Corsair K70 RGB MK.2 Low Profile Mechanical Keyboard Review
Peter Donnell / 6 years ago
A Closer Look and Performance
The chemistry of Corsair keyboards only change a tiny bit with each generation. Going back a good few years to look at their old models, you can still tell this new one is a K70. It’s got the same general size and shapes to it, all the add-on buttons are still up top, and that funky volume wheel. It’s also treated with that stunning black brushed metal finish we love so much, rather than cheaper plastic finishes.
Upon the top row of the keyboard, you’ll find three buttons. These offer up profiles, lighting controls, and Windows Key lock functions.
In the middle, a simple Corsair logo, which is RGB lit like the rest of the keys.
Multimedia Control
However, my favourite parts on over in the top right corner. Here you will find the volume mute control, as well as that metal infinite scroll wheel for the master volume control. Below that four built-in multimedia controls, allowing you to skip tracks while working and gaming, without having to tab out.
The keyboard has a slick black finish and with the power off, it looks pretty stealthy too. Of course, once we fire up the RGB, that’ll all change. The large fonts on the keys also mean that a lot of light will easily pour through when it’s powered up.
It’s a low profile keyboard, but it is still full-size, meaning standard key spacing and a full-size number pad. Of course, that’s great for both work and gaming, so no complaints there.
Get Low
The keycaps look pretty standard, but they are definitely more shallow than standard. The switches have a shorter mount and are set low in the already slimmer chassis. The end result is a keyboard that’s 29mm thick at the highest point, vs the 40mm of the non-slim version.
It comes with a choice of Red of Silent switches, meaning you can easily pick the model that fits your needs the best. Personally, I like both variants, but given the choice, I would pick the MX Silent switches, as I find they give me the best of both worlds. The keys are fast, light and easy to work with. Of course, when it comes to gaming, that slick low-profile design and those low-set keys just make things feel a little smoother and faster too; subjectively I might add.
Around the back of the keyboard, you’ll find that hard-wired USB cable. It’s still very thick which is great for durability, but surely Corsair could do something with a detachable cable like pretty much every other brand. There is USB pass-through though, meaning you can connect a mouse, headset, or whatever else really.
Grippy
On the underside, you’ll find a huge amount of grip is provided. There are four absolutely massive rubber grips, meaning even the most vigorous of keyboard mashers shouldn’t nudge the keyboard around their desk.
With the wrist rest installed, the K70 takes its final form. Personally, I can’t imagine using a keyboard without a wrist rest these days. I’m happy to see Corsair include an optional one, but damn do I hate those plastic clip mounts; clips are out and magnets are totally in these days.
Rainbow Time!
firing up the keyboard, you can see it sparks to life with a rainbow of colours. The Corsair CUE software means that you can customise every switch to the absolute max. Effects, layouts, fades, waves, reactions, animations, timers, it’s all there. Personally, I set it purple and leave it there on just about every keyboard. However, having that customisation and millions of colours is no bad thing. Dial in your favourite settings, save them to the profile buttons, and you’re ready to rock.
Those Cherry RGB switches have a clear housing, meaning light flows under the keycap, reflecting off that metallic finish, as well as through the keys lettering.
Overall, this is one gorgeous looking keyboard, and the matte black finishes set off the brushed metal surfaces really well. Everything is nicely shaped and placed to capture the light from the switches and really bring it to life. Just look at the F-Keys reflecting off the rear ridge of metal!
When it comes to gaming, the keyboard is superb. I wouldn’t expect anything less from Corsair of course. However, despite the slimmer shape, it still looks, feels, and behaves just like a Corsair K70 should.
Is the low profile design better? Well, that’s a matter of taste and very subjective. Personally, I rather like it, and it combined with the wrist rest, it’s very comfortable to work and game on.