| Corsair Vengeance K90 Mechanical Keyboard |
| Reviews - Featured Reviews: Input Devices | |
| Written by Austin Downing | |
| Tuesday, 17 April 2012 | |
Corsair Vengeance K90 Keyboard Review
Manufacturer: Corsair Full Disclosure: The product sample used in this article has been provided by Corsair Having reviewed many keyboards it suprised me how excited I was to review the Corsair Vengeance K90. With its unique design, Cherry MX Red switches, and as Corsairs first foray into the keyboard market I found the K90 to be a interesting prospect in a world filled with rather ordinary keyboard designs. Join Benchmark Reviews as we look at the K90 and evaluate if its unique design merits the $129.99 asking price that is it being given. Corsair designed the Vengeance K90 to fulfill every role a user could need. With a full size keyboard, eighteen macro keys, a brushed aluminum exterior, dedicated media controls, and on-board memory the K90 is a complete package. Add in Cherry MX Red mechanical switches and you have a winning combination that could be suitable to gamers needing a mechanical solution with a lighter touch than a Cherry MX Blue or Black switch could provide.
As with any other peripheral it is important look at the Corsair Vengeance K90 from a well-rounded standpoint, this means using it in a various situations including gaming (MMO, RTS, FPS), and from a typist standpoint. Corsair Vengeance K90 Features
Cherry MX Red mechanical key switches
18 dedicated, customizable G-Keys
Full key matrix anti-ghosting
20-key rollover (20KRO) on USB
Professional grade brushed aluminum chassis with laser etched, backlit keys
Vengeance Gaming Keyboard Software
On-board memory lets you take it with you
Easy access multimedia controls
USB pass-through
Soft-touch wrist rest Corsair Vengeance K90 Specifications
Closer Look: Corsair Vengeance K90The Corsair Vengeance K90 with its black and aluminum finish could be at the center of a very modernistic looking work area.
The Corsair Vengeance K90 is quite a large keyboard measuring 20" x 6" with a full set of 18 programmable keys on the left and brushed aluminum faceplate covering the keyboard on the right.
The bottom of the K90 is not notable and other than a couple of information stickers the only thing of interest on the K90 is the four rubber feet that hold the hold the it in place quiet well when combined with its weight. If user would like to raise up the rear of the K90 they also have the option to add about 1/2" of height to the rear of the K90 for a better typing experience.
The K90 has dedicated media controls that allow users to stop, play/pause, move forward or backwards in a song, and to adjust their volume or mute it. I love the roller used for adjusting volume as I find it gives better control than a button based solution provide.
The K90 uses three prebuilt memory options that can be customized to a user's need. Once the settings are made, users can save them to the keyboard and recall up to three of them at any point during the future. Furthermore, if users would like to they can actually record directly to the keyboard removing the need for any of software that may be need to be installed on the system.
This single picture sums up what is so special about the Corsair Vengeance K90. This is my first time reviewing a keyboard that uses the Cherry MX Red switches and I was quite excited to see what the performance characteristics of this linear non-clicky switch are. The Cherry MX Red switches have a linear action which means that unlike its Blue brethren the Red switches have a linear force profile compared to the tactile force profile of the Cherry MX Blue switches. Like the Blue switches each Red switch activates after 2mm through its full 4mm of range with only 45g of force required to actuate. Sadly, Corsair chose to not use Cherry MX Red switches for every key, and instead use rubber dome key switches on the G-Keys, and all of the function keys. Corsair Vengeance K90 Detailed FeaturesWhen an enthusiast spends $130 on a keyboard they expect to get as many features as possible out of it. The Corsair K90 does not fail to impress with its list of extras, providing users with a nice set of features that can make day-to-day life a little better.
The K90 bathes users with a blue light that can be adjusted using the built in keyboard shortcut. The truly unique feature of this keyboard is that due to the raised nature of the keys, light seeps out from under providing a nice glow and some added ambience to a user's workspace.
Corsair included a padded wrist rest that covers the entirety of the K90. For users who would like a more permanent solution than the typical plastic clips used for wrist rests provide Corsair has included an option to screw the rest directly into the metal frame of K90.
Corsair uses two USB 2.0 connectors for the K90. This serves two purposes, one is that it allows USB pass-through to the back of the K90 and second is allowing users to have a 20KRO capability.
Corsair's software is relatively easy to use. To record macros users activate the macro record button and then only need to select the G-key they would like apply the macro to. This can be done both from the interface and directly from the keyboard. This allows enthusiast to build macros in game without minimizing to activate the recording software. The software package also allows enthusiast to build three separate profiles that can be selected with one of the three memory buttons.
