Corsair K100 AIR: A Thin Wireless Gaming Keyboard

The world of gaming keyboards is a vast landscape, filled with options of all shapes, sizes, and functionalities. Yet, for those seeking a balance between sleek aesthetics, top-tier performance, and wireless freedom, the Corsair K100 AIR stands out as a compelling contender.

This in-depth review delves into every aspect of this keyboard, analyzing its design, features, performance, and user experience to help you decide if it's the perfect fit for your gaming setup.

Aesthetics: Striking a Balance Between Thin and Elegant

The first impression the K100 AIR makes is undeniable. At its slimmest point, it measures a mere 11mm, making it one of the thinnest wireless gaming keyboards available. This ultra-thin profile translates to a clean and modern look, ideal for minimalists and those with limited desk space. The brushed aluminum frame exudes a sense of quality and durability, while the black color scheme ensures it seamlessly blends with any setup.

However, unlike some low-profile keyboards that can feel flimsy, the K100 AIR retains a reassuring solidity. This is thanks to the combination of the aluminum frame and the strategically placed plastic elements that contribute to its overall weight and stability.

Connectivity: Freedom with Options

The K100 AIR offers unparalleled connectivity options, catering to a diverse range of users. Here's a breakdown of its three connection methods:

Sub-1ms SLIPSTREAM WIRELESS: This proprietary technology from Corsair delivers an incredibly low latency connection, making it ideal for competitive gamers who demand the fastest possible response times. It connects via a dedicated USB dongle, ensuring a stable and reliable connection.

Low-Latency Bluetooth: For a more casual gaming experience or connecting to multiple devices like tablets or smartphones, the K100 AIR provides low-latency Bluetooth connectivity. This allows you to effortlessly switch between devices without sacrificing performance.

USB Wired with AXON 8,000Hz Hyper-Polling: If you truly prioritize wired connections for the absolute lowest latency, the K100 AIR offers a wired option as well. This utilizes Corsair's AXON technology, boasting a hyper-polling rate of 8,000Hz, ensuring near-instantaneous communication between keyboard and computer.

Multitasking Made Easy: Effortless Switching Between Devices

One of the most impressive features of the K100 AIR is its ability to connect to up to five different devices simultaneously. This makes it perfect for users who frequently switch between their PC, Mac, laptop, or even a tablet or smartphone. Dedicated hotkeys allow for quick and seamless switching between these devices, eliminating the need for manual re-pairing or cumbersome software manipulation.

Furthermore, the K100 AIR employs secure AES 128-bit encryption for Bluetooth connections, adding a layer of security for those who value data privacy.

Keyswitches: The Heart of the K100 AIR Experience

The K100 AIR utilizes a unique type of key switch, the Cherry MX Ultra Low Profile (ULP) Tactile. These switches are specifically designed for low-profile keyboards, offering a shorter actuation distance (0.8mm) and a satisfying tactile bump for feedback. This translates to a responsive and enjoyable typing experience, well-suited for both gaming and everyday use. The keycaps themselves are made of PBT plastic, known for its durability and resistance to shine over time.

While some users may prefer the deeper travel of traditional mechanical keyboards, the Cherry MX ULP Tactile switches offer a surprisingly good compromise for a low-profile design. The tactile bump provides enough feedback to register keystrokes with accuracy, while the short actuation distance ensures lightning-fast response times for gaming.

Battery Life: A Balancing Act

The wireless functionality of the K100 AIR is powered by a built-in lithium-ion battery. Corsair boasts a battery life of up to 50 hours with dynamic per-key RGB backlighting enabled and adaptive brightness adjustments. However, this figure can vary depending on usage patterns and backlight brightness settings. With backlighting turned off entirely, the battery life can be extended to a staggering 200 hours, making the K100 AIR a compelling option for those who prioritize long-lasting wireless performance.

RGB Backlighting: A Symphony of Light

For those who appreciate a touch of visual flair, the K100 AIR features full per-key RGB backlighting. This allows for extensive customization, enabling you to create intricate lighting patterns and color schemes to match your personal preferences or even integrate with certain games. The keyboard also features adaptive brightness that automatically adjusts based on surrounding light conditions, adding a touch of convenience.

Software Integration: Corsair iCUE

The Corsair K100 AIR can be further enhanced through the integration with Corsair's iCUE software. This powerful utility allows for extensive customization of the keyboard's settings, including:

✔Macro Programming: Create complex macros to automate tasks and streamline gameplay.

✔Lighting Effects: Design intricate lighting patterns and color schemes to match your personal style or synchronize with other Corsair devices.

✔Key Remapping: Reassign keys to suit your preferences or accommodate specific gaming needs.

✔Firmware Updates: Keep your K100 AIR up-to-date with the latest firmware to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.

iCUE also provides a unified interface for controlling other Corsair devices, such as mice, headsets, and fans, allowing for seamless integration and coordinated lighting effects across your entire setup.

