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Name | K68 |
Model | CH-9102010-NA |
Keyboard Interface | USB 2.0 |
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Design Style | Gaming |
Palm Rest | Detachable |
Mechanical Keyboard | Yes |
Key Switch Type | Cherry MX Red |
Keyboard Color | Black |
Dimensions | 1.60" x 17.90" x 6.70" |
Backlit | RGB Backlit |
Type | Wired |
Mouse Included | No |
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Features | Brilliant Per-Key RGB Backlighting: Virtually unlimited lighting customization, or use a variety of on-board pre-installed effects. Dust and Spill Resistant: Help protect from accidents, so your gameplay never has to stop with IP32 protection. 100% CHERRY MX Keyswitches: Gold-contact CHERRY MX mechanical gaming keyswitches deliver the ultimate competitive advantage. Fully Programmable with CUE: Intuitive and powerful CORSAIR Utility Engine (CUE) enables sophisticated macro programming and dynamic lighting effects. 100% Anti-Ghosting with Full Key Rollover: No matter how fast your in-game actions are, every keypress registers correctly. Dedicated Volume and Multimedia Controls: Adjust audio on-the-fly, without interrupting your game. Windows Key Lock Mode: Stay focused and prevent accidental Windows and Context Menu key presses. Palm Rest Included: Removable palm rest for complete comfort. |
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Package Contents | Corsair K68 RGB Mechanical Keyboard, Warranty Card, Quick Start Guide |
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Date First Available | January 02, 2019 |
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Pros: Corsair continues to launch quality products into the peripherals market, and the K68 is no exception. It does have a few quirks, and I'll get to that a little later, but first let's look at the positives. The typing experience, a keyboards first and foremost job, is wonderful. The key presses are accurate, and not too loud like some other mechanical KB's. I prefer a little bit of a wider keyboard myself, and in the beginning I was hitting the Caps-Lock key a few too many times, but I got used to it. I had a 2 other touch typists try it out and they really enjoyed how it felt and responded. The texture on the space bar during gaming sessions was a nice little touch, it would be hard to slip on this one. Multimedia keys are always a welcomed addition to any keyboard, and the ones included in the K68 get the job done. I do prefer a scroll wheel for volume up/down however. The build quality is typical for Corsair. Nice, clean design and long lasting components that sits somewhere between middle-high end. The red LED's are bright but diffused enough that you don't feel like you're looking into a red sun when gaming at night. Nicely done.
Cons: The keys themselves, while completely fine in use, do feel thinner or less structurally sound than the ones on my G.Skill KM780. I'm not using the word "cheaper" on purpose, because they don't feel cheap, just not what I have been used to for over a year on my other main keyboard. In the same vein of keys, there is no key cap tool to easily remove the keys. They are marketing this as dust and spill resistant right? Well what happens if I do accidentally spill something under the keys and I want to clean it up. With a key cap puller, it's a breeze. Without one, you'll be sitting there plucking at keys with your fingers for awhile, or switch to a flat-head screwdriver and hope you don't scratch something. The inclusion of one for whatever few cents it would cost would seal the deal for me on this one.
Overall Review: I'm confused at making this a one color LED model. In 2018 and the proliferation of RGB lighting, I don't see why all of their $100+ keyboards aren't RGB and then you just pick your favorite color(s). Maybe it's because of cost, but there are plenty of RGB mechanical models from other vendors at lower price points. In the end I really don't have any "complaints" (except for no key cap tool), and if you want a solid performing KB with red LED lighting, you won't have any either.
Pros: Cherry MX Red key switches. LED back-lighting. Onboard volume control. Limited media control. Dust, spill, and fingerprint resistant. Is a good price compared to some other gaming mechanical keyboards.
Cons: No key removal tool included. Only red lighting. No customization for LEDs. Does not fit the Corsair LAPDOG.
Overall Review: Is roughly the same design as other Corsair K series I've used, which is a good thing. But, this model has a slightly larger base than my current K70 LUX and takes up ~1" more space width-wise on my tray. This also prevents it from seating into the Corsair LAPDOG. The Cherry keys work and feel as expected; very smooth and very responsive. I could never go back to generic key sets after 10 years or so of only purchasing mechanical Cherry. They feel much smoother and are much more accurate when typing. This is one of Corsair's cheapest gaming keyboards so you shouldn't expect all the bells and whistles like custom LED, FPS key kits, or the other "luxuries" that come with the nicer models. The Corsair CUE software is not very intuitive. When I first started with my Corsair Vengeance M95 mouse years ago it was fairly easy to setup the DPS and lighting but the "updates" they've made have made it much more difficult to create and customize specific profiles. I have my K70 LUX and my Void 7.1 setup nicely but it took a few attempts and ultimately participating in some Corsair user forums to get all the options down.
