What To Know
- The K90 has a more advanced lighting system with a light bar at the top of the keyboard and an RGB logo on the palm rest.
- If you prioritize portability, a compact design, and a wide range of switch options, the Corsair K70 is an excellent choice.
- If you prefer a larger keyboard with dedicated macro keys, media controls, and a more advanced lighting system, the Corsair K90 is the better option.
In the realm of gaming peripherals, Corsair reigns supreme as a leading manufacturer of high-performance keyboards. Among their most popular offerings are the Corsair K70 and K90, two formidable contenders that have captivated the hearts of countless gamers. This blog post delves into an in-depth comparison of the Corsair K70 vs K90, showcasing their key features, similarities, and distinctions to help you make an informed decision about which keyboard best suits your gaming needs.
Build and Design
Both the Corsair K70 and K90 boast a premium build quality, featuring durable aluminum frames that withstand the rigors of intense gaming sessions. The K70 is slightly more compact, measuring 17.2 x 5.9 x 1.4 inches, while the K90 is larger at 17.5 x 6.3 x 1.4 inches. The K70’s smaller size makes it more portable, while the K90’s larger footprint provides ample space for additional features.
Switches
One of the most crucial factors to consider when choosing a gaming keyboard is the type of switches used. The Corsair K70 and K90 offer a range of switch options, including Cherry MX Red, Brown, Blue, Silent Red, and Speed Silver. Cherry MX Red switches are linear and provide a smooth, quiet actuation, making them ideal for fast-paced games. Cherry MX Brown switches have a tactile bump, offering a more responsive feel. Cherry MX Blue switches are clicky and provide a satisfying audible feedback. Cherry MX Silent Red switches are similar to Red switches but with reduced noise, while Speed Silver switches have a shorter actuation distance for even faster response times.
Keycaps
The Corsair K70 and K90 come with high-quality PBT keycaps that are resistant to wear and fading. The K70 features double-shot injection-molded keycaps, while the K90 has triple-shot injection-molded keycaps. Double-shot injection molding involves injecting two different colors of plastic into the keycaps, resulting in durable legends that will not wear off easily. Triple-shot injection molding adds an extra layer of plastic for even greater durability and resistance to wear.
Lighting
Both the Corsair K70 and K90 feature RGB backlighting with customizable colors and effects. The K70 has per-key RGB lighting, allowing you to assign different colors to each key. The K90 has a more advanced lighting system with a light bar at the top of the keyboard and an RGB logo on the palm rest. This enhanced lighting provides a more immersive gaming experience and allows for more elaborate lighting effects.
Additional Features
The Corsair K90 offers several additional features that the K70 lacks. These features include:
- Dedicated macro keys: The K90 has six dedicated macro keys on the left side of the keyboard, allowing you to program complex macros for quick execution.
- Media controls: The K90 has dedicated media controls, including play/pause, stop, previous track, and next track buttons.
- USB passthrough: The K90 has a USB 2.0 passthrough port on the back of the keyboard, allowing you to connect additional devices such as a mouse or headset.
- Wrist rest: The K90 comes with a detachable magnetic wrist rest for added comfort during extended gaming sessions.
Similarities
Despite their differences, the Corsair K70 and K90 share several similarities:
- Durable aluminum frame
- High-quality PBT keycaps
- RGB backlighting
- Cherry MX switch options
- iCUE software compatibility
Which Keyboard is Right for You?
The Corsair K70 and K90 are both excellent gaming keyboards, but the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize portability, a compact design, and a wide range of switch options, the Corsair K70 is an excellent choice. If you prefer a larger keyboard with dedicated macro keys, media controls, and a more advanced lighting system, the Corsair K90 is the better option.
The Verdict
Both the Corsair K70 and K90 are top-of-the-line gaming keyboards that offer exceptional performance and features. The K70 is a solid choice for gamers who value portability and a wide range of switch options. The K90 is the ultimate choice for gamers who demand the best possible gaming experience, with its dedicated macro keys, media controls, and advanced lighting system. Ultimately, the decision between the Corsair K70 vs K90 comes down to your individual preferences and budget.
Basics You Wanted To Know
- Q: Which keyboard is more durable?
- A: Both the Corsair K70 and K90 feature durable aluminum frames and high-quality PBT keycaps.
- Q: Which keyboard has more lighting options?
- A: The Corsair K90 has more advanced lighting options, including a light bar and an RGB logo on the palm rest.
- Q: Which keyboard is better for programming macros?
- A: The Corsair K90 has six dedicated macro keys, while the K70 does not.