Ergonomics: Comfort and Convenience

While the K100 AIR's ultra-thin design may not be ideal for those who prefer a more traditional keyboard profile, it does offer a few ergonomic features to enhance comfort:

✔Low-Profile Keyswitches: The Cherry MX ULP Tactile switches provide a shorter actuation distance, which can reduce strain on your fingers and wrists during extended gaming sessions.

✔Angled Palm Rest: The included palm rest helps maintain a neutral wrist position, reducing the risk of discomfort or injury.

✔Cable Routing Channels: The keyboard features channels on the underside to help manage and hide the cable, keeping your desk tidy and organized.

However, it's important to note that individual preferences and hand sizes can vary. Some users may find the low-profile design and angled palm rest to be less comfortable than traditional keyboards.

Compare with similar items

Corsair K100 AIR Wireless RGBMechanical Gaming Keyboard - Ultra-Thin, Sub-1ms Slipstream , Low-LatencyBluetooth, Cherry MX Ultra Low Profile Keyswitches - NA Layout, QWERTY - Black (Renewed)

The Corsair K100 AIR Wireless RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard (Renewed) offers a premium gaming experience with exceptional performance and wireless freedom. This refurbished model provides excellent value for those seeking a high-quality keyboard without breaking the bank.

Key Features

🟢Wireless Connectivity: Enjoy the flexibility of wireless gaming with sub-1ms SLIPSTREAM WIRELESS and low-latency Bluetooth connectivity.

🟢Cherry MX Ultra Low Profile Keyswitches: Experience a responsive and tactile typing experience with these ultra-thin mechanical switches.

🟢Full RGB Backlighting: Customize your keyboard's appearance with vibrant per-key RGB illumination.

🟢Durable Construction: The brushed aluminum frame and PBT keycaps ensure long-lasting durability.

🟢Refurbished Condition: This keyboard is refurbished to like-new condition, offering excellent value for money.

Corsair K70 RGB PRO Mechanical Wired Gaming Keyboard – Cherry MX Brown Tactile Switches – 8,000hz Hyper-Polling –PBT Double-Shot Keycaps – iCUE Compatible – PC, Mac, Xbox – QWERTY NA – Black

The Corsair K70 RGB PRO Mechanical Wired Gaming Keyboard is a reliable and feature-packed option for gamers seeking a wired mechanical keyboard. With its durable construction, customizable RGB backlighting, and responsive Cherry MX Brown switches, it offers a satisfying gaming experience.

Key Features

🟢Wired Connectivity: Enjoy a stable and reliable wired connection with USB-C compatibility.

🟢Cherry MX Brown Tactile Switches: Experience a balanced blend of tactile feedback and smooth keystrokes with these popular mechanical switches.

🟢Full RGB Backlighting: Customize your keyboard's appearance with vibrant per-key RGB illumination.

🟢Durable Construction: The aluminum frame and PBT double-shot keycaps provide a robust and long-lasting build.

🟢iCUE Compatibility: Integrate your keyboard with Corsair's iCUE software for advanced customization and macro programming.

CORSAIR K70 MAX RGB Magnetic-Mechanical Wired Gaming Keyboard - Adjustable Actuation MGX Switches -Rapid Trigger Mode - PBT Double-Shot Keycaps - iCUE Compatible - QWERTY NALayout - Black

The CORSAIR K70 MAX RGB Magnetic-Mechanical Wired Gaming Keyboard offers a unique and customizable gaming experience with its adjustable actuation MGX switches. This keyboard is ideal for gamers who demand precision and control in their gameplay.

Key Features

🟢Adjustable Actuation MGX Switches: Customize your keystroke sensitivity with these innovative magnetic-mechanical switches.

🟢Rapid Trigger Mode: Activate a reduced actuation point for lightning-fast response times in competitive gaming.

🟢Full RGB Backlighting: Customize your keyboard's appearance with vibrant per-key RGB illumination.

🟢Durable Construction: The aluminum frame and PBT double-shot keycaps provide a robust and long-lasting build.

🟢iCUE Compatibility: Integrate your keyboard with Corsair's iCUE software for advanced customization and macro programming.

Customer reviews from the United States

John
Title: A great mechanical keyboard that comes with some surprises
Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars
Date: July 2, 2022
Review:

I bought the Cherry MX version for $200 before tax. 5 stars, easily, but there's some stuff you should know before buying.

The great stuff:

durable, high-quality build

beautiful to look at

the volume wheel is remarkably useful for games and videos

the clicky sound of the Cherry MX provides pleasing feedback

the wrist pad is very comfortable and attached securely with magnets

Stuff you should know:

The K100 has two USB cables. You can plug your mouse into the keyboard, but you still need to plug the two USB cables from the keyboard into your computer.