The second page of the K90's software allows users to build multiple profiles that allow users are able to quickly switch between to fit their needs. The hardware playback switch allows enthusiast to run their macros directly from the K90 but with the limitation of only one profile is able to be used. This also means that users can take the K90 to a LAN party or a machine that is not theirs and still be able to use their macros. Testing & ResultsTesting MethodologyTesting peripherals like the Corsair Venegeance K90 are quite simply a matter of using them in the real world for an extended amount of time. Unfortunately, due to the nature of the product they are no standardized test that can be done but rather it is a matter of personal opinion from the time spent using the product. In order to analyze the qualities of the K90 I focused on looking at the many different realms of work and play that the K90 is expected to be subjected to. This means looking at both its qualities as a gaming keyboard, but more importantly its qualities as a method of input for work and school related projects. Test System
Software Tested
ResultsUsing the Corsair Vengeance K90 for gaming proved to be quite wonderful. When it comes to typing the Cherry MX Blue switches are simply one of the best key types available but due to their non-linear force profile and some find them unsuitable for gaming. On the other hand, I found this is not true of the Cherry MX Red switches used on the K90. Due to the linear force profile and the lower actuation force needed the Cherry MX Reds are ideal for gaming. In Battlefield 3, I spend a particularly large amount of time flying where quick decisions and fast reactions are the difference between winning or losing a dogfight and between pulling off the perfect aerial maneuver or crashing. The K90 performed amazingly, making even the most complex of maneuvers seemingly easy to pull off. On the ground, I found that the low force needed and smooth actions allowed me to quickly bob between obstacles while effectively staying in cover as much as possible. During my Mass Effect 3 sessions (No spoilers I promise), I found that the smooth movements allowed me to easily move between cover while fighting my way forward while fighting the Geth. My biggest test is always typing, if a keyboard is the best I have ever used for gaming but I cannot type on it properly then it is useless. Thankfully although the lower actuation force of the K90 took some getting used to I found that after a couple of days my typing speed was back up to where it is on my Cherry MX Blue keyboards. Because they lack the auditory and haptic feedback of their Blue brethren have as you type it is near silent as long as you do not bottom out the keys repeatedly. Gaming Keyboard Final ThoughtsThe Corsair Vengeance K90 is a fine keyboard. The Cherry MX Red switches make for a great gaming experience with their linear force profile and low actuation force. Although I found the Cherry MX Blue switches with their haptic and auditory feedback better for typing overall, the Cherry MX Red switches still perform admirably and are infinitely better than their rubber dome competition
Still, the K90 is not in my view perfect and I would like to see some changes in future revisions of it. First at $130 I expect every key to have a Cherry MX Red switch, including the function keys and all of the G-keys. My second revision I would like to see is that the aluminum top covers the entire keyboard including the G-keys. I think this would look even better than the current one does, and might add a little more durability overall to the keyboard. Corsair Vengeance K90 ConclusionPerformance in a keyboard is about being able to type and game without the peripheral holding the enthusiast back. Thankfully, the Corsair K90 performs admirably in both gaming and typing because the Cherry MX Red mechanical switches are great to type on and allow for extremely fast reaction times in games. When compared to the Cherry MX Blues switches the Cherry MX Red switches which lack the auditory and tactile feedback are not quite as good for typing on but, compared to the typical rubber dome keyboards the Red switches perform admirably providing an overall great typing experience. The K90 is one of the most gorgeous keyboards I have laid my eyes on. The brushed aluminum exterior, raised keys, and blue glow come together to create quite a striking looking keyboard. Because of the of the brushed exterior fingerprints do not show up meaning that even after extended use the K90 still looks as beautiful as it was the first day. With its aluminum exterior the Corsair K90 feel extremely solid, and will not flex, or give in any way possible. Corsair also stands behind its product providing a two-year warranty to enthusiast who buys the K90. As with any Cherry MX switch, the Red switches are rated for 50 Million key presses, which gives the K90 a very long potential lifetime as long as users take care of it. The one area that I worry about for durability on the K90 is the G-keys and function keys as Corsair chose to use rubber dome switches instead of Cherry MX Red Switches for these keys. The Corsair K90 is adaptable to many situations, whether a user wants to make macros for a game or to make their administrative jobs easier the K90's G-keys and included software make it easy to setup. The integrated memory allows macros to move with the user without the need for complicated software, and means that users can record new macros on the fly as they are needed. did not make every key mechanical but instead chose to leave the G-keys and function keys as rubber dome switches. For $129.99 the Corsair Vengeance K90 is in the top 2-4% of keyboards on Newegg.com. For this prices I really expect perfection, and this means Corsair needs to make every key mechanical. Otherwise, the enthusiest get a great product out the K90 with its linear force switches, brushed aluminum exterior, and software that is easy to use. Overall though the Corsair K90 is a extremely expensive keyboard but it does provide many great features for users. Because of its beautiful design, Cherry MX Red switches, and longevity I am excited to reward the Corsair Vengeance K90 Benchmark Reviews Silver Tachometer award. Pros:
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Comments
Virtually no keyboard manufacturer in existence realizes that FPS/RPG gaming needs more than just a bunch of extra keys slapped to the left or top.
To me that is quite mysterious as FPS/RPG gaming is the major part of PC gaming.
If corsair could offer me such a device I would be prepared to dish out a lot of money, I don't even care whether the board is mechanical or not.
