Corsair has introduced the Strafe RGB Silent mechanical keyboard, which is the first keyboard to use the Cherry’s new MX Silent keyswitches.
“With a sophisticated noise dampening system integrated into each key, the Strafe RGB Silent offers all the legendary precision and feel of German-engineered Cherry MX mechanical key switches, but up to 30% quieter.”
Corsair says that “you simply won’t find a Cherry MX Silent keyswitch anywhere else”, so if the noise from mechanical key-switches bothers you (or those around you) this looks like a great alternative. So how is it silent? Corsair explains:
“Rather than using rubber O-rings or other quick-fix external fittings to reduce key noise, the Cherry MX Silent uses a patented fully-integrated noise reduction system built into every key, greatly reducing key bottoming-out and spring-back noise. The result is a keyswitch that’s up to 30% quieter, making Strafe RGB Silent the ideal choice for gamers that demand the tactile feel of a mechanical key, but prefer a quieter operation to not disturb their partner, kids or co-workers.”
The keyboard also features full RGB lighting powered by Corsair’s on-board controller, and offers “individual multi-color dynamic backlighting for nearly unlimited lighting customization, effects and personalization”. Lighting profiles can also be downloaded using Corsair’s RGB Share service.
Corsair lists these other features for the new keyboard as well:
- USB pass-through port allows the easy connection of a mouse, gaming headset or phone to a PC
- Full-length soft-touch wrist rest offers comfort for even the longest gaming sessions
- Gaming grade circuitry provides 100% anti-ghosting and full 104 key rollover ensuring every critical key press registers
- Two included sets of custom textured and contoured keycaps, vital keys offer enhanced grip and feel for FPS or MOBA games
The Strafe RGB Silent carries a 2-year warranty from Corsair and is available now with an MSRP of $159.99 from Corsair’s web store, or exclusively at Best Buy (in North America).
Rubber O-rings can be
Rubber O-rings can be replaced when they wear out, and are cheap & plentiful.
What will one do when the “integrated” sound dampener wears out, and how possible/expensive will it be to replace?
Just an educated guess, but
Just an educated guess, but since the dampeners are built in to the switches now, they should last the entire expected life of the switch and not need to be replaced. I would imagine if they didn’t an angry mob would grab the pitchforks and torches and show up at Corsairs front door.
I don’t understand the lack
I don’t understand the lack of dedicated media/volume keys, especially on a full size keyboard like this! Even their k65 rgb has them…
It’s unclear if these
It’s unclear if these switches will be better than using O-rings with the non-clicky Cherry MX switch types. I use Cherry MX Brown switches with O-rings, and the “rebound” sound when you release the key is still very much audible. These new switches could prevent that making them objectively quieter.
Would depend on warranty and hands on reviews to tell if the new switch type is worth it.
Topre switches FTW.
Topre switches FTW.