Corsair is one of the most well-rounded manufacturers of PC components, producing everything frommemory stickstoexcellent gaming keyboards, mice, and headsets. Even if the company dominates multiple marketplace sectors, its selection of gaming keyboards is particularly diverse. Unfortunately, finding the right model among the best Corsair keyboards is enough to make any gamer’s head spin.
Corsair K70 Max Gaming Keyboard
Key Factors For Choosing the Best Corsair Keyboards For Gaming
To make the buying decision easier, focus on these qualities that differ among Corsair keyboards:
Corsair has carefully developed its inventory so that every buyer can find the perfect option for their gaming rigs. The following keyboards each have standout qualities that make them worthy of consideration:
Game Rant’s Picks for the Best Corsair Gaming Keyboards in 2024
Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT Keyboard
The Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT Mechanical Gaming Keyboard immerses a desktop in dynamic RGB lighting with per-key illumination. Six dedicated macro keys establish an in-game advantage with the added benefit of Elgato Stream Deck software integration. A detachable cushioned leatherette palm rest offers plush comfort while dedicated multimedia keys, an aluminum volume roller, and a USB pass-through port put convenient control within reach. Powerful iCUE software gives users control over their lighting, macros, key remaps, and more. Boasting 100% anti-ghosting with N-key rollover and onboard storage for five profiles, the K95 RGB Platinum XT lets gamers play with a full deck.
The Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT is a wired mechanical gaming keyboard that is alsopowerful streaming gear. This keyboard is perfect for buyers looking for a jack-of-all-tradesmechanical gaming keyboard. Although other options have been available in the past, Cherry MX Speed Silver switches are now most commonly found in stock for the K95 RGB Platinum XT. These switches live up to their name and allow for accurate rapid-fire inputs during gaming with an actuation point of just 1.2 mm.
As a 2.88 lb full-sized keyboard, the K95 RGB Platinum XT is not ideal for traveling, unlike compact keyboards such as theCorsair K65 Plus Wireless. The thick attached USB cable can also pose problems when trying to route it underneath desktops. Still, once in its proper position, the K95 RGB Platinum XT and its anodized aluminum frame will likely withstand any abuse. The PBT double shot keycaps on the device will also resist having their lettering wear off and can survive heat and spills.
The Elgato stream deck integration on the K95 RGB Platinum XT is not commonly found with other gaming keyboard brands. Streamers can use the six dedicated macro keys on the left side of the keyboard to assign shortcuts to Elgato software and quickly start, stop, and make many other on-the-fly adjustments during broadcasts. Both content creators and their viewers will enjoy the highly customizable per-key RGB lighting on the K95 RGB Platinum XT. However, the illumination isn’t limited to the keys since, in iCue, users can configure how the 19-zone LightEdge strip on the top of the keyboard will look.
A full array of macro and media keys also allows gamers to control every part of a rig with a click of a button. Although the Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT’s heavyweight profile may not appeal to every buyer, its versatility makes it the best Corsair gaming keyboard.
Corsair K55 Core RGB Gaming Keyboard
The K55 Core is an affordable way to experience the advantages of a Corsair gaming keyboard. With low-effort typing, this membrane keyboard has the quick and responsive performance needed during furious gameplay. The K55 Core also looks stunning with bright and customizable ten-zone backlighting. Among budget keyboards, few options give gamers more control, thanks to the powerful macro reprogramming functionality in the Corsair iCue app. Complete with 300 ml spill resistance to avoid desktop disasters, the K55 Core is ready to become a permanent part of a battlestation.
As premium mechanical keyboards have become more accepted among mainstream gamers,budget keyboardshave struggled to remain relevant. Still, there is a significant market for affordable keyboards among buyers withlower-end PC buildsor new to gaming. The Corsair K55 Core RGB is a membrane keyboard that can win over skeptical gamers with stunning looks and smooth typing.
The K55 Core RGB is relatively compact for a full-sized keyboard, even if its base is surprisingly chunky. However, the keys are low-profile, and there is very little wasted area on its surface. Gamers will find media keys above the K55 Core RGB’s number pad and controls to adjust brightness levels and activate Win Lock. There is ample space between the keycaps, allowing the keyboard’s ten zones of RGB lighting to shine in their full glory.
