New releases from Corsair today, with the announcement of the brand-new K70 Max RGB gaming keyboard and HS80 Max Wireless headset. This time, it’s a keyboard in 100% format. Unlike the K65 Pro Mini, which we recently tested. The K70 Max RGB features Corsair’s in-house, fully customizable switches, just like the Steelseries Apex Pro.
So, what’s this K70 Max RGB worth? Answer in our full review!
Technical specifications :
Corsair’s new K70 measures 442 x 166 x 40 mm without its wrist rest and weighs 1.17 kg. That’s heavier than the last Vulcan II we tested (1.14 kg). The K70 Max RGB features customizable in-house switches. This means that the stroke can be adjusted via the iCUE software from 0.4 mm to 3.6 mm.
Of course, it also features RGB LEDs that can be customized via iCUE once again. This model features double-injected PBT keys designed to better resist wear and tear (as opposed to the ABS found on most keyboards). Corsair’s keyboard comes with a 1.8 m cable. As usual with Corsair, we’re treated to an 8 GHz polling rate.
The K70 Max RGB has 8 MB of internal memory. This means it will be possible to set up to 50 different profiles.
Recommended system :
To use Corsair’s latest keyboard, an Internet connection will be required to download the iCUE software. In addition, you’ll need at least a USB 2.0 port to plug it in. As for the operating system, Corsair recommends Windows 10/11 or macOS version 10.15 .
[nextpage title=”Unpacking”]
The box:
The K70 Max RGB comes in a new box. Unlike the latest K65 Pro Mini, the box is entirely black. As a reminder, we usually had yellow and black. On the front of the box, we find a representation of the keyboard illuminated by its RGB LEDs. At the same time, we learn that this keyboard features customizable switches, an extra layer of noise insulation and a foam wrist rest. Of course, the K70 Max RGB is compatible with PC, Mac, Xbox and Playstation.
Let’s move on to the rear, where the brand tells us a little more about the customizable switches via iCUE. It will be possible to define a different actuation point per key between 0.4 and 3.6 mm for a force of 45 g. This K70 Max RGB is still equipped with premium materials, such as aluminum.
Like the K65 Pro Mini, the K70 Max RGB is wrapped in protective paper and cardboard protectors in its original box. In any case, this has served its purpose well, as the keyboard arrived in excellent condition.
The bundle:
Alongside the K70, we’re entitled to two manuals, two additional ABS keys and a small key-puller for safely removing the keys.
The Corsair K70 Max RGB:
Let’s take a look at the new K70 Max RGB. Clearly, right out of the box, it makes quite an impression. We’re dealing with a heavy keyboard, with an aluminum cover plate and a small “screen” where the logo lights up in the center. Alongside it, the keyboard’s cover is very elaborate, with a very pretty little pattern. A welcome change from what we’ve seen so far. As usual, we’re treated to the multimedia keys and the iconic thumbwheel that has been used for years and years to manage sound.
Below, the keyboard keys are made of double-injected PBT. At first glance, the plastic seems less smooth than conventional ABS and, above all, will last over time. Here, the keys are quite high and thick, unlike Roccat’s Vulcan II. Otherwise, when you handle it, you don’t notice any creaking. So it looks well-made. What’s more, this model has an aluminum construction that guarantees its quality over time.
What’s new about this K70 Max RGB, unlike previous K70s, is the presence of a soft, foam wrist rest, rather like the MSI Vigor GK71 Sonic. However, it’s not as soft as the latter, and has a slightly rough surface, which isn’t unpleasant by any means.
How does it look from the back?
The back of the keyboard is a little more refined than that of the K65 Pro Mini we recently tested. There are a few rubber pads for support and two elevating feet on two levels. The label with serial numbers and recycling information has been moved to the top of the keyboard.
[nextpage title=”Test”]
Let’s move on to testing the K70 Max RGB. We put it to the test in just about every scenario: video games, office automation, etc…
Handling:
The grip on the K70 Max RGB is classic! In fact, it’s a 104-key keyboard, so there’ll be no change if you’re used to this type of keyboard. What’s more, if you’ve been using Corsair keyboards up to now, unlike the Corsair K100 RGB, we don’t have any macro keys on the left-hand side of the keyboard. This is rather convenient, since it means we won’t be typing the wrong column… At least until we get used to it.
