Why look beyond Corsair K70 RGB Pro
The Corsair K70 RGB Pro is a full-size mechanical gaming keyboard designed for competitive use, featuring durable switches and comprehensive customization through Corsair's iCUE software. It offers a standardized layout and a detachable USB-C cable, which are beneficial for transport and setup in professional gaming environments Corsair K70 RGB Pro product page. However, its full-size form factor may not suit users prioritizing desk space or portability.
While the K70 RGB Pro excels in wired performance with an 8,000Hz polling rate RTINGS Corsair K70 RGB Pro review, it lacks wireless connectivity options, which are increasingly sought after for clutter-free setups. Users interested in different switch types, such as low-profile mechanical switches for faster actuation or optical switches for enhanced durability and speed, might find other brands offer alternatives more aligned with their preferences. Additionally, some gamers may prefer more compact layouts like TKL (tenkeyless), 65%, or 60% to maximize mouse movement space and portability.
Top alternatives ranked
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1. Corsair K70 RGB TKL — A familiar tenkeyless form factor
The Corsair K70 RGB TKL is a strong alternative for users who appreciate the core features of the K70 RGB Pro but require a more compact layout. This keyboard retains the AXON Hyper-Processing Technology for 8,000Hz polling, ensuring high responsiveness for competitive gaming RTINGS Corsair K70 RGB TKL review. It features durable Cherry MX mechanical switches and per-key RGB backlighting, all managed through the iCUE software for consistent customization. The TKL design removes the number pad, freeing up desk space for mouse movements, making it suitable for esports setups and users who frequently travel with their peripherals.
- Best for: Users seeking a compact version of the K70 RGB Pro, competitive gaming, maximizing desk space.
Learn more about the Corsair K70 RGB TKL.
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2. Logitech G915 TKL Lightspeed — Premium wireless low-profile gaming
The Logitech G915 TKL Lightspeed offers a premium wireless gaming experience with its low-profile GL mechanical switches, available in tactile, linear, and clicky variants Logitech G915 TKL Lightspeed product page. Its Lightspeed wireless technology provides a 1ms report rate, comparable to wired performance, while offering up to 40 hours of battery life with RGB lighting. The aircraft-grade aluminum alloy top case contributes to its sleek, minimalist design and durability. This TKL keyboard is ideal for users who prioritize cable-free setups and a low-profile typing experience without compromising on gaming performance.
- Best for: Wireless gaming setups, minimalist aesthetics, users preferring low-profile switches.
Learn more about the Logitech G915 TKL Lightspeed.
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3. Razer Huntsman V2 Tenkeyless — Optical speed and responsiveness
The Razer Huntsman V2 Tenkeyless utilizes Razer's second-generation optical switches, available in linear (with sound dampeners) or clicky variants, which offer near-instantaneous actuation without debounce delay Razer Huntsman V2 Tenkeyless product page. This makes it an excellent choice for competitive gamers where every millisecond counts. It boasts an 8,000Hz polling rate and features double-shot PBT keycaps for enhanced durability and a premium feel. The TKL form factor again saves desk space, while the detachable USB-C cable adds to its portability, making it a strong contender for esports professionals.
- Best for: Esports professionals, competitive gaming, users prioritizing speed and durability.
Learn more about the Razer Huntsman V2 Tenkeyless.
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4. SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless — Ultra-compact and adjustable actuation
The SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless stands out with its OmniPoint 2.0 adjustable mechanical switches, allowing users to customize the actuation point of each key from 0.2mm to 3.8mm SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless product page. This feature is particularly beneficial for competitive gaming, enabling rapid fire for fast actions and deeper actuation for deliberate presses. Its 60% form factor is ultra-compact, maximizing desk space significantly. With both 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth connectivity, it offers versatility for various setups. It also supports dual-bind key presses for advanced functionality.
- Best for: Ultra-compact desk setups, competitive gamers needing adjustable actuation, wireless flexibility.
Learn more about the SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless.