Membrane keyboards have a reputation for mushy inputs that lack the distinctiveness of mechanical alternatives. With the K55 Core RGB, gamers won’t experience theclickiness of a high-end keyboard, but its quiet typing relieves migraine sufferers. While not as durable as PBT keycaps, the K55 Core RGB benefits from a spill-resistant coating to enhance its longevity.
The fact that the comprehensive iCue software makes most features accessible to the K55 Core RGB only enhances its value. Gamers can remap keys and create RGB profiles toggled in software or by setting up shortcuts. For buyers who plan on purchasing Corsair mice or keyboards, the K55 Core RGB is a great starting point for coordinating an entire gaming rig.
Game Rant’s K55 Core RGB reviewdetermined that it offered enough unexpected perks to rank it among the best Corsair keyboards. Buyers can experience the customization and flair of more expensive gaming gear even on a strict budget.
Corsair K70 RGB TKL Champion Series Gaming Keyboard
The Corsair K70 RGB TKL Champion Series Gaming Keyboard is designed for competitive gaming, as part of the Corsair Champion Series tested by top esports professionals. Its tenkeyless form factor saves space and enhances portability, while a detachable USB Type-C cable and tournament mode switch makes it an ideal choice for competitions.Equipped with Corsair OPX RGB Optical-Mechanical key switches, this keyboard provides hyper-fast input, a one millimeter actuation distance, smooth linear travel, and a lifespan of 150 million keystrokes. Powered by Corsair AXON Hyper-Processing Technology, it offers unparalleled performance with 8,000Hz hyper-polling, 4,000Hz key scanning, and up to 20 layers of hardware RGB lighting processing.
The Corsair K70 RGB TKL packs tremendous functionality into a compact form factor. Heavy on gaming features, thiswired mechanical keyboardis perfect for buyers who need to save some space on their crowded desktops. Although there is no number pad, users have a collection of media keys and a volume rocker, which is far from standard on smaller keyboards.
Corsair doesn’t take too many chances with the default switch options for the Corsair K70 RGB TKL. Cherry MX Speed and Cherry MX Silent are two of the more popular variations to find in stock. Corsair also offers its own OPX optical linear switches, allowing blazing-fast inputs with an actuation distance of just 1.0 mm. These switches rely on beams of light to register inputs rather than hardware making physical contact, maximizing their durability. Regardless of the switch choice, little more than a feather touch is necessary for most key presses, which may not be ideal outside of gaming.
The Corsair K70 RGB TKL’s frame and keycaps are just as durable as its mechanical switches. This keyboard’s housing is heavy aluminum, while its PBT double shot keycaps are extra sturdy to survive the most brutal gaming sessions. Although the Corsair K70 RGB TKL’s 2.1 lb weight doesn’t rank it as one of the lightest keyboards, it does feature a detachable braided USB-C cable to make traveling to competitions feasible.
Some of the more unique features of the Corsair K70 RGB TKL include a switch to activate Tournament Mode, which disables macros and simplifies RGB lighting to one color. Even thoughesports prosare usually prohibited from using macros at competitions, iCue software allows for the extensive remapping of nearly every button on the device. The per-key RGB lighting on the keyboard is also top-notch and completely customizable so that gamers can showcase their unique sense of style.
With an emphasis on gaming-focused features and accuracy during rapid inputs, the K70 RGB TKL is the preferred keyboard among Corsair’s wired models.
Corsair K100 Air Wireless RGB Ultra
The Corsair K100 Air Wireless RGB Ultra is one of the thinnest full-sized wireless gaming keyboards to hit the marketplace. However, its skinny profile maxing out at just 17 mm doesn’t hold back the keyboard in terms of features or performance. The wireless keyboard can connect to PCs or gaming consoles thanks to its tri-mode Slipstream, Bluetooth, or wired connectivity. Regardless of platform, Axon Hyper-Processing technology ensures that the keyboard can process complicated RGB lighting effects while registering keystrokes with total accuracy.
