you have to flip a physical switch on the bottom of the keyboard. If you frequently switch between multiple devices, this is a minor inconvenience. For constant use with a single device (e.g., Bluetooth to an iPad), it’s problem-free.

RGB backlighting and software

The ODYSSEY has full RGB backlighting (16.8 million colors) with illumination under the keycaps and along the semi-transparent keyboard body. Pudding keycaps (with a transparent bottom part) enhance the RGB effect. If you are the type of user who enjoys colorful lighting effects, this will give your desk the right look.

Effect control is done either via keyboard shortcuts directly on the keyboard or through dedicated software for Windows. In the software, you can create macros, save profiles, and set backlighting in detail. User criticism points to uneven printing on the pudding keycaps — legends shine through better in some places than others. A detail, but worth mentioning.

What users say

On Alza, the Yenkee ODYSSEY has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 (11 ratings) and 91% of customers recommend the product. Over 200 units have been sold. However, note the reported higher return rate of 5.59%, which is above average in the keyboard category. One review explains this: a user’s Windows key stopped working twice within a year, and Alza resolved the complaint in both cases (replacement + refund).

Positive voices agree on several points: key sound on par with more expensive custom-built keyboards, quality craftsmanship and materials, hotswap functionality, and RGB effects. One reviewer summarizes it: “For such a price, it’s hard to ask for more. A great first keyboard for an affordable entry into the hobby of building your own mechanical keyboards.”

Recurring negatives: lack of support for systems other than Windows (partially), non-programmable knob, uneven printing on pudding keycaps, and the aforementioned necessity of switching connections via a physical switch. The return rate of the Win key is a reason to consider an extended warranty.

When it doesn’t make sense

If you primarily type in Czech with diacritics, the US INTL layout will complicate your work — you’ll have to get used to dead keys for diacritics. In that case, opt for a Czech variant, for example, the Rapture FOXTROT with Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red for 1,999 CZK.

Also, if you are looking for a keyboard with active macro support even on the rotary knob or full macOS compatibility, the ODYSSEY is not ideal. In that case, consider the Keychron V6 Max for 2,990 CZK, which offers VIA/QMK support for advanced customizations.

Verdict: who it’s worth it for

For 2,159 CZK, you get a wireless mechanical keyboard with pre-lubed Gateron switches, hotswap sockets, dampening foam, and triple connectivity. For users who want an entry into the world of custom mechanical keyboards without complicated building from scratch, this is one of the best price/performance ratios on the Czech market. Customization through switch replacement gives you room to gradually fine-tune the keyboard to your preferences.

If this particular model didn’t appeal to you, but you’re looking for a mechanical keyboard on sale, you can also check out the current Alza Days, where other discounted keyboards, mice, and gaming peripherals regularly appear.

Do you type on a mechanical keyboard, or is a membrane keyboard enough for you? And what type of switches do you prefer — linear, tactile, or clicky? Let us know in the comments.