At the top left of this reference, we find the multimedia keys for changing the profile, managing keyboard brightness and blocking the Windows key. Moving to the right, there’s a mute button and, of course, the iconic volume control wheel. Just below, you can pause the music, skip to the next or previous song, and so on. On this model, there are no real shortcuts on the keys, as we’re dealing with a 100% format keyboard.
Here, once again, Corsair equips its new keyboard with double-injection PBT keys. In use, this material is much more pleasant to the touch. The keys will also be much less smooth than in conventional ABS. What’s more, they will also limit the shiny effect found on most keyboards. Over time, they’ll also last longer because PBT is double-injected, i.e. the lettering is molded directly into the key. So, unlike NZXT’s keyboard, the lettering will hardly ever fade, and the backlighting remains visible.
The K70 Max RGB also features a foam palm rest. It’s quite pleasant to use and completes the package. It’s far more aesthetic and qualitative than the one we had on the K70 RGB MK.2. As a reminder, it was made of very thin, soft, hard plastic. Nevertheless, it’s a far cry from the softness of the MSI Vigor GK71 Sonic.
On this model, the power cable is thin and sheathed. It’s a far cry from the thick, hard cable of the Vulcan II Max, which also required two USB ports for power only, without even offering a USB offset. What’s more, here we’re dealing with a detachable cable. All the same, it’s easier to transport.
K70 Max RGB design:
Once again, Corsair has pulled out all the stops with this K70 Max RGB. It looks great, and the finish is clearly impeccable. In addition to premium materials such as aluminum, we also find PBT keys. The edges of the faceplate are bevelled, giving the aluminum a shiny appearance, which is very classy. It’s reminiscent of that found on the Vulcan II previously tested. Last but not least, the top plate features engraved triangular motifs. This brings a touch of originality to earlier versions of the K70.
Here, with the K70 Max RGB, we have a real impression of quality, reinforced by its considerable weight. As a reminder, it weighs 1.17 kg, so once set down, it won’t move so easily.
Switches:
With the K70 Max RGB, Corsair equips its keyboard with fully customizable switches, and that’s the real advantage of this new reference! Thanks to the iCUE software, you can set the switches to adjust the height of the accent point, the height at which the keystroke is taken into account. The advantage of this system, in addition to being able to customize your keyboard, is that this adjustment is made key by key. There’s nothing to stop you from setting the digits, or Z, Q, S and D, to a different sensitivity from the rest.
As a reminder, Steelseries already offered an equivalent system with the Apex Pro. It’s really perfect, because if you like very reactive switches or, on the contrary, longer strokes, there’s nothing to stop you from setting them as you like, and even changing them on the fly with customized profiles beforehand!
If you’re looking for sensitivity, at 0.4 mm, a simple touch of the key is enough to activate it. It’s so sensitive that in use, needless to say, mistakes will be legion! On the other hand, at 3.6 mm, you’ll have to completely crush the key for it to register. Here too, mistakes will be commonplace, but more because letters or even spaces will be missing.
However, once you’ve found your ideal setting, there’s no reason to change it. What can be interesting, however, is when the PC is used by 2 or 3 people with different typing tastes.
In use, the switch travel is fluid and reminds us very much of SteelSeries Omnipoint switches. On descent, there’s no sensation of friction in the switch, which is pleasantly surprising. So much for Cherry’s switches.
On the other hand, the end of travel is really firm, with no sensation of attenuation. So we’re in stark contrast to the Gateron Ink Silent Black of our NZXT Function MiniTKL. That’s right, since its switches belong to the silent category, we have soft rubber cushioning on the downward part of the switch.
Now, beware of sensitivity, as the springs used by Corsair are quite sensitive. This is truly a gamer’s keyboard, where responsiveness is paramount. To type this text, we pressed the backspace key more than once. Fortunately, via the software, you can increase the distance of the accent point, thus limiting breakage when your fingers overflow onto the key next to you.
