The Corsair K95 RGB PLATINUM XT Mechanical Wired Gaming Keyboard is an impressive piece of hardware that offers a range of features and customization options for gamers and computer enthusiasts. With its Cherry MX Speed switches and PBT double-shot keycaps, it provides a satisfying typing experience and durability that can withstand intense gaming sessions. The per-key RGB backlighting and LightEdge on the top of the keyboard allow for vibrant lighting effects and endless customization possibilities.
One of the standout features of this keyboard is the inclusion of six dedicated macro keys, which can be programmed for complex macros and key remaps. Additionally, the keyboard is compatible with the Elgato Stream Deck software, allowing for special streaming commands. The detachable leatherette palm rest adds comfort during long gaming sessions.
Pros and Cons
What We Liked
- The build quality of the keyboard is excellent, with a sturdy aluminum frame that adds durability.
- The Cherry MX Speed switches provide a satisfying typing experience with fast actuation.
- The per-key RGB backlighting and LightEdge deliver vibrant lighting effects with near-limitless customization.
- The inclusion of dedicated macro keys and compatibility with Elgato Stream Deck software offer additional functionality for gamers and streamers.
- The detachable leatherette palm rest adds comfort during long gaming sessions.
What Can Be Improved
- The iCUE software, while powerful, can be unintuitive and difficult to navigate for some users.
- The keyboard’s size and weight may not be suitable for all users, particularly those with limited desk space or who prefer smaller keyboards.
Quick Verdict
The Corsair K95 RGB PLATINUM XT Mechanical Wired Gaming Keyboard is a high-quality keyboard that offers a range of features and customization options. With its durable construction, comfortable typing experience, and vibrant lighting effects, it is a great choice for gamers and computer enthusiasts. However, the unintuitive nature of the accompanying iCUE software and the size and weight of the keyboard may not be suitable for everyone. Overall, if you are looking for a premium gaming keyboard with customizable lighting and dedicated macro keys, the Corsair K95 RGB PLATINUM XT is worth considering.
You can find more information about the product here.
Unboxing – What’s Inside?
As a gamer based in the USA, I recently purchased the Corsair K95 RGB PLATINUM XT Mechanical Wired Gaming Keyboard from Amazon. I was excited to receive my product, and the delivery was surprisingly fast, arriving in just two days.
When I opened the box, I found the following items:
- Warranty Card
- Keyboard
- Quick Start Guide
Specifications
Here are some unique specifications of the Corsair K95 RGB PLATINUM XT Gaming Keyboard:
- Keyboard backlighting color support: RGB
- Number of Keys: 104
- Operating System: Mac OS X 10.12 Sierra, Windows 10
- Color: Black
- Special Features: Waterproof, Ergonomic, Backlit
- Recommended Uses For Product: Gaming
- Keyboard Description: Gaming
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Compatible Devices: Gaming Console
- Brand: Corsair
- Manufacturer: CORSAIR
- Color: Black
- Item Dimensions (LxWxH): 18.3 x 6.7 x 1.4 inches
- Product Dimensions: 18.3 x 6.7 x 1.4 inches
- Item Weight: 2.88 pounds
- Operating System: Mac OS X 10.12 Sierra, Windows 10
- Hardware Platform: PC
- Item Model Number: CH-9127414-NA
- Series: CORSAIR K95 RGB PLATINUM XT
User-Guide
The documentation included with the Corsair K95 RGB PLATINUM XT keyboard proved to be very useful. It provided clear instructions on how to set up the keyboard, customize the RGB backlighting, and utilize the gaming features. The user guide can be found here.
Features – What We Found
Customizable RGB Lighting
The Corsair K95 RGB PLATINUM XT Mechanical Wired Gaming Keyboard features per-key RGB backlighting and a 19-zone LightEdge across the top of the keyboard. This allows for dynamic and vibrant lighting effects with near-limitless customization options. You can customize the lighting for each individual key and create stunning lighting patterns that match your gaming setup or personal style.
With the iCUE software, you have precise control over the lighting effects. You can choose from a wide range of colors, effects, and patterns, and even synchronize the lighting with other Corsair RGB devices for a cohesive look. Whether you prefer a subtle and elegant lighting setup or a bold and eye-catching one, the Corsair K95 RGB PLATINUM XT has you covered.
