Cooler Master Masterkeys L Mechanical Keyboard Review

A Closer Look and Performance

Out of the box, the Masterkeys L is a great looking keyboard. That’s not to say it’s anything fancy though, if anything it’s actually quite understated. If I saw this in an office, on a gaming rig desktop, or anywhere, it wouldn’t really grab my attention. However, that’s not a bad thing, as not everyone wants an RGB monstrosity on their desktop. Speaking of RGB, there’s no LED lighting on this keyboard at all; it’s pretty grown up like that.

The chassis is nice and slim. This means it’s not going to eat up too much desktop space, at least for a full-size keyboard design. It’s all finished in a soft matte black too, which gives a nice contrast to the slightly glossy look of those PBT keycaps. It’s certainly an interesting choice of keycap material, and I love that Cooler Master has thickened them up to keep them from cracking. This added bulk does have an interesting side effect too, as they’re a little heavier, it makes the often quite heavy switches of MX Green a little easier to depress.

Fn-Shift Functions Add Extra Features

This keyboard doesn’t have any fancy desktop software, RGB lighting or anything like that. It is very focused in its design and application. However, there are a few thrills built right into the keyboard, making all features plug and play ready. On the top row, you’ve got an adjustable response rate, Windows key lock, and a built-in on-the-fly macro recording engine. That means it has still got enough features to satisfy the needs of most gamers. Of course, those extra features are just as handy for day-to-day productivity tasks too.

No Desktop Software Required

Further along, we’ve got even more features tucked away in the Fn-Shift mode. There are some repeat and loop keys for the macros, which is handy. However, I’m happy to see some nicely placed multimedia controls too. These are great for skipping through tracks while gaming, as it means I can enjoy my jams without having to tab out of an online game.

A full-size number pad, pretty self-explanatory, but great for productivity in the office.

Gorgeous MX Green Switches

Overall, this keyboard is an absolute joy to use. I’m a big fan of Cooler Master keyboards in general, but there are signs of little improvements everywhere here and they all add up to make a big difference. The MX Green switches are the most notable feature here. Yes, there are other switches available, but it’s rare we see MX Green in the office. They’re very clicky and noisy, and most likely would appeal to fans of MX Blue. Of course, when it comes to typing those long emails, or playing games, the audible and tactile click of the switch gives you great feedback and precision. The bounce rate on the keys feels snappy and responsive too, so it won’t slow you down if you’re a fast touch typer like myself.

Gaming?

This may not look like a gaming keyboard, but like I said above, it does hold a few key features like macros and Windows lock that show it has the capabilities to do so. I’ve been gaming on this keyboard for a few days now and it’s been an absolute joy. The only downside is that late at night, the MX Green switches are bothersome to all in the room but me; haters gonna hate.

The Masterkeys comes with a fully detachable cable, which is awesome. The cable included is nice quality, but since it’s Micro-USB, you can easily substitute it with your own. Of course, it’s easily replaced if lost or damaged.

It’s quite a heavy keyboard, as most Cooler Master keyboard are. It’s unlikely to slide around even when you’re ALL CAPS RAGING because you lost in your favourite FPS. However, there are four very tough rubber grips on the base. They’ll certainly help further at keeping it firmly planted on your desktop.

You can increase the typing action with the durable kickstands, which are nice and wide. They also have their own rubber feet, so you’re not losing too much traction.

Removable Key Caps

With the key caps removed you can see those lovely MX Green switches.

Custom Key Caps Included!

Finally, we’ll end with the secret weapon of this keyboard. Some kick-ass bright red PBT gaming keycaps as included in the box. As much as this keyboard looks and feels grown up, you can add some gaming swagger with these caps. Will they make it perform better and turn you into a pro? Unfortunately not, but they look stunning regardless.