The Ultimate MSI GK50 Elite TKL Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Review: Unleashing Your Gaming Potential
Experience the ultimate gaming keyboard with the MSI GK50 Elite TKL This award-winning, tenkeyless mechanical masterpiece combines performance, sleek design, and durability Unleash your gaming potential with unrivaled comfort and precision Boost your productivity and immerse yourself in the game like never before Unlock the full potential of this keyboard with the user-friendly MSI software The GK50 Elite TKL is a must-have for any serious gamer
Highlights
The MSI Vigor GK50 Elite TKL is a compact and portable gaming keyboard with Kailh blue clicky mechanical switches for satisfying audible feedback.
With its sleek design, dedicated function row, and satisfying clicky tactile feedback, the GK50 Elite TKL keyboard promises an exceptional gaming experience. Although its loudness may not suit everyone's preferences and the MSI software has room for improvement, this high-quality keyboard is perfect for gamers who are always on the move.
The MSI Vigor GK50 Elite TKL is the pinnacle of MSI's gaming keyboard collection. Featuring Kailh blue clicky mechanical switches, this TKL keyboard offers a satisfying audible feedback with each keystroke. Additionally, MSI also provides the option of Kailh red switches for the GK50 Elite TKL. Designed to be portable with its slim and compact design, it even comes with a convenient carrying case. The GK50 ensures that gaming can be enjoyed anywhere without compromising on quality.
Expected to be released in late September, Game Rant had the privilege of testing an early model of the GK50 Elite TKL for the past few weeks. Notably, the MSI Agility GD72 gleam edition mousepad seen in the photos is not included with the keyboard. However, gamers who admire its appearance can purchase it separately from MSI.
The MSI VIGOR GK50 ELITE TKL Gaming Keyboard is a compact, tenkeyless version of the acclaimed full-size keyboard. Featuring Kailh's low-profile switches and a sleek yet robust design, this keyboard allows gamers to enjoy uninterrupted gaming sessions on the move. The accompanying scratch-resistant and breathable drawstring bag ensures effortless storage and convenient travel. Equipped with Kailh Low Profile mechanical switches in blue, red, or white, this keyboard provides an exceptional tactile experience with a satisfying 50gf clicky keystroke.
TKL form factor
Switch options: Kahil Red, Kahil Blue, and Kahil Box White
Backlight: Per Key RGB Lighting
Connectivity: USB-A
Typing angle options: 5°, 8°, or 11°
Dimensions: 354 x 140 x 33 mm
Weight: 560g
Number of Keys: 87 Keys
Num Pad: No
Pros: Clicky tactile feedback
Highly portable size
Dedicated function row
Gaming mode
Cons Fairly loud typing experience
MSI software leaves a bit to be desired
See at MSI
What's In The Box?
MSI Vigor GK50 Elite TKL Mechanical Keyboard
Detachable USB-C to USB-A cable
Mesh carrying bag
Keycap and switch puller
Design and Features
The GK50 Elite TKL is a well-crafted keyboard with a sleek design. Despite its slim profile, the keyboard exudes durability, showcasing no signs of flex even under heavy typing. The TKL layout is ideal for any desk setup, providing dedicated arrow keys and a function row while leaving ample space for easy mouse navigation and other peripherals. The detachable USB cable features a threaded design, which initially felt rigid but gradually became more flexible after a week of usage. The USB-C and USB-A connectors are solidly constructed and are perfect for travel alongside the keyboard.
The GK50 Elite TKL has a distinctly gamer aesthetic and may attract attention in an office environment, especially with the vibrant RGB backlighting activated. While excessive RGB lighting can sometimes overwhelm the appearance of a keyboard, the GK50 Elite TKL achieves a tasteful balance. This is primarily due to its low-profile keycaps, which allow the light to shine out from both the sides and the top.
Features
Despite its distinctive appearance, the GK50 Elite TKL boasts a limited array of unique features, however, the ones it does possess are implemented with exceptional finesse. Firstly, it is equipped with an abundance of hotkeys, facilitating effortless customization of lighting effects, seamless utilization of media controls, and even the activation of MSI afterburner, provided that other MSI components are integrated into the setup. Furthermore, this keyboard offers the option to configure it with either red or box-white switches, catering to gamers who prefer a different auditory or tactile experience than that offered by Kailh blue switches. It is important to note, however, that these switches are not hot-swappable.
Comfort
In terms of comfort, although not the most ergonomic keyboard available, the GK50 Elite TKL offers an enjoyable experience for extended periods of gaming or typing. You can select from three different typing angles: 5°, 8°, or 11°. Throughout most of the testing period, the keyboard was set at an 8° angle, providing a sufficient amount of lift without causing wrist strain. It's worth noting that individual preferences may vary, and the inclusion of three angle options by MSI is definitely a positive feature.
