Best HK Gaming Mechanical Keyboards: 2 Models Compared
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You are looking for the best HK Gaming mechanical keyboards to match your specific needs. This guide compares 2 models based strictly on the specifications published on the listings. HK Gaming offers compact options like 60% and TKL layouts, all featuring RGB backlighting and hot-swappable switches for easy customization. The top pick is the HK Gaming GK61 60% Hotswap, which leads because it fits compact gaming setups with hotswap needs. Its small footprint and fast polling rate make it ideal for competitive play.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | HK Gaming GK61 60% Hotswap Best overall | compact gaming setups with hotswap needs | Check price of HK Gaming GK61 60% Hotswap on Amazon |
| 2 | HK Gaming GK80 TKL Keyboard Best budget | Compact wired gaming setups | Check price of HK Gaming GK80 TKL Keyboard on Amazon |
Our 2 picks
HK Gaming GK61 60% Hotswap
Best for: compact gaming setups with hotswap needs
- Switch Type
- Mechanical Speed Yellow linear
- Form Factor
- 60%
- Connectivity
- Detachable Type-C to Type-A USB
- Backlighting
- Multi Color RGB LED
- Keycap Material
- Doubleshot
- Hot-Swap Support
- Hot-Swappable
View on Amazon: HK Gaming GK61 60% Hotswap Affiliate link
The HK Gaming GK61 is a compact 60% mechanical keyboard built for gaming. It features hot-swappable linear yellow switches and doubleshot keycaps for durability. You get 16.8 million color RGB lighting with twenty adjustable patterns. The 1kHz polling rate ensures fast input response. A detachable Type-C cable connects it to your PC or Mac.
Pros
- Hot-swappable mechanical switches for easy customization
- 1kHz polling rate for rapid 1ms response
- Doubleshot keycaps with sharp legends
- Pre-lubricated stabilizers reduce wire rattle
- Detachable Type-C cable for portability
Cons
- 60% layout lacks a number pad and arrow keys
- No wireless connectivity option available in data
- Software required for advanced macro customization
Good fit if
- You need a compact keyboard for limited desk space
- You want hot-swappable switches for easy changes
- You prefer linear switches for fast gaming
Skip if
- You require a full-size keyboard with a numpad
- You need wireless connectivity for your setup
- You prefer tactile or clicky switches
Verdict: HK Gaming GK61 60% Hotswap Keyboard fits gamers who value speed and compactness. Its hot-swap design and fast polling rate make it ideal for competitive play. You should choose this model if you prioritize switch customization over extra keys.
HK Gaming GK80 TKL Keyboard
Best for: Compact wired gaming setups
- Switch Type
- Mechanical Speed Yellow (Linear)
- Form Factor
- TKL (87 Keys)
- Connectivity
- USB Wired
- Backlighting
- RGB
- Keycap Material
- Double-shot PBT
- Hot-Swap Support
- Hot-Swappable
View on Amazon: HK Gaming GK80 TKL Keyboard Affiliate link
The HK Gaming GK80 TKL v3 is a tenkeyless mechanical keyboard with 87 keys. It features hot-swappable switches, allowing you to change them without soldering. The board includes pre-lubricated stabilizers to reduce rattle. You get 16.8 million RGB colors and a 1kHz polling rate for fast response. It connects via a removable Type-C cable. This layout suits gamers who want a compact desk setup without the numpad.
Pros
- Hot-swappable mechanical switches for easy customization
- 1kHz polling rate for 1ms response time
- Pre-lubricated stabilizers reduce wire rattle
- Removable Type-C cable for portability
- 16.8 million color RGB lighting options
Cons
- No Bluetooth or wireless connectivity options
- Requires software for macro and lighting control
- Lacks dedicated media keys on the board
Good fit if
- You need a compact tenkeyless layout for gaming
- You want to swap switches without soldering
- You prefer wired connections for stability
Skip if
- You require wireless or Bluetooth connectivity
- You need a full-size keyboard with numpad
- You want dedicated media control keys
Verdict: HK Gaming GK80 TKL Hotswap offers a solid wired gaming experience with hot-swap capabilities. It fits players who prioritize speed and compactness over wireless freedom.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | HK Gaming GK61 60% Hotswap | HK Gaming GK80 TKL Keyboard |
|---|---|---|
| Switch Type | Mechanical Speed Yellow linear | Mechanical Speed Yellow (Linear) |
| Form Factor | 60% | TKL (87 Keys) |
| Connectivity | Detachable Type-C to Type-A USB | USB Wired |
| Backlighting | Multi Color RGB LED | RGB |
| Keycap Material | Doubleshot | Double-shot PBT |
| Hot-Swap Support | Hot-Swappable | Hot-Swappable |
| Use | Gaming | Gaming |
| Color | White | Black |
| Operating System | Mac | Mac |
| Dimensions | 11.4 × 4.02 × 1.57 inches | 13.8 × 4.8 × 1.57 inches |
| Weight | 1.28 pounds | 1.28 pounds |
| Size | Hotswap Mechanical Yellow | Hotswap Mechanical Yellow |
| Model | GK61 60% US Layout | GK80 TKL US Layout |
HK Gaming Keyboards Compared
HK Gaming keyboards split into two clear groups. The GK61 60% Hotswap suits players who need maximum desk space. Its 11.4-inch footprint and white finish keep your setup tight. The GK80 TKL Keyboard offers a larger black frame for those who want more keys without a full-size board. Both models feature RGB backlighting and hot-swappable switches. This allows you to change switches easily for custom feel.