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5. Corsair K70 RGB Pro Mini Wireless — Hotswappable and compact Corsair experience
For users who want a Corsair keyboard but in a compact, wireless, and hotswappable format, the K70 RGB Pro Mini Wireless is an excellent choice. This 60% keyboard offers both 2.4GHz SLIPSTREAM WIRELESS and Bluetooth connectivity, providing a latency-free experience Corsair K70 RGB Pro Mini Wireless product page. Its hotswappable key switches allow for customization with any 3-pin Cherry MX-compatible switch, catering to enthusiasts who like to fine-tune their typing and gaming feel. It maintains the robust iCUE software integration for lighting and macro control, making it a versatile option within the Corsair ecosystem.
- Best for: Corsair enthusiasts, compact wireless setups, users desiring hotswappable switches.
Learn more about the Corsair K70 RGB Pro Mini Wireless.
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6. SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL — OLED display and durable construction
The SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL differentiates itself with an integrated OLED Smart Display that can show game info, Discord messages, or customize settings directly on the keyboard, removing the need for Alt-Tabbing SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL product page. It features durable mechanical switches (Red, Blue, or Brown) rated for 50 million keypresses and an aircraft-grade aluminum frame. The TKL layout provides a balance between functionality and desk space. It also includes a magnetic wrist rest for comfort during extended gaming sessions, enhancing its appeal for users seeking a feature-rich, compact mechanical keyboard.
- Best for: Users who want an integrated display, durable construction, compact TKL layout.
Learn more about the SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL.
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7. HyperX Alloy Origins 65 — Dedicated arrow keys in a compact format
The HyperX Alloy Origins 65 offers a compact 65% form factor while uniquely retaining dedicated arrow keys, which are often omitted in smaller keyboards HyperX Alloy Origins 65 product page. This makes it ideal for users who need space-saving without sacrificing essential navigation keys. It features HyperX mechanical switches, available in linear (Red) or tactile (Aqua) options, known for their balance of speed and responsiveness. The full aluminum body provides robust durability, and per-key RGB lighting is customizable through HyperX NGENUITY software. Its detachable USB-C cable also enhances portability.
- Best for: Users desiring a compact keyboard with dedicated arrow keys, durable build quality, and customizable RGB.
Learn more about the HyperX Alloy Origins 65.
Side-by-side
| Feature | Corsair K70 RGB Pro | Corsair K70 RGB TKL | Logitech G915 TKL Lightspeed | Razer Huntsman V2 Tenkeyless | SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless | Corsair K70 RGB Pro Mini Wireless | SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL | HyperX Alloy Origins 65 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Full-size | TKL | TKL | TKL | 60% | 60% | TKL | 65% |
| Connectivity | Wired (USB-C) | Wired (USB-C) | Wireless (Lightspeed 2.4GHz, Bluetooth) | Wired (USB-C) | Wireless (2.4GHz, Bluetooth), Wired (USB-C) | Wireless (SLIPSTREAM 2.4GHz, Bluetooth), Wired (USB-C) | Wired (USB-A) | Wired (USB-C) |
| Switch Type | Cherry MX (various) | Cherry MX (various) | Logitech GL Low-Profile (Tactile, Linear, Clicky) | Razer Optical (Linear, Clicky) | OmniPoint 2.0 Adjustable Mechanical | Cherry MX (hotswappable) | SteelSeries Mechanical (Red, Brown, Blue) | HyperX Mechanical (Red, Aqua) |
| Polling Rate | 8,000Hz | 8,000Hz | 1,000Hz | 8,000Hz | 1,000Hz (wired) | 8,000Hz (wired), 2,000Hz (wireless) | 1,000Hz | 1,000Hz |
| Keycaps | PBT Double-shot (some models) | PBT Double-shot (some models) | ABS (Laser-etched) | PBT Double-shot | PBT Double-shot | PBT Double-shot | ABS | PBT Double-shot |
| Software | Corsair iCUE | Corsair iCUE | Logitech G HUB | Razer Synapse 3 | SteelSeries GG (Engine) | Corsair iCUE | SteelSeries GG (Engine) | HyperX NGENUITY |
| Notable Features | Media keys, Tournament Switch | Media keys, Tournament Switch | Dedicated media controls, volume roller | Sound dampening, onboard memory | Adjustable actuation, dual-bind keypresses | Hotswappable switches, AXON tech | OLED Smart Display, magnetic wrist rest | Dedicated arrow keys, full aluminum body |
How to pick
Selecting an alternative to the Corsair K70 RGB Pro involves evaluating several factors based on your specific gaming habits, desk setup, and personal preferences. The primary considerations typically revolve around form factor, switch type, connectivity, and additional features.
