What To Know
- The membrane switches on the K55 Pro offer a quiet and responsive typing experience, making it ideal for both gaming and productivity tasks.
- The mechanical switches on the K55 XT, on the other hand, provide a more tactile and audible feedback, enhancing the precision and immersion during gameplay.
- While the built-in wrist rest on the K55 XT offers a more seamless design, the detachable wrist rest on the K55 Pro provides greater flexibility and adjustability.
The Corsair K55 Pro and K55 XT are two formidable contenders in the realm of budget-friendly gaming keyboards. With their sleek designs and feature-rich arsenals, these keyboards are poised to deliver an immersive and satisfying gaming experience. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the depths of their specifications, performance, and overall value to determine which keyboard reigns supreme.
Design and Build Quality
Both the K55 Pro and K55 XT boast a sleek and modern aesthetic. Their black brushed aluminum top plate exudes durability and sophistication, while the RGB lighting adds a touch of personalization. However, the K55 Pro has a slight edge in terms of build quality. Its sturdy construction and reinforced keycaps give it a more solid feel, ensuring longevity even under intense gaming sessions.
Switches and Performance
The K55 Pro and K55 XT employ different switch technologies. The K55 Pro features low-profile, linear membrane switches, while the K55 XT utilizes mechanical switches. The membrane switches on the K55 Pro offer a quiet and responsive typing experience, making it ideal for both gaming and productivity tasks. The mechanical switches on the K55 XT, on the other hand, provide a more tactile and audible feedback, enhancing the precision and immersion during gameplay.
RGB Lighting and Software
RGB lighting is a staple feature in modern gaming keyboards. Both the K55 Pro and K55 XT offer customizable RGB lighting with a wide range of effects. The K55 Pro has six dedicated lighting zones, while the K55 XT boasts per-key RGB lighting. The K55 Pro’s software, iCUE, provides extensive customization options and allows for the creation of custom lighting profiles. The K55 XT’s software, iCUE 4, offers even more advanced features, including macro programming and integration with other Corsair peripherals.
Media Controls and Dedicated Macros
The K55 Pro and K55 XT come equipped with dedicated media controls for quick and easy access to volume, playback, and other multimedia functions. The K55 Pro has a dedicated volume wheel and media buttons, while the K55 XT has integrated media keys within the F-key row. Both keyboards also feature six programmable macro keys, allowing users to assign complex commands to a single keypress.
Wrist Rest and Ergonomics
A comfortable gaming experience is essential for extended gaming sessions. The K55 Pro includes a detachable wrist rest that provides additional support and reduces fatigue. The K55 XT, on the other hand, has a built-in wrist rest that is not removable. While the built-in wrist rest on the K55 XT offers a more seamless design, the detachable wrist rest on the K55 Pro provides greater flexibility and adjustability.
Price and Value
The Corsair K55 Pro and K55 XT are both priced competitively in the budget-friendly segment. The K55 Pro typically retails for around $50, while the K55 XT can be found for around $60. Considering the features and performance offered by both keyboards, they represent excellent value for their respective price points.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Corsair K55 Pro and K55 XT ultimately depends on individual preferences and gaming needs. If you prioritize a quiet and responsive typing experience, the K55 Pro is an excellent choice. If you prefer the tactile and audible feedback of mechanical switches, the K55 XT is the better option. Both keyboards offer customizable RGB lighting, dedicated media controls, and programmable macro keys, making them versatile peripherals for both gaming and productivity tasks.
Key Points:
The Corsair K55 Pro and K55 XT are exceptional budget-friendly gaming keyboards that offer a wide range of features and performance. The K55 Pro excels with its quiet membrane switches and detachable wrist rest, while the K55 XT shines with its mechanical switches and integrated media keys. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a competitive enthusiast, both keyboards provide an immersive and satisfying gaming experience.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Which keyboard has better RGB lighting?
A: The K55 XT offers per-key RGB lighting, while the K55 Pro has six dedicated lighting zones.
Q: Which switches are more durable?
A: Mechanical switches, as used in the K55 XT, are generally more durable than membrane switches.
Q: Does the K55 Pro have a volume wheel?
A: Yes, the K55 Pro has a dedicated volume wheel.
