“Corsair is a computer peripheral and hardware company founded in 1994 and known as one of the most renowned gaming gear makers on a global scale.” This would have been a useful introduction if my aim was to put the company in the best light and occupy your mind with sugar-coated nonsense. As that’s not the case, and you are here to find a keyboard that perfectly matches your playstyle, I would suggest going straight to the point – which is the best Corsair keyboard and how it compares to the other gaming hardware giants Razer and Logitech?
If you have ever wondered which the biggest selling points of Corsair, Razer, and Logitech gaming boards are, keep reading and get to know the most notable similarities and differences between them.
Corsair Strafe RGB
A lot of time has passed since Corsair released the Strafe and its successor the Strafe RGB keyboard. A few years later, the Strafe RGB is regarded as a worthy addition to the setup of every aspiring gamer. So, what makes it competitive to the latest boards possessing a whole lot of fancy add-ons?
The Strafe RGB is a well-constructed, sturdy keyboard that is not a big departure from the original Strafe save for the detachable wrist rest and the stunning lighting patterns. Also, the RGB version comes with textured keycaps and a keycap puller that will be highly appreciated by the FPS and MOBA fans. Other than that, the keyboard has a 104-key rollover, and no matter how intense the gameplay gets, all your presses will be registered with incredible accuracy.
One of the make or break features of a gaming keyboard is the media keys and this is what the Strafe RGB lacks. It has neither volume knob nor dedicated multimedia keys. The USB cable gets in the way and can be slightly irritating. That being said, the Strafe RGB has function key-based media keys. In other words, you have to hold the Fn key when you push a key from the F-row whenever you want to make volume adjustment.
- 100% Cherry MX gaming key switches
- Cherry MX Red key switches - Extremely responsive, with a smooth, linear response and a wide actuation zone
- Multi-color dynamic backlighting - Brilliant RGB backlighting immerses you in the game with virtually unlimited lighting adjustability
- Fully programmable - Reassign any key or set up the most extreme macros for advanced gaming
- USB pass-through port - Positioned for uninterrupted game play and ready for your mouse, wireless headset adapter, or your phone
Corsair Strafe RGB vs Logitech G810 Orion Spectrum RGB vs Razer BlackWidow Chroma v2 vs HyperX Alloy Elite RGB vs K70 Rapidfire RGB
Corsair Strafe RGB vs Logitech G810 Orion Spectrum
The G810 Orion Spectrum is а gorgeous piece of engineering that gives gamers a hard time when it comes to deciding whether a Corsair or a Logitech board would be the better option.
Similar to the Strafe RGB, the Orion Spectrum has beautiful backlighting and comfortable keys (the Strafe has a non-standard bottom row, though). However, the G810 might not be the most suitable keyboard for standard typing tasks.
The G810 has Logitech Romer-G switches, said to improve the key actuation by 25%. In terms of design, the Orion Spectrum is pretty unobtrusive, unlike its brother the G910 Orion Spark that is a true joy to the eye. Namely, the straightforward design of the G810 makes it suitable for both gaming corners and office areas.
Although I am not a huge fan of the Romer-G switches, I cannot deny the obvious. They do a pretty good job in games and they ensure adequate resistance. If it is of any help, the Romer-G feel much like the Cherry MX Browns.
Another notable difference between the Orion Spectrum and the Strafe is the availability of dedicated media controls. The Logitech board also comes with a number of handy features such as a button for activating/deactivating the lighting, as well as a game mode button that allows you to disable the screen minimizing keys.
The G810 is fully customizable via the Logitech software. You have the freedom to assign extra commands to the 12 F keys, tweak the RGB backlighting, and create game profiles. As a matter of fact, the software will automatically create profiles for the games you play. The lighting syncs with the other Logitech peripherals you own.
The keyboard performed admirably in RTS and FPS, but I doubt it the MMO fans would turn down a few extra macro buttons. Still, the F keys can be reassigned, which remedies the situation a bit. The Romer-G switches might not be the best for typing, but they are great for games where you need to make fast or precisely measured keystrokes.
Overall, the G810 Orion Spectrum delivers as promised. It is a versatile keyboard suitable for gamers who are more concerned about performance rather than aesthetics.