To say that the Corsair K100 Air Wireless RGB Ultra is low-profile is almost a criminal understatement. The aluminum body of the keyboard is just 11 mm wide at its lowest point, rising to just 17 mm toward its top edge. The only keyboard that comes close to this thinness is theLofree Flow, but it doesn’t have the same excellent gaming performance. While the thin build makes it easy to type on for long periods, Corsair decided not to include a wrist rest, which is standard for their full-size keyboards.
This keyboard is perfect for gamers who want a low-profile keyboard without sacrificing gaming performance. The only switch type available with the K100 Air Wireless RGB Ultra is Cherry MX Ultra Low Profile switches, which manage a travel distance of 2 mm despite their size. If a gamer is a fan of fairly quietgaming laptop-style keyboardswith flat keys, this Corsair keyboard is a real treat. Although it takes minimal effort to press a series of keys in succession, users may initially have trouble finding the tops of the small keycaps. Corsair doesn’t recommend swapping out the keyboard’s switches; doing so is extra risky since the low-profile hardware is more delicate. TheCorsair K70 Pro Minimight be a better option if gamers want a DIY-friendly keyboard.
As thebest wireless Corsair gaming keyboard, the company has accomplished some admirable feats, stuffing heaps of technology into a wafer-thin peripheral. Ingenious low-profile switches will have gamers typing for hours without feeling fatigued. The K100 Air Wireless RGB Ultra’s steep asking price is the only obstacle.
Corsair K65 Plus
The Corsair K65 Plus keyboard is the company’s 75% PC gaming accessory, boasting hot swappable switches, two layers of sound dampening, and up to 266 hours of battery life (with RGB off).
75 percent keyboards are the most sensible choice for many gamers since they retain function and arrow keys. The Corsair K65 Plus is a highly customizable and compact wireless keyboard with the versatility to thrive in any scenario. While still pricey, powerful wireless connectivity and excellent battery life make it a better value than competing wired keyboards.
Shipping with multi-colored keycaps, the K65 Plus resembleskeyboards popular for coderslike theKeychron Q2 Pro. With RGB lighting shining in between but not through the PBT keycaps, the K65 Plus looks a bit more like a productivity keyboard. Plenty of functionality enables this Corsair keyboard to be practical for daily use, including a versatile multi-function dial in its upper right corner. In combination with Fn keys and programming in iCue, users can rely on the sturdy dial to do far more than change volume levels.
By default, the K65 Plus comes with smooth, red linear mechanical switches that are not particularly loud. Corsair also installed multiple layers of sound-dampening foam in the device to drown out the pinging that plagues some mechanical keyboards. However, the K65 Plus is one of the easierhot-swappable keyboardsto mod, with Corsair including a tool to change switches.
Undoubtedly, Corsair’s latest compact keyboard will draw some comparisons to the 75 percentRazer BlackWidow V4. Razer’s enthusiast keyboard comes with a wrist rest but is wired despite being more expensive. The K65 Plus is a strong value considering its dual low-latency RF or Bluetooth connectivity and remarkable 266-hour battery life. This Corsair device is also an excellent choice as aMac Keyboard, complete with Apple-style modifiers on keys.
Game Rant’s review of the K65 Pluspraised the keyboard even with a few disappointments, like single shot PBT keycaps. The K65 Plus rises above all other Corsair keyboards for buyers searching for a portable but practical everyday keyboard.
Corsair K100 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Corsair K100 RGB Mechanical is a gaming keyboard powered by the company’s AXON Hyper-Processing Technology, which delivers up to four times the performance with native 4,000 Hz polling and key scanning rates. At the same time, the keyboard can run up to 20-layer lighting effects with its proprietary RGB lighting system, which supports individual lighting for each key. The keyboard’s iCUE control wheel is programmable and can cycle through lighting effects or act as media controls, among other things.
