HyperX Alloy Origins 65 Review: A Gamer's Delight
The HyperX Alloy Origins 65 keyboard combines excellent build quality, compact design, and exceptional typing experience to deliver a top-notch performance. Whether you're a competitive gamer or a professional typist, this keyboard has the features to meet your demands.
We'll take a closer look at the HyperX Alloy Origins 65. HyperX has carved out a niche for itself, crafting high-quality gear beloved by gamers worldwide. Their latest offering is no exception.
Allow me to draw back the curtain on the HyperX Alloy Origins 65. This compact, 65% form factor keyboard is turning heads and tapping fingers with its robust features. From a solid aluminum base plate to textured doubleshot PBT keycaps, it offers a mix of durability and elegance. And let's not forget its striking full RGB backlighting which shines through translucent key lettering, creating a vibrant, customizable visual experience.
Not only does this keyboard look good, it performs well too. It's compatible with the PlayStation 5 and PCs, giving you plenty of options. However, don't be mistaken. This isn't a high-end model loaded with countless features. It's a more affordable option. Yet, it promises a lot of bang for your buck!
Our journey into this review will take us through in-depth test results, where we discuss its features, performance, and user experience. We'll also dive into customer reviews to hear the thoughts of other users. Finally, we'll round it up with a succinct conclusion, weighing the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.
So, are you excited to explore what the HyperX Alloy Origins 65 has in store? Let's dive right in!
The HyperX Alloy Origins 65 keyboard is ideally suited for those who prioritize gaming and typist needs. Both PlayStation 5 and PC users can benefit from this keyboard, with its impressive typing experience and low latency. Its compact, yet durable design also makes it a compelling choice for those seeking portability.
- Outstanding low latency, ideal for fast-paced gaming
- Excellent typing experience with textured keycaps and minimal key wobble
- High build quality with a solid aluminum base and durable PBT keycaps
- Full RGB backlighting with individually-lit keys and customizable settings
- Compact 65% form factor, including dedicated arrow and navigational keys
- Lack of wireless functionality
- Limited compatibility with macOS and Linux
- Ngenuity software doesn't match quality provided by top competitors
- No wrist rest included
- Limited onboard memory for profiles
The HyperX Alloy Origins 65 keyboard stands out as a solid option for both gaming and general use. The low latency and excellent typing experience make it a great choice for competitive gaming and professional typing. While it has some limitations, such as the lack of wireless connectivity and limited software compatibility, its high-quality build, compact design, and customizable RGB backlighting give it a strong value proposition. It is an affordable keyboard with high-end features, making it worth considering for those seeking quality and functionality at a moderate price.
Test Results
Design
The HyperX Alloy Origins 65 boasts a sleek and compact design that captures attention. It is a 65% form factor keyboard with dedicated arrow keys and a solid aluminum base plate. Let's dive into the specifics of its design, from dimensions and build quality to ergonomics, backlighting, connectivity, and extra features.
The HyperX Alloy Origins 65 maintains a compact footprint. Measuring 1.4 by 12.4 by 4.15 inches (HWD), it is slightly slimmer than many other 65 percent boards. Despite its compact size, it manages to pack a row of additional functions and comfortably spaced arrow keys.
The build quality of the HyperX Alloy Origins 65 is exceptional. It sports a solid aluminum chassis and baseplate, ensuring its durability. Coupled with durable doubleshot PBT keycaps, it stands the test of time, resisting wear and tear. Its matte black finish adds an elegant touch, while the space-themed designs printed on some keycaps enhance its visual appeal.
The keyboard has a high-profile board and offers three adjustable keyboard angles, catering to different user preferences. However, it lacks a wrist rest, which might slightly impact comfort during prolonged usage. It has four rubber grips at each corner, promoting better stability. The reduced elevation and inclusion of arrow keys make for comfortable everyday typing and long play sessions.
Individually-lit keys with full RGB lighting make for an immersive experience. The brightness can be adjusted over five settings, allowing you to tune it to your liking. The translucent lettering on keys allows the RGB lighting to shine through, adding to the keyboard's aesthetic. You can customize the backlighting through the companion software.
The keyboard comes with one USB-C port for the included USB-C cable. However, it does not support Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, which means it lacks wireless options. It may not be suitable for mobile devices or tablets due to its wired-only design. Nonetheless, the detachable USB-C to USB-A braided cable is durable and promotes easy cable management.