- Pure performance driven design: Full size keyboard delivers peak performance with the most powerful logitech g technologies
- Ultra responsive romer g mechanical key switches: Upto 25 % faster key actuation than standard mechanical switches
- Customizable RGB lighting: Match your system's look and personalize individual key lighting from a spectrum of 16.8 million colors
- Easy access media controls: Play, pause, mute, adjust volume and skip songs right from the keyboard
- Customizable function keys: Program custom macros to f1 f12 keys with logitech gaming software
Corsair Strafe RGB vs Razer BlackWidow Chroma v2
The Razer BlackWidow Chroma v2 is the favorite keyboard of MMO players and they must have a good reason to speak so favorably of its capabilities. The first distinctive feature of the Chroma v2 is the availability of a leatherette wrist rest that ensures divine comfort during the exciting boss battles in WoW.
The BlackWidow Chroma v2 is an inoffensive keyboard that performs brilliantly in all genres, especially MMOs. Let’s see how it stacks up against the competition, though.
Similar to the Strafe, the BlackWidow does not have dedicated media keys and volume roller, which is a huge omission in this price tier. I agree that the F keys can do a double duty, but there are some games (Divinity: Original Sin II, for example) where the lack of media keys is pretty disturbing. Still, Razer deserves a nod for the five programmable macro keys on the left side.
The BlackWidow comes in three switch flavors – green, orange, and yellow. On paper, the yellow switches are similar to the Cherry MX Speed ones. They have an identical linear response, actuation force, and travel distance. The green switches resemble the MX blue, although they have a slightly shorter actuation force and feel a bit stiffer than the blues. The orange switches are suitable for typing tasks. The tactile bump before the key registration makes you feel each key, which leads to fewer typos.
The yellow and orange switches are said to be “silent” but the BlackWidow is still noisier than a membrane board.
As a final verdict, the BlackWidow is a great keyboard that will ensure stellar experience no matter which switch type you settle for. From today’s perspective, the keyboard falls behind the competition in terms of advanced features but the fact that it is still among Amazon’s bestsellers speaks volumes of its quality and versatility.
- Built around Razer's award-winning Mechanical Switches designed from the ground up for hard-core gaming
- Extreme Durability- Razer mechanical switches are rated up to 80 million keystrokes and come with a 2-year warranty
- Express your individuality and get the leg-up in games with Chroma backlighting and over 16.8 million color options
- Fully programmable keys + 5 additional gaming keys with on-the-fly macro recording
- USB, 3.5mm headphone and microphone ports allow for easy cable routing
Corsair Strafe RGB vs HyperX Alloy Elite RGB
HyperX is a brand I associate primarily with headsets, but they have boards that are on par with the peripherals released by giants with hundreds of products in their portfolio. This time around, we will talk about the HyperX Alloy Elite RGB, the fourth keyboard added to HyperX lineup.
The HyperX Alloy Elite RGB carries a bit steep price tag but as the saying goes there is no such thing as a free lunch. It is a beautiful board but if I had to point one major drawback, it would be the software that can be a real headache.
As for the design, this is a full-size keyboard but it is quite compact. There are three buttons on the top left and media controls located on the top right. The detachable wrist rest adds to your comfort, too.
The HyperX Alloy Elite RGB uses Cherry MX switches and you can choose between brown, blue and red. Personally, I would settle for the brown ones because of their versatility. The keys are quiet enough to be used in the office. They also offer good tactile feedback and great responsiveness during heated matches.
The software is intuitive, but you will probably stumble upon some annoyances developers need to figure out. HyperX made it easy to reprogram macros or assign different functions to any key you wish. The Alloy Elite can hardly be defined as a genre-specific keyboard but the swappable keycaps, the cherry MX switches, the media controls, the lighting schemes make it competitive to the Strafe RGB. So, if you want to play it safe and enjoy a robust software, go for Corsair. If the lack of media keys is a dealbreaker, give the HyperX Alloy Elite RGB a shot.
- Unique radiant light bar and dynamic RGB lighting effects
- HyperX NGenuity software provides advanced customization
- Store up to three favorite lighting & macro profile settings with the on-board memory
- Solid steel frame provides durability and stability, CHERRY MX mechanical keys for reliability
- Comfortable, detachable wrist rest with soft-touch coating
Corsair K70 RGB Rapidfire
The K70 Rapidfire is probably the most attractive looking, feature-rich keyboard for esports Corsair has ever launched. If you have used a K70 RGB board, the Rapidfire will look pretty familiar to you.
