The Corsair K100 RGB stands out as an exceptional gaming keyboard. It boasts a solid build quality, providing a comfortable typing experience. Additionally, it includes a detachable padded wrist rest for added convenience. This keyboard is compatible with the Corsair iCUE software, enabling users to personalize the RGB backlighting and assign macros to any key of their choice.
Moreover, the Corsair K100 RGB offers numerous extra features that enhance functionality. Dedicated media keys, along with a volume control wheel and multi-function iCUE wheel, provide convenient access to various functions. Furthermore, there are six dedicated macro keys available for customization.
The Cherry MX Speed switches on our unit deliver light and responsive keystrokes for smooth typing experiences. For those seeking different tactile feedback options, the new Corsair OPX linear switches are also available in this model. These switches may offer a unique typing experience compared to what our unit provides.
To ensure seamless gameplay, the Corsair K100 RGB boasts an impressive maximum polling rate of 8000Hz. This results in reduced latency and guarantees highly responsive performance during intense gaming sessions.
Our Verdict
Gaming 9.6
The Corsair K100 is an exceptional gaming keyboard and appears in the list of Best Gaming Keyboards. It boasts a sturdy build, ensuring comfort during use. Additionally, it features customizable RGB backlighting for a personalized experience. Equipped with Cherry MX Speed switches, this keyboard offers a low operating force and short pre-travel distance, resulting in swift and responsive keystrokes. The impressive 8000Hz polling rate ensures minimal latency. For those seeking even quicker response times, the Corsair OPX switches are available, featuring an advertised shorter pre-travel distance. Moreover, all keys on the keyboard can be programmed as macros, complemented by six dedicated macro keys conveniently located on the left side. You can also set up the Tournament Mode or Game Mode on these dedicated macros.
Pros
- iCUE Wheel
- Cushioned palm rest
- Customizable RGB per-key bank lights
- High-low latency
- 8000 Hz polling rate
Cons
- Lacks tactile feel
Office 7.5
The Corsair K100 keyboard is an excellent option for use in offices. It boasts a comfortable and robust design, featuring a cushioned wrist rest and two customizable incline levels. Typing on this keyboard becomes effortless thanks to its Cherry MX Speed switches, offering a light and smooth experience that minimizes fatigue even during prolonged use. Nonetheless, it is important to consider its shorter pre-travel distance, which may result in more frequent typos. Moreover, the keyboard operates silently while typing, making it highly suitable for the tranquil ambiance of an office environment.
Pros
- Low latency
- Noiseless typing
- Wrist rest
Cons
- More typos due to short pre-travel distance
- Wired-only keyboard
Entertainment 5.0
The Corsair K100 proves to be underwhelming for HTPC (Home Theater PC) use. It is designed solely for wired connections, forcing users to position themselves near their television screens. Another drawback is the absence of a trackpad, necessitating the use of a separate mouse to navigate on-screen menus. On a positive note, it boasts full RGB backlighting and dedicated media keys, facilitating easy track skipping and content playback controls.
Pros
- Customizable RGB lights
- Dedicated media controls
Cons
- No trackpad
- Wired-only
- Larger compared to the HTPC keyboard
Mobile & Tablet 0.0
The Corsair K100 RGB keyboard is a wired-only model that is incompatible with Bluetooth and mobile devices.
Test Results
1. Build Quality 8.4
The Corsair K100 boasts exceptional build quality. Its plastic base and metal top plate display a slight amount of flex, although it remains barely noticeable during regular use. The keycaps made from double-shot PBT offer a solid feel without significant wobbling. While the black keycaps are all crafted with PBT, the dedicated macro keys G1-G6 and the additional FPS and MOBA keycaps included are made of ABS material. The incline feet provide substantial grip and thickness to prevent collapsing when relocating the keyboard. Moreover, it comes equipped with a magnetically attachable cushiony wrist rest.
The majority of keys on the keyboard are typically constructed using PBT materials. It is important to note that the macro keys and additional keycaps provided in the package are made from ABS material. We have revised the wording under the information.
2. Typing Quality 8.5
The typing quality of The Corsair K100 is remarkably impressive. Its linear switches offer a light actuation force, yet the short distance before activation may contribute to a higher likelihood of typing errors. Moreover, there is no tactile feedback provided when pressing a key. On the bright side, the Doubleshot PBT keycaps ensure stability and deliver a delightful typing experience. You can count on these switches not causing significant fatigue, especially with the added convenience of the comfortable wrist rest that minimizes any potential exhaustion.
