AUKEY KM-G9 Keyboard Review

Welcome, fellow keyboard enthusiasts, to this in-depth, conversational, and slightly humorous review of the AUKEY KM-G9 keyboard. Whether you’re a seasoned typist, a casual gamer, or someone who just really loves the satisfying clack of mechanical keys, this review is for you. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of the AUKEY KM-G9, a budget-friendly TKL (tenkeyless) mechanical keyboard that has captured the hearts (and fingers) of many.

First Impressions: The Look and Feel

When you first unbox the AUKEY KM-G9 keyboard, you’re greeted with a no-nonsense design. It’s straightforward, black, and doesn’t scream for attention. It’s like the Clark Kent of keyboards – unassuming at first glance but with some surprising strengths beneath the surface.

The build quality is impressive for an entry-level keyboard. It feels solid and well-constructed, which is not something you always find at this price point. The keyboard’s frame is sturdy, and there’s minimal flex when you press down on the keys. It’s like the AUKEY KM-G9 is quietly whispering, “I might be cheap, but I’m not flimsy.”

Clicky Clicky: The Outemu Blue Switches

Ah, the sweet sound of mechanical switches. The AUKEY KM-G9 features Outemu Blue switches, which are known for their tactile and audible feedback. Typing on these switches feels like you’re tapping out a symphony of clicks. Each keystroke is accompanied by a satisfying “click-clack” that can be music to your ears – or a nightmare to anyone within earshot.

These switches are great if you love that classic mechanical keyboard sound and feel. They’re responsive and provide a nice tactile bump, which is excellent for typing. However, they might not be everyone’s cup of tea, especially if you share your workspace with others. The noise level can be a bit much in a quiet office environment, so if you’re planning to use this keyboard at work, you might want to invest in some good noise-canceling headphones for your coworkers.

Aesthetics: Simple and Clean

One area where the AUKEY KM-G9 keyboard might fall short for some is its lack of RGB backlighting. In a world where everything seems to be RGB, this keyboard sticks to a more understated look. The keys are not backlit, which could be a deal-breaker for those who enjoy typing in dimly lit environments or want their keyboard to match the pulsating glow of their gaming setup.

But let’s be real here: not everyone needs a disco party on their desk. The AUKEY KM-G9’s simplicity can be quite refreshing. It’s like the keyboard is saying, “I’m here to type, not to put on a light show.” For those who appreciate a minimalist aesthetic, this keyboard’s clean design is a definite plus.

No Frills: The Lack of Customization

One of the main drawbacks of the AUKEY KM-G9 keyboard is its lack of customization options. There is no accompanying software to program macros or customize the keys. For hardcore gamers or productivity enthusiasts who rely on custom key bindings, this could be a significant downside.

However, if you’re someone who prefers a straightforward typing experience without the need for additional software, this keyboard could be just what you’re looking for. It’s plug-and-play, and sometimes simplicity is exactly what you need. Plus, you don’t have to worry about any bloatware taking up space on your computer.

Typing Experience: Office Use

Using the AUKEY KM-G9 in an office setting is a bit of a mixed bag. On one hand, its sturdy build makes it a reliable choice for daily use. The keys are comfortable to type on, and the tactile feedback can enhance your typing speed and accuracy. It’s a great keyboard for writing reports, coding, or just hammering out emails.

On the other hand, the clicky switches can be quite loud, which might not be ideal in a shared office space. If you’re in a private office or working from home, this won’t be an issue. But in an open-plan office, you might find yourself on the receiving end of some annoyed glances from your coworkers.

Another point to consider is the ergonomics. The AUKEY KM-G9 does not come with a wrist rest, which could be a drawback for those who type for extended periods. You might want to invest in a separate wrist rest to ensure maximum comfort during those long typing sessions.

Gaming: Not Its Strong Suit

Let’s talk about gaming. The AUKEY KM-G9 keyboard is decent for casual gaming, but it does have some limitations. The lack of programmable macros and customization options means you won’t be able to fine-tune your gaming experience to the same extent as you could with more advanced keyboards.

Additionally, the absence of backlighting can be a hindrance if you prefer gaming in the dark. Being unable to see your keys can make it challenging to execute complex commands or find the right key in the heat of battle.