Pros: Powering up and setting up: Just plug it in and it goes… it’s a keyboard, after all! Use: It’s dust and water RESISTANT… so that’s good for my piece of mind that if I spill something on it… it won’t be destroyed. Dedicated volume and media control buttons are an added bonus… no going for the sound menu on the Windows taskbar to adjust volume. The Windows button lock key is more gaming centered, but I enjoy having it rather than not.
Cons: The only thing the K68 is missing that the K70 has is an ASDW highlight button… where every key LED is off except those keys.... Helpful in gaming.
Overall Review: Here’s the reminder of what the different Cherry MX key switches do per color: Cherry MX Red - Has the same actuation force as MX Brown’s (lowest out of the three)... being so light weighting allows for more rapid actuation = great for gaming. What these aren’t terrific for is typing… there’s zero tactile feedback. Cherry MX Brown - Has the same actuation force as MX Red’s (lowest out of the three)... light weighting = great for gaming. In addition to light actuation force, these have non-clicky tactile feedback, making it good for typing as well without a ton of click noise. Cherry MX Blue - Has tactile feedback and produces an audible “click” sound… excellent for typing. Has a heavier actuation force… so not ideal for gaming. So while this K68 comes configured with Cherry MX Red key switches (awesome for gaming), I’m actually using the keyboard at my office at work. I don’t have any issues typing on it on a daily basis. It’s mostly plastic (rather than metal on the K70)... but that’s okay… I’m only using it in the office. I’ve destroyed the space-bar on other cheapo office workstation keyboards… so I’m hoping that the K68 can stand up to my typing abuse. Packaging and Un-boxing: Comes in a sort-of-large-ish cardboard box Included: Corsair K68 Mechanical Keyboard Wrist rest Warranty info Quick start guide
Pros: Right out of the box it has the feel of a quality mechanical keyboard. That initial impression does not fade when it gets used more and more. Overall feature wise this falls into line with other similarly priced mechanical keyboards. The feel of the keys when typing is heavy. It does take more force than you would be used to on your average keyboard. If you're used to a laptop or the cheap keyboards that come with computers from the manufacturer your hands are going to get tired typing on this much sooner than you normally would. I could see this keyboard lasting someone who likes it quite a while if they don't mind the noise of typing on it in general.
Cons: The keyboard is loud. That comes with the territory for mechanical keyboards but this one seems to be louder than the average one. I've had my g15 keyboard since january 2008 so it's seen over a decade of use at this point and this keyboard was not one to convince me to change that. It will be a sad day when that keyboard finally bites the dust but it has seen me through 2 college degrees and some years of professional work.
Overall Review: I am not generally a fan of mechanical keyboards and this one tends to fit the mold of your average mechanical keyboard. Heavy loud keystrokes. Some people might like that feel and not be bothered by the additional noise but I am not one of them. My general feelings aside this is a quality piece of computer hardware and if you're into mechanical keyboards this would be a good choice for you.
Pros: + For me, the key to a great keyboard is (are?) the keys: their placement and feel. This is a good one. + Very solidly built classic keyboard, and I find the backlighting attractive and convenient. + Similar in feel to the Corsair K70, which I have used for a long time and am very happy with. + Dedicated multimedia buttons are useful, and work well. + I use Windows 10 64-bit, and this hardware is compatible out-of-the-box.
Cons: - The K68 has volume buttons, whereas the K70 has a scroll wheel. I really love the wheel, and wish the K68 had it. - The K70 has a straight-through usb port (i.e., not a hub) which is great for mice, etc. The K-68 lacks this useful feature. - I don't like the fact that the key labels seem to be inverted: the shifted character is below, rather than above, the base character.
Overall Review: Writing this review, I realize that I first learned to type a half-century ago, when hitting Shift with your pinky meant you were physically lifting the entire collection of hammers in the typewriter. We've come a long way, but I still prefer a mechanical feel to my keyboard. This one feels great to a long-term touch typist. The odd inverted labeling I find annoying, but not a big deal. The other two negatives are simply nice features that you get in the K70 rather than the K68, so no eggs deducted. All in all, a good choice.