The keyboard comes with a few bonus features, including a keycap puller and additional space-themed keycaps, allowing users to personalize their experience. The space bar keycap features a unique design with spaceships and planets, giving the keyboard a playful edge. Furthermore, it includes Game Mode, onboard memory profiles, full anti-ghosting, and N-key rollover for an enhanced gaming experience. However, it only offers three onboard memory spaces for profiles, which is below the average.
Typing Experience
Typing experience is a crucial aspect when evaluating a keyboard. The Alloy Origins 65, with its proprietary HyperX Red switches, promises an optimal typing experience. Let's explore the keystrokes, typing quality, noise level, and latency in detail.
HyperX Alloy Origins 65 uses proprietary HyperX Red linear switches. These switches feature an operating force of 46g, providing a light, snappy feel. With a slightly shorter actuation point and travel distance (2.3mm and 4mm respectively), it assures quicker actuation. This results in an effective response in fast-paced situations, though the lack of tactile feedback might not appeal to everyone. The keyboard also offers an alternative tactile option, the Aqua switches.
The typing quality on the HyperX Alloy Origins 65 is impressive. Improvements over the previous model can be noticed in terms of key spacing and switch actuation. The keycaps are textured, adding a tactile feel to the typing experience. The keys are balanced for both gaming and general use, providing a unique feel. The key wobble is minor and does not distract during use. However, the absence of a Cherry-manufactured switch might not appeal to everyone.
When it comes to typing noise, the keyboard remains quiet, making it suitable for quiet environments. This is primarily due to the use of linear HyperX Red switches, which are known for their quieter operation.
The HyperX Alloy Origins 65 excels in terms of latency. With a standard polling rate of 1,000Hz, it positively affects the keyboard's response time. The very low latency results in precise and speedy performance in games, making it highly suitable for fast-paced or competitive gaming scenarios.
Software
Software capabilities can greatly enhance the utility of a keyboard. The Alloy Origins 65 uses the Ngenuity app for customization. We will discuss the programming options and compatibility in this section.
The programming aspect of the HyperX Alloy Origins 65 is executed through the Ngenuity app. This companion software offers customization options, including easy macro mapping and RGB configuration. Each key can be programmed for specific functions, providing an individualized experience. However, the software has its limitations. The onboard memory for profiles is notably restricted, which might prove a slight inconvenience for users with extensive customization preferences. Furthermore, the overall software quality does not quite match that of competitors such as Razer, Logitech, or Corsair.
The HyperX Alloy Origins 65 proves to be highly compatible with both the PlayStation 5 and PC. The keyboard performs satisfactorily when tested across several games. Despite this broad compatibility, some limitations exist. Full compatibility is offered with Windows, but macOS and Linux users might find certain features lacking, as the companion software is not supported. Additionally, the lack of wireless functionality may make it unsuitable for home theater PC setups or multi-device setups.
Customer Reviews
Going beyond specifications and brand descriptions, customer reviews can offer a more in-depth and real-life perspective on a product. This chapter dissects the benefits and complaints based on customers' experiences with the keyboard in question.
Benefits
One striking benefit mentioned by several users is the high quality of the keyboard. They praise its solid build, as well as the bright and clear RGB colors. Additionally, many reviewers appreciate the compact size of the keyboard, which allows more desk space, particularly for the mouse. The TKL (tenkeyless) design also seems to cater to gamers who frequently use function keys.
The keys themselves are a significant selling point, with reviewers particularly pleased with the firmness of the aqua switches. Users report a satisfying 'clicking' sound upon pressing the keys, enhancing the overall typing or gaming experience. The HyperX keycaps were found to be compatible with standard MX stems, enabling customization with various keycap sets.
The HyperX software, despite mixed reviews, was praised for its flexibility and a wide array of color options and effects for each individual key. Another well-received feature was the adjustability of the keyboard's feet, offering different height adjustments.
Complaints
Despite the many benefits, customers also highlighted a few complaints. The compact design, while appreciated by many, was reported to be inconvenient for users with larger hands. The key caps, while high-quality, were mentioned to seem a bit small, particularly the knobs, which could be challenging for those with bigger fingers.
The software has drawn criticism for being somewhat underdeveloped and not as streamlined as some users would prefer. Several users found it difficult to use, requiring extended time to figure out how to manipulate the color of individual keys.
A 'pinging' noise heard after pressing some keys was another complaint. While the noise was described as less loud than the regular clicking sound, it could potentially be irritating for some users.