Corsair does not seem to guarantee compatibility with any KVM switch. I took a chance on "UGREEN USB 3.0 Switch Selector 4 Port 2 Computers Peripheral Switcher Adapter Hub for PC Printer Scanner Mouse Keyboard with One Button Switch and 2 Pack USB Male Cable" (ASIN B01N6GD9JO), and it has worked flawlessly. In my setup, I plug the two keyboard cables into the front of the KVM switch, and run one USB cable from the back to my PC and another one out the back to my laptop. I have a mouse plugged into the keyboard. I do not run the monitor through the KVM switch, opting instead to have two cables from the monitor, one to the PC, and one to the laptop.

Coming from a rubber dome keyboard (Logitech G15), the keys on the Corsair K100 felt incredibly sensitive to the touch. As someone who uses the keyboard to write computer code, I initially found this frustrating, as a very light press on a key could cause a character to register many times (like "cccccccccccc"). I could see how someone might want to ditch the keyboard immediately, but after about two or three weeks, I managed to retrain myself to avoid those "heavy finger" mistakes.

I don't use the wheel on the upper left of the keyboard. I don't use the G-macro keys.

There are a lot of preset color patterns. I settled on one after the novelty of the options wore off.

I don't find the shifting color pattern to be at all distracting, even while concentrating on writing computer code. It's pretty.

The keys have stylized symbols, which can be a little unusual if you have to hunt for a rarely-used key or if a child is trying to type on the keyboard. The biggest offender to me is the ampersand (&) on the "7" key.

The bad stuff:

Not much, except that the keys may feel too sensitive if you haven't used a Cherry MX keyboard before, and your mileage may vary as to whether you can adapt to one. So $200+ for a keyboard that may end up frustrating you could be a risky proposition. I read the terms for returning the keyboard, and it doesn't look like you can return it once you've opened it. (Maybe you can, but that's how I interpreted the terms.) So be sure that you like sensitive keyboards or have confidence that you can adapt.

There is a Corsair logo on the wrist pad that kind of looks like it is on a piece of tap that should peel off. It isn't. The placement of the logo slightly annoys me, but maybe that's just me.

Overall, a great keyboard and a happy purchase.

Garrett
Title: Amazing Product - Best keyboard I've ever owned
Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars
Date: December 5, 2022
Review:

TL;DR - 10/10. Premium price, but premium quality in return.

I will admit that I was a little hesitant about getting a wireless keyboard, mostly because of battery life and dropped connections. My job sometimes requires me to act quickly to fix an issue, and I was worried about the connection suddenly dropping when I was racing against the clock. I had a Corsair K70 and loved it, but it was getting old and had started acting up on me so I thought I would take a shot on this one. Oh boy, am I impressed. The keys feel incredible, the battery life is fantastic, and the connection is solid with no noticeable input delay. The "Slipstream" wireless receiver can pair multiple Corsair products as well, so you don't need to take up multiple ports if you like their product line.

Pros:

Battery lasts me several days, working 8 hours a day and typically gaming or browsing for a few hours on top of that. I usually leave the RGB lighting on the highest brightness, so you could get even more life out of a single charge if you turn it down/off. I haven't checked charge time from 0-100%, but it charges fast enough that it doesn't matter to me personally.

The connection is solid. I'm about 10 feet from the dongle with my body, desk, and other equipment in between and have no noticeable input delay or dropped inputs.

The feel of the keys is amazing. I know this is more of a subjective matter, but I think they have just the right amount of "click" and feedback. They're a little less "clicky" than the Cherry MX Red switches that were in my K70, but still tactile enough to feel just right.

If you're also using a Corsair wireless mouse or headset, they can all pair with a single "Slipsteam" dongle so you're not taking up multiple USB ports with different receivers. I imagine this also cuts down on the interference that would be caused my having multiple wireless receivers next to each other?

Multiple connection modes - wireless, wired (while charging), and bluetooth with up to 3 pairings. Switching between connection modes is as easy as pressing FN+[corrosponding key].

Premium quality in every category that I can think of.

Cons:

If you don't already have/use it, you'll need the Corsair iCue software to control many functions of the keyboard. I don't like having so many different pieces of software to control my system, but it's practically unavoidable. Luckily, iCue isn't one of those "in your face" pieces of software. It runs at startup without any popup or loading screen, and simply sits in your system tray until you need it.

Expensive, but you honestly get what you pay for.

That's it. I have no actual complaints, I love this thing.

Conclusion: A Premium Wireless Gaming Keyboard

The Corsair K100 AIR is a remarkable keyboard that excels in several key areas. Its sleek design, impressive connectivity options, and high-performance Cherry MX ULP Tactile switches make it a compelling choice for gamers and productivity enthusiasts alike. The integration with Corsair iCUE software further expands its capabilities, allowing for extensive customization and integration with other Corsair devices.

While the low-profile design and angled palm rest may not suit everyone's ergonomic preferences, the K100 AIR offers a compelling blend of style, performance, and wireless freedom. If you're seeking a premium gaming keyboard that prioritizes both aesthetics and functionality, the K100 AIR is undoubtedly worth considering.

Corsair K100 AIR: A Thin Wireless Gaming Keyboard