EdwardChesterputsthelatesthigh-end mechanical
gamingkeyboardstothe test
Mechanical
advantage
LABS TEST
Howwe test
M
echanical gaming keyboards are now the established
premium option for gamers. Just a few years ago, it was
enough for a keyboard maker to slap a few dozen Cherry
MX keyswitches on a base and call it done, but these days there
are far more options.
The likes of Logitech and Razer now produce their own keyswitches,
while cheaper copies of Cherry MX switches are available too. Sticking
with Cherry MX provides the greatest versatility, as keycaps (and
potentially keyswitches as well) can easily be replaced. We’ve also
seen low-profile switches arrive, for those that prefer a lower typing
angle, as well as quiet and high-speed options.
RGB lighting is, of course, also a big factor on high-end keyboard
these days, with full lighting customisation being an extra bonus. It’s
also handy to have a few extra keys, for controlling media, adjusting
the audio volume or other desktop functions, as well as providing extra
functionality in games.
To test this batch of mechanical gaming keyboards, we first put them
through their paces through typing duties, with each review being
written on its respective keyboard. We also tested each keyboard in
games to judge their responsiveness. We then looked at the styling
and build quality of the keyboards, as well as their customisation
options and extra features.
Contents
Asus ROG Strix Flare / p54
BenQ Zowie Celeritas II / p54
Cooler Master MK850 / p55
Corsair K70 RGB Mk.2 Low Profile / p56
Ducky Shine 7 / p56
Logitech G513 Carbon / p57
MSI Vigor GK60 / p58
Razer Huntsman Elite / p58
Roccat Vulcan 120 AI MO / p59