What To Know
- The K95 RGB Platinum XT, however, takes the edge in terms of design, featuring a more modern and sleek aesthetic with a floating keycap design that allows for mesmerizing RGB lighting effects.
- While the K95 RGB Platinum is still an excellent keyboard, the K95 RGB Platinum XT offers a slightly more refined and feature-packed experience that justifies its slightly higher price point.
- Both keyboards offer a choice of Cherry MX switches, but the K95 RGB Platinum XT also introduces the new Corsair OPX optical-mechanical switches, which promise faster actuation and a longer lifespan.
In the realm of high-performance gaming keyboards, the Corsair K95 RGB Platinum and K95 RGB Platinum XT stand as two towering titans. Both keyboards offer an unparalleled combination of features, performance, and aesthetics. But which one reigns supreme? In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the intricate details of both keyboards, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and ultimately determining the victor in this epic battle of the titans.
Build Quality and Design
Both the K95 RGB Platinum and K95 RGB Platinum XT boast exceptional build quality, with durable aluminum frames that can withstand the rigors of intense gaming sessions. The K95 RGB Platinum XT, however, takes the edge in terms of design, featuring a more modern and sleek aesthetic with a floating keycap design that allows for mesmerizing RGB lighting effects.
Switches and Performance
Both keyboards offer a choice of Cherry MX switches, including Red, Brown, Blue, and Speed. The K95 RGB Platinum XT introduces the new Corsair OPX optical-mechanical switches, which promise faster actuation and a longer lifespan. In terms of performance, both keyboards deliver lightning-fast response times and precise keystrokes, making them ideal for competitive gaming.
RGB Lighting and Customization
Corsair is renowned for its exceptional RGB lighting capabilities, and both the K95 RGB Platinum and K95 RGB Platinum XT are no exception. With 19-zone RGB lighting, you can customize every key to your heart’s content, creating vibrant and immersive lighting effects that enhance your gaming experience. The K95 RGB Platinum XT offers slightly more advanced lighting features, such as LightEdge and a customizable lightbar, giving you even greater control over your RGB setup.
Macro Keys and Programmable Buttons
For gamers who demand the ultimate in control, both the K95 RGB Platinum and K95 RGB Platinum XT feature six dedicated macro keys. These keys can be programmed with complex macros and shortcuts, giving you a significant advantage in fast-paced games. The K95 RGB Platinum XT also includes an additional six programmable G-keys, providing even more options for customization.
Software and Integration
Both keyboards are supported by Corsair’s iCUE software, which allows you to configure every aspect of your keyboard, from lighting to macros. The iCUE software is intuitive and user-friendly, making it easy to customize your keyboard to your exact specifications. The K95 RGB Platinum XT has the added advantage of being compatible with Corsair’s Stream Deck software, giving you even more control over your streaming setup.
Connectivity and Ergonomics
Both keyboards feature USB passthrough ports, allowing you to connect additional devices to your computer without sacrificing any USB ports. The K95 RGB Platinum XT offers a slightly more ergonomic design, with a detachable magnetic wrist rest that provides additional comfort during extended gaming sessions.
Price and Value
The Corsair K95 RGB Platinum is typically priced around $199, while the K95 RGB Platinum XT retails for $219. Both keyboards offer exceptional value for money, providing a premium gaming experience with a wealth of features. However, if you’re looking for the most advanced and feature-rich keyboard, the K95 RGB Platinum XT is worth the extra investment.
The Verdict: Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT
After meticulously comparing both keyboards, we have crowned the Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT as the victor. Its superior design, advanced optical-mechanical switches, and additional programmable buttons make it the ultimate choice for discerning gamers who demand the best. While the K95 RGB Platinum is still an excellent keyboard, the K95 RGB Platinum XT offers a slightly more refined and feature-packed experience that justifies its slightly higher price point.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: What is the difference between the Corsair K95 RGB Platinum and K95 RGB Platinum XT?
A: The K95 RGB Platinum XT features a more modern design, optical-mechanical switches, additional programmable buttons, and slightly more advanced RGB lighting features.
Q: Which keyboard has better switches?
A: Both keyboards offer a choice of Cherry MX switches, but the K95 RGB Platinum XT also introduces the new Corsair OPX optical-mechanical switches, which promise faster actuation and a longer lifespan.
Q: Which keyboard has more programmable buttons?
A: The K95 RGB Platinum XT has six dedicated macro keys and six additional programmable G-keys, while the K95 RGB Platinum only has six macro keys.
Q: Which keyboard is more expensive?
A: The K95 RGB Platinum XT is slightly more expensive than the K95 RGB Platinum, retailing for $219 compared to $199.
Q: Which keyboard is better for gaming?
A: Both keyboards are excellent for gaming, but the K95 RGB Platinum XT offers a slight edge with its faster optical-mechanical switches and additional programmable buttons.
