MSI Vigor GK80 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Review

Final Thoughts

Price

The MSI GK80 Aluminium Gaming Keyboard is available from today with an MSRP of £159.99. That’s not exactly loose change, but this isn’t exactly a stock keyboard either. With full Cherry MX switches and aluminium construction, you’re paying for and getting a premium quality product.

Overview

There are so many excellent gaming keyboards already on the market, and that makes it tough for MSI. Is their keyboard any better than any of the other flagship keyboards on the market? Not really, but it is certainly as good as, and very competitive.

Premium Grade

What’s best is obviously subjective, and when it comes down to £150+ gaming keyboards, most have about the same level of features and quality. What it boils down to there is brand loyalty and aesthetics. If you’re an MSI fan, then sure this keyboard is going to leap out at you to complete your matching set. However, even if you’re not an MSI fan, this is still a great looking keyboard that’s sure to compliment many gaming setups.

Luxurious Style

The aesthetics provided by that luxurious metal housing, those stunning keycaps, the red trim, the side lights, the RGB lighting, the detachable wrist rest, go a long long way. I really can’t fault the design, and I certainly can’t fault the build quality. It’s undoubtedly one of the best-made keyboards we’ve tested in a while.

So Many Features

There are more features on this keyboard than most people will likely ever need. However, it’s better to have them and not need them, than need them and not have them, right? Being able to control overclocking profiles from the keyboard is pretty neat though. There are more RGB settings than I would ever need, but they’re still a lot of fun too. Finally, the in-depth macro recording is great for serious gamers, but also handy for day-to-day office tasks and Photoshop shortcuts too.

Faultless

I really can’t find fault with this keyboard. If I clutch at straws, perhaps it’s a little too “gamer” looking for some users, but that’s super-subjective. I love the design, and that’s backed up by flawless performance for everything from work in the office to eSports professionals. Sure, it’s a bit expensive, but you certainly get what you pay for.

Pros

• Aluminium construction
• Stock, metal and rubber grip keycaps included
• Braided cable
• Multimedia controls
• Overclocking controls
• Great macro engine
• Fantastic RGB lighting
• Durable design
• Detachable wrist rest
• Cherry MX switches

Cons

• None

Neutral

• It’s not cheap, but competitive with other brands flagship models