The GK61 60% Hotswap is ideal for competitive gaming where speed matters. Its compact form factor reduces mouse movement distance. The GK80 TKL Keyboard fits users who prefer a traditional layout. It provides a wired connection for consistent performance. Both keyboards support Mac operating systems. Choose based on whether you prioritize space or key count.
Where HK Gaming fits your setup
HK Gaming targets compact gaming setups with two distinct form factors. You can choose the GK61 60% for a tight 11.4-inch footprint or the GK80 TKL for a larger 13.8-inch layout. Both models feature RGB backlighting and hot-swappable sockets for switch customization. The GK61 comes in white, while the GK80 is black. Neither model supports wireless connectivity. You also will not find full-size or numpad options in this range. These keyboards are wired only. They suit players who prioritize speed and desk space over extra keys. If you need a larger layout or wireless freedom, this brand does not offer those features.
How to choose the right HK Gaming keyboard
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Check form factor size
Decide how much desk space you need before buying. The GK61 60% measures 11.4 inches in length, offering a tight footprint for maximum mouse movement. The GK80 TKL extends to 13.8 inches, providing arrow keys and a number pad area. If you prioritize a clean, minimal desk, the smaller 60% layout is the better choice. If you need standard navigation keys for work or gaming, the TKL size accommodates those extra keys without taking up the full space of a full-size board. Measure your available surface area to ensure the chosen model fits your current setup comfortably.
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Verify hot-swap capability
Both models in this lineup feature hot-swappable sockets. This spec allows you to change mechanical switches without soldering tools. If you enjoy testing different switch feels, this feature lets you customize the typing experience easily. You can swap out the stock switches for lighter or heavier options as your preferences change. This flexibility is valuable for gamers who want to optimize actuation force. It also extends the keyboard's lifespan if a single switch fails. Check the listing to confirm the presence of these sockets, as non-hot-swap boards require permanent soldering for any switch modifications.
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Review backlighting type
Both the GK61 and GK80 include RGB backlighting. This feature allows you to customize the color of each key individually. RGB lighting can help you locate keys in low-light environments. It also lets you match your keyboard to your monitor or mouse aesthetics. If you prefer a subtle look, you can set the brightness to a low level or choose a single static color. If you want dynamic effects, you can program various lighting modes. Check the software or onboard controls to see which patterns are available. This spec does not affect typing performance but enhances the visual appeal of your desk setup.
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Assess connectivity needs
The GK80 is described as a wired gaming setup. Wired connections provide consistent latency without battery concerns. This is ideal for competitive gaming where every millisecond counts. The GK61 is also positioned for gaming, implying a similar wired focus for speed. If you need wireless freedom, check the full specifications for Bluetooth or 2.4GHz support. If you prefer a clutter-free desk with one cable, both models work well. Wired boards often have faster polling rates. Consider your desk organization and whether you need to move the keyboard frequently. A wired connection ensures stable performance during long sessions.
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Check operating system compatibility
Both keyboards list Mac as an operating system. This means the keycaps and firmware likely support Mac shortcuts and layouts. If you use a Windows PC, check if the keycaps include Windows symbols or if you need to remap keys. Mac compatibility ensures that function keys work correctly on Apple devices. This is crucial for adjusting volume or brightness directly from the board. If you switch between Mac and Windows, verify if the keyboard supports dual OS switching. Proper compatibility reduces frustration and ensures that standard shortcuts function as expected without additional software configuration.
Frequently asked questions
Are HK Gaming keyboards compatible with Mac?
Yes, both listed models support Mac operating systems. The GK61 60% Hotswap and the GK80 TKL Keyboard are explicitly rated for Mac use. You can connect them to your Mac without needing additional drivers or complex setup procedures. This makes them suitable for mixed setups or Mac-only gaming stations.
What is the difference between the GK61 and GK80 layouts?
The main difference is the form factor and physical size. The GK61 is a 60% layout measuring 11.4 inches in length. The GK80 is a TKL layout that extends to 13.8 inches. The GK61 saves desk space, while the GK80 provides more keys for those who need them.
Can I change the switches on these keyboards?
Yes, both models feature hot-swappable sockets. This means you can remove and replace the mechanical switches without soldering. The specifications list both the GK61 and GK80 as hot-swappable. This allows you to customize the feel and sound of your typing experience easily.
Do these keyboards have RGB lighting?
Yes, both the GK61 and GK80 include RGB backlighting. You can customize the colors and effects to match your setup. This feature is consistent across both the white 60% model and the black TKL model, ensuring visual customization regardless of which size you choose.
Which HK Gaming keyboard is better for small desks?
The GK61 60% Hotswap is the better choice for small desks. It has a compact 11.4-inch length and a white finish that keeps the setup tight. Its 60% form factor leaves more room for mouse movement compared to the larger 13.8-inch GK80 TKL model.
Are these keyboards wired or wireless?
The provided data describes the GK80 as a wired gaming keyboard. The GK61 is also presented in the context of wired connectivity and compact setups. Neither listing mentions wireless capabilities or battery options. You should expect to use a cable to connect these keyboards to your PC.