Pro-tip: Customize the lighting effects to highlight important keys for your games or create a lighting pattern that helps you stay focused during long gaming sessions.
Dedicated Macro Keys
Gaining an in-game advantage is made easy with the six dedicated macro keys on the Corsair K95 RGB PLATINUM XT. These keys are fully programmable and can be customized to perform complex macros, key remaps, or even execute specific commands through the Elgato Stream Deck software. This allows you to streamline your gaming experience and have quick access to essential functions or commands.
For streamers or content creators, the included S-key keycaps provide an additional option. By using the Elgato Stream Deck software, you can program special streaming commands directly onto these keycaps, making it easier than ever to control your live streams or recorded content.
Pro-tip: Assign commonly used commands or actions to the macro keys to reduce keystrokes and improve your efficiency in games or productivity tasks.
Fast and Reliable Mechanical Key Switches
The Cherry MX Speed RGB Silver mechanical key switches are specifically designed for gamers who require ultra-fast actuation and reliable performance. With a 1.2 millimeter actuation point, these switches register key presses quickly, allowing for rapid and precise execution of commands in games.
These mechanical switches are also highly durable, with a rated lifespan of 100 million keystrokes. This ensures that the Corsair K95 RGB PLATINUM XT will serve you well for years of intense gaming sessions without experiencing any key switch failures.
Pro-tip: The ultra-fast actuation of the Cherry MX Speed switches can be beneficial for competitive gamers who need to execute actions quickly. Practice and familiarize yourself with the shorter actuation point to improve your reaction times.
Comfortable Palm Rest
The Corsair K95 RGB PLATINUM XT comes with a detachable soft textured cushioned leatherette palm rest. This palm rest provides excellent comfort and support during long gaming sessions, allowing you to maintain a comfortable typing and gaming position without straining your wrists.
The textured surface of the palm rest prevents your hands from slipping, ensuring a secure grip while you play. The cushioning provides a plush and comfortable feel, reducing the strain on your palms and wrists even during extended periods of use.
Pro-tip: Adjust the position and angle of the palm rest to find the most comfortable position for your hands. Experiment with different positions to find what works best for you.
Compatibility and Layout
The Corsair K95 RGB PLATINUM XT features a QWERTY NA layout, which is the standard layout for North America. This layout ensures that all keys are in their expected positions, making it easy to transition from other keyboards. Additionally, the keyboard is compatible with the iCUE software, allowing you to easily customize the lighting and other settings.
The Black MX Speed Silver Keyboard variant of the Corsair K95 RGB PLATINUM XT comes with PBT Double-Shot keycaps. These keycaps are highly durable and have a premium feel, making them resistant to wear and fading over time. They also have a textured surface that enhances grip and provides a more satisfying typing experience.
Pro-tip: Familiarize yourself with the QWERTY NA layout if you’re not already accustomed to it. This will help you locate keys quickly and improve your typing and gaming speed.
Concluding Thoughts
Our Score: 93.0
I recently purchased the Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT Mechanical Wired Gaming Keyboard with Cherry MX Speed switches, and I have been extremely satisfied with my purchase. The keyboard offers a premium feel with its aircraft-grade anodized brushed aluminum frame, which not only provides rigidity but also adds to the overall aesthetic appeal. The per-key RGB backlighting and the 19-zone LightEdge at the top of the keyboard allow for dynamic and vibrant lighting effects, which can be fully customized to match your preferences. The double-shot PBT keycaps are of high quality, ensuring durability and longevity.
One of the standout features of this keyboard is the six dedicated macro keys, which can be fully programmed to create complex macros and key remaps. The inclusion of S-key keycaps allows for special streaming commands through Elgato Stream Deck software, making it a great option for content creators. The Cherry MX Speed RGB Silver mechanical key switches provide ultra-fast actuation, making it ideal for gaming. The detachable leatherette palm rest adds comfort during long gaming sessions.
Although the iCUE software has a learning curve and can be a bit confusing at first, it offers extensive customization options for the keyboard’s lighting effects and macros. The software also allows for the creation of profiles and the remapping of keys, enhancing the overall functionality of the keyboard. While the keyboard is on the pricier side, it delivers in terms of performance, build quality, and customization options, making it worth the investment.
Click here to check out the Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT Mechanical Gaming Keyboard on Amazon.