A Deep Dive into the Corsair K55 RGB PRO XT Keyboard: My ExperienceThe Latest Guide

Corsair K55 RGB PRO XT Keyboard Review

When it comes to gaming peripherals, a keyboard often stands at the heart of the setup. After all, it’s the tool through which countless commands are issued, and where precision can make or break a gaming session. As a gamer and tech enthusiast, I recently got my hands on the Corsair K55 RGB PRO XT keyboard and decided to share my detailed experience with this piece of hardware. Let’s explore every nook and cranny of this device in my comprehensive Corsair K55 RGB PRO XT Keyboard Review.

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First Impressions: Unboxing and Setup

Unboxing the Corsair K55 RGB PRO XT keyboard was like opening a treasure chest, complete with a promise of vibrant backlighting and advanced features. The packaging is sleek and professional, reflecting the brand’s commitment to quality. Inside, the keyboard was snugly placed alongside a detachable wrist rest and a user manual.

Setting up the keyboard was a breeze. It’s a wired keyboard, so all I had to do was plug it into a USB port, and I was good to go. The first thing that caught my eye was the dynamic RGB backlighting that lit up my desk with a spectrum of colors. The keyboard felt sturdy despite its plastic build, and the keys, although rubber dome switches, had a decent initial feel to them.

Design and Build Quality

The Corsair K55 RGB PRO XT is a full-sized keyboard, which means you get a dedicated number pad along with all the standard keys. This is a boon for both gamers and those who might need to use the keyboard for work tasks involving numbers. The build quality, while not exceptional, is more than adequate for an entry-level gaming keyboard.

The keyboard’s design is understated yet functional. The black finish is complemented by the vivid RGB lighting, which can be customized on a per-key basis using Corsair’s iCUE software. The detachable wrist rest is a thoughtful addition, providing a comfortable resting place for your hands during extended gaming sessions. It’s soft and has a textured surface to prevent slipping, which I found particularly useful.

Typing Experience: The Rubber Dome Switches

Now, let’s talk about the typing experience. The Corsair K55 RGB PRO XT uses rubber dome switches, which might not be the first choice for hardcore mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The keys have a high pre-travel distance and feel fairly heavy to press. This can lead to fatigue during long typing or gaming sessions, and the keys also wobble a bit, which affects the overall typing precision.

That said, for an entry-level keyboard, the typing experience is acceptable. It’s not meant to compete with high-end mechanical keyboards but provides a serviceable experience for casual gaming and everyday use. The dedicated macro keys are a standout feature, allowing for quick activation of functions and shortcuts. These can be programmed through the iCUE software, which is a robust tool for customization.

Gaming Performance: Low Latency and Customizability

When it comes to gaming, the Corsair K55 RGB PRO XT shines in some areas while leaving room for improvement in others. One of its standout features is the remarkably low latency, which is crucial for fast-paced gaming. There’s no noticeable delay between pressing a key and the corresponding action on screen, which is essential for competitive play.

The keyboard also features six dedicated macro keys that can be programmed with custom commands or keypress sequences. For streamers, these keys can be integrated with Elgato Stream Deck software, making it easier to manage streaming activities without interrupting the game. This integration is a huge plus for those who broadcast their gaming sessions and need quick access to stream controls.

The RGB backlighting is not just for show—it’s highly functional. Each key is individually lit, and the colors can be customized to create dynamic lighting effects that sync with in-game actions. This adds an extra layer of immersion, especially in games that support RGB lighting through the iCUE software.

Durability: IP42 Dust and Spill Resistance

Accidents happen, especially when you’re in the heat of the moment during an intense gaming session. The Corsair K55 RGB PRO XT is designed to handle such mishaps with its IP42-rated dust and spill resistance. This means the keyboard can withstand small spills and dust particles, which can prolong its lifespan and keep it looking new.

I tested this feature (intentionally, I promise) by spilling a small amount of water on the keyboard. True to its claims, the keyboard continued to function without any issues. This is a reassuring feature for anyone who, like me, occasionally gets too engrossed in the game to remember to keep drinks at a safe distance.