The Rapidfire has a comfortable, detachable wrist rest and it is a few inches larger than the Razer BlackWidow and the Logitech G610.
Unlike the Strafe, the Rapidfire has dedicated media controls and a volume rocker. The keyboard also houses a “game mode” button that disables the keys that can potentially mess up with your game. The biggest difference between the Rapidfire and its predecessor the K70 RGB is the availability of a handful of textured keys. This is an awesome addition, especially if you often face the slippery fingers issue in intense first person shooters.
The K70 Rapidfire comes with Cherry MX Speed keys. What makes them different from the standard Cherry MX keys is the shorter actuation. You don’t need to push the keys too hard to activate a button. However, keep in mind that this perk is a two-bladed knife as it makes the board prone to misclicks. The keys require just a light touch and you may end up hitting the wrong letter. It would have been nice if the keys had a bit more resistance.
The Rapidfire is customizable via the Corsair Utility Engine software and you will be mesmerized by the available lighting effects. The Rapidfire is not the best keyboard for typing but the esports pros will be pleased with its vibrant colors and features that give them an edge during a game.
- FAST: Rapidfire MX Speed Ultra Fast Actuation that is 40% faster than standard Cherry MX Red switches
- CUSTOMIZABLE: Advanced multi-color per key backlighting control and macro programing with CUE support
- CONVENIENT: Convenient built-in USB pass-through for simple mouse, USB drive or wireless headset adapter
- EFFICIENT: Enhanced dedicated multimedia keys efficiently allow for quick audio adjustments mid-game
Corsair K95 RGB Platinum
If you think that the K95 Platinum looks pretty on pics, I can assure you that in reality, it is ten times more beautiful.
The K95 RGB Platinum is a gorgeous board and obviously, Corsair has raised the bar really high. The keyboard will offer extreme comfort and more lighting patterns than you can imagine but is it worth it to have it for your gaming sessions? Let’s dig deeper into the matter.
The Platinum keyboard is equipped with Cherry MX Speed switches that ensure fast and responsive actuation, which is essential in shooters and fast-paced games in general.
The top left part houses three buttons – one for locking the windows key, another for brightness adjustment and third for user profiles selection, respectively. The metal roll bar for volume adjustment, as well as the mute button, are located on the top right edge. The user button enables you to save up to three user profiles and swap between them in a breeze. Other than that, you will find a standard set of media keys above the numpad. The K95 has a USB 2.0 port, so you can plug in a mouse or a headset.
The Platinum has a detachable wrist rest, but the bad news is that it is prone to catching a lot of dust. The keyboard is fully programmable via the Corsair Utility Engine software. The user profile assigning is easy, the Corsair community members constantly upload new color schemes, so you will find yourself spoilt for choice. The MX Speed switches are awesome for gaming but they are not the best option for performing standard typing tasks as you will probably make more typos than usual.
The Corsair K95 Platinum is a premium quality keyboard and you can consider yourself lucky if you can afford it. In case you cannot, you can at least add it to your Christmas wishlist.
- Aircraft grade anodized brushed aluminum frame: Built to withstand a lifetime of gaming. Lightweight and rugged durability
- 8MB profile storage with hardware macro and lighting playback
- Dynamic multicolor per key backlighting with light edge
- 100 percentage Cherry MX Speed RGB mechanical key switches
- 6 programmable G keys for in game macros
Corsair K95 RGB Platinum vs Logitech G910 Orion Spark vs Corsair K70 Lux
K95 Platinum vs Logitech G910 Orion Spark
The G910 is a significant upgrade of its budget brother – the G810. It has dedicated macro buttons, a detachable wrist rest, and second screen features via ARX Control.
In addition, it has the Logitech proprietary Romer-G switches and an intuitive, robust software that cements it a spot among the best mechanical gaming keyboards on the market right now.
The G910 is a way different from the Platinum in terms of build quality, though. The Logitech board is made of plastic but before you jump to conclusions, I want to clarify that the G910 is a sturdy device that is on par with the models in its price range.
The Romer-G switches are quick and tactile without being frustratingly noisy. The left side of the board houses the five macro keys. You will find four more above the F keys. The three buttons for user profile basically give you a total of 27 macros at your fingertips.