As it is now I still use my old Ideazon Fang, but I fear one of these days this superb device will break down after many years of service. I am in for a nice modernized back-lit replacement and I am prepared to pay for it.
I can not image those keyboard producing companies really overlooking this. There must be no market for improvement or something.
To me the Ideazon Fang is a miracle device. It is such an gigantic step forward in comfortable ergonomic FPS gaming that I expected every keyboard manufacturer to jump on board and produce something competitive. There is still some room for improvement and modernization.
If I had known that Steelseries would stop production after the take-over I would have bought several Fangs for backup. I dread the day it will die on me.
#overclock.net/t/1210473/another-corsair-k90-keyboard-review
@Andreas: I've heard about the Fang but never had the chance to play with it. IIRC, there was some incompatibility issues with newer games, with WOW mostly. Also the software was not the best in class. However, we shouldn't forget this is a Keyboard review, I mean a detachable gamepad might be a nice idea but if the main keyboard is junk it is not going to do much good.
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I assure you the Fang has no problems supporting WOW at all. Even without drivers it acts like a mini gaming keyboard with most used keys neatly and ergonomically grouped around the WASD keys.
The Fang, without drivers, is able to support any game that runs on windows until hell freezes over. The only prerequisite is that windows keeps detecting the Fang as a basic keyboard.
In general though the support for the Fang (and Merc Stealth) software has deteriorated since Steelseries took over Ideazon.
It is not a huge problem, because the Fang still can function without special drivers and software. But you do lose some of the cool remapping functions the Fang in principle is capable of. The software is actually quite good, but the lack of updates is causing the problems now.
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"However, we shouldn't forget this is a Keyboard review, I mean a detachable gamepad might be a nice idea but if the main keyboard is junk it is not going to do much good."
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But I agree wholeheartedly. That is why it would be great if a good keyboard manufacturer would create a modernized/upgraded high quality Fang-like device that could be attached to a high quality keyboard.
For example the Sidewinder X6 (I know it is not a mechanical keyboard, but it is still excellent quality) has a modular design.
You can detach the numpad and click it onto the keyboard left or right, or leave it off, whatever you prefer.
It is a unique concept that is great for what I have in mind, but apparently Microsoft does not realize the potential of their concept at all.
If Microsoft would also build a Fang-like module that I could click onto the left or right side of the Sidewinder X6 I would be a very happy gamer indeed. For me that would be the ultimate FPS/RPG keyboard design. For the Fang module only I would be prepared to pay a 100 bucks without hesitation.
I would pay $200 for a Merc Stealth that used mechanical key closures on ALL the keys, and a little more robust keycap material.
I have the Ideazon Merc Stealth as well. It is build like a brick, but I mean that in the best sense possible: It is an incredibly solid keyboard.
The reason I stopped using it and started using the Ideazon Fang instead, is because of the fact that I think the merging of the cursor keys and keypad keys on the right hand side is a huge mistake. For me it was fine when I was gaming, but when I was typing I got irritated by having to constantly use that damned switch key.
The Merc Stealth would have been perfect if it was constructed like any regular full keyboard on the right hand side with a full/normal cursor/keypad part.
I even preferred the way the 'space/jump' and 'P1' buttons of the FPS pad were done on the Merc Stealth.
SO if they would build a Merc Stealth II with a normal cursor/keypad and mechanical keys I would buy it immediately. No.... I would buy TWO!
We FPS gamers are in dire need of a true perfect FPS keyboard. At the moment nobody is making one.
Ideazon had it almost right with the Merc Stealth and the Fang and Steelseries should pick up on that, because they have a perfect product within reach.
Were it says '@iFlame' it should be 'Andreas'.
:)
"I suppose it wouldn't be for average users"
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I think that might surprise you. Perhaps not for those who exclusively use a keyboard for typing. Perhaps that is the average user? But there are so many FPS gamers out there, who already are dishing out huge amounts of money for fancy gaming keyboards, which in general and in fact have actually very little to offer to a FPS gamer. Most of these boards offer little more than backlighting, some extra keys and a fancy design.
I strongly believe that a board like we have been discussing here, is what these FPS gamers would really want if they had the choice, because:
.this system would give them a full high quality keyboard for typing,
.would offer them a perfect module for true FPS/RPG gaming,
.would give them a choice of interesting and useful other modules
.and because you can plug in the modules any which way you want, it would cater to right and left handed people equally.
The board should have backlighting, useful media keys, be programmable, and have 1 or 2 usb ports.
These properties are most important on the keys that are used in gaming, and that includes the function and macro keys which are only using rubber cups on this keyboard.
The fact is that there are plenty of other examples of similar keyboards using all mechanical keys, and at the same prices you see the K90 being sold for. So, IF they did this to save some money, that's inexcusable when I can purchase another keyboard with all mechanical keys for the same or lower price (which I and many others have done).
That, combined with the rubber keycaps on function, macro and media keys, makes me agree that Corsair still has some work to do.
I do love the aluminum chassis though, but personally I prefer Cherry Blue keys.