The mechanical keyboard world is always evolving, but every so often, a product arrives that truly stands out. The bridge75 keyboard-officially the Shortcut Studio Bridge75 keyboard-has quickly become a favorite among enthusiasts and newcomers alike. In this review, we’ll dive deep into its features, design, user experiences, and how it stacks up against the competition.
What is the Bridge75 Keyboard?
The Shortcut Studio Bridge75 keyboard is a 75% mechanical keyboard with 81 keys, which has a more compact and practical layout. It’s a product for those who want a mixture of durability, aesthetics, and customization that can be used for both gaming and professional work.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Layout | 75% (81 keys) |
| Case Material | CNC-machined aluminum (anodized or spray-coated) |
| Connectivity | Tri-mode: Wired (USB-C), 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth |
| Switch Options | Princess Ultra Linear, SC Magnetic (Hall Effect) |
| Hot-Swappable | Yes, per-key flex cut PCB |
| Sound Dampening | Up to 5 layers of foam |
| Backlighting | South-facing RGB (Plus/Max versions) |
| Keycaps | Double-shot PBT, Cherry profile |
| Battery | Up to 8000mAh (Plus/Max), 4000mAh (Standard) |
| Quick Release | Ball-catch mechanism for tool-less disassembly |
| Software | VIA compatible |
After spending several weeks with the Shortcut Studio Bridge75 keyboard, I can confidently say this board is more than just another pretty face in the mechanical keyboard world. Here’s a deep dive into what it’s actually like to live and work with the Bridge75 day in and day out.
First Impressions: Unboxing & Setup
Unboxing the Bridge75 was an experience in itself. The packaging felt premium, and the keyboard’s weight immediately signalled quality. The CNC-machined aluminium case has a reassuring heft, and the finish (I chose anodized black) looks stunning on my desk. Setup was a breeze-whether I plugged in via USB-C or connected wirelessly, everything just worked.
The first thing I noticed was the sound. The Bridge75 produces a deep, satisfying “thock” that’s music to any keyboard enthusiast’s ears. This is thanks to the multiple layers of foam and the gasket mount design, which together create a dampened, premium acoustic profile. Typing on the Princess Ultra Linear switches felt buttery-smooth, and the Cherry-profile PBT keycaps added to the comfort.
| Aspect | My Impression |
|---|---|
| Key Travel | Smooth and consistent |
| Sound | Deep, “thocky,” not hollow or sharp |
| Keycap Texture | Gritty, high-quality PBT |
| Typing Fatigue | Minimal, even after long sessions |
One of my favorite features is the ball-catch quick release mechanism. I’ve never had an easier time opening up a keyboard for mods or cleaning. The hot-swappable PCB meant I could experiment with different switches without any soldering. VIA compatibility made key remapping and macro setup intuitive-even for someone who likes to tweak layouts often.
Customization Highlights:
Switch swapping: Tool-less and safe (just open the case fully)
Key remapping: VIA software is plug-and-play
RGB lighting: South-facing LEDs (on Plus/Max) are vibrant and customizable
Everyday Use: Productivity Meets Play
Whether I was hammering out emails, editing documents, or diving into a late-night gaming session, the Bridge75 kept up effortlessly. The 75% layout is the sweet spot for me-all the essential keys, but nothing extra to clutter the desk.
What Stood Out:
Battery life: On the Plus version, I went nearly three weeks between charges, even with RGB on.
Wireless reliability: Zero lag or dropouts, even when switching between devices.
Portability: Compact enough to toss in a bag, but solid enough to feel substantial.
A Few Honest Observations
No keyboard is perfect, and the Bridge75 is no exception. Here’s what I noticed:
Stabilizers: The spacebar and enter key stabilizers were a bit rattly out of the box. Lubing or swapping them out made a noticeable difference.
Sharp corners: The bottom edge is slightly sharp, but it’s only noticeable if you grip the keyboard when moving it.
Switch plate flex: The flex cut design means you should open the case fully when swapping switches to avoid bending the plate.
Here’s how the Bridge75 compared to other boards I’ve used:
| Feature | Bridge75 | Rainy75 | ND75 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Build Quality | Outstanding | Very Good | Very Good |
| Typing Sound | Deep, “thocky” | Decent, muted | Decent, muted |
| Customization | Effortless | Good | Good |
| Wireless Performance | Excellent | Good | Good |
| Value for Money | High | Comparable | Comparable |
As someone who loves to customize and fine-tune my keyboard setup, I quickly realized the value of the Shortcut Studio Bridge75 Accessories. These accessories aren’t just optional add-ons- they’re essential tools for anyone who wants to get the most out of their Bridge75 keyboard.
What’s Included and Why It’s Useful
The Bridge75 accessory pack offers extra PCBs and plates, letting you swap out or upgrade components based on your typing preferences or needs. Here’s what you get:
Tri-mode PCB: Supports wired, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz wireless connectivity, ensuring you’re never tied down to one mode.
PCB Options: Choose between a version with no RGB, one with per-key RGB, or a standard tri-mode PCB-perfect if you want to change your lighting setup or need a backup.
Plates:
PC Plate (no flex-cut): Offers a stiffer, more solid typing feel.