The G910 does not have a USB passthrough but it is still superior to its G810 sibling due to the availability of dedicated media control buttons and a roller volume control.
The wrist rest is not the most comfortable I have ever used but it does ensure adequate wrist support.
Although I am likely to question the usefulness of the ARX Control, the Logitech software itself is awesome, especially when it comes to creating macros. For example, the software can detect the game you are playing and illuminate only the buttons you are using. The G910 is particularly useful for macro-heavy MOBAs but its versatility makes it suitable for other genres, too.
- Exclusive Romer-G Mechanical Switches with up to 25 percent faster actuation
- Arx Control App and smartphone dock: Instantly access in-game data on your smartphone or tablet without interrupting the game
- 9 programmable G-keys: Create custom game macros to execute complex commands with lightning speed and accuracy
- Customizable RGB illumination
K95 Platinum RGB vs Corsair K70 LUX RGB
The K70 Lux is the successor of one of the most popular corsair keyboards – the K70. As the design goes, the Lux is not too different from the K70 save for the diamond plate style spacebar and the cay cap font.
The Lux has several strictly gaming specs such as 100% anti-ghosting, a Windows lock button, a switch for increasing the polling rate, a USB passthrough, detachable wrist rest, and dedicated media keys. If you wish you can swap the qwer/wasd keys with a special key with textured tops, designed especially with gamers in mind.
The keyboard is available in several switch flavors – Cherry MX brown, red, and blue.
Overall, the Lux is a decent keyboard, but it would have been nice if it had a waterproof design, non-slip feet, etc. Personally, if I had to choose between the K95 Platinum and the Lux I would choose the former. Still, if you insist on getting a K70 series model, you’d better save a few bucks and pick the original K70 or the K70 RGB.
- Aircraft-grade anodized brushed aluminum frame for superior durability / Advanced lighting control and large font keycaps deliver dynamic, vibrant backlighting
- CUE support enables advanced macro and lighting programming for virtually unlimited game customization / 100% Cherry MX RGB Red key switches with gold contacts for fast, precise key presses
- 100% anti-ghosting with full key rollover on USB / Detachable soft-touch wrist rest and dedicated multimedia controls
- Dimension(mm):438 x 163 x 24l ;WIN Lock : Yes. Supported in CUE 2.x
Corsair K68
At a first glance, the K68 looks like a bare-bones keyboard. It is a budget model and its biggest selling point is its waterproof capability.
The K68 has a textured wrist rest attached to the keyboard via two plastic prongs. Basically, they eliminate the risk of accidental detachment but at the same time make the wrist rest attachment/ removal a bit tricky.
Тhe k68 has an IP32 certification meaning that it is a sturdy device. The keyboard is spill-proof, but this does not equal to being waterproof. In other words, the keyboard can withstand mild splashes but if you spill your energy drink all over the keyboard, you should prepare for troubles.
The K68 is equipped with Cherry MX switches, and it is a good pick for FPS enthusiasts. The full key rollover allows you to press multiple buttons at once and your keystrokes will be registered with pinpoint accuracy.
The K68 is a Corsair-branded keyboard, which translates into a superb build quality. Apart from the Cherry MX, it has a spartan number of worthy additions and it would have been nice if Corsair has gone an extra mile to offer more than media keys, backlight, wrist rest, and a splash-resistant feature.
- Connectivity Technology: Usb 2.0 Type-A
Corsair K68 vs Razer Cynosa Chroma vs SteelSeries Apex 150 Spillproof Keyboards
Corsair K68 vs Razer Cynosa Chroma
Gamers usually find it hard to tell the difference between a membrane gaming keyboard and an office keyboards but for better or worse Razer released the Cynosa Chroma keyboards at the end of 2017. To keep the price low, the company opted for a membrane dome. Still, the Cynosa costs more than an average membrane keyboard, so let’s see what you get in return for your money.
- All-Around Gaming Performance: Able to execute up to ten commands at the same time
- Fully Programmable Macros: Razer Hypershift allows for all keys and keypress combinations to be remapped
- Spill-Resistant Design
- Ultimate Personalization & Gaming Immersion with Razer Chroma
- Durable Construction: up to 80 million clicks
The Cynosa Chroma is a full-size keyboard that is devoid of media keys or macro buttons. However, it is spill-resistant just like Corsair’s K68. To me, its spill-resistant capabilities do not compensate for the fact that this is a membrane keyboard. If you are looking for a Razer keyboard that would actually withstand a heavy energy drink splash, I do recommend the Blackwidow Ultimate.
