Corsair K55 Vs K55 Pro: An In-depth Showdown Of Two Gaming Keyboard Contenders

In the realm of budget gaming keyboards, two contenders stand out: the Corsair K55 and the Corsair K55 Pro. Both offer a compelling blend of features, performance, and affordability, making them popular choices among gamers on a budget. But which one is the better pick? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the similarities and differences between the Corsair K55 and the Corsair K55 Pro to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

At first glance, the Corsair K55 and K55 Pro share a similar design aesthetic. Both keyboards feature a sleek and understated look, with a black plastic chassis and red accents. The keys are well-spaced and have a comfortable typing angle. However, upon closer inspection, you’ll notice some subtle differences in build quality. The K55 Pro has a slightly more robust construction, with a metal backplate that adds rigidity and durability. The K55, on the other hand, feels a bit flimsier, especially when typing vigorously.

Switches and Typing Experience

The Corsair K55 and K55 Pro offer different switch options to cater to various typing preferences. The K55 comes equipped with membrane switches, which provide a soft and quiet typing experience. These switches are ideal for gamers who prefer a quieter keyboard or those who do a lot of typing. The K55 Pro, on the other hand, features mechanical switches, specifically Cherry MX Red switches. These switches offer a more tactile and responsive typing experience, with a distinct actuation point. Mechanical switches are generally preferred by gamers who prioritize speed and precision.

RGB Lighting

Both the Corsair K55 and K55 Pro boast vibrant RGB lighting, allowing you to customize the look of your keyboard to match your setup or personal preferences. The K55 features three-zone RGB lighting, which means you can customize the lighting for different sections of the keyboard. The K55 Pro, on the other hand, offers per-key RGB lighting, giving you complete control over the color of each individual key. This allows for more intricate and personalized lighting effects.

Additional Features

Beyond the core features, the Corsair K55 and K55 Pro offer a few additional features that enhance the gaming experience. Both keyboards have dedicated media keys, allowing you to easily control audio playback without having to minimize your game. The K55 Pro takes it a step further with six programmable macro keys, which can be assigned to specific actions or macros for added convenience and efficiency in games. Additionally, the K55 Pro comes with a detachable wrist rest for added comfort during extended gaming sessions.

Software and Customization

The Corsair K55 and K55 Pro are both compatible with Corsair’s iCUE software, which allows you to customize various aspects of the keyboard, including lighting effects, macro programming, and performance settings. The software is user-friendly and offers a wide range of customization options, allowing you to tailor the keyboard to your liking.

Price and Value

The Corsair K55 and K55 Pro are both budget-friendly keyboards, with the K55 typically priced lower than the K55 Pro. The K55 offers a solid value for its price, providing a comfortable typing experience, decent RGB lighting, and essential gaming features. The K55 Pro, while slightly more expensive, offers a more premium build quality, mechanical switches, per-key RGB lighting, and additional features like programmable macro keys and a detachable wrist rest.

Which One Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the choice between the Corsair K55 and K55 Pro depends on your individual preferences and needs. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly keyboard with a comfortable typing experience, decent RGB lighting, and essential gaming features, the Corsair K55 is a solid choice. However, if you’re willing to spend a bit more and prioritize build quality, mechanical switches, per-key RGB lighting, and additional features like programmable macro keys and a detachable wrist rest, the Corsair K55 Pro is the better pick.

The Verdict: Corsair K55 vs Corsair K55 Pro

Both the Corsair K55 and K55 Pro offer compelling features and value for their respective price points. The K55 is a solid choice for budget-conscious gamers who prioritize comfort and essential gaming features. The K55 Pro, on the other hand, is the better option for those who demand a more premium build quality, mechanical switches, per-key RGB lighting, and additional features for enhanced gaming and productivity.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Which keyboard has a better build quality, the Corsair K55 or the K55 Pro?

A: The Corsair K55 Pro has a better build quality, featuring a metal backplate that adds rigidity and durability. The K55, on the other hand, feels a bit flimsier, especially when typing vigorously.

Q: What type of switches do the Corsair K55 and K55 Pro use?

A: The Corsair K55 uses membrane switches, which provide a soft and quiet typing experience. The K55 Pro uses Cherry MX Red mechanical switches, which offer a more tactile and responsive typing experience.

Q: Does the Corsair K55 or K55 Pro have RGB lighting?

A: Both the Corsair K55 and K55 Pro feature RGB lighting. The K55 has three-zone RGB lighting, while the K55 Pro offers per-key RGB lighting, allowing for more intricate and personalized lighting effects.

Q: Does the Corsair K55 or K55 Pro have dedicated media keys?

A: Both the Corsair K55 and K55 Pro have dedicated media keys, allowing you to easily control audio playback without having to minimize your game.

Q: Does the Corsair K55 or K55 Pro have programmable macro keys?

A: Only the Corsair K55 Pro has programmable macro keys. It comes with six dedicated macro keys that can be assigned to specific actions or macros for added convenience and efficiency in games.