Corsair K70 RGB TKL Keyboard Review: A Gamer’s Delight

So, you’re on the hunt for a new gaming keyboard and stumbled upon the Corsair K70 RGB TKL. Maybe you’re wondering if it’s worth all the hype, or perhaps you’re just looking for something to boost your gaming skills to the next level. Either way, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive into this Corsair K70 RGB TKL Keyboard review and see what makes this keyboard tick, shall we?

The First Impressions: Sleek and Solid

First things first, the Corsair K70 RGB TKL keyboard looks amazing. It’s like the sports car of keyboards—sleek, sturdy, and just a bit intimidating. The brushed aluminum frame not only looks fantastic but also promises durability. This isn’t one of those flimsy plastic keyboards that will fall apart after a few intense gaming sessions. Nope, this bad boy is built to last.

What’s in the Box?

Opening the box, you get the keyboard itself, a detachable USB-C cable (because we all love a bit of portability), and some documentation that we all pretend to read. Sadly, no wrist rest is included. I know, I know—total bummer for those long gaming marathons. But hey, nobody’s perfect, right?

Compact Design: TKL for the Win

The Corsair K70 RGB TKL, where TKL stands for Tenkeyless, is an 80% keyboard. This means it ditches the number pad to save space, which is great for gamers who need more room for mouse movements. If you’re used to a full-sized keyboard, it might take a bit of getting used to, but once you do, you’ll appreciate the extra desk space. Plus, it’s easier to carry around to LAN parties (do people still do those?).

Cherry MX Speed Switches: Fast and Furious

Our unit came with Cherry MX Speed switches, and boy, are they fast. These switches have a very light actuation force and minimal pre-travel distance, making them incredibly responsive. This means you can execute commands faster, which is a huge plus in competitive gaming. If speed isn’t your thing, there are also versions with Cherry MX Reds, which are linear and quiet, but still just as responsive.

RGB Lighting: Light Up Your World

No gaming keyboard review would be complete without talking about RGB lighting. The Corsair K70 RGB TKL does not disappoint. With per-key RGB backlighting, you can customize your keyboard to look like a disco, or keep it simple with a single color. It’s all controlled via Corsair’s iCUE software, which is quite user-friendly and offers a ton of customization options. You can sync it with other Corsair RGB products for a unified look if you’re into that sort of thing.

Tournament Mode: No Distractions

One of the standout features of the Corsair K70 RGB TKL is the Tournament Mode switch. This handy little switch disables all macros and locks the backlighting to a static color, ensuring no distractions during those crucial gaming moments. It’s like flipping a switch from party mode to serious mode—something your teammates will definitely appreciate when you’re in the heat of battle.

Build Quality: Built Like a Tank

We’ve touched on this already, but it’s worth emphasizing—the Corsair K70 RGB TKL is built to last. The aluminum frame adds a level of sturdiness that you just don’t get with plastic keyboards. The doubleshot PBT keycaps feel great under your fingers and are more durable than standard ABS keycaps. This keyboard can take a beating and keep on gaming.

Typing Experience: More Than Just a Gaming Keyboard

While the Corsair K70 RGB TKL is designed for gaming, it also offers a decent typing experience. The keycaps feel solid, and the layout is comfortable. However, the Cherry MX Speed switches might be a bit too sensitive for some typists, leading to more typos than usual. If you do a lot of typing and gaming, you might want to consider the Cherry MX Red switches instead.

Performance: Low Latency for the Win

Latency is a big deal in gaming, and the Corsair K70 RGB TKL excels in this area. With low latency, your keystrokes register almost instantly, giving you a competitive edge. Whether you’re dodging bullets in a first-person shooter or executing complex combos in a fighting game, this keyboard won’t let you down.

The Nitty-Gritty: Pros and Cons

Let’s break it down into the good, the bad, and the ugly:

The Good

  • Durable Build: The aluminum frame and doubleshot PBT keycaps ensure longevity.
  • Fast Switches: Cherry MX Speed switches provide a quick and responsive gaming experience.
  • RGB Customization: Extensive RGB lighting options with per-key customization.
  • Tournament Mode: Disables macros and sets static lighting for distraction-free gaming.
  • Compact Design: The TKL layout saves desk space and is portable.

The Bad

  • No Wrist Rest: Missing wrist rest can be uncomfortable for long gaming sessions.
  • Sensitive Switches: Cherry MX Speed switches may lead to typos during typing.
  • Pricey: It’s not the cheapest option out there, but you get what you pay for.

The Ugly

  • Noise: The Cherry MX Speed switches can be a bit noisy, which might be a problem if you’re gaming late at night with others sleeping nearby.

The Corsair Experience: Software and Customization

One of the perks of going with a Corsair product is the iCUE software. It’s a bit like the Swiss Army knife of peripheral software—there’s a tool for everything. You can customize your RGB lighting, set up macros, and sync all your Corsair devices. It’s intuitive and user-friendly, even if you’re not a tech wizard. Plus, regular updates mean it’s always getting better.

Gaming Performance: A Competitive Edge

Let’s be honest: you’re probably buying this keyboard for gaming. The Corsair K70 RGB TKL does not disappoint. The low latency and fast switches mean your inputs are registered almost instantaneously. In fast-paced games, this can make all the difference. The macro-programmable keys are a nice touch too, allowing you to execute complex commands with a single keystroke.

Office Use: Can It Pull Double Duty?

While primarily a gaming keyboard, the Corsair K70 RGB TKL can hold its own in an office environment. The typing experience is comfortable, though the sensitive switches might lead to more typos than usual. If you do a lot of typing, consider getting a version with Cherry MX Reds or even Blues if you prefer tactile feedback. Just be aware that the noise might annoy your coworkers.

Comfort: Could Be Better

We’ve already mentioned the lack of a wrist rest a few times, and it’s a significant omission. During extended gaming sessions, your wrists can get pretty sore. Investing in a third-party wrist rest might be a good idea if you plan on using this keyboard for long periods.

Final Thoughts: The Verdict

The Corsair K70 RGB TKL is a top-notch gaming keyboard that offers a lot in a compact package. It’s built like a tank, has lightning-fast switches, and boasts customizable RGB lighting that can make your setup look straight out of a sci-fi movie. The Tournament Mode is a nice touch for serious gamers, and the low latency performance is excellent.

However, it’s not perfect. The lack of a wrist rest and the sensitivity of the switches might be deal-breakers for some. It’s also on the pricier side, but you’re paying for quality and durability.

Recommendation: Should You Buy It?

If you’re a serious gamer looking for a reliable, high-performance keyboard that won’t take up too much space, the Corsair K70 RGB TKL is an excellent choice. Its build quality and fast switches make it a formidable weapon in your gaming arsenal. Just be prepared to shell out a bit more money and possibly invest in a wrist rest for added comfort.

So, there you have it—our comprehensive Corsair K70 RGB TKL Keyboard review. Whether you’re battling it out in an FPS or typing away on your latest school assignment, this keyboard is up to the task. Just remember to take breaks and stretch those wrists! Happy gaming!


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