MSI’s new GK80 is a solid push into the mechanical keyboard market

MSI has been dabbling in the keyboard market for a few years now. Over time, we've seen the GK-601, the GK-701 and now MSI is launching what could be its best keyboard yet in the form of the Vigor GK80. This is a full size RGB mechanical keyboard with an aluminum body and a bunch of useful features.

Like most gaming-oriented mechanical gaming keyboards, the GK80 opts for Cherry MX red switches, and full RGB illumination, which is powered by MSI's Mystic Light software. The keyboard comes with N-Key rollover, a ‘gaming mode' that locks off the Windows key while playing and dedicated media keys. There are four metal keycaps to replace the regular WASD keys if you desire, and the box also comes with 12 rubber keycaps so you can replace other caps on the board if you wish.

We currently have a GK80 in for review, it's not finished yet, but we have some images we can share today:

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I've spent a long time reviewing keyboards myself here at KitGuru and I'm pleased to say that two of my favorite features are present on the GK80. There is a USB passthrough on the back, which I always find useful, and there is a detachable wrist rest included, which is always a great option to have. There is even a slot on the back of the wrist rest to store your spare keycaps.

The cable on the keyboard is braided, which I personally like a lot, but some people prefer regular rubber sleeving, so that is worth keeping in mind.

The MSI GK80 will be available shortly at retailers. The MSRP is £159.99, but the actual retail price will likely vary depending on where you shop from, so it's worth looking around.

KitGuru Says: MSI's GK80 seems like a great mashup of features from some of the best gaming keyboards on the market. The keycap storage on the back of the wrist rest is particularly unique. Are many of you currently looking to pick up a new mechanical keyboard? What do you think of the MSI GK80? We'll have a full review up soon.

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