Gamers who would rather have a full-size keyboard to take advantage of abundant macro keys will adore the Corsair K100 RGB mechanical keyboard. This keyboard has an incredibly fast polling rate of 8,000Hz and an effective update rate of 4000Hz, resulting in some extremely responsive gaming without worrying about input lag. Regardless of the polling rate this keyboard is running at, the latency is consistently around 3.3 ms, which is incredibly low even compared to other high-end gaming keyboards. The K100 RGB has some of the most consistently instantaneous inputs compared to other full-size keyboard options.
Using the Corsair OPX mechanical switches provides a great typing experience, albeit a little mushy sometimes because of the lack of a tactile bump. If gamers don’t want to use Corsair’s OPX switches, they can also swap them out for Cherry MX switches when purchasing the K100. Note that this keyboard does not have hot-swappable switches, so fussy gamers must desolder and resolder new switches onto the PCB.
The K100 RGB is incredibly well-built, and thanks to its bigger size, it doesn’t move, no matter how hard it is typed on. That being said, gamers should prepare for this keyboard to take up a lot of their desk space, with dimensions measuring 18 inches long and 6 inches wide because of the included wrist rest. However, the adjustable typing angle and padded wrist rest make this anergonomically sound keyboardto type on for long periods.
Corsair K70 PRO Mini Gaming Keyboard
The Corsair K70 PRO Mini is a super-compact gaming keyboard with high-performance features. It comes at a 60% form factor, which is perfect when size is everything. However, the keyboard is also customizable with swappable MX switches and RGB LightEdge illumination.Connectivity-wise there is super-fast SlipStream wireless with under 1 ms response rate, low-latency Bluetooth for convenience, and a detachable USB cable for wired connection. The keyboard has a durable aluminum frame and a battery life of 32 hours with RGB lighting.
If a 65% keyboard is still too large for a compact gaming setup, the Corsair K70 Pro Mini simplifies its key layout even further. This wireless60% mechanical keyboarddispenses with every key besides the essential commands needed in the most competitive FPS titles. However, what makes this device special is theremarkable level of customizationbuyers are treated to onCorsair’s websitewhen completing checkout.
Other keyboards like theLogitech Pro Xenable gamers to swap mechanical switches to achieve a different typing feel and performance. With the K70 Pro Mini, Corsair allows buyers to select from various Cherry MX switches. However, gamers can then determine the color of the keyboard’s base, accent bar, and keycaps. Gamers can order and install mechanical switches since the K70 Pro Mini has a PCB that simplifies modifications. Regardless of the switch type, gamers may find that the keycaps wobble more than expected, even if commands are executed with surgical precision.
Beyond its extensive customization potential, the Corsair K70 Pro Mini also ships with wireless connectivity, allowing it to pair with almost any device. The low-latency Bluetooth connection makes the keyboard a viable option with mostpopular consoles, portable gaming systems, and mobile devices. PC users can benefit from Corsair’s usual long-range and low-latency Slipstream RF protocol. Gamers should expect a battery life of up to a phenomenal 200 hours without RGB lighting in use.
RGB effects on the Corsair K70 Pro Mini are so prominent that the device is almost as much a light fixture as it is a keyboard. The per-key lighting extends to the device’s backside, where gamers will find a detachable light bar to add even more flair to a gaming desk.
Thanks to the K70 Pro Mini’s highly modular nature, gamers can essentially build their dream 60% keyboard. Even as a standard keyboard, the K70 Pro Mini can match the performance of the most high-end mechanical keyboards on the market.
Corsair K70 Max is a keyboard designed for gaming that comes with unique magnetic-mechanical switches. It also features an adjustable actuation mechanism, which allows personalization. The gaming keyboard has RGB backlighting for lighting effects.
The K70 Max is one of Corsair’s largest but most innovative keyboards, unleashing the full potential of RGB lighting. Its magnetic, mechanical switches also separate the K70 Max from other Corsair keyboards. This material allows for fine-tuning the pressure applied to keys, and gamers can assign two commands depending on actuation distance.
