HyperX Alloy Elite 2 Keyboard Review: A Typing and Gaming Marvel

HyperX Alloy Elite 2 Keyboard Review

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the market is saturated with options, each promising a unique set of features and superior performance. As a gaming enthusiast and someone who spends a substantial amount of time typing, I decided to put the HyperX Alloy Elite 2 to the test. Spoiler alert: it didn’t disappoint. Here’s my in-depth, hands-on experience with this mechanical marvel.

First Impressions: Out of the Box Experience

Upon unboxing the HyperX Alloy Elite 2, I was immediately struck by its robust build quality. The keyboard is undeniably sturdy, featuring a solid steel frame that gives it a premium feel right from the get-go. However, the first thing that caught my eye was the RGB backlighting. It’s not just any backlighting – it’s vibrant, customizable, and seriously bright. The keys themselves have a pudding design, which allows more light to shine through, making the colors pop even more.

Design and Build Quality: A Tank in Keyboard Form

The HyperX Alloy Elite 2 is a full-size keyboard, so it takes up a good amount of desk space. But what you get in return is a keyboard that feels like it could withstand a nuclear blast. The steel frame adds significant weight, which prevents the keyboard from slipping and sliding around during intense gaming sessions.

Despite its sturdy build, I did notice the ABS keycaps felt a bit on the cheaper side. They don’t quite match the premium feel of the rest of the keyboard. This is a minor gripe, though, considering the overall durability and the impressive aesthetics of the keyboard.

Typing Experience: Light and Responsive

The heart of any mechanical keyboard lies in its switches, and the HyperX Alloy Elite 2 doesn’t skimp in this department. It features HyperX Red switches, which are linear and have a low actuation force. These switches are a dream for gamers who need quick and responsive keystrokes. Typing on them is a breeze, with each press feeling light and smooth.

However, the lack of tactile feedback might not be to everyone’s taste, especially if you’re used to switches that provide a more noticeable bump. Personally, I found the typing experience quite enjoyable, albeit slightly fatiguing after prolonged periods without a wrist rest.

Customization Galore: RGB and Macros

Customization is where the HyperX Alloy Elite 2 truly shines. The NGENUITY software allows for extensive personalization, from per-key RGB lighting to macro assignments. As someone who loves tinkering with settings to get things just right, this was a huge plus.

Setting up macros was straightforward, and the software’s interface is user-friendly. Whether you want to create complex macros for gaming or simple shortcuts for productivity, the HyperX Alloy Elite 2 has you covered. The only downside is that the software is only available on Windows, which might be a dealbreaker for Mac users.

Media Controls and USB Passthrough: Handy Features

One of my favorite aspects of the HyperX Alloy Elite 2 is the dedicated media controls. There’s a volume roller, which I found incredibly satisfying to use, along with play, pause, skip, and mute buttons. These controls are a godsend when you’re in the middle of a game or deep into a workflow and don’t want to alt-tab out to adjust your media.

The USB passthrough is another practical feature. It allows you to plug in a mouse, flash drive, or even charge your phone directly through the keyboard. This reduces cable clutter on your desk and adds an extra layer of convenience.

Ergonomics: A Mixed Bag

Ergonomics is where the HyperX Alloy Elite 2 falters a bit. While the typing experience is generally pleasant, the lack of a wrist rest means that long typing or gaming sessions can become tiring. This is especially noticeable if you’re used to keyboards that come with built-in wrist support. Investing in a separate wrist rest might be necessary if you plan on using this keyboard for extended periods.

Gaming Performance: Top-Notch

As a gaming keyboard, the HyperX Alloy Elite 2 excels. The HyperX Red switches are responsive and quick, making them perfect for fast-paced games. The customizable RGB lighting not only looks cool but can also be tailored to highlight important keys, enhancing your gaming experience.

The keyboard also includes Game Mode, which disables the Windows key to prevent accidental interruptions during gameplay. Combined with the macro-programmable keys, this makes the HyperX Alloy Elite 2 a formidable tool for gamers.

Office and Programming Use: Decent but Not Perfect

While the HyperX Alloy Elite 2 is primarily marketed as a gaming keyboard, it holds up reasonably well for office and programming tasks. The keys are well-spaced and easy to actuate, which helps reduce typos. However, the linear switches might not be ideal for typists who prefer tactile feedback.

For programming, the ability to set macros to any key is a significant advantage. It allows you to streamline repetitive tasks and increase productivity. The RGB lighting can also be helpful in low-light environments, making it easier to see the keys.

Aesthetics: A Visual Delight

If you’re into RGB lighting, the HyperX Alloy Elite 2 will not disappoint. The lighting is vibrant and customizable, allowing you to create a truly personalized setup. The exposed LED design of the HyperX switches enhances the overall visual appeal, making the keyboard a standout piece on any desk.

The limited-edition TimTheTatman design adds an extra layer of uniqueness. The black and yellow color scheme is striking, and the subtle branding doesn’t feel overbearing.

Durability: Built to Last

One of the standout features of the HyperX Alloy Elite 2 is its durability. The solid steel frame ensures that this keyboard can take a beating. The HyperX switches are rated for up to 80 million keystrokes, which means you won’t have to worry about them wearing out anytime soon.

Even though the ABS keycaps feel a bit cheap, they have held up well during my time with the keyboard. However, if you’re concerned about longevity, you might consider swapping them out for PBT keycaps, which are more durable and resistant to shine.

Pros and Cons: The Final Tally

Pros:

• Macro-programmable keys: Customization is a breeze with the NGENUITY software.
• RGB backlighting: Vibrant and customizable, perfect for creating your ideal setup.
• Linear switches: HyperX Red switches are light and responsive.
• Onboard memory: Save your settings directly on the keyboard.
• Dedicated media controls: Handy for managing your media without interrupting your workflow.
• USB passthrough: Adds convenience and reduces desk clutter.

Cons:

• Ergonomics: Lack of a wrist rest can make long sessions tiring.
• ABS keycaps: Feel a bit cheap compared to the rest of the keyboard.
• Software availability: NGENUITY software is only available on Windows.

My Recommendation: Should You Buy It?

After spending considerable time with the HyperX Alloy Elite 2, I can confidently say that it’s an excellent choice for gamers and casual users alike. Its strengths lie in its robust build quality, responsive switches, and extensive customization options. The vibrant RGB lighting is the cherry on top, making this keyboard not just a tool but also a visual delight.

However, if you’re someone who spends long hours typing or requires tactile feedback, you might need to weigh the pros and cons carefully. The lack of a wrist rest is a notable downside, and the linear switches might not suit everyone’s taste.

In conclusion, the HyperX Alloy Elite 2 is a standout mechanical gaming keyboard that delivers on its promises. Its combination of performance, aesthetics, and customization makes it a worthy addition to any setup. Just be prepared to invest in a wrist rest if you plan on using it for extended periods. Happy typing and gaming!

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