In spite of everything, Corsair’s 8 GHz polling rate makes this keyboard 8 times faster than any other on the market. Nevertheless, in use, we can’t really see the difference with a 1 GHz keyboard. If there is a difference, we didn’t notice it. Perhaps CS:GO players whose eyes see at 240 FPS would know the difference. Probably we’re just a bit too old.
Noise:
Thanks to its double layer of soundproofing, the base of this keyboard doesn’t act as a sounding board. Even the space bar, which tends to rattle on most mechanical keyboards, is greatly attenuated. Ironically, when typing, the space bar is even quieter than the alphabetic keys. It’s a phenomenon found on all the keyboard’s larger keys.
On the other hand, it can’t be said that the switches themselves are really quiet – in fact, the opposite is true. With a dry end of travel, believe us, those around you will hear the “clack, clack, clack”. However, we feel that this noise is clearly intended to be similar to that emitted by the K100‘s OPX switches , so listen for yourself:
RGB:
On this K70 Max RGB, the lights stand out well on the keyboard keys. Even more so if you opt for the space bar supplied in the bundle- unfortunately, it’s made of ABS. Overall, the light is intense and well-dosed. What’s more, thanks to keyboard shortcuts or the iCUE software, you can set numerous effects, even key by key, on different lighting layers. However, if you’re buying your keyboard for its RGB lighting, you might be better off with a Roccat Vulcan II or Vulcan II Max.
[nextpage title=”Conclusion”]
It’s time for our conclusion on Corsair’s K70 Max RGB. So, what did we think?
Adjustable typing!
Like SteelSeries’s Apex Pro, Corsair’s K70 Max RGB relies on switches whose typing height can be adjusted. While this may seem incidental at first glance, it’s an interesting feature for gamers. If you wish, you can have a certain set of keys more sensitive than others, thus avoiding typing errors in the heat of the action. For example, you could set up a writing profile where you need to press your keys more to avoid spelling mistakes, and a second profile focused on video games. The possibilities are endless!
However, if you (or the people around you, very important) are sensitive to noise, this could prove complicated. The switches selected by Corsair are far from silent, and if you’ve got a heavy hand, the noise can quickly get on the nerves of your family or colleagues. In use, however, it’s a pleasure. And it doesn’t even sound like it: the noise is carefully controlled, so there’s no resonance box effect or unpleasant spring noise!
Excellent finish for the K70 Max RGB
Otherwise, Corsair offers a keyboard with an impeccable finish. Attention to detail is evident at every level, from the aluminum faceplate to the choice of PBT keys. What’s more, this model’s substantial weight means it won’t budge when placed on the desk.
Finally, if you use a 100
u 104-key format, the adjustment time will be in the sensitivity of the switches. If you’re using a small keyboard, you’ll have to get used to its size, which is far from anecdotal. What’s more, it has all the multimedia shortcuts, so there’s no need for any far-fetched combinations to pause your music, for example.
How much does the K70 Max RGB cost?
Corsair’s K70 Max RGB will start at around $230. The price has been rising steadily over the last few years, despite the addition of a whole host of features, I agree! Nevertheless, I still say that going over 200 euros for a consumer keyboard is expensive, high-end or not! However, if you compare it to the price of Steelseries’ Apex Pro at the time, we’re talking about equivalent value for money… Or even better, thanks to PBT keys, whereas the Danish keyboard made do with ABS.
Corsair K70 Max RGB
We liked :
- Its look, still in the K70 tradition
- Top-notch RGB
- Premium materials (aluminum, PBT)
- Foam wrist rest!
- ICUE software as functional as ever
- Detachable cable
- Double-injection PBT keys
- Additional keys in bundle
- Switches with customizable sensitivity via software
- Careful attention to detail on the aluminum cover plate
We didn’t like :
- That the extra space key is not in PBT
- The noise, which, although well cared for, is still very present, and may be disturbing for some
- The price, which continues to climb
As is often the case with Corsair, the brand offers us a very good mechanical keyboard reference. We find a qualitative aluminum construction, very well finished thanks to the care given to its aluminum layer plate or its double-injection PBT keys. What’s more, the K70 Max RGB features customizable switches thanks to iCUE, so everyone can make it their own according to their wishes and needs. But despite all this, the $230 price tag is a bit of a downer. For us, it’s the money!
Thank you Corsair!
