The Corsair K65 Plus is a popular mechanical gaming keyboard known for its compact design and high performance. In this review, we explore key travel, actuation, and comfort to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your setup.

Design and Build Quality

The K65 Plus features a sturdy aluminum top plate combined with a compact tenkeyless layout. Its minimalist design makes it ideal for gamers and typists who prefer a clutter-free workspace. The keyboard’s build quality is solid, offering durability and a premium feel.

Key Travel and Actuation

The Corsair K65 Plus uses Cherry MX Red switches, which are linear and known for smooth keystrokes. The key travel distance is approximately 4mm, with an actuation point of 2mm. This means the keys register a press after about half of the travel distance, allowing for quick and responsive inputs.

Comparison with Other Switch Types

  • Cherry MX Blue: Tactile and clicky, with a higher actuation force and longer travel.
  • Cherry MX Brown: Tactile but quieter, with similar travel but different feel.
  • Cherry MX Red: Linear, with smooth travel and faster response times.

Comfort and Typing Experience

The low actuation point and smooth keystrokes of the Cherry MX Red switches contribute to a comfortable typing experience, especially during long gaming or work sessions. The keycaps are textured and sculpted for a natural finger placement, reducing fatigue.

The keyboard’s compact design minimizes wrist strain, but some users might prefer a wrist rest for extended typing. The adjustable height settings allow users to customize the angle for optimal comfort.

Additional Features

The K65 Plus includes customizable RGB backlighting, allowing users to personalize their setup. It also supports dedicated media controls and a USB pass-through port for added convenience. The keyboard’s software enables key remapping and lighting effects, enhancing user experience.

Conclusion

The Corsair K65 Plus offers excellent key travel and actuation for gamers and typists alike. Its durable build, responsive switches, and comfortable design make it a versatile choice. Whether you prioritize speed, comfort, or customization, the K65 Plus is a solid option worth considering.