Pros: - Arrived quickly from Newegg. Item came well packaged and undamaged. - This Corsair K68 mechanical gaming keyboard features raised key switches with solid mechanical feedback. - Cherry MX red color backlight looks really nice at first glance but it definitely takes some getting used to. The color cannot be changed. Only intensity and lightning effects can be manipulated. - The keyboard is fully programmable with Corsair Utility Engine (CUE) software. The CUE software can be downloaded from Corsair website. The software allows to program multiple lightning effects such as: gradient, ripple, solid, wave etc etc. In addition, each individual key can be programmed for its own lightning effects or be turned on/off. I enjoyed experimenting with these lightning effects. I find the default brightness level to be a bit too high. It’s very easy to set your own back light level, or even turn it off. There is even macro functionality, in case you want set up your own customized light effects. - Large keycaps. The keys feel solidly built. - Construction. The keyboard is very heavy at 3 lb and gives off “solid built” impression. - Detachable wrist rest. I attached the plastic wrist rest to the keyboard and gave it a try. I must say the wrist rest is definitely worth using. It allows your hands to rest in more natural` position. - Dedicated mute, volume up/down buttons. These controls come very handy when playing movies in full screen or during game play. Very useful. - Dedicated video playback controls. Play/pause, forward, backward and stop.These buttons work well with build in windows media player and VLC player. - Dedicated keyboard backlight on/off/intensity button. It allows three different intensity levels. You can also completely turn the backlight off with the hardware switch. - Windows key lock mode prevents accidental windows and context menu key presses. - The keyboard is dust and spill resistant. This is important if you are concerned with liquid spills. - USB cable has sufficient length. - 2 year warranty.
Cons: - If you plan on typing a lot using this keyboard, get used to moderate “clacking” sound. The keyboard noise might be reduced by pressing the keys with less force. - CUE software has some quirks.
Overall Review: I find Corsair K68 mechanical keyboard refreshingly simple. There are no batteries or wireless setup to worry about. The keyboard is not over packed with multiple additional buttons that no one ever uses. There are only volume, playback and back light controls. Blissful simplicity. The default color scheme matches my M65 mouse, my Corsair case and even my MSI BIOS screen. They keyboard does not feel cheap. It seems to be quality item. Performance-wise, the keyboard is pretty good. I played some games and have not run into any performance issues. I also used the keyboard for some office work. Typing is fine but the keyboard will be too loud for a busy/shared office.
Pros: Great design. Key travel is superb. Very nice weight. It is water/dust resistant and that is a big plus as most of us eat at our desks. They keys are very easy to remove. Software is relatively intuitive and easy to download.
Cons: I am only saying this because it is something I noticed, but in no way would this keep me from recommending this keyboard or buying another one. The palm rest was a little bit warped from the factory. On the right side, it was raised slightly and I can feel it push down when I type. I’ve gotten used to it and it’s not that big of a deal, but the palm rest is made of light plastic with a type of rubber feeling material on top. I like it, just mine was a little warped from the factory.
Overall Review: Overall, I love this keyboard. I have typed on many mechanical keyboards before, and many have had easy travel on the keys, but this keyboard feels effortless to type on. That was really what made me fall in love with the keyboard is just how effortless it is to type on. The number pad and volume/media keys are nice, especially when in a game. This keyboard is only backlit in RED, so keep that in mind, they offer an RGB version of this keyboard as well. The weight of this keyboard is as equally satisfying. It feels solid, well made, and sits on the desk well. The cord was long enough for my needs with extra to spare and the cable is of high quality. It is a basic mechanical keyboard, but one of the best ive used. I would highly recommend this to someone who is looking for a mechanical keyboard that is practical and cost effective without sacrificing quality.
Pros: + • Cherry MX Red switches. • Excellent key response: great for gaming & typing. • Key strokes are not overly loud, yet still maintain a nice clicky clack. • Tactile “gripy” space bar. • Solid construction and premium feel. • Key caps have a nice sturdy, smooth feel, and can be easily removed for cleaning or replacement. • Dedicated buttons for LED brightness and Windows Key lock. • Dedicated Multimedia and Volume and Mute buttons. • Individual per key LED lighting. • Programmable LED lighting effects: pulse, wave, rain, visor (think Cylon raider or Knight Rider) and Type Lighting: Key and Ripple. With Key the keys illuminate where your key presses are, with Ripple the keys send an outward wave from each key pressed. You can even layer the effects to make unique designs. If the effects don't suit your mood you can easily switch back to static lighting. • The K68 features a shallow frame bordering the keys, which allows for easy cleaning. • Adjustable USB polling rate. • Per key definable macros using the Corsair Utility Engine control panel.