Gamers must devote considerable real estate on agaming deskto accommodate the K70 Max. However, they are rewarded with gaming gear fully loaded with two rows of media controls, with several accessible buttons protruding from the keyboard’s surface. The K70 Max boasts an incredible amount of onboard storage for macros and lighting patterns, and gamers can also utilize dedicated keys to adjust brightness. Below the keyboard sits a removable wrist rest, which is very cushy and more than just an afterthought. Even though most gamers likely won’t be lugging the K70 Max around to tournaments, the keyboard connects to a detachable USB-C cable.
The Corsair MGX switches aren’t loud like conventional clicky mechanical switches, but the metal components naturally make some noise. Corsair added sound-dampening materials inside of the K70 Max to deal with potential distractions during gaming, making inputs speedy and quieter.
It isn’t easy to decide which model outdoes otherCorsair keyboards for RGB effectssince even budget keyboards like theK55 Core RGBshine brightly. Even so, the K70 Max particularly impresses, with double shot PBT keycaps that barely dim any light emanating from below. Every key participates in the light show, with most of the media keys invited to the party. Of course, the per-key illumination is highly customizable in the iCue app and syncs withNanoleaf gaming room lighting.
Many gamers may find programming keys based on actuation distance tedious and unhelpful in certain titles. Regardless, the rock-solid K70 Max is ready for any challenge involving competitive gaming, streaming, or office tasks.
Narrowing the Down the Crop of Corsair Keyboards
Since Corsair gaming keyboards share many of the same features, the simplest way to settle on the ideal keyboard is to consider these factors:
Form Factor
The largest Corsair keyboards, like theK95 RGB Platinum XT, occupy significant territory on a gaming desktop. Still, some gamers appreciate this high-end wired keyboard’s extensive selection of media and macro keys. If a buyer would rather devote more space to amousepad, theCorsair K65 Plusis a wireless keyboard with a reasonably compact 75% form factor. This miniature keyboard still manages to include arrow keys and other functionality, rivaling much larger alternatives.
Wired vs. Wireless
As an example of why wired keyboards have a technological advantage over wireless models, theCorsair K70 RGB TKLboats a maximum 8000 Hz polling rate. Although few gamers will notice that level of responsiveness to inputs, Corsair’s Axon Hyper-Processing is more easily implemented on corded keyboards. Even so, theCorsair K100 Air Wireless RGB Ultrarepresents the pinnacle of wireless connectivity. Thanks to both Bluetooth and low-latency Slipstream RF, gamers can use the K100 Air Wireless RGB Ultra on consoles and mobile devices.
Customization
Customization can mean many different things in relation to gaming keyboards. The wirelessCorsair K70 PRO Miniis one of the most modular keyboards ever conceived, allowing gamers to swap out not just its keycaps but also its mechanical switches. Buyers can also change the color of the keyboard’s base and removable light bar for a device to give it a unique look. Most Corsair keyboards permit users to design complicated RGB lighting patterns, though the lighting of the affordableCorsair K55 Core RGBmembrane keyboard is limited to ten zones.
Switch Type
The switch a keyboard uses can significantly impact gaming performance. The Corsair K55 Core RGB requires a minimal investment, but some users may find its membrane keys not the most satisfying to press. On the other hand, the high-endCorsair K70 Max RGBsports some of the most unique mechanical switches on the market. Using magnets, gamers can walk or run with the same key in games relative to how far a key is pressed.
TheK95 RGB Platinum XTwas chosen as Game Rant’s best Corsair keyboard for gaming because it excels in all of the above areas. Regardless, the right keyboard for a gamer will depend on what features will make the largest impact on a gaming experience.
FAQ
Q: What makes Corsair gaming keyboards superior to keyboards made by other brands?
Corsair has one of the largest selection of gaming keyboards in the industry. The company produces keyboards for any budget and their peripherals impress with innovative features regardless of price range. iCue is one of the most widely praised PC peripherals apps, empowering gamers with extensive customization of macros and RGB lighting synced across many Corsair products.
Q: What qualities do Esports pros look for in a gaming keyboard?
Gaming keyboards suited for competitive action must be durable yet portable enough to carry long distances to different tournaments. Also, esports keyboards should allow for fast and accurate inputs to keep pace with furious tournament gameplay.
