In the office, I usually use a keyboard that costs RM700 or more for typing work. The custom mechanical keyboard I use is perfect for both video games and also typing articles. Most recently I tested the Corsair K70 Core RGB, a mechanical keyboard specifically for gaming and it is in the mid-range category.
SPECIFICATION AND DESIGN
Full Size
Weight 1.199 KG
Hot-Swap Yes
RGB Yes
Red Key Switch
Total Keys 104
Key Rollover Yes, Full, 100% Anti-Ghosting
Rotary Knob Yes
USB-A or USB-C connection
Windows software, macOS
iCUE
Price RM499
Corsair K70 Core RGB is just a normal gaming keyboard. It does not offer any unique or special features, the design is familiar, the construction is also light and feels cheap, but it is sold at a price of RM499. For a basic gaming keyboard, this price is actually quite high compared to other brands. The advantage of the K70 here is that it uses the full size with 104 keys and can support the switch's hot swap feature if needed.
There are several additional elements that try to justify the selling price, among them are the rotary knob that is pleasant to use, the special iCUE button, and in my eyes this keyboard is one of the ones that uses a very bright RGB system.
I have some anxiety when using this keyboard. This is because I have a rather tough user, when I get angry I will press hard or sometimes hit the keyboard. With the K70 built with pliable plastic, it's very light and the cables look normal too – I'm indirectly turning into a more prudent user.
It's a bit disappointing that in the box, the cable that is already built into this keyboard still uses USB-A instead of USB-C which is the universal connection that everyone uses now. Smaller brands like Keychron can also provide USB-C cables at cheaper prices.
USAGE
My use is very uncomfortable. After months of use to try to get used to it too, I had a hard time accepting Corsair's offering on this K70 Core RGB. A USB-A cable disguised as a USB-C adapter, a very light construction so the keyboard often moves here and there, and a very close layout causes the position of the K70 to be off center for my comfort typing all day.
Typing works at first felt very smooth, fast and nice. The Red switch on any mechanical keyboard is my favorite because it's the linear type that's perfect for typing jobs. But the K7 Core RGB, felt so soft that I often pressed the same key twice. Although my typing speed was faster with the K70, my misspelling rate also increased.
This keyboard is also matched with very bright RGB lights. It can be controlled with iCUE, a special software for Mac and Windows. I'm excited about this RGB Corsair, because during the day I can still clearly see the lighting of each key unlike the more expensive Razer keyboards.
The Corsaiz K70 Core RGB is a fairly comfortable keyboard. Only the layout and design should be improved for it to be more efficient and suitable for the public. The problem of double pressed keys is twofold; The first is that the Red switch is the type for video games and fast typing, so stressful problems are expected to occur. Second is the lubricant used from the factory is not evenly applied to each switch.
iCUE APP
I still don't understand why companies that manufacture gaming products can design their products well but the software interface design seems to have no idea at all. Corsair's iCUE software is just like Razer's in that it's finicky, dizzying, and frequently disconnects from the product. The most beautiful and easy to use so far is the simple and user-friendly Logi Options+.
CONCLUSION
For myself who is interested in linear type red switches, Corsaiz K70 Core RGB is not for me because the switches used are too soft and fast. it's great if 100% i use this keyboard for gaming only. But since I also use it to type articles, I had to choose my custom keyboard.
Selling price of RM499, it is actually not that expensive and is in the affordable category. If you say you can get a custom keyboard for less, is it full size and hot-swappable? My advice, if your budget is below RM500 and want to continue using the keyboard without headaches – K70 Core RGB is the best for you. If you still want a custom keyboard, play around with the hot-swap feature on Corsair before spending 3-4 times more than RM499.
PRO
Complete with many interesting features and functions.
Very bright RGB lights.
Keys with nice press construction.
Software that helps complete the user experience.
Supports hot-swap for switches.
CONS
The keys are so soft that many times one letter is pressed twice.
The iCUE software is helpful but very confusing.
A lightweight build that doesn't match the selling price.
Still depends on USB-A, not USB-C or Wireless.