Corsair Keyboard Showdown: K95 Vs K100 – Which Reigns Supreme?
What To Know
- Both the Corsair K95 and K100 exude a premium aesthetic, featuring a durable aluminum frame that ensures longevity and stability.
- The K100 boasts a slightly higher polling rate of 8,000Hz compared to the K95’s 4,000Hz, resulting in faster response times and smoother gameplay.
- The Corsair K95 and K100 both command a premium price, but they deliver exceptional value for the features and performance they offer.
In the realm of gaming peripherals, Corsair stands as a titan, renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology. Two of their most esteemed offerings are the Corsair K95 and K100 gaming keyboards, both boasting an impressive array of features and capabilities. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the intricate details of these two keyboards, comparing their key specifications, design, performance, and overall value to determine which one emerges as the undisputed champion.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Corsair K95 and K100 exude a premium aesthetic, featuring a durable aluminum frame that ensures longevity and stability. The K95 sports a slightly more compact design, measuring 17.17 x 5.75 x 1.57 inches, while the K100 is marginally larger at 17.72 x 6.29 x 1.57 inches. The K100 features a dedicated volume roller and media control keys, offering convenient access to audio adjustments.
Keycaps and Switches
The K95 and K100 both utilize Cherry MX mechanical switches, offering a wide range of options to suit different preferences. The K95 is available with Red, Brown, Blue, and Speed Silver switches, while the K100 offers Red, Brown, Blue, Speed, and Silent Red switches. The K95 features double-shot PBT keycaps for enhanced durability, while the K100 employs a combination of double-shot PBT and ABS keycaps.
Lighting and Customization
Corsair’s renowned iCUE software empowers both keyboards with extensive customization options. The K95 boasts 19-zone RGB lighting, while the K100 takes it up a notch with 44-zone RGB lighting, providing ample opportunities for vibrant and immersive lighting effects. Both keyboards offer extensive macro programming and key remapping, allowing users to tailor their gaming experience to their exact preferences.
Performance and Responsiveness
In terms of performance, both the K95 and K100 deliver exceptional responsiveness and precision. They feature 100% anti-ghosting and full N-key rollover, ensuring accurate registration of every keystroke, even during intense gaming sessions. The K100 boasts a slightly higher polling rate of 8,000Hz compared to the K95’s 4,000Hz, resulting in faster response times and smoother gameplay.
Additional Features
Beyond their core functionalities, both keyboards offer a range of additional features to enhance the gaming experience. The K95 incorporates a dedicated macro keys row, providing instant access to complex macros. The K100, on the other hand, features a built-in USB passthrough port, allowing users to connect additional peripherals directly to the keyboard.
Value and Recommendation
The Corsair K95 and K100 both command a premium price, but they deliver exceptional value for the features and performance they offer. The K95 remains a solid choice for gamers seeking a versatile and durable keyboard with customizable lighting and macro functionality. However, for those seeking the ultimate gaming experience with unparalleled responsiveness and immersive lighting, the Corsair K100 is the clear winner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which keyboard has a dedicated macro keys row?
A: The Corsair K95 incorporates a dedicated macro keys row.
Q: Does the K100 offer a USB passthrough port?
A: Yes, the Corsair K100 features a built-in USB passthrough port.
Q: Which keyboard has a higher polling rate?
A: The Corsair K100 boasts a higher polling rate of 8,000Hz compared to the K95’s 4,000Hz.
Q: Are the keycaps on both keyboards durable?
A: The K95 features double-shot PBT keycaps, while the K100 employs a combination of double-shot PBT and ABS keycaps, ensuring durability.
Q: Can I customize the lighting on both keyboards?
A: Yes, both the K95 and K100 offer extensive customization options for RGB lighting through Corsair’s iCUE software.