⚡️ Quick Verdict - CORSAIR K70 RGB MK.2 (2018)
- Best For: Gamers and enthusiasts prioritizing durability and extensive customization.
- Strengths: Robust aluminum frame, responsive Cherry MX switches, versatile media controls.
- Drawbacks: iCUE software complexity, fixed cable, non-standard bottom row.
- Verdict: A durable, feature-rich gaming keyboard for demanding users.
⚖️ Pros & Cons Explained
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Build Quality | Users frequently praise its aircraft-grade anodized brushed aluminum frame for exceptional durability and stability during intense gaming sessions. It feels solid and prevents deck flex. | Some users note that while the top plate is premium, the plastic chassis underneath does not fully match the high-end feel of the aluminum, and the fixed cable design limits portability. |
| Typing/Gaming Experience | The use of genuine Cherry MX mechanical switches provides a consistent and reliable typing and gaming experience with various switch types catering to different preferences, offering precise actuation. | Some users with heavier typing styles report the ABS keycaps can show shine over time, diminishing the premium feel, and the standard keycap profile may not suit all users for extended typing. |
| Features & Connectivity | The dedicated media controls, including a volume roller, are highlighted as highly convenient and intuitive. The USB passthrough port is also a valued addition for connecting a mouse or headset. | The keyboard features a thick, braided, non-detachable cable, which can be cumbersome for cable management, and the USB passthrough requires two USB ports on the PC. |
| Software & Customization | The iCUE software allows for extensive RGB lighting customization, complex macro programming, and synchronized lighting effects across compatible CORSAIR devices, offering deep personalization. | New users often find the iCUE software to be overwhelming and not intuitive to navigate, requiring a learning curve to fully utilize its advanced features, and occasional software glitches have been reported. |
🔧 What’s Included? & Why It Matters
| Component | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| CORSAIR K70 RGB MK.2 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard | The core product, providing the foundation for durable performance and customizable input. |
| Detachable Soft-Touch Wrist Rest | Enhances ergonomic comfort during extended use, helping to reduce strain on wrists. |
| FPS & MOBA Keycap Sets (Contoured & Textured) | Allows users to customize the feel and recognition of critical gaming keys, improving tactile feedback and grip during intense gameplay. |
| Keycap Puller | Facilitates easy removal and replacement of keycaps, useful for cleaning or swapping with the included gaming keycap sets. |
💰 Is It Worth It? – Value & Cost Efficiency
| Aspect | Positive | Negative |
|---|---|---|
| Durability & Longevity | The robust aluminum construction and genuine Cherry MX switches suggest a long lifespan, potentially reducing the need for frequent replacements. Users report it withstands years of heavy use. | The fixed, thick cable and non-standard bottom row for keycaps may pose limitations on future upgrades or repairability for some users. |
| Feature Set | The comprehensive features like dedicated media controls, USB passthrough, and advanced RGB lighting offer significant convenience and customization, enhancing the overall user experience. | Some users might find certain features, such as the full RGB customization or advanced macro capabilities, more than they need, potentially paying for functionality they won't fully utilize. |
| Software Ecosystem | Integration with CORSAIR's iCUE software allows for a unified ecosystem for other CORSAIR peripherals, enabling synchronized lighting and comprehensive control from one application. | The initial learning curve and occasional resource usage of iCUE software can be a barrier for new users, potentially detracting from immediate value. |
🔁 CORSAIR Comparison – How This Version Improves Over Previous Models
| Aspect | CORSAIR K70 RGB (Original) | CORSAIR K70 RGB MK.2 (2018) |
|---|---|---|
| Build & Aesthetics | Slightly older design, often with a more pronounced 'tramp stamp' logo. Good aluminum top plate. | Updated, cleaner CORSAIR sail logo, refined font on keycaps, and a more streamlined aesthetic overall. Maintains the high-quality aluminum top plate. |
| Wrist Rest | Hard plastic wrist rest with a textured pattern. | Improved, softer, detachable rubberized wrist rest for enhanced comfort during long sessions. |
| USB Passthrough | Located towards the center of the back edge. | Relocated USB passthrough to the top right corner for more convenient access and better cable management. |
| Internal Design | Robust design, but some earlier models had issues with LED reliability. | More refined internal design potentially improving general reliability and stability, building on lessons from the original. |
⚔️ Alternatives vs CORSAIR K70 RGB MK.2 (2018)
| Aspect | Razer BlackWidow V3 | Logitech G Pro X | CORSAIR K70 RGB MK.2 (2018) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Key Switches | Razer Green/Yellow/Orange Mechanical Switches (proprietary). | Logitech GX Clicky/Tactile/Linear (hotswappable). | Cherry MX RGB Mechanical Switches (various types), known for industry-standard quality and consistency. |
| Build Quality | Aluminum top plate, plastic chassis, good durability. | Durable steel backplate, compact TKL design, high-quality plastic construction. | Aircraft-grade anodized brushed aluminum frame for exceptional rigidity and a premium feel. |
| Special Features | Multi-function digital roller, Razer Chroma RGB, Doubleshot ABS keycaps. | Detachable cable, hotswappable switches, Lightsync RGB, compact TKL layout. | Dedicated media controls, volume roller, USB passthrough, iCUE software with extensive customization. |
| Ergonomics | Wrist rest included, standard full-size layout. | No wrist rest, compact TKL design for more desk space. | Detachable soft-touch wrist rest and full-size layout with convenient media controls. |
💡 FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Does the CORSAIR K70 RGB MK.2 have a detachable cable? No, the CORSAIR K70 RGB MK.2 features a thick, braided, fixed USB cable.
