Cooler Master MK730 Keyboard ReviewThe Latest Guide

In the world of gaming peripherals, finding the perfect keyboard can often feel like a never-ending quest. As a dedicated gamer and tech enthusiast, I have had the pleasure (and sometimes the frustration) of testing numerous keyboards over the years. Today, I’m excited to share my experience with the Cooler Master MK730, a TenKeyLess (TKL) mechanical keyboard that promises to deliver both performance and style.

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First Impressions

When I first unboxed the Cooler Master MK730, I was immediately struck by its sleek and compact design. The brushed aluminum top plate gives it a premium feel, and the floating keycap design adds a modern touch. Despite its compact size, it feels robust and well-built, which is always a good sign for a gaming keyboard.

Design and Build Quality

A Compact Powerhouse

One of the main attractions of the Cooler Master MK730 is its TenKeyLess (TKL) design. For those who might not be familiar, a TKL keyboard omits the number pad found on full-sized keyboards. This design choice not only saves space on your desk but also allows for a more ergonomic setup, particularly for gaming. The MK730 fits this description perfectly, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize both functionality and desk real estate.

Premium Materials

The brushed aluminum plate on top of the keyboard not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also adds to its durability. The keyboard feels solid and weighty, which is reassuring during intense gaming sessions. The keycaps are made from doubleshot ABS, which are decent but not as high-quality as PBT keycaps. Fortunately, Cooler Master includes a few extra doubleshot PBT keycaps, allowing for some customization and an improved feel on the most-used keys.

Switch Options

The Cooler Master MK730 offers three types of Cherry MX switches: Blue, Red, and Brown. Each type caters to different preferences:

Cherry MX Blue: Known for their tactile feedback and audible click, these switches are perfect for typists and those who enjoy a clicky response.
Cherry MX Red: These are linear switches that offer a smooth and quiet keystroke, ideal for rapid key presses and gaming.
Cherry MX Brown: These switches provide a tactile bump without the loud click, striking a balance between gaming and typing.

For this review, I tested the Cherry MX Blue switches. They have a low pre-travel distance and provide satisfying tactile feedback, making them a joy to use for both gaming and typing.

Performance

Gaming Experience

When it comes to gaming, the Cooler Master MK730 truly shines. The low pre-travel distance of the Cherry MX Blue switches ensures that key presses register quickly, which is crucial in fast-paced games. The keyboard also features full RGB backlighting with individually-lit keys, enhancing the overall gaming experience. The vibrant lighting effects can be customized directly on the keyboard or through Cooler Master’s software, allowing for a personalized setup.

Macro Programmability

One of the standout features of the Cooler Master MK730 is the ability to program macros for all keys. This is particularly useful for gamers who rely on complex key combinations. The macro programming can be done directly on the keyboard, making it convenient and easy to set up, even without the need for software. However, for more advanced customization, the dedicated software available on Windows offers a more comprehensive set of options.

Comfort and Usability

Detachable Wrist Rest

The Cooler Master MK730 comes with a detachable magnetic wrist rest. While it’s comfortable and provides good support during long gaming sessions, it’s relatively small. Depending on your typing posture and hand size, you might find it more comfortable to use the keyboard without the wrist rest. For me, the wrist rest was a nice addition, but I found myself detaching it for more freedom of movement.

Connectivity

The keyboard uses a detachable braided USB Type-C cable, which is a nice touch. The cable is sturdy and long enough (1.8 meters/70.9 inches) to accommodate various desk setups. The detachable aspect also makes it easier to transport the keyboard without worrying about damaging the cable.

Lighting and Customization

RGB Backlighting

The RGB backlighting on the Cooler Master MK730 is nothing short of impressive. With 16.7 million colors to choose from, the customization possibilities are endless. The light bar that runs along the sides of the keyboard adds an extra flair, creating a visually stunning effect. The lighting can be adjusted on-the-fly using dedicated keys, allowing you to change colors and effects without interrupting your game.

Software Customization

While the Cooler Master MK730 offers on-the-fly customization, using the Cooler Master software unlocks even more potential. The software is user-friendly and provides detailed options for setting up macros, customizing lighting effects, and creating profiles for different games or applications. Although it’s only available on Windows, it’s a powerful tool that enhances the keyboard’s functionality.

Precision and Accuracy

Key Rollover and Anti-Ghosting

The Cooler Master MK730 boasts 6-Key and N-Key Rollover, ensuring that every key press is registered accurately, regardless of how fast you type. This feature is crucial for gamers who need precise input during intense moments. During my testing, I found the keyboard to be exceptionally responsive, with no missed key presses or ghosting issues.

Build for Longevity

Cherry MX switches are known for their durability, with a lifespan of up to 50 million keystrokes. This makes the Cooler Master MK730 a reliable choice for long-term use. The robust construction and high-quality materials further contribute to its longevity, making it a worthwhile investment for serious gamers and typists alike.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Compact TKL Design: Saves desk space and provides a more ergonomic setup.
Premium Build Quality: Brushed aluminum plate and sturdy construction.
Cherry MX Switches: Available in Blue, Red, and Brown for different preferences.
Full RGB Backlighting: Customizable lighting effects with 16.7 million colors.
Macro Programmable: All keys can be programmed for complex commands.
Detachable Wrist Rest: Provides added comfort during long sessions.
Detachable USB Type-C Cable: Sturdy and convenient for portability.

Cons

Small Wrist Rest: Might not be comfortable for all users.
ABS Keycaps: Not as durable as PBT keycaps.
Software Limited to Windows: No software support for other operating systems.

Conclusion and Recommendation

After spending considerable time with the Cooler Master MK730, I can confidently say that it’s an excellent choice for both gaming and general use. Its compact design, combined with the durability and performance of Cherry MX switches, makes it a standout in the crowded field of mechanical keyboards. The full RGB backlighting and macro programmability add layers of customization that will appeal to gamers who like to tweak their setup to perfection.

While the small wrist rest and ABS keycaps are minor drawbacks, they don’t overshadow the many strengths of this keyboard. The Cooler Master MK730 is well-built, versatile, and capable of enhancing your gaming experience. Whether you’re a competitive gamer, a casual player, or someone who spends long hours typing, this keyboard is likely to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.

In conclusion, if you’re in the market for a high-quality TKL mechanical keyboard, the Cooler Master MK730 is a strong contender. Its combination of performance, build quality, and customization options make it a worthy investment. I highly recommend the Cooler Master MK730 for anyone looking to upgrade their keyboard and take their gaming setup to the next level.