3. Backlighting 9.8
The keyboard features full RGB backlighting with individually-lit keys. On the left, right, and top-side edge of the board, there are 44 RGB zones on the strips of lighting. The customization of RGB effects and colors can be done through the Corsair iCUE software. If you are interested in a similar mechanical gaming keyboard that offers low-profile keycaps for enhanced backlight visibility from the switch housings, consider checking out the ROCCAT Vulcan II Max.
4. Latency 9.8
The keyboard has an extremely low latency with an amazing response rate of 8000Hz. Even with a 4000 Hz polling rate, the keyboard provides a fast and laggless response, which is more than a competitive gamer’s requirement.
5. Ergonomics 7.0
The keyboard offers two incline settings (2° to 4° and 7°) with a cushioned palm rest to enhance comfort. But there are no curved angles and split keyboard availability.
6. Wireless Connectivity 0.0
It is a wired-only keyboard, and you cannot use it wirelessly.
7. Compatibility 5.0
| Windows | Full compatible |
| macOS | Full compatible |
| Linux | Full compatible |
| iOS | No |
| Android | No |
| iPad | No |
What is inside the box of Corsair K100 RGB?
- Your Keyboard
- Wrist rest
- Extra keys (2 buttons for “W”, 2 buttons for “D”, and one button for “A, S, E, R, F, and Q”)
- Keycap puller
- User manual and warranty card
Extra Features of Corsair K100 RGB
The Corsair K100 boasts numerous additional features. Every key on the keyboard, including the volume wheel, profile switching button, and media keys, can be customized for macros. Additionally, it is equipped with dedicated macro keys located on the left side of the board. One standout feature is its unique iCUE wheel, which allows users to adjust brightness, rewind or fast forward media, navigate through applications, and zoom in or out of windows. It even offers the flexibility to reassign these functions to other actions. Moreover, as you cycle through the different functions of the iCUE wheel, the surrounding RGB lighting changes color to indicate which one is active.
Click here to learn “how to set up the iCUE wheel for k100 RGB” from Corsair’s official website.
Tech Specifications
| Keyboard Type | Mechanical |
| Switch type | Cherry® MX Speed and Corsair OPX |
| Switch behavior | linear |
| Key Caps | Double Shot PBT & ABS Plastic |
| Color type | Black and white |
| Keyboard size | Full-size |
| Palm rest | Yes |
| warranty | 2-years |
| Weight | About 1.32 kg |
| Response rate | 8000 Hz |
| Media control | Yes |
| Onboard profiles | Up to 200 |
| Programmable Macros | 6 |
| Onboard memory | 8 Mb |
| Keypress guarantee | 150 million plus |
| Number of keys | 110 |
| Customizable lights | Yes |
| Wireless | No |
| Battery life | No |
| Extra feature | iCue software and Dedicated macros. |
| Touchpad | No |
| Backlights | Fully customizable per-key backlights |
FAQs
Is Corsair K100 RGB better than Corsair K70 RGB Pro?
The Corsair K100 RGB and K70 RGB Pro are both wired-only mechanical gaming keyboards, but the K100 RGB is slightly better at gaming than the K70 RGB Pro. However, if you compare their build quality and comfort, then the K70 RGB Pro is better.
Is Corsair K100 RGB Mechanical or Optical?
There are two different variants of Corsair K70 RGB: Optical-Mechanical switches and Mechanical switches.
Is Corsair K100 RGB Opticle good?
The Corsair K100 RGB is a remarkable mechanical gaming keyboard in full size. It has proven to be one of the best performers in our tests. However, individuals who prefer tactile feedback might not appreciate its linear switches. Unfortunately, this tactile type is not available for this particular model.
Are Opticle Mechanical switches better than mechanical?
When it comes to performance, optical switches have the upper hand over mechanical switches due to their faster actuation speed. Although certain mechanical switch brands have caught up in terms of lifespan, optical switches generally outlast them. While mechanical switches may provide a more satisfying tactile experience, they are also quieter, particularly when using linear keys.
What is the price of Corsair K100 RGB?
Corsair K100 RGB costs 210 USD. You can also get it at a lower price on Amazon discounts or by using coupons.
Are Linear switches the fastest switches for gaming?
Opting for a linear switch in gaming can significantly improve reaction speed. The advantages of linear switches make them the preferred choice for gamers, making it crucial to avoid tactile or clicky switches when choosing a mechanical keyboard specifically designed for gaming.