- Razer Green Mechanical Switches provide optimized actuation and reset points so commands are executed with blazing fast responsiveness.
- The Razer BlackWidow Ultimate is resistant to both water and dust, tested to withstand IP54 conditions.
- Individually programmable backlit keys along with dynamic lighting effects, all set easily through Razer Synapse.
- Built-in 10 key roll-over and anti-ghosting technology
Corsair K68 vs SteelSeries Apex 150
SteelSeries Apex is yet another budget gaming keyboard, and as you might expect, it is a membrane one. It is stylish, handsome-looking keyboard. It has beautiful illumination and its lighting even works with Discord. It is water resistant, but in fact, most membrane keyboards would endure a splash of water, so it seems that the term “splash resistant membrane gaming keyboard” is a fancy gimmick.
Still, don’t write it out. The Apex 150 has the so-called “quick tension” switches that are intended to replicate the performance of the mechanical switches. Believe it or not, they offer pretty decent tactile feel and surprisingly fast response. Well, the feedback might not be as satisfying as what I have experienced while testing the Corsair k55, but it gets the job done.
The Apex 150 is a very quiet keyboard, so you may rest assured you will not irritate your roommates with the noises generated by the mechanical keyboards.
The Apex does not have dedicated macro keys which are essential in MMOs and MOBAs. Still, you can assign macros to any key via the software. To sum up, the Apex 150 is a decent budget keyboard and the fast keys, the price and the intuitive software make it worth your while, despite the few omissions on SteelSeries’ end.
- Ultra fast reaction times, tactile feel, and quiet operation
- Splash resistant to everyday spills
- Guaranteed 20 million click lifespan for lifelong durability
- Dynamic five zone RGB illumination
- Real time Discord in game lighting notifications
Corsair vs Cooler Master Keyboard
Currently, the gaming keyboard market is dominated by Razer, Logitech, and Corsair, but gamers speak favorably of the Cooler Master boards, too. If you are in two minds whether to choose a CM or Corsair device, here are some guidelines that will help you make a final decision.
The truth is that all keyboards carrying a $100+ price tag are similar in terms of features and it all comes down to personal preferences. Both Cooler Master and Corsair are old, reputable brands. No matter which one you choose, you will get a straightforward design and excellent build quality. In this case, you will have to take into account the following specs:
- Switches – Аre you going to use your board solely for gaming or you need it for occasional typing tasks? Can you and your roommates handle the noise some mechanical switches make
- Macros – Do you want your keyboard to have dedicated macro keys and media control buttons
- LEDs and ergonomics – How important is the design and aesthetics to you
- Keycaps – Cooler Master uses standard keycaps, so if you want to replace the set you can easily do that. In comparison, the bottom row of the К70 is non-standard, so if you ever want a replacement, you don’t have many options available
- Cooler Master boards use the same body as Filco. Filcos are like tanks – they have an excellent build quality but you don’t get any dedicated media controls, macros, lighting, etc.
Here are some of the best Cooler Master boards you might like:
- Brilliant RGB lighting with 16.7 million colors - no dull, muted colors here. A patented design makes each per key LED pop-out and shine.
- Multiple lighting modes - customize each color with or without software. Preset modes include color wave, Breathing, and unique responsive effects.
- 100% authentic CHERRY MX Blue switches - gamers demand the best, which is why the Master keys Pro L only uses 100% authentic CHERRY MX switches.
- Mechanical Cherry MX Brown Switch RGB Per Key Floating Gaming Keyboard with Light bar Illumination
- Minimalistic Design with Slim Profile and Floating Switch Design
- Removable Magnetic Wrist Rest For superior comfort
- Dedicated keys Multi Media, Windows Lock On/Off, On The Fly Controls for Quick Macro
- Included 9 Purple Double shot PBT Gaming Keycaps and Braided Type C USB Cable
- Specially designed keys for enhanced durability and tactile feedback.
- Ergonomic ultra-low profile keyboard and mouse.
- Laser-etched and grip coated key-caps.
- Dedicated multimedia keys for controlling volume and music.
- 2,000 DPI mouse with 3 preset levels (1000, 1600, 2000)
