PC & Console Peripherals

Corsair Strafe RGB MK.2 Gaming Keyboard Review

Kann der Nachfolger auch wieder überzeugen?

The keyboard “Strafe RGB” by Corsair was – despite its unfavourable naming in the German-speaking area – a very solid and generally positively received keyboard, which was especially well received in the gaming area. It offered all kinds of features a gamer could wish for. In addition to RGB lighting, macros could also be managed.

Now Corsair presents the “Strafe RGB MK.2”, the successor of this keyboard. Naturally, the target group has certain expectations of this successor – the new keyboard should at least be on a par with its predecessor. Given the numerous improvements announced by the manufacturer, this seems to be a realistic goal. Our following test report will show to what extent the expectations placed on the new keyboard can be fulfilled in detail.

Design and Workmanship

The first differences can already be seen in the design. Thus, the Strafe RGB MK.2 is less restrained than its predecessor model. The design of the new keyboard, which is characterized above all by the aluminium trim and the integrated logo, is quite striking. Also striking are the now dedicated media keys including volume wheel, as we know it from other Corsair keyboards like the K70 Lux RGB. The first optical impression of the new device can therefore be described as thoroughly positive.

Corsair Strafe RGB MK.2 Gaming Keyboard
Corsair Strafe RGB MK.2 Gaming Keyboard

All in all, it can be said that the new keyboard is far more eye-catching than its predecessor. Despite the already integrated RGB lighting, this in turn was much more discreet than other models from Corsair. The new punishment MK.2 thus chooses a clever middle course and with its design, which is extroverted but not eccentric, should appeal to the majority of the target group.

Corsair also manages to focus the user’s attention on the keys. These are also clearly highlighted again in the new model, which is further enhanced by the RGB lighting.

The removable wrist-rest, the USB port and the sheathed 1.8 metre long cable also deserve a positive mention.

The workmanship is excellent as expected. There are no points of criticism here – which would also be very unusual in this price class. The manufacturer has once again proved that he is a master of his trade when developing the new model.

Buttons and switches

The new model is available with both Cherry MX Red Switches and Cherry MX Silent Red key switches. For our test, we chose the model with silent switches. These are, as the name suggests, much quieter. Nevertheless, they can be operated comfortably and precisely.

The actuating force required is extremely low, which should also accommodate users who want to use the keyboard in everyday life. The feeling when the keys are pressed is also good – commands given at the touch of a key are immediately implemented, which ensures good control and a good feeling for playing and typing.

Corsair Strafe RGB MK.2 side view
Corsair Strafe RGB MK.2 side view

It is possible to assign an individual illumination to each key. These different lighting options can be set in the software supplied with the keyboard, which will be discussed in more detail in the next section. The individual illumination of each button in almost every imaginable colour opens up countless possibilities for the individual design of the mechanical gaming keyboard.

All in all, it can be said that the mechanical keys and their switches are fully convincing in practice, and that these keys can be illuminated individually. The positive impression created by the design of the keyboard continues here.

Software

The software used is the Corsair Utility Engine, which should be familiar to users who already have experience with Corsair products. The software knows how to inspire by its various possibilities, which can also strike in the first moment, however, also.

Keys can be assigned any functions in the software, profiles can be saved, the lighting can be adjusted and the key assignments can be changed as required. If you want to convert the “P” to a space bar or a key combination, you can do so. The Corsair Utility Engine offers almost unlimited adjustment possibilities.

Entire lighting profiles can also be set in the software. From preset lighting effects such as a colour gradient to completely individually created solutions for any game, the software can be used to realise any lighting wish.

Especially cool: The Corsair Strafe RGB MK.2 can now also store three profiles in its internal memory, so the keyboard can be connected to other PCs and used with the same settings without having to reset everything.

Conclusion on the Corsair Strafe RGB MK.2 Review

The Corsair Strafe RGB MK.2 is a consistent further development of the predecessor model. As expected, the new gaming keyboard is at a very high level – and in line with the price. The design is a little more eye-catching than the predecessor model and can be described as absolutely successful overall. Also the new media keys, which could convince in practice, represent a wonderful innovation. Also impressive is the software with which almost any configuration can be created. And with the new internal memory, three profiles can easily be stored directly on the keyboard. All in all, the new gaming keyboard leaves a very good impression, which is only surpassed by the even higher-quality models from Corsair (e.g. with all-aluminium housing).

Corsair Strafe RGB MK.2

Workmanship
Features
Ergonomics
Software
Value for Money

An excellent gaming keyboard that is a great successor and completely convincing.

Simon Lüthje

I am co-founder of this blog and am very interested in everything that has to do with technology, but I also like to play games. I was born in Hamburg, but now I live in Bad Segeberg.

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