MSI Vigor GK40 Gaming Keyboard Review

A Closer Look and Performance

The MSI Vigor GK40 comes hard-wired with a durable USB cable, and a gold-plated connector. Fairly standard stuff really, but at least it’s plug and play ready. H0wever, if you want to take full control of the more advanced lighting features, you’ll need the downloadable software. If you don’t want the software, a lot of cool lighting features come built-in for ease of use.

The keyboard is very nicely designed, but it’s still somewhat obvious it is a more affordable model. However, that’s not so much a criticism as it is an observation. The keycaps come with a nice matte black finish, and a slightly grippy feel to them that’s quite pleasant. It feels effortless to type on, and since it uses plunger switches, it feels like a softer and quieter version of a mechanical switch.

Functionality gets a boost, with some multimedia controls on the Fn-Shift buttons. I do prefer dedicated keys, but in a pinch, I’d rather have Fn-shift ones than none at all. If you like to toggle through your music while you’re working or gaming, it saves having to pause or tab-out which is great.

There’s an email shortcut key on F9, although that’s one I’ve never used, have you. I think I can safely say the same about a home shortcut key. But anyway, I digress, as there is a gaming mode key, and that’s always a nice thing. It’ll lock out the Windows key, so you don’t hit it by accident while gaming and leave yourself staring at your desktop.

Built-in lighting controls are all here too, with brightness and flow direction on the arrow keys, as well as transition speed on PgUp and PgDn. Aside from that, the keyboard layout is exactly as you would expect. However, little style touches, such as the MSI dragon on the indicated LEDs, give it some added flair.

The keycaps are removable and use a standard plus point stem, so they may even be customisable. The keyboard is splash-proof too, so if you do need to clean a spilt drink off it, removing the keycaps is a big help.

The GK40 isn’t heavy, but it stays well planted on your desktop. There are four huge rubber grips and two durable flip-up feet. These provide plenty of traction, even when you’re mashing the keys.

RGB lighting doesn’t make you a better gamer or make you type faster. However, it’s a fun thing to have regardless. There’s no reason you can just set it to red, leave it and forget about it. Of course, you can turn it off entirely too.

The default lighting effects do look stunning though, which rich and vibrant colours and a smooth cycle rate for the effects that’s sure to give your desktop some sparkle.

When it comes to gaming, there’s nothing to complain about either. Coming from my mechanical keyboard, it still feels light, fast and very responsive to type on.

The key spacing and the slight curve to the keyboard promote a comfortable hand position. However, the built-in wrist rest is easily the most significant benefit, especially if you’re at your keyboard for hours per day.

The membrane plunger switches have a nice return rate, and while they lack a “click” still have a “thunk” that provides a nice tactile response, making it feel nice and tight to use while gaming.