Ergonomics and Comfort

Comfort is key, especially for long gaming or typing sessions. The Corsair K55 RGB PRO XT comes with a detachable wrist rest that provides much-needed support for your hands. The wrist rest is made of soft rubber with a textured surface that prevents your hands from slipping, which is a thoughtful touch.

The keyboard has one incline setting, which might be limiting for some users who prefer more adjustability. However, I found the incline angle to be comfortable enough for both typing and gaming. The key layout is standard, and all keys are within easy reach, which contributes to a comfortable typing experience overall.

Media Controls and Additional Features

One of the features I appreciate the most about the Corsair K55 RGB PRO XT is the dedicated volume and media keys. These allow for quick adjustments to volume and media playback without having to leave the game or switch windows. It’s a small but significant convenience that enhances the overall user experience.

The keyboard also includes a Windows Lock key, which is a lifesaver during gaming sessions. This key disables the Windows key, preventing accidental interruptions when you’re in the middle of a game. It’s a simple feature, but one that I’ve found incredibly useful.

Software: Corsair iCUE

No Corsair K55 RGB PRO XT Keyboard Review would be complete without discussing the iCUE software. This companion software is where the magic happens in terms of customization. Through iCUE, you can program the six macro keys, customize the RGB lighting, and create profiles that automatically switch based on the application or game you’re using.

The software interface is intuitive and user-friendly. Even if you’re not particularly tech-savvy, you’ll find it easy to navigate and customize the keyboard to your liking. The ability to save multiple profiles is particularly useful if you share the keyboard with others or use it for different applications.

Comparison with Corsair K55 RGB PRO

If you’re wondering how the Corsair K55 RGB PRO XT stacks up against its predecessor, the Corsair K55 RGB PRO, here’s a quick comparison. The most significant difference is the individually lit keys on the PRO XT, compared to the five customizable lighting zones on the PRO. This allows for more granular and dynamic lighting effects on the PRO XT.

Both keyboards share similar build quality and rubber dome switches, but the PRO XT’s per-key customization gives it an edge in terms of aesthetics and functionality. Additionally, the PRO XT supports dynamic in-game lighting through iCUE, which the PRO lacks. If you’re looking for a more immersive lighting experience, the PRO XT is the better choice.

Pros and Cons

As with any product, the Corsair K55 RGB PRO XT has its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a summary:

Pros:

Remarkably low latency for fast-paced gaming.
RGB backlighting with individually lit keys for dynamic customization.
Dedicated macro keys with Elgato Stream Deck integration.
IP42-rated dust and spill resistance.
Detachable wrist rest for added comfort.
Dedicated volume and media keys for convenience.
Comprehensive customization through iCUE software.

Cons:

Rubber dome switches can feel heavy and less responsive than mechanical switches.
Build quality is adequate but not exceptional.
Only one incline setting for ergonomic adjustment.
Key wobble affects typing precision.

Conclusion and Recommendation

After spending significant time with the Corsair K55 RGB PRO XT keyboard, I can say it’s a solid choice for gamers who want a customizable, feature-rich keyboard without breaking the bank. The dynamic RGB backlighting, dedicated macro keys, and low latency make it a compelling option for both casual and competitive gamers.

However, if you’re a mechanical keyboard enthusiast or someone who spends a lot of time typing, you might find the rubber dome switches less satisfying. The build quality, while decent, doesn’t match the premium feel of higher-end keyboards. But for its price point, the Corsair K55 RGB PRO XT offers excellent value.

In conclusion, the Corsair K55 RGB PRO XT is a versatile and capable gaming keyboard that delivers on many fronts. It’s perfect for gamers who prioritize customization and performance but are willing to compromise slightly on typing feel and build quality. If you’re in the market for an entry-level gaming keyboard with a rich feature set, the Corsair K55 RGB PRO XT is definitely worth considering.

This wraps up my Corsair K55 RGB PRO XT Keyboard Review. I hope this detailed review helps you make an informed decision about whether this keyboard is the right fit for your gaming setup. Happy gaming!