What To Know
- In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the intricacies of the Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT vs Corsair K55 RGB Pro, comparing their key specifications, features, and performance to help you make an informed decision.
- The OPX optical-mechanical switches in the K55 RGB Pro XT provide faster actuation and a longer lifespan compared to the membrane switches in the K55 RGB Pro.
- The K55 RGB Pro XT stands out with its premium design, optical-mechanical switches, and additional features, while the K55 RGB Pro provides a solid value with its membrane switches and customizable RGB lighting.
In the realm of gaming peripherals, Corsair has consistently delivered exceptional products, including their acclaimed K55 RGB Pro and its successor, the K55 RGB Pro XT. These keyboards offer a compelling blend of features, performance, and affordability, making them popular choices among gamers. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the intricacies of the Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT vs Corsair K55 RGB Pro, comparing their key specifications, features, and performance to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the K55 RGB Pro XT and K55 RGB Pro boast a robust construction with a durable plastic frame. The K55 RGB Pro XT, however, features a slightly more refined aesthetic with a brushed aluminum top plate that adds a touch of sophistication. Both keyboards offer a full-size layout with dedicated media keys and a volume roller, providing a comfortable and ergonomic typing experience.
Key Switches and Typing Experience
The K55 RGB Pro XT utilizes Corsair’s proprietary OPX optical-mechanical switches, which offer a crisp and tactile response with a satisfying actuation force of 45g. The K55 RGB Pro, on the other hand, employs traditional membrane switches, which provide a softer and quieter typing experience. The choice between the two depends on personal preference and the desired tactile feedback.
RGB Lighting
One of the standout features of both keyboards is their vibrant RGB lighting. The K55 RGB Pro XT and K55 RGB Pro offer customizable per-key illumination with up to 16.8 million colors, allowing for stunning lighting effects and synchronization with other Corsair peripherals through the iCUE software. The K55 RGB Pro XT, however, boasts a slightly brighter and more uniform lighting experience.
Macro Capabilities
Both keyboards offer robust macro capabilities through dedicated macro keys and the iCUE software. The K55 RGB Pro XT features six dedicated macro keys on the left side, while the K55 RGB Pro has three. The iCUE software allows for extensive macro programming, enabling users to create complex macros and assign them to any key.
Additional Features
In terms of additional features, the K55 RGB Pro XT offers a few notable advantages over its predecessor. It includes a detachable wrist rest for added comfort during extended gaming sessions, while the K55 RGB Pro does not. Additionally, the K55 RGB Pro XT features onboard memory for storing up to three profiles, allowing users to switch between custom lighting and macro settings without the need for software.
Performance and Durability
Both the K55 RGB Pro XT and K55 RGB Pro deliver reliable performance for both gaming and everyday use. The OPX optical-mechanical switches in the K55 RGB Pro XT provide faster actuation and a longer lifespan compared to the membrane switches in the K55 RGB Pro. However, both keyboards have a rated lifespan of 50 million keystrokes, ensuring durability for extended use.
Price and Value
The Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT retails for a slightly higher price than the K55 RGB Pro. The additional features, such as the brushed aluminum top plate, detachable wrist rest, and onboard memory, may justify the price difference for some users. However, the K55 RGB Pro remains a great value for those seeking a budget-friendly gaming keyboard with essential features.
Which Keyboard is Right for You?
The choice between the Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT and Corsair K55 RGB Pro ultimately depends on your specific preferences and needs. If you value a more refined design, faster actuation, and additional features such as a wrist rest and onboard memory, the K55 RGB Pro XT is the superior choice. However, if you prioritize affordability and a solid typing experience with customizable RGB lighting, the K55 RGB Pro is a great value option.
Takeaways
Both the Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT and Corsair K55 RGB Pro are excellent gaming keyboards that offer a range of features and performance levels. The K55 RGB Pro XT stands out with its premium design, optical-mechanical switches, and additional features, while the K55 RGB Pro provides a solid value with its membrane switches and customizable RGB lighting. Whether you’re a budget-conscious gamer or seeking a feature-rich keyboard, the Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT vs K55 RGB Pro comparison will help you make an informed decision.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: What is the difference between the Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT and Corsair K55 RGB Pro?
A: The K55 RGB Pro XT features a brushed aluminum top plate, detachable wrist rest, onboard memory, and OPX optical-mechanical switches, while the K55 RGB Pro has a plastic frame, membrane switches, and three dedicated macro keys.
Q: Which keyboard has better typing feedback?
A: The K55 RGB Pro XT’s optical-mechanical switches provide a crisper and more tactile typing experience compared to the membrane switches in the K55 RGB Pro.
Q: Does the K55 RGB Pro XT support macro programming?
A: Yes, both the K55 RGB Pro XT and K55 RGB Pro offer macro programming capabilities through dedicated macro keys and the iCUE software.
Q: Which keyboard has brighter RGB lighting?
A: The K55 RGB Pro XT generally has brighter and more uniform RGB lighting compared to the K55 RGB Pro.
Q: Is the K55 RGB Pro XT worth the extra cost?
A: The price difference between the K55 RGB Pro XT and K55 RGB Pro is justified if you value features such as the brushed aluminum top plate, detachable wrist rest, onboard memory, and optical-mechanical switches.
