The mechanical keyboard Dark Project ALU87B Celestial — 87-key ANSI, G3MS Voidstone switches, US layout is compared against several similar alternatives from the same brand: Dark Project ALU87B G3MS Voidstone Switch UK ISO layout, Dark Project ALU87B Bushido — 87‑key ANSI, G3MS Moonstone switches, RU layout, Dark Project ALU87B Bushido G3MS Moonstone Switch US layout, 87‑key ANSI, aluminum case, Dark Project ALU87A G3MS with Zircon switches, 87‑key ANSI layout, US, and Dark Project ALU87A G3MS with Zircon Switches, 87-key, ANSI layout, RU keycaps. All these devices share a compact tenkeyless (TKL) form factor with a durable aluminum chassis, designed for gaming, office work, and programming. The main differences between them lie in the key layouts, regional keycap language variants, and the specific types of G3MS mechanical switches used.
⚙️ Below is a comparison of the core technical characteristics, including form factor, switch type, layout specifics, and chassis materials for each model.
| Parameter | Dark Project ALU87B Celestial (US) | Dark Project ALU87B Voidstone (UK ISO) | Dark Project ALU87B Bushido (RU) | Dark Project ALU87B Bushido (US) | Dark Project ALU87A Zircon (US) | Dark Project ALU87A Zircon (RU) | Practical significance |
|---|
| Form factor | 87 keys (TKL) | 87 keys (TKL) | 87 keys (TKL) | 87 keys (TKL) | 87 keys (TKL) | 87 keys (TKL) | All models save desk space while retaining essential typing keys. |
| Chassis | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum | Metal/aluminum | Metal/aluminum | Provides high structural rigidity, stability, and long-term durability. |
| Switches | G3MS Voidstone | G3MS Voidstone | G3MS Moonstone | G3MS Moonstone | G3MS Zircon | G3MS Zircon | Different switch types determine tactile feedback and acoustic response during typing. |
| Layout and language | ANSI, US | ISO, UK | ANSI, RU keycaps | ANSI, US | ANSI, US | ANSI, RU keycaps | Layout and language selection depends on regional typing habits and language needs. |
◎ The table below evaluates which product is best suited for different user requirements, language preferences, and practical use cases.
| Use case | Recommended product | Why |
|---|
| English typing with standard ANSI layout | Dark Project ALU87B Celestial (US) | Best suited for users accustomed to the standard US layout paired with Voidstone switches. |
| Office work in the UK and Europe with ISO | Dark Project ALU87B G3MS Voidstone Switch UK ISO layout | Required for users who need the specific ISO format with European language support. |
| Typing in Russian with ANSI layout | Dark Project ALU87B Bushido — 87‑key ANSI, G3MS Moonstone switches, RU layout | Equipped with Russian keycap legends and Moonstone switches for comfortable daily tasks. |
| Programming and gaming with US layout | Dark Project ALU87B Bushido G3MS Moonstone Switch US layout, 87‑key ANSI, aluminum case | Combines a solid aluminum build, Moonstone switches, and a standard US key arrangement. |
| Alternative switch feel with Zircon (US) | Dark Project ALU87A G3MS with Zircon switches, 87‑key ANSI layout, US | Offers Zircon mechanical switches housed in an ALU87A series chassis with US layout. |
| Alternative Zircon switches with Russian legends | Dark Project ALU87A G3MS with Zircon Switches, 87-key, ANSI layout, RU keycaps | Suited for users who prefer Zircon switches and require Russian character legends. |
The Dark Project ALU87B Celestial keyboard stands out through its combination of a standard US ANSI layout and G3MS Voidstone switches housed within a sturdy aluminum frame. It is most suitable for users who want a compact TKL layout to save desk space, reliable tactile switch feedback, and a standard US key arrangement. Alternative models should only be selected if a different switch type (Moonstone or Zircon) or a specific regional layout (UK ISO or RU keycaps) is required.