Corsair K70 RGB MK.2 Low-Profile Review: A Blend of Style, Performance, and Customizability
The Corsair K70 RGB MK.2 stands out in its category, offering a unique blend of style, performance, and customizability. Despite minor shortcomings, the keyboard excels in providing a diverse range of features such as macro-programmable keys, low latency, and an array of Cherry MX switches.
Today, we'll be diving into the Corsair K70 MK.2 Low-Profile keyboard. From its design and aesthetic to its unique features, we'll explore everything it has to offer. As always, our aim is to give you a comprehensive understanding so you can make an informed choice.
The Corsair K70 MK.2 Low-Profile is a contender in the market that offers a variety of key switch options, exceptional RGB backlighting, and a solid build quality. Its slim design and additional features like media controls and macro-programming make it an enticing prospect for any tech lover.
So whether you're an avid gamer, a fast-paced typer, or just someone who appreciates good tech, this review is for you. Let's embark on this tech journey together and see if the Corsair K70 MK.2 Low-Profile lives up to the hype!
The Corsair K70 RGB MK.2 is designed for individuals who prioritize aesthetics, customizability, and an excellent typing experience. It is optimal for gamers due to its low latency, and macro-programmable keys, but it's also well-suited to power users who need to customize their keyboard's functionality to optimize their workflow.
- Customizable full RGB backlighting
- Solid build quality with a thick braided cable
- Macro-programmable keys excluding 'Profile Switching' and 'RGB Brightness'
- Low latency, suitable for gaming
- Good typing experience with high-quality keycaps
- Plastic, slippery wrist rest
- Premium price
- Lacks wireless connectivity
- Key spacing might need time to get used to
The Corsair K70 RGB MK.2 proves to be a reliable choice for both gamers and power users. With its low latency, customizable keys, and solid build quality, it is an excellent investment. However, users who prefer wireless keyboards should look elsewhere.
Test Results
Design
Let's first talk about the design of the Corsair K70 MK.2 Low-Profile keyboard. This category includes the dimensions of the keyboard, its build quality, ergonomics, backlighting, connectivity, and extra features it provides.
The Corsair K70 MK.2 Low-Profile is a full-sized keyboard, consuming considerable space on your desk. It showcases a lower height with slight variance between the rows, and a 35% smaller switch than its full-sized predecessors. This results in a low-profile design that feels like a thin base with hardly any room between the key switches and the desk.
Constructed with a blend of plastic and an aluminum top plate, the Corsair K70 MK.2 Low-Profile grants a sturdy build quality that outshines the Corsair K68 RGB. However, the wrist rest feels plastic and slippery, while some keyboard flex and sharp edges on the aluminum plate are observed. Additionally, the keyboard comes with a sturdy, thick cable that doesn't easily tangle.
The keyboard's low profile and flat angle make it suitable for resting on the desk. It includes one incline setting and a detachable wrist rest, although the latter can feel hard and challenging to remove. Furthermore, small feet contribute to sliding rather than enhancing the keyboard's stability.
The keyboard comes with full RGB, individually-lit keys, customizable via iCUE software. The keyboard's lighting shines through from under each switch, and while the overall lighting effect may appear dimmer than other Corsair models, the per-key lighting provides attractive RGB effects that remain impressive.
This keyboard is wired-only, with a thick braided cable and two USB plugs at the end for the USB passthrough, meaning it cannot be used wirelessly. This design may limit portability, but it ensures a stable connection free from wireless interference or battery constraints.
The Corsair K70 MK.2 Low-Profile keyboard is packed with extra features that enhance usability. It offers media controls in the top-right corner, including a volume roller, profile storage, backlight brightness, and game mode buttons. A USB passthrough is also available for added convenience. Furthermore, it comes with a keycap puller and extra keys for customization.
Typing Experience
Next, we delve into the typing experience. This is a crucial aspect of any keyboard, and we'll examine the keystrokes, typing quality and noise, and the latency of the Corsair K70 MK.2 Low-Profile.