Form Factor and Desk Space
The Corsair K70 RGB Pro is a full-size keyboard. If you find the number pad unnecessary for gaming and want more room for mouse movement, a TKL (Tenkeyless) keyboard like the Corsair K70 RGB TKL, Logitech G915 TKL Lightspeed, or Razer Huntsman V2 Tenkeyless might be ideal. These retain most common keys while reducing the footprint. For minimalists or those with very limited desk space, a 60% keyboard like the SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless or Corsair K70 RGB Pro Mini Wireless offers the smallest footprint, though they require extensive use of function layers for missing keys. The HyperX Alloy Origins 65 provides a middle ground with a 65% layout, retaining dedicated arrow keys which are crucial for certain games or productivity tasks.
Switch Types and Actuation
The K70 RGB Pro primarily uses Cherry MX switches. If you prefer a different feel or desire cutting-edge performance, consider:
- Optical Switches: The Razer Huntsman V2 Tenkeyless uses optical switches for faster actuation and improved durability, as they rely on light rather than physical contact. These are excellent for competitive FPS games where every millisecond counts RTINGS Razer Huntsman V2 TKL review.
- Adjustable Actuation: The SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless features OmniPoint 2.0 switches, allowing you to fine-tune the actuation point for individual keys. This provides unparalleled flexibility, letting you set hair-trigger actuation for gaming keys and deeper presses for typing-intensive ones.
- Low-Profile Switches: The Logitech G915 TKL Lightspeed offers low-profile GL mechanical switches, providing a shorter travel distance and a snappier feel, often preferred by users who like a laptop-style typing experience but with mechanical feedback.
- Hotswappable Switches: For enthusiasts who enjoy experimenting with different switch types, the Corsair K70 RGB Pro Mini Wireless offers hotswappable sockets, allowing you to easily swap switches without soldering.
Connectivity: Wired vs. Wireless
The K70 RGB Pro is a wired keyboard, lauded for its consistent performance. If you desire a cable-free setup, consider wireless options:
- Dedicated Wireless (2.4GHz): Keyboards like the Logitech G915 TKL Lightspeed, SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless, and Corsair K70 RGB Pro Mini Wireless offer proprietary 2.4GHz wireless connections that provide near-wired latency for gaming.
- Bluetooth: Many wireless gaming keyboards also include Bluetooth, ideal for connecting to multiple devices or for general use where ultra-low latency is not critical. The Apex Pro Mini Wireless and K70 RGB Pro Mini Wireless support both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth.
Additional Features
Think about features that enhance your user experience:
- Media Controls: Most TKL keyboards, including the Corsair K70 RGB TKL and Logitech G915 TKL Lightspeed, offer dedicated media keys or rollers for convenient audio control.
- OLED Display: The SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL features an OLED display that can show system info, game stats, or custom images, adding a layer of functionality not found in other keyboards.
- Build Quality and Keycaps: Look for features like aircraft-grade aluminum frames (e.g., Logitech G915 TKL, SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL, HyperX Alloy Origins 65) and double-shot PBT keycaps (e.g., Razer Huntsman V2 TKL, SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless) for enhanced durability and a premium feel.
By carefully considering these aspects, you can determine which alternative best aligns with your gaming setup and ergonomic needs, providing an optimal experience beyond the Corsair K70 RGB Pro.