What To Know
- If you prioritize a compact and spill-resistant keyboard with a quiet typing experience, the Corsair K55 is an excellent option.
- However, if you seek a more robust keyboard with mechanical key switches, customizable RGB lighting, and extensive macro capabilities, the Corsair K57 is the clear choice.
- The Corsair K57 features a more robust design with a textured rubberized surface, making it more durable compared to the Corsair K55.
In the realm of gaming peripherals, the choice of keyboard can significantly impact your overall gaming experience. Two popular options from Corsair, the K55 and K57, offer distinct features and capabilities that cater to different gaming styles and preferences. This comprehensive comparison guide will delve into the key differences between the Corsair K55 and K57, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Corsair K55 boasts a sleek and minimalistic design with a brushed aluminum finish. Its compact size makes it ideal for smaller desks or gaming setups. In contrast, the Corsair K57 features a more robust and angular design with a textured rubberized surface. It offers a larger footprint, providing ample space for comfortable typing and gaming.
Keycaps and Switches
The Corsair K55 employs membrane keycaps, which provide a soft and quiet typing experience. They are also spill-resistant, offering peace of mind for those prone to spills. The Corsair K57, on the other hand, utilizes mechanical key switches. It comes with Cherry MX Red switches, known for their linear and responsive actuation. These switches provide a tactile and audible feedback that enhances the gaming experience.
RGB Lighting
Both the Corsair K55 and K57 feature customizable RGB lighting. The K55 offers three lighting zones, while the K57 boasts per-key RGB lighting. This allows for a wider range of lighting effects and customization options.
Macro Keys and Programmable Buttons
The Corsair K55 includes six dedicated macro keys on the left side of the keyboard. These keys can be programmed with custom macros or key combinations, providing quick access to frequently used commands or actions. The Corsair K57 takes it a step further with nine programmable buttons, including six macro keys and three dedicated media keys.
Software and Customization
Both keyboards are compatible with Corsair’s iCUE software. This software allows for extensive customization of lighting effects, macro programming, and performance settings. It also enables synchronization with other Corsair peripherals for a cohesive gaming setup.
Additional Features
The Corsair K55 features a wrist rest for added comfort during extended gaming sessions. The Corsair K57 offers a detachable wrist rest and a USB passthrough port for connecting additional devices.
Performance and Gaming Experience
The Corsair K55 provides a reliable and responsive gaming experience. Its membrane keycaps ensure consistent actuation and a quiet typing experience. The Corsair K57, with its mechanical key switches, offers a faster and more precise response, making it ideal for competitive gaming.
Wrap-Up: The Verdict on Corsair K55 vs K57
The choice between the Corsair K55 and K57 ultimately depends on your individual preferences and gaming needs. If you prioritize a compact and spill-resistant keyboard with a quiet typing experience, the Corsair K55 is an excellent option. However, if you seek a more robust keyboard with mechanical key switches, customizable RGB lighting, and extensive macro capabilities, the Corsair K57 is the clear choice.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Which keyboard is better for typing?
A: The Corsair K55 offers a quieter typing experience due to its membrane keycaps.
Q: Which keyboard is better for gaming?
A: The Corsair K57 with its mechanical key switches provides faster and more precise actuation, making it ideal for competitive gaming.
Q: Does the Corsair K55 have dedicated macro keys?
A: Yes, the Corsair K55 includes six dedicated macro keys on the left side of the keyboard.
Q: Does the Corsair K57 have per-key RGB lighting?
A: Yes, the Corsair K57 boasts per-key RGB lighting, allowing for a wider range of lighting effects and customization options.
Q: Which keyboard is more durable?
A: The Corsair K57 features a more robust design with a textured rubberized surface, making it more durable compared to the Corsair K55.
