When diving into the world of mechanical keyboards, choosing the right one can be daunting, especially when faced with options like the Corsair K70 and K95. These keyboards are titans within Corsair’s lineup, each offering unique features designed to enhance gaming and productivity experiences. This detailed comparison provides insights into their design, performance, and overall value, helping you make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
- Design and Build Quality
- Performance and Features
- Customization and Software Integration
- Price and Value
- Conclusion
Design and Build Quality
Both the Corsair K70 and K95 exhibit excellent build quality, reflecting Corsair’s commitment to high standards. These keyboards feature durable, aircraft-grade aluminum frames, ensuring longevity even under intense usage. The aesthetic appeal is further enhanced by their sleek, modern designs. While the K70 is slightly more compact, favoring a minimalist style, the K95 boasts a more robust presence due to its added macro keys and media controls.
Corsair K70:
- Known for its traditional layout and straightforward design.
- The brushed aluminum surface adds elegance and improves durability.
- This model suits users seeking simplicity without sacrificing quality.
Corsair K95:
- Incorporates additional macro keys, providing expanded functionality.
- The extended design accommodates extra features while maintaining a premium feel.
- Perfect for gamers who value the extensive command options provided by the macro keys.
Performance and Features
A key consideration when evaluating these keyboards is their performance capabilities. Both models come equipped with Cherry MX switches, available in various types (Red, Blue, Brown) to match personal preferences for tactile feedback and sound.
K70:
- Polling Rate: Supports an 8000Hz polling rate, suitable for delivering ultra-responsive keystrokes, a crucial feature for competitive gaming.
- Macro Keys: Lacks dedicated macro keys, which simplifies its layout and focuses on rapid performance, ideal for FPS and action gaming scenarios.
K95:
- Macro Keys: Equipped with six dedicated macro keys, advantageous for MMO and strategic game players who need quick access to a range of commands.
- USB Pass-Through: Offers practical connectivity for peripherals, adding convenience without clutter.
- Polling Rate: Matches the K70’s 8000Hz, ensuring competitive performance with added features.
Customization and Software Integration
Corsair’s iCUE software empowers users to customize their keyboard settings extensively, offering an intuitive interface for personalizing everything from lighting to macro commands.
- Lighting Customization: Both keyboards support per-key RGB illumination, allowing users to design vibrant lighting patterns that synchronously respond to in-game actions.
- Macro Programming: The iCUE interface simplifies the creation of complex macros, making it easy to optimize keyboard functionality for specific tasks or games.
- Profile Management: Users can save multiple profiles directly to onboard memory, ensuring quick access without needing software post-initial setup.
Price and Value
Pricing is often a decisive factor when choosing between these two models. The Corsair K70 is generally more affordable, priced around $120, making it a cost-effective option for gamers looking for essential features packaged in a sleek design. Meanwhile, the Corsair K95 retails between $180 and $200, which is justified by its additional functionalities such as macro keys and superior build quality.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the Corsair K70 and K95 deliver outstanding performance and build quality, but cater to different audiences:
- Opt for the K70 if you’re drawn to a straightforward design with efficient, high-speed performance, especially beneficial for FPS and arcade-style games where simplicity is key.
- Choose the K95 if you value expanded macro capabilities and the convenience of additional connectivity options, providing a competitive edge in games requiring complex commands.
Ultimately, the choice between the K70 and K95 hinges on your specific needs and how you plan to leverage these features in your gaming or productivity workflows. Both models uphold Corsair’s reputation for excellence, ensuring satisfaction regardless of your preference.