Customer Conclusion
Overall, the consensus from customer reviews leans favorably towards the keyboard. The high quality, compact design, and satisfying keys seem to offer a positive user experience, outweighing the complaints. However, the product could be improved by addressing issues such as enhancing the user-friendliness of the software and minimizing any unwanted 'pinging' noise.
Each user's experience is subjective, influenced by individual needs and preferences. Potential buyers should consider their requirements when choosing a keyboard. If the compact design, firm keys, and customizable RGB lighting align with one's preferences, this keyboard could be an excellent fit.
Customer Questions/Answers
Can the switches be hot-swapped?
No, the switches can't be hot-swapped.
How do HyperX Red and MX Cherry Red differ?
HyperX Red switches are smoother and less scratchy compared to MX Cherry Red.
Is the keyboard compatible with iPad Pro and how does it charge?
The keyboard requires a USB dongle to work with iPad Pro.
What type of keys are there for customization?
The keys are mechanical and made of PBT material.
Are both ends of the cable USB-C?
The cable is USB-C to the keyboard and standard USB-A to the PC.
What items are included in the box?
The box includes a keycap puller, ESC and spacebar keys, and a connector cable.
Conclusion
Wrapping up our review, the HyperX Alloy Origins 65 makes a strong impression. Its compact, solid design, paired with a stunning RGB backlighting, scores high on aesthetics. The quality of the build, featuring a durable aluminum chassis and double-shot PBT keycaps, is remarkable. The space-themed design on some keycaps adds a touch of uniqueness.
The keyboard shines in performance as well. It offers low latency, making it suitable for fast-paced gaming. The proprietary HyperX Red switches offer a satisfying typing experience, balancing gaming needs and everyday use. Yet, it's worth noting that these switches may not appeal to everyone.
On the software front, customization is handled by the Ngenuity app. Though it's not the most visually appealing, it's functional for adjusting RGB lighting and remapping keys. The keyboard also provides onboard memory, though limited to three profiles.
However, this keyboard isn't without its flaws. It lacks wireless functionality and isn't the best choice for multi-device setups. Its compatibility outside Windows is also limited. And while the 65% form factor allows for some additional functions and arrow keys, some users might miss the full range of a larger keyboard.
In conclusion, the HyperX Alloy Origins 65 provides good value at its price point. It's a reliable, stylish, and functional keyboard, suitable for gamers and typists alike, with a few minor compromises. If you're looking for an affordable keyboard with solid performance, the HyperX Alloy Origins 65 should be on your shortlist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a HyperX Alloy Origins 65 keyboard wireless?
No, the HyperX Alloy Origins 65 keyboard is not wireless. It is a wired keyboard and uses a detachable USB-C to USB-A braided cable for connection. It does not support Wi-Fi or Bluetooth functionality.
Are HyperX switches any good?
Yes, HyperX switches are considered to be high-quality. In the case of the HyperX Alloy Origins 65, it uses HyperX Red linear switches which offer a light snap and faster actuation. This results in a responsive and smooth typing experience, especially beneficial for gaming.
What is the polling rate of HyperX Alloy Origins 65?
The HyperX Alloy Origins 65 keyboard has a standard polling rate of 1,000Hz. This polling rate contributes to the keyboard's low latency, making it highly suitable for fast-paced or competitive gaming scenarios.
What are the dimensions of the HyperX Alloy Origins 65?
The HyperX Alloy Origins 65 measures 1.4 by 12.4 by 4.15 inches (HWD). It has a slightly slimmer profile compared to many other 65 percent keyboards, and the extra 5% allows for a row of additional functions and comfortably spaced arrow keys.
Is the HyperX Alloy Origins 65 compatible with macOS and Linux?
The HyperX Alloy Origins 65 keyboard is fully compatible with Windows but has limited compatibility with macOS and Linux. It doesn't provide software for these operating systems, which may limit the customization options.
Can you customize the RGB settings of the HyperX Alloy Origins 65?
Yes, the RGB settings of the HyperX Alloy Origins 65 can be customized through the HyperX's Ngenuity software. This allows users to adjust the keyboard's backlighting and configure macros, although the onboard memory for profiles is limited.
What extra features does the HyperX Alloy Origins 65 offer?
The HyperX Alloy Origins 65 includes several extra features. Among these are Game Mode, onboard memory profiles, full anti-ghosting, and N-key rollover. The keyboard also comes with additional space-themed keycaps and a keycap puller.