While this keyboard may be compact, it never feels cramped during use, unlike other smaller keyboards. Although the Kailh Blue switches are quite loud, after using this keyboard for typing and gaming for an extended period, it becomes difficult to switch back to a keyboard that lacks this satisfying sound. Nonetheless, on occasion, it does resemble the typing style of Fran Drescher from The Nanny when composing emails.
Gaming and Work Performance
The gaming experience with the GK50 TKL Elite is truly exceptional. Whether playing FPS games or MMOs, this keyboard delivers utmost responsiveness and accuracy. With a 1,000Hz polling rate and a wired connection, there are no concerns about ghosting or delayed key presses. The 3.5mm travel distance allows for effortless activation of movements without the risk of accidental key presses. For gamers with limited desk space, the TKL form factor is highly appreciated as it provides ample room for smooth mouse movement. Paired with the Agility GD72 mousepad, mice effortlessly glide across the surface like a dream. While wireless keyboards may compete with wired options these days, the assurance of a consistent 1,000Hz polling rate is a comforting aspect of using a wired keyboard.
For work, the GK50 TKL performs exceptionally well, although individuals who opt for the Kailh Blue switches should ensure that those around them do not mind the slight typing noise. Each keystroke on this keyboard provides a highly satisfying experience, and the audible feedback significantly enhances touch typing efficiency. Despite lacking a num pad, the GK50 Elite TKL does not feel deficient in any way. The layout is incredibly efficient, without any unnecessary complications. While macro enthusiasts may view this as a drawback, it is incredibly beneficial for users who prefer a distraction-free typing experience.
MSI Software
The GK50 Elite TKL falls short in the software department. Users are required to download MSI Center in order to access Mystic Light. Unless other MSI components are already present in the system, this step feels unnecessary. MSI Center merely serves as a launcher for installing and opening Mystic Light. It would be far more convenient if users could directly download Mystic Light on its own.
Overall Thoughts
After surpassing that obstacle, Mystic Light proves to be an exceptional RGB lighting software. Its controls are user-friendly, and with a little experimentation, users can create mesmerizing RGB lighting effects.The MSI GK50 Elite TKL is an outstanding mechanical keyboard that offers top-notch performance and typing experience without any compromises. Its portability, 1,000Hz polling rate, and high-quality cable make it an ideal choice for gamers attending conventions or competitions.
However, DIY or custom keyboard enthusiasts may not find this keyboard suitable as it lacks hot-swappable switches and can be challenging to find keycaps that maintain its low-profile design. But for users seeking a keyboard that is ready to game straight out of the box, the MSI GK50 Elite TKL is an excellent option.
The MSI Vigor GK50 Elite TKL Gaming Keyboard
The Vigor GK50 Elite TKL is a compact version of the highly acclaimed full-size keyboard that has won awards. Equipped with Kailh's low-profile switches and boasting a timeless and sturdy design, gamers can enjoy gaming on the move without any compromises. The convenient scratch-resistant and breathable drawstring bag that comes with it allows for effortless storage and easy travel. Featuring Kailh Low Profile mechanical switches in blue, red, or white, users can experience exceptional tactile feedback with a satisfying 50gf clicky keystroke.
TKL form factor
Switch options: Kahil Red, Kahil Blue, and Kahil Box White
Per Key RGB lighting for backlighting
USB-A connectivity
Variety of typing angles: 5°, 8°, or 11°
Dimensions: 354 x 140 x 33 mm
Weight: 560g
Number of keys: 87 keys
No numpad included
Pros: Clicky tactile feedback
Highly portable size
Dedicated function row
Gaming mode
Cons Fairly loud typing experience
MSI software leaves a bit to be desired
See at MSI
Related Products
For those not satisfied by the GK50 Elite TKL may find that these similar gaming keyboards have more or less of the features being offered by MSI's upcoming peripheral.
Comparable 65% Keyboard | Corsair K65 Pro Mini Keyboard | |
Comparable Mechanical Keyboard | Logitech G PRO Mechanical Gaming Keyboard | |
Comparable Hot-Swappable Keyboard | Keychron K8 Pro QMK Mechanical Keyboard |
FAQ
Q: Is a mechanical or non mechanical keyboard better?
Non-mechanical or membrane keyboards are designed for budget-conscious users, catering to those who prefer a quieter gaming experience. However, for gamers seeking a durable keyboard with superior performance, mechanical keyboards are the preferred choice.
Q: Are low profile switches good?
Low profile switches are ideal for gaming due to their shorter travel distance, enabling gamers to make faster movements without the need for extensive key pressing. While low profile switches may result in occasional typing errors, this becomes a minor concern once users become accustomed to the slight pressure required.