Equipped with a variety of Cherry MX switches including Brown, Red, Blue, Silent Red, and Speed, the Corsair K70 MK.2 Low-Profile offers a typing experience tailored to different user preferences. In testing, the Brown switches offered a clean, fast, and minimal pre-travel distance. The low-profile design, similar to laptop-style keycaps, has a 3.2mm travel distance and actuation at 1.0mm, providing a soft, squashy, and somewhat rough feel.
The keyboard provides a high-quality typing experience similar to the full-sized MX Speed, albeit with minor differences. Keycaps are well-suited for typing, even though they appear visually cramped. Despite the short travel of the low-profile switches, the keys' resistance prevents mistyping. However, the spacing between the keys might require some adjustment time, and some keys, such as the spacebar, Enter, and Shift, are less stable.
The Corsair K70 MK.2 Low-Profile is notably quiet, especially with the Brown switches. The space bar is a standout feature, generating minimal rattle. However, for those who prefer tactile feedback, the Blue switches offer a clicky noise that may be distracting in a quiet environment.
The keyboard performs admirably in terms of latency, making it suitable for both gaming and desktop use. Its full anti-ghosting feature and 1ms polling rate ensure accurate reading of inputs, even under rapid or clumsy typing. This characteristic enhances the typing experience by reducing input lag to virtually unnoticeable levels.
Software
Last but not least, we'll explore the software aspect of this keyboard. Specifically, we'll look at programming options and compatibility with different operating systems.
The keyboard's programmability is an undeniable asset. The majority of keys, barring the Profile Switching and RGB Brightness keys, are macro-programmable via the iCUE software. This empowers users to tailor their keyboard functionality, enhancing their productivity or gaming experience. It's a plus that the software is straightforward to use.
The keyboard shows full compatibility with Windows, but exhibits some limitations with macOS and Linux. Certain keys such as Scroll Lock, Pause Break, and Stop do not function on macOS. In the case of Linux, although the keyboard works seamlessly, the iCUE software is not available. The lack of software compatibility may limit customization and programming options for Linux users.
Customer Reviews
Consumers offer the most direct perspective on a product's performance, benefits, and shortcomings. Here, we've analyzed reviews from Corsair K70 Rapidfire owners to get a clearer view of their experiences.
Benefits
Many customers expressed their appreciation for the keyboard's robust build quality and striking aesthetic appeal. Particularly notable was the white brushed aluminum finish, which customers praised for both its visual impact and ease of cleaning. The Corsair K70 Rapidfire's brilliant RGB lighting also earned compliments, with users noting its brightness and adjustability.
Functionally, the keyboard's tactile feedback and swift response rate were repeatedly highlighted. Users reported that these features enhanced their typing speed, making the keyboard feel incredibly responsive. The additional USB pass-through was appreciated by customers for increasing available ports, a feature useful for a variety of setups.
Moreover, customers lauded the iCUE software for its ease of use and its customization features, including lighting profiles, macro setup, and temperature-based color changes. Additionally, some found the software improved over time, despite initial firmware update issues.
Complaints
Despite its many strengths, the Corsair K70 Rapidfire was not without its criticisms. Several customers expressed dissatisfaction with the thin and light keycaps, fearing they would wear down over time. Some were irked by the additional cost of upgrading to double shot keycaps, which raised the overall price.
There were also comments about the iCUE software needing to be continually running in the background to take full advantage of the RGB effects. A few customers found this inconvenient, though it seems to be a less significant issue for those primarily interested in static backlighting.
Customer Conclusion
Overall, consumers were pleased with the Corsair K70 Rapidfire's performance and aesthetics. They highlighted its superior build quality, responsive switches, and vibrant RGB lighting. Complaints focused primarily on the perceived fragility of the keycaps and certain software limitations. Despite these minor drawbacks, many considered the keyboard a valuable addition to their setups, especially given its competitive price point.