- Is the wrist rest comfortable and detachable? Yes, it comes with a soft-touch, detachable wrist rest that many users find comfortable for extended use.
- Can I change the keycaps on this keyboard? Yes, the keycaps are removable. However, due to a non-standard bottom row layout, finding full third-party keycap sets that fit perfectly can be challenging for some keys.
- What is the purpose of the USB passthrough port? The USB passthrough port allows you to conveniently connect another USB device, such as a mouse, headset, or flash drive, directly to your keyboard, reducing cable clutter to your PC.
👍 Positive Reviews - What Users Love
- The aluminum frame feels incredibly durable and solid, making this keyboard feel premium and long-lasting.
- The dedicated media controls, especially the volume roller, are incredibly intuitive and convenient during gaming or media consumption.
- The Cherry MX switches provide a consistent and satisfying typing and gaming experience with excellent responsiveness.
- The RGB lighting is vibrant and offers extensive customization through the iCUE software, allowing for truly personalized setups.
- The included textured keycaps for FPS and MOBA games are a great addition, enhancing grip and helping identify keys quickly.
👎 Negative Reviews - What Could Be Better
- The iCUE software, while powerful, is often confusing and difficult for new users to navigate, requiring a significant learning curve.
- The fixed, thick cable is cumbersome for cable management and makes the keyboard less portable than models with detachable cables.
- The non-standard bottom row for keycaps limits options for aftermarket keycap sets, which can be frustrating for enthusiasts who like to customize their keyboards.
- While the wrist rest is comfortable, some users find its attachment mechanism a bit flimsy, leading to slight movement.
- The keyboard requires two USB ports to utilize both the keyboard functionality and the USB passthrough, which can be an issue for users with limited available ports.
📋 Key Details & Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Keyboard Layout | Full Size (104/105 keys, depending on region) |
| Key Switches | Genuine Cherry MX Mechanical (e.g., RGB Red, RGB Brown, RGB Speed, RGB Silent) |
| Frame Material | Aircraft-grade anodized brushed aluminum |
| Backlighting | Per-key RGB dynamic backlighting |
| Connectivity | Wired (USB 2.0 Type-A) |
| USB Passthrough | Yes |
| Media Controls | Dedicated (volume roller, mute, play/pause, stop, next/previous track) |
| Wrist Rest | Detachable, soft-touch |
| Software | CORSAIR iCUE |
| Onboard Profiles | Yes, for lighting and macros |
| Key Rollover | Full Key (NKRO) with 100% Anti-Ghosting |
| Keycaps | ABS (with additional textured FPS/MOBA keycap sets) |
🔚 Summary – Is This the Right Choice for You?
- The CORSAIR K70 RGB MK.2 (2018) stands out as a highly durable and feature-rich mechanical keyboard, particularly well-suited for gamers and enthusiasts. Its robust aluminum construction ensures longevity, while the genuine Cherry MX switches provide a consistent and responsive typing and gaming experience.
- The dedicated media controls and convenient USB passthrough are significant advantages for daily use. However, potential users should be aware of the iCUE software's complexity, which requires some time to master its extensive customization options.
- While the fixed, thick cable and non-standard bottom row might be minor inconveniences for some, the overall package delivers a premium feel and high performance. If you prioritize top-tier build quality, precise mechanical switches, and deep customization, and are willing to invest time into learning the software, the K70 RGB MK.2 remains a solid choice.
