Corsair K100 Air Wired & Wireless Keyboard (2025)
Overview and Hype
The Corsair K100 Air Wired & Wireless Keyboard is generating significant buzz due to its ultra-thin design, high-performance features and 128-bit secure wireless communication. At just 11mm at its thinnest point, it is one of the slimmest mechanical keyboards available. The keyboard features Cherry MX Ultra Low Profile switches, which provide a tactile and responsive typing experience. The hype is also driven by its advanced connectivity options, including Corsair’s SLIPSTREAM wireless technology, Bluetooth, and USB wired connections, making it versatile for various setups.
Compatibility and Network Connection
The K100 Air is compatible with multiple devices, including PCs, Macs, and mobile devices. It supports SLIPSTREAM wireless technology for a sub-1ms connection, Bluetooth for up to three devices, and a USB wired connection for maximum performance. The keyboard also features AES 128-bit encryption for secure wireless communication.
Specifications
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- Switches: Cherry MX Ultra Low Profile Tactile
- Polling Rate: Up to 8,000 Hz (wired), 2,000 Hz (wireless)
- Battery Life: Up to 50 hours with RGB lighting, up to 200 hours without
- Connectivity: SLIPSTREAM wireless, Bluetooth, USB wired
- Dimensions: 437 x 156 x 17 mm
- Weight: 780 grams
- RGB Lighting: Per-key RGB with 20 layers of lighting effects
- Media Controls: Dedicated media keys and aluminum volume roller
- Onboard Storage: 8MB for up to 50 profiles
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Approximate Cost
The Corsair K100 Air Wireless Keyboard is priced around $279.99, reflecting its premium features and build quality.
Reasons to Buy
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- Ultra-Thin Design: At just 11mm, it is one of the thinnest mechanical keyboards available.
- High Performance: Cherry MX Ultra Low Profile switches provide a responsive and tactile typing experience.
- Versatile Connectivity: Supports SLIPSTREAM wireless, Bluetooth, and USB wired connections.
- Secure Wireless: AES 128-bit encryption ensures secure communication.
- Long Battery Life: Up to 50 hours with RGB lighting, up to 200 hours without.
- Customizable RGB: Per-key RGB lighting with 20 layers of effects.
- Dedicated Media Controls: Includes media keys and an aluminum volume roller.
- Onboard Storage: 8MB for storing up to 50 profiles.
- Durable Build: Made with a sleek aluminum frame.
- iCUE Software: Allows for extensive customization and control.
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Reasons Not to Buy
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- High Price: At $279.99, it is a significant investment.
- No Wrist Rest: Does not include a wrist rest, which may be uncomfortable for some users.
- Complex Setup: Full customization requires Corsair’s iCUE software.
- Limited Switch Options: Only available with Cherry MX Ultra Low Profile Tactile switches.
- Weight: At 780 grams, it is heavier than some other ultra-thin keyboards.
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Review
The Corsair K100 Air Wireless Keyboard is an impressive piece of hardware that combines sleek design with high performance. Its ultra-thin profile and Cherry MX Ultra Low Profile switches make it a standout in the mechanical keyboard market. The keyboard’s versatile connectivity options, including SLIPSTREAM wireless, Bluetooth, and USB wired, ensure it can be used in various setups. The dedicated media controls and customizable RGB lighting add to its appeal. However, its high price and lack of a wrist rest may be drawbacks for some users. Overall, the K100 Air is a top choice for those seeking a premium, high-performance keyboard.
Competitor Comparisons
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- Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro: The DeathStalker V2 Pro is another ultra-thin mechanical keyboard featuring Razer’s low-profile optical switches. It offers similar connectivity options, including Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless, but has a slightly lower polling rate of 1,000 Hz. The Razer keyboard is priced slightly lower, making it a strong competitor.
- Logitech G915 TKL: The G915 TKL is a tenkeyless mechanical keyboard with Logitech’s GL low-profile switches. It offers LIGHTSPEED wireless and Bluetooth connectivity, with a battery life of up to 40 hours with RGB lighting. The G915 TKL is also priced lower, making it an attractive alternative.
- SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless: This compact keyboard features SteelSeries’ OmniPoint adjustable mechanical switches, allowing users to customize actuation points. It supports Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity, with a battery life of up to 40 hours. The Apex Pro Mini Wireless is priced competitively, offering unique switch customization.
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Unique Features
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- Cherry MX Ultra Low Profile Switches: These switches provide a tactile and responsive typing experience in an ultra-thin form factor.
- SLIPSTREAM Wireless Technology: Offers a sub-1ms connection for lag-free performance.
- AES 128-bit Encryption: Ensures secure wireless communication.
- Per-Key RGB Lighting: Customizable lighting with 20 layers of effects.
- Dedicated Media Controls: Includes media keys and an aluminum volume roller.
- Onboard Storage: 8MB for storing up to 50 profiles.
- iCUE Software: Allows for extensive customization and control.
- Durable Aluminum Frame: Provides a sleek and sturdy build.
- Long Battery Life: Up to 50 hours with RGB lighting, up to 200 hours without.
- Multi-Device Connectivity: Supports SLIPSTREAM wireless, Bluetooth, and USB wired connections.
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Bottom Line
The Corsair K100 Air Wireless Keyboard is a premium choice for gamers and professionals seeking a high-performance, ultra-thin mechanical keyboard. Its advanced features, including Cherry MX Ultra Low Profile switches, versatile connectivity, and customizable RGB lighting, make it a standout option. While it comes at a high price, its performance and build quality justify the investment for those looking for the best in wireless mechanical keyboards