Joined in 2023 
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63 About this deal
years later and I'm happy to write this review about a product that's still serving me well despite probably tens of thousands of hours spent on it. I am not planning to replace this keyboard anytime soon and if I ever want to replace it or it ever breaks down, I'll look for another keyboard from HK. If you do want an optical keyboard, but you’re not sure about sacrificing those arrow keys yet, perhaps look at the Epomaker SK64 (which is just as small as the GK61). We did a full review of the SK61 mechanical keyboard here. These stabilizers do sound better than other budget optical keyboards that we’ve reviewed, so the lube is doing something.
The keyboard has 3 different editable layers that you can program macros and key remappings on. This is really convenient if you do a lot of productivity work on your keyboard. If you do have extra time, I recommend wiping off the factory lube and doing it over again yourself using our in-depth guide on how to mod stabilizers. GATERON OPTICAL SWITCHES – Extremely fast response time make these the best choice for getting an advantage in gaming. Hot-Swappable with other Optical switches. No solder or desolder necessary. Extremely durable switches rated for 100 million keystrokes. You might be thinking, but I’m not ready to sacrifice the arrow keys. Do not fear, because this keyboard makes it easy for you to access them, even on another layer.
Optical Red Switch Specifications:
The GK61 is a 60% compact mechanical keyboard with hot-swappable optical switches, pre-lubed stabilizers, different RGB effects, and has different programmable layers for all of your needs. This means the legends of the board will not ever fade because they’re a different layer of plastic. However, the sub-legends will wear over time because they’re laser-etched. I was excited to try out these switches and I love them. I have been playing type racer for a couple of hours today just because of the amazing typing experience and the pleasing low bassy sound that comes from these keys. they are also a big reason why have taken the time to write out such a lengthy review for this product because i just enjoy typing on these switches so much. The software is a bit weird to understand, but if you're willing to overcome the language barrier it works pretty well and has a macro function which is a welcome bonus. The aluminum top plate, where the switches are mounted to, is white and can be scratched quite easily when replacing your switches. However, the RGB reflects off of it and looks very nice in dim lighting.
I think the use of the 'wireless' keyword in some of the advertisements for this keyboard was a genuine translation error. The wires are indeed detachable, and the keyboard can be connected to any proper USB-C, hence "wireless". Either way a bit of a bummer but the USB and keyboard being separate makes cable management just a bit more easier to manage, which is a bonus. Also makes cleaning easier too! One thing that is very cool is that the tops of each keycap are textured, and the side walls are glossy. The HK Gaming GK61 is a fan favorite when it comes to recommending a good budget mechanical keyboard. But keep in mind that this specific keyboard has optical switches.
Optical Silver Switch Specifications:
The USB-C port is located on the top left of the keyboard in a slightly recessed area. This port will work with most custom USB-C cables. However, it is not flush to the case, which can add some difficulty to working with certain cables. The Keycaps FULLY PROGRAMMABLE - Macro recording, advanced lighting effects and customizations through software. Features multimedia keys through multiple layers. Full Anti Ghosting Mode n-key Rollover (NKRO) for ideal FPS, MOBA and MMO gaming experiences.
In our test version, the Gateron Optical Reds are quite smooth to the touch and are quite light as well. Compared to mechanical Gateron Reds, the stem is a slightly darker shade (so you can tell the difference between optical and mechanical). Let’s dig into what makes this keyboard a great option for your setup if you’re looking to find a compact keyboard with fast-performing switches. The biggest selling point personally is how the keyboard has its own onboard memory so you don't need to keep the software up just for the RGB to work properly. Anyone that has ever owned any PC peripheral(with RGB) from the likes of Logitech, Corsair, and even Razer would know this plight. The add-ons are quite convenient for you, but I would’ve liked to see additional keycaps for Mac as the keyboard is Mac and Windows compatible after all.This change of mind return policy is in addition to, and does not affect your rights under the Australian Consumer Law including any rights you may have in respect of faulty items. To return faulty items see our Returning Faulty Items policy. Alongside this, the keycaps sit within the case walls and are not floating style. The switches are not visible, and the overall design is really sleek. The Stabilizers The switches available in the GK61 are Gateron Optical switches. They offer a wide variety of options: This change of mind return policy is in addition to, and does not affect your rights under the Australian Consumer Law including any rights you may have in respect of faulty items.
I will never buy a high name brand keyboard ever again. For what is 50 dollars, i got everything i could ever need out of a keyboard where high end brands like logitech would charge 100 to 120 or more for similar offerings. For me, spending extra money on anything else would be a 100 percent waste. I would gain nothing meaningful to me or my setup at all. For a budget mechanical keyboard, the GK61 offers many switch options and can be modified for a more premium feel if you want to upgrade in the future. This is easy with the GK61 because it’s a hot-swappable board. You won’t have to desolder anything, just pull off the switch on top of each stabilizer and manipulate the wires out.
Customer reviews
For the price, these keycaps are not bad. However, over time, they will exhibit shine and feel more smooth to type on. The FN key is all the way in the far right with the arrow keys right next to it. This makes it possibly to use the arrows with just one hand, by holding the FN key with your pinky finger and manipulating those other keys around it to navigate. I bought this initially because I was looking for a decent TKL that didn't force you to install bloatware and had to be constantly running for the RGB setting to actually work. I also bought this because it's from Hong Kong and I have a lot of trust and respect for the hardworking people over there especially when it comes to tech stuff. The stabilizers of the GK61 are plate-mounted, Cherry-style stabilizers. They are pre-lubed from the factory. Braided USB-C cable – A braided USB-C cable has longer durability and can be straightened out to avoid kinks much easier than a rubber cable.
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