What To Know
- If you are looking for a budget-friendly keyboard with basic features and a quiet operation, the K55 Pro Lite is a solid option.
- The K55 Pro Lite offers a solid value with its membrane switches and basic features, while the K55 Pro stands out with its mechanical switches, per-key RGB lighting, and premium build quality.
- The Corsair K55 Pro features mechanical switches that offer a more tactile and responsive feel compared to the membrane switches of the K55 Pro Lite.
Choosing the right keyboard for your gaming or everyday computing needs can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available in the market. Two popular options from Corsair that cater to budget-conscious users are the K55 Pro Lite and K55 Pro. Both keyboards offer a range of features, but there are some key differences that set them apart. In this comprehensive guide, we will compare the Corsair K55 Pro Lite and K55 Pro to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Corsair K55 Pro Lite and K55 Pro share a similar design aesthetic, featuring a full-size layout with a dedicated number pad. However, there are some subtle differences in their construction. The K55 Pro Lite has a plastic frame, while the K55 Pro boasts a more durable aluminum frame.
Switches and Keycaps
One of the most important aspects of a keyboard is the switches and keycaps. The K55 Pro Lite utilizes membrane switches, which are known for their soft and quiet operation. The K55 Pro, on the other hand, employs mechanical switches that offer a more tactile and responsive feel.
The K55 Pro Lite comes with double-shot injected keycaps, which are durable and resistant to wear. The K55 Pro, however, features PBT double-shot keycaps, which are even more durable and provide a more premium feel.
Features and Functionality
Both the Corsair K55 Pro Lite and K55 Pro offer a range of features to enhance your gaming or computing experience. The K55 Pro Lite includes six dedicated macro keys that can be programmed to perform complex actions. The K55 Pro, on the other hand, boasts a total of nine macro keys, giving you more flexibility for customization.
Additionally, the K55 Pro features a dedicated volume roller and media playback controls, which are absent from the K55 Pro Lite.
Lighting and Customization
The K55 Pro Lite and K55 Pro both offer RGB lighting, but there are some differences in their implementation. The K55 Pro Lite has single-zone RGB lighting, which means that all the keys are illuminated with the same color. The K55 Pro, however, features per-key RGB lighting, allowing you to customize the color of each individual key.
Software and Compatibility
The Corsair K55 Pro Lite and K55 Pro are compatible with Corsair’s iCUE software, which allows you to customize their lighting, macros, and performance settings. Both keyboards are also compatible with Windows and macOS.
Price and Value
The Corsair K55 Pro Lite is typically priced around $50, while the K55 Pro retails for around $70. Considering the additional features and premium build quality of the K55 Pro, it offers better value for the price.
Which Keyboard is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best choice between the Corsair K55 Pro Lite and K55 Pro depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a budget-friendly keyboard with basic features and a quiet operation, the K55 Pro Lite is a solid option. However, if you desire a more durable keyboard with mechanical switches, per-key RGB lighting, and dedicated media controls, the K55 Pro is the better choice.
Summary: The Ultimate Verdict
In the battle of the budget-friendly keyboards, the Corsair K55 Pro Lite and K55 Pro each have their strengths. The K55 Pro Lite offers a solid value with its membrane switches and basic features, while the K55 Pro stands out with its mechanical switches, per-key RGB lighting, and premium build quality. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences, but both keyboards offer excellent options for gamers and general users alike.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which keyboard has better switches?
A: The Corsair K55 Pro features mechanical switches that offer a more tactile and responsive feel compared to the membrane switches of the K55 Pro Lite.
Q: Does the K55 Pro Lite have per-key RGB lighting?
A: No, the K55 Pro Lite only has single-zone RGB lighting, meaning all the keys are illuminated with the same color.
Q: Which keyboard is more durable?
A: The Corsair K55 Pro has a more durable aluminum frame compared to the plastic frame of the K55 Pro Lite.