However, if you’re not a hardcore gamer and just want a reliable keyboard for occasional gaming sessions, the AUKEY KM-G9 can still get the job done. The tactile feedback of the Outemu Blue switches can be advantageous for some games, providing a clear indication of each key press.

Durability: Built to Last

One of the most significant advantages of the AUKEY KM-G9 keyboard is its durability. This keyboard is built to withstand heavy use, making it an excellent choice for those who type a lot or use their keyboard for gaming. The mechanical switches are rated for millions of keystrokes, so you can be confident that this keyboard will last you a long time.

The keycaps are also well-made, with clear legends that won’t fade over time. This is an essential factor to consider, especially if you’re a heavy typist. There’s nothing worse than having your key legends fade away, leaving you to guess where the ‘E’ or ‘R’ keys are.

Portability: Easy to Carry Around

The AUKEY KM-G9’s tenkeyless design makes it more compact and portable than a full-sized keyboard. If you frequently travel or move between different workspaces, this keyboard’s smaller footprint can be a significant advantage. It fits easily into a backpack or laptop bag, making it a great choice for digital nomads or anyone who needs a reliable keyboard on the go.

Despite its compact size, the AUKEY KM-G9 doesn’t feel cramped. The key spacing is comfortable, and you won’t find yourself accidentally pressing the wrong keys. It’s a well-thought-out design that balances portability with usability.

Price: Bang for Your Buck

Let’s get down to the brass tacks: the price. The AUKEY KM-G9 keyboard is one of the most affordable mechanical keyboards on the market. For the price, you’re getting a well-built, reliable keyboard with genuine mechanical switches. It’s a fantastic deal, especially for those who are new to mechanical keyboards and don’t want to spend a fortune on their first one.

Of course, with the lower price comes some compromises, like the lack of RGB lighting and customization options. But if those aren’t deal-breakers for you, the AUKEY KM-G9 offers excellent value for money.

Final Thoughts: Who Is the AUKEY KM-G9 For?

So, who should consider buying the AUKEY KM-G9 keyboard? Let’s sum it up:

  • Budget-Conscious Users: If you’re looking for an affordable mechanical keyboard that doesn’t skimp on quality, the AUKEY KM-G9 is a great choice. It’s well-built, reliable, and offers a satisfying typing experience without breaking the bank.
  • Mechanical Keyboard Newbies: If you’re new to the world of mechanical keyboards and want to try one out without committing to a high-end model, the AUKEY KM-G9 is an excellent entry point. It gives you the mechanical keyboard experience at a fraction of the cost of premium models.
  • Minimalists: If you prefer a clean, no-frills design without all the flashy RGB lights and complicated software, the AUKEY KM-G9’s straightforward aesthetic will appeal to you. It’s a keyboard that focuses on the essentials.
  • Portable Users: If you need a keyboard that’s easy to carry around, the tenkeyless design of the AUKEY KM-G9 makes it a portable and practical option.

However, if you’re a hardcore gamer or someone who needs extensive customization options, this might not be the best keyboard for you. The lack of programmable macros and backlighting can be significant drawbacks in these cases.

Recommendation: Is the AUKEY KM-G9 Worth It?

After spending some quality time with the AUKEY KM-G9, I can confidently say that it’s a solid choice for certain users. If you fit into one of the categories mentioned above, you’ll likely find a lot to love about this keyboard. Its combination of affordability, build quality, and satisfying mechanical switches makes it a compelling option in the budget mechanical keyboard market.

However, if you need more advanced features like backlighting, programmable macros, or a quieter typing experience, you might want to look at other options. There are plenty of keyboards out there that cater to different needs and preferences, and it’s worth exploring those if the AUKEY KM-G9 doesn’t tick all your boxes.

In conclusion, the AUKEY KM-G9 keyboard is like a trusty sidekick – it’s reliable, straightforward, and always there when you need it. It might not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models, but it gets the job done with aplomb. So, if you’re in the market for a budget-friendly mechanical keyboard, give the AUKEY KM-G9 a shot. You might just find that it’s the perfect fit for your typing or gaming needs.

Thanks for joining me on this journey through the ins and outs of the AUKEY KM-G9 keyboard. I hope this review has been helpful, informative, and maybe even a little entertaining. Happy typing!


You May Also Like