FR4 Plate (with flex-cut): Adds flexibility and a softer typing experience.
Thickness: All plates are 1.2T, matching the original build quality.
Note: Battery is not included, so you’ll need to transfer your existing battery if you’re swapping PCBs.
Why You Need Bridge75 Accessories
Here’s why I think these accessories are a must-have for any Bridge75 owner:
Customization: If you want to experiment with different typing feels or sound profiles, swapping plates or PCBs is the easiest way to do it. For example, I found the FR4 flex-cut plate gave my keyboard a softer, more cushioned feel, while the PC plate made it firmer and more responsive.
Future-Proofing: Accidents happen-having a spare PCB or plate on hand means you’re never left without a working keyboard if something goes wrong.
Personalization: If you bought a Bridge75 version that didn’t include your preferred PCB (like per-key RGB), these accessories let you upgrade without buying a whole new keyboard.
Easy Repairs: If you ever need to replace a damaged component, having official accessories ensures compatibility and hassle-free installation.
Our Advice
If you care about your typing experience — or simply want to be sure that you’ll be able to use your new hardware for years to come — it makes sense to get braced with the Shortcut Studio Bridge75 Accessories. They let you modify, fix, or upgrade your Bridge75 keyboard as your needs change – something I’m beginning to appreciate a lot as I continue to experiment with what this board can do.
Bridge75 Keyboard FAQ
Q. What is the Bridge75 keyboard?
The Bridge75 keyboard is a 75% mechanical keyboard designed by Shortcut Studio. It features a compact 81-key layout, premium CNC-machined aluminium construction, hot-swappable switches, tri-mode connectivity (wired, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz wireless), and is known for its excellent sound and typing feel.
Q. What makes the Shortcut Studio Bridge75 keyboard unique?
The Bridge75 stands out for its:
- Ball-catch quick release mechanism (tool-less disassembly)
- Gasket mount design for a softer, cushioned typing experience
- Multiple layers of sound-dampening foam for a “thocky” sound
- VIA software compatibility for easy customization
- High-quality double-shot PBT keycaps
Q. Is the Bridge75 keyboard hot-swappable?
Yes, the Bridge75 keyboard features a hot-swappable PCB, allowing you to change switches without soldering.
Q. What switch options are available?
You can choose between:
- Princess Ultra Linear switches (smooth, thocky)
- SC Magnetic (Hall Effect) switches (fast, durable, adjustable actuation)
Q. Does the Bridge75 support wireless connectivity?
Absolutely! The Bridge75 supports:
- Wired (USB-C)
- Bluetooth
- 2.4GHz wireless (with included dongle)
Q. How is the battery life?
- Plus/Max versions: Up to 8000mAh battery, offering weeks of use between charges
- Standard version: 4000mAh battery
Q. Is the Bridge75 keyboard compatible with VIA software?
Yes, the Bridge75 is fully compatible with VIA, allowing for key remapping, macro programming, and lighting customization.
Q. What are the main user complaints?
- Some users report the stabilizers (especially spacebar and enter) can be loud or rattly out of the box.
- The bottom corners may feel a bit sharp due to the bevelled edge.
- The flex cut plate can make switch swapping tricky-open the case fully to avoid damage.
Q. What colours and finishes are available?
The Bridge75 comes in multiple finishes, including:
- Anodized: Black, Silver
- Spray-coated: Cream, Pink, White
Q. Is the Bridge75 keyboard good for gaming?
Yes! With fast, responsive switches (especially the SC Magnetic option) and a compact layout, the Bridge75 is ideal for gaming as well as typing.
Q. How does the Bridge75 compare to other 75% keyboards?
It offers a superior out-of-the-box sound, tool-less assembly, and robust build quality, often outperforming competitors like the Rainy75 and ND75 in both feel and features.
Q. Where can I buy the Bridge75 keyboard?
You can purchase the Bridge75 keyboard from:
- Divinikey
- Amazon
Final Thoughts: Living with the Bridge75
The Shortcut Studio Bridge75 keyboard has quickly become my daily driver. It’s a joy to type on, looks fantastic, and offers a level of customization that’s hard to beat at this price point. While there are minor quirks, they’re easily addressed and don’t detract from the overall experience. If you’re looking for a keyboard that blends premium build, great acoustics, and user-friendly features, the Bridge75 is absolutely worth considering.
In summary: The Bridge75 isn’t just another mechanical keyboard, it’s a thoughtfully designed tool that makes every keystroke a pleasure.
If you enjoyed my hands-on review of the Bridge75, you’ll love exploring some of my other favorite keyboards! For fans of cute desk setups, the Cinnamoroll 20th Anniversary Keyboard 3108RF brings Sanrio charm and reliable wireless performance to your workspace. If you’re after a compact and versatile board, the RK68 offers hot-swappable switches and a streamlined 68-key layout that’s perfect for both beginners and enthusiasts. The Royal Kludge M75 stands out with its tri-mode connectivity and customizable RGB, while the QK100 impresses with its unique layout and premium build. And if flexibility is your top priority, the RK Royal Kludge RK84 delivers hot-swappable convenience and wireless freedom in a compact 75% form factor. Each of these keyboards offers something special, so be sure to check out their full reviews for more insights and find the perfect fit for your desk!