Cons: - My only gripe is not with the keyboard, but rather the Corsair software. The software is counter-intuitive to use at first, which can easily lead to confusion with the keyboard lighting and macro features.
Overall Review: ~ The key stokes are very responsive with actuation at about a quarter way into a full key stroke thanks to the Cherry MX Red switches. The feel of the keyboard has a nice weight to the body lending to a stable typing and gaming experience on my desk. The design is refined and has an appealing understated tasteful aesthetic that doesn’t jump out and scream “look at me” (at least until you turn on the LED lighting effects). Corsair took a very tasteful approach to designing the keyboard aesthetics and layout, no extra space was wasted for unnecessary macro or “gaming” keys. This refined design will be welcomed to people that have limited desk or keyboard footprint space The keyboard lettering font has a tasteful and refined classic sans appearance, the worded keys (enter, print screen, etc.) have acceptable size and kerning for easy identification. The LED brightness, Windows key lock and Multimedia buttons are handy and a welcome addition to the keyboard. Some competitors use a special Fn + key to make brightness adjustments, or control multimedia functions, which can lead to key fumbling. I really like that Corsair added dedicated controls, they make a big difference when you need them. The LED key lighting was well thought out, with each individual key having its own LED, and a nice muted red rubber tray under the keys providing soft ambient lighting from the LEDs and liquid protection. There are four levels of LED brightness if you include off. The highest brightness level is not too bright, and doesn’t seem to distract the eye. The red LED light is not too harsh on the eyes in a dark setting, and doesn’t seem to add any fatigue or excessive strain. The Corsair CUE software is a control panel for most of the Corsair peripheral products, as such they use it to lightly market other products to you at the main menu (you can disable this in the “global settings > “show only connected devices”). The controls for the K68 are minimal aside from setting up lighting effects or macros. You can set the USB polling rate from 125 to 1000 MHz, or disable certain key combos if the Windows lock button is on such as Alt + Tab, Shift + Tab or Alt + F4. Oddly the USB polling rate isn’t even located in the keyboard settings, but rather in the CUE “global settings”. The main functionality of CUE is to enable the LED effects, and macro editor, but its set up in a counter intuitive way that may confuse some users. For example when you go into the keyboard settings and pick a lighting effect from the drop down menu, nothing happens. Worse is if you delete the default lighting effects, the LEDs go dark. For some reason the software designers made the decision to only enable macro and lighting effects on user selected keys, but give NO indication in the control panel that this is what you need to do: to make lighting effects work, Click Drag a box around the keys you want to enable for the lighting effect (drag or select individual keys for macros). To further, if you enable “advanced” mode, that mode is treated as a separate user profile and you will again have to set up the profile to your liking. And finally the macros and lighting effects will not function if the CUE software isn’t running, but will resume if the application is started again, so no on-board settings memory. Outside of using macros or running lighting effects, I have not needed to use the control panel. I was using a different mechanical keyboard previously, so I didn’t have to adjust to much. Once you become accustomed to a mechanical keyboard you probably wouldn’t want to go back to a membrane or dome switch keyboard. The level of control is much more precise than a membrane or dome switch keyboard, and is most apparent when gaming. Initially it did require a little time to make the adjustment to the speed of the Cherry MX Red switches as they actuate much faster than dome or membrane keyboards, but it wasn’t a lengthy or difficult transition. Overall I have been absolutely satisfied with the performance, look and feel of this keyboard, making it an easy choice for me to recommend. The Cherry MX Red switches provide excellent response in gaming and typing, the back lighting is bright, and evenly lit making it easy to see keys in dark settings. The dedicated multimedia, brightness and window lock controls are very welcomed features. The added bling from the LED effects and the macro functionality are a big plus and easily outshine the questionable design UI of the CUE software, which is easy to use once you learn the methodology. The keyboard gets 5 eggs, and has a seat as my go to keyboard. I am not going to rate the keyboard by the accompanying software, which in the end does work.