Customer Questions/Answers
Can the device be powered with just one USB or does it need two to work?
This device can be powered with a single USB 3.0 port. However, the passthrough connection on the keyboard won't function in this case.
Does the K70 Low-Profile keyboard support MacOS? Can media keys be reassigned? Is there LED configuration software on Mac?
Yes, you can reassign macros to multimedia keys. You can also customize the key colors using the iCUE software.
Which is the best option for a typist?
Blue switches are typically preferred by typists. However, user experience may vary based on individual typing style and habits.
Can I use key dampeners for this keyboard?
This keyboard doesn't require O rings as the Cherry MX Speed switches are already quiet. However, if absolute silence is needed, you might want to consider a high-quality membrane keyboard.
Will the original K70 wrist rest work with this new Low-Profile K70 Rapidfire keyboard?
No, different wrist rests are used for these two models.
Are the keyboard colors solid or rainbow? Does each key have its own LED?
The keyboard supports both solid and rainbow colors. Each key is individually backlit.
Can the space bar be made silent like by adding a bushing?
You can make keys quieter by adding O rings.
Can I use the K70 RGB MK.2 on PS4?
Yes, with a Chronosmax Pro adapter and a laptop or PC, you can use any keyboard, mouse, or controller input on the PS4.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Corsair K70 MK.2 Low-Profile keyboard offers quite a remarkable package. It brings together a beautiful, sleek design with full RGB backlighting to truly catch the eye.
The keyboard's slim, compact form combined with its variety of Cherry MX switch options creates a unique typing experience that is sure to delight many users. Notably, the keystrokes are smooth and responsive, with little to no latency, ensuring high accuracy for both typing and gaming.
However, it's not without its drawbacks. The plastic wrist rest and slight keyboard flex could be improved upon for a more premium feel. And while the iCUE software allows for extensive customization, compatibility issues with macOS and lack of wireless connectivity may limit its appeal for some users.
Overall, the Corsair K70 MK.2 Low-Profile is an impressive piece of tech, particularly suited for those who prefer a low-profile, laptop-like keyboard with a host of customizable options. Whether it's for gaming or everyday typing, it has a lot to offer and could be a worthy addition to your tech collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Corsair K70 Low-Profile good?
Yes, the Corsair K70 Low-Profile keyboard is highly regarded for its solid build quality, full RGB backlighting, and excellent typing experience. It's designed with Cherry's new Low Profile MX switches which contribute to its sturdiness. The keyboard is macro-programmable via the iCUE software, enhancing its customizability. However, it does have a few downsides such as a slippery wrist rest.
Is the Corsair K70 worth it?
Whether the Corsair K70 is worth it or not largely depends on your specific needs. It provides a great balance between style, performance, and customizability. It comes with full RGB backlighting, high-quality Cherry MX switches, and a solid build. Additionally, the keys are macro-programmable through Corsair's iCUE software. Considering these features, the Corsair K70 offers excellent value for both gamers and power users.
Which Corsair K70 is best?
The best model largely depends on your specific needs and preferences. Each Corsair K70 model comes with its unique set of features. The Corsair K70 RGB MK.2, for instance, is praised for its full-sized design, attractive RGB backlighting, variety of Cherry MX switch options, and macro-programmable keys. It's an excellent all-rounder that offers versatility, style, and performance.
What type of switches does the Corsair K70 RGB MK.2 use?
The Corsair K70 RGB MK.2 uses a variety of Cherry MX switches, including Brown, Red, Blue, Silent Red, and Speed. The Cherry MX Brown switches, for instance, are known for their good tactile feedback and light press, making them optimal for gamers.
Does the Corsair K70 RGB MK.2 have good compatibility?
The Corsair K70 RGB MK.2 is fully compatible with Windows and Linux. However, for macOS users, some keys like Scroll Lock, Pause Break, and Stop keys may not function as expected. Also, the iCUE software used for customization isn't available on Linux.