Gamakay LK75 75% Mechanical Keyboard: A Comprehensive Review
The Gamakay LK75 75% mechanical keyboard is a dream come true for hardcore users who want complete customization. With its extensive range of customizable options, it easily stands out as one of the best mechanical keyboards available. Whether you’re a gamer or a programmer, this keyboard can be tailored to suit your needs perfectly.
One of the standout features of the Gamakay LK75 is the ability to swap out keycaps, switches, and even reprogram every key on the keyboard, including the knob at the top right. This knob is particularly fascinating, as it boasts its own LED screen that displays the time, date, and the operating system it is connected to. Users can also customize the RGB lighting using the knob’s display.
To reprogram the keys, users need to download the Gamakay software from the official website. Unfortunately, the included manual fails to mention this, which can be quite confusing for users. However, once the software is installed, users can enjoy a wide range of customization options for the keys, including function, lighting, and performance. The knob itself can also be customized through the software. It is initially designed to control the volume, but some users have reported that it doesn’t function properly. Additionally, the time displayed on the knob doesn’t sync automatically with the operating system, requiring manual adjustment.
In terms of build quality, the Gamakay LK75 features a top mount PC plate and PCB, along with a built-in PET pad, bottom silicone pad, PCB sandwich silicone pad, and spacebar form. This combination provides increased stability and reduces sound and harshness while typing.
The keyboard may appear daunting to those unfamiliar with mechanical keyboards, especially due to the unconventional naming conventions of Gamakay switches and the abundance of text on the keycaps. However, the process of changing switches is surprisingly easy. The keyboard comes with a combo keycap and switch puller, allowing smooth removal of keycaps. Users can replace them with other Gamakay keycaps to change the keyboard’s appearance. The switches are also simple to pull out and are compatible not only with Gamakay Planet switches but with any other three or five-pin switches as well.
The type of switch chosen greatly affects the sound and feel of typing. Overall, the switches on the Gamakay LK75 have a softer impact compared to other mechanical keyboards. The set of Gamakay Planet switches, including Mercury (clickiest linear), Venus (clickiest tactile), Mars (heaviest and strongest feedback), and Jupiter (most balanced linear), all have a travel distance of 3.30mm. The Mercury and Venus switches require an actuation force of 40g, providing a light and easy typing experience. Personal preferences may vary, but the Venus switches offer a nice clickiness and tactile feedback without requiring excessive force. Even the highest actuation force switches, Jupiter and Mars, require 50g, compared to the 80g of Gateron Greens. Gamakay also offers a variety of other switches, including Silent switches and Gateron switches, for those seeking a more traditional feel.
Connectivity options for the Gamakay LK75 include USB Type-C wired, 2.4 GHz wireless, and Bluetooth. Activating these options is as simple as using the FN key in combination with a number key. The wired connection offers the lowest latency, while the wireless options are convenient for those who prefer a cable-free setup. One notable feature is the tiny magnetic slot on the keyboard for storing the dongle, ensuring it doesn’t get misplaced. However, there have been reports of connection issues with certain all-in-one PCs, so users should be cautious in such cases.
The Gamakay LK75 75% keyboard is available in the US, UK, and Australia at a price of $129.99 / £110 / AU$211. It can also be shipped to most other regions. While it falls into the higher price range for mechanical keyboards, it is still relatively more affordable compared to other premium brands like Drop ALT, SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL, and Razer Huntsman V2 TKL.
Specifications:
– Layout: TKL (tenkeyless)
– Switch: GamaKay Silent Switches, GamaKay Planet Switches
– Programmable keys: Yes
– Dimensions: Not specified
– RGB or backlighting: RGB
Overall, the Gamakay LK75 75% is an excellent mechanical keyboard that provides incredible value for its features. It offers outstanding customization, a sleek design, and impressive performance. While there may be minor gripes in terms of the software and connectivity, it is an ideal choice for hardcore keyboard enthusiasts.
If you’re in the market for a mechanical keyboard, consider the alternatives such as the Gamakay LK75 75%, SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (2023), and Razer Huntsman V2 TKL. Each of these keyboards has its own unique features and price points to cater to different user preferences.
In conducting this review, I spent a week testing the Gamakay LK75 75% keyboard in various scenarios. This included productivity work, gaming sessions, and assessing its portability by carrying it in different bags. I have extensive experience with a range of keyboards, allowing me to provide a thorough and unbiased evaluation. Our reviews are updated regularly to ensure the information remains relevant and accurate.
