Introduction
Mechanical keyboards can sometimes cost a lot, especially if you want a great one for gaming (MSI Vigor GK50 Elite). You’re not just searching for a strong and good-looking keyboard, but also one that enhances your gaming experience. This might mean having extra features like programmable keys, colorful backlighting for each key, and easy-to-use software.
The MSI Vigor GK50 Elite ticks many of these boxes, though not all. It’s an improved version of the MSI Vigor GK50 Low Profile, now with full-height mechanical switches and keycaps. Priced around $80 at the moment, it’s a fantastic deal. The MSI Vigor GK50 Elite has a design perfect for gamers, customizable lighting for each key, and keys that resist getting greasy. It’s one of the best affordable mechanical keyboards for gamers. If you’re on the lookout for a colorful and comfortable keyboard that won’t break the bank, this one is definitely worth considering.
Specifications MSI Vigor GK50 Elite
| Feature | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Switches | Kailh Blue (tested) or Kailh Box White switches |
| Lighting | Per-key RGB illumination |
| Onboard Storage | No built-in storage |
| Media Keys | Includes FN shortcuts for media control |
| Interface | USB 2.0 Type-A connection |
| Cable | 6 feet (1.8m) USB 2.0, braided cable |
| Additional Ports | No additional ports |
| Construction | Metal top plate with a plastic base |
| Software | Controlled through MSI Dragon Center |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 17.1 x 5.3 x 1.5 inches (435x135x38 mm) |
| Weight | Weighs 1.8 pounds (800.5g) |
| Extra | Includes Left Ctrl keycap, Alt keycap, and keycap puller |
Pros And Cons MSI Vigor GK50 Elite
| Advantages | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Robust metal top plate | Clicky switches may become fatiguing during gaming |
| Keycaps resist grease | Cord durability is a bit uncertain |
| Great value |
Design MSI Vigor GK50 Elite
The MSI Vigor GK50 Elite keeps the same attractive appearance as the previous Vigor GK50 Low Profile. It features a sleek metal top plate with a brushed finish, giving it a subtle shine and a more expensive look. The design also includes appearances from MSI’s mascot, Lucky the Dragon, adding a touch of style without being overly flashy.
Beyond its aesthetics, the Vigor GK50 Elite is designed for practicality during long-term use. The matte coating on the octagon-shaped plastic keycaps effectively resists grease stains, making it suitable for gamers who enjoy snacks while playing. The coating also provides decent resistance, with the keycaps producing a noticeable sound when rubbed. Overall, the keycaps feel thick and of good quality, similar to standard plastic keycaps.
While the top plate enhances durability, the keyboard remains relatively lightweight at 1.8 pounds. In comparison, competitors like the Cooler Master CK552 and Corsair K60 RGB Pro are slightly heavier at 1.9 and 2 pounds, respectively. The review unit takes up more space than its low-profile counterpart, measuring 17.1 x 5.3 x 1.5 inches, whereas the Vigor GK50 Low Profile is 17.1 x 5.6 x 1.3 inches. Both keyboards have flip-out feet on the underside, providing additional height without sacrificing stability.
One drawback is the Vigor GK50 Elite’s cable. While it’s braided, it lacks reinforcement where it connects to the keyboard and feels somewhat flimsy compared to cables on rival keyboards. There’s a concern that it might break with excessive manipulation.
Typing Experience MSI Vigor GK50 Elite
The MSI Vigor GK50 Elite comes with two types of mechanical switches: Kailh Box White switches and Kailh Blue switches, both of which offer a tactile and clicky feel. In our review unit, we had the Kailh Blue switches.
These switches are known for being loud and clicky, with specifications like 1.9 ± 0.4mm pretravel, 4.0 ± 0.4mm total travel, and a 50 ± 10 grams force to actuate, bottoming out at 60 ± 10g. Similar to the traditional Cherry MX Blues, they are favored for typing due to their noticeable tactile bump and satisfyingly loud clicks. Typing vigorously can even produce additional sounds on the keyboard’s metal top plate, enhancing the overall experience.
One positive aspect is the comfortable spacing between the keys, making it easy for extended typing sessions. For comparison, linear Cherry MX Reds only require 40g to actuate.
Typing test
With practice, I found myself typing faster on MSI’s keyboard as I became more accustomed to it. During the typing test on 10fastfingers.com, I achieved my usual speed and accuracy. Now, I highly recommend this keyboard, especially for those who type with a bit more force.
It’s important to mention that using the Vigor GK50 Elite keyboard may offer a typing experience that feels more comfortable compared to the Vigor GK50 Low Profile. The latter features Kailh Choc White switches with 1.5mm pre-travel and 3mm total travel. While we appreciated the sound and clickiness of the Vigor GK50 Low Profile, some users might find the switches a bit shallow, especially if they do a lot of typing or prefer a more traditional feel. In such cases, the Vigor GK50 Elite could be a better fit for you.
Gaming Experience MSI Vigor GK50 Elite
As I got more comfortable typing on the Vigor GK50 keyboard with its tactile and clicky switches, gaming was a bit of a different experience. The Kailh Blue switches required more force to use, slowing me down in games like Destiny 2, Ark: Survival Evolved, and Dead By Daylight. However, after some practice, the Vigor GK50 Elite felt responsive and dependable for quick inputs, thanks to its n-key rollover feature.
The well-spaced keys on the MSI Vigor GK50 Elite were beneficial during gaming, helping me avoid mistakes and reducing wrist fatigue after long gaming sessions. Programming keys for ARK made consumables and hotbar items easily accessible, and the per-key RGB lighting was handy for distinguishing important keys in the heat of battle.
One thing to note is that the keyboard can be quite loud, especially with the prominent click of the Kailh Blue switches. Additionally, typing forcefully may result in a noticeable sound on the metal top plate.
MSI provides extra left Ctrl and Alt keycaps with rounded tops, along with a keycap puller. While these are meant to enhance the gaming experience, I found them to feel awkward compared to the other keycaps and didn’t see much practical use for them.
Features and Software MSI Vigor GK50 Elite
The Vigor GK50 Elite keyboard is compatible with MSI Dragon Center software, and luckily, I already had it on my computer. Yet, I faced some challenges when trying to download it, even though my colleagues didn’t encounter the same issues.
What’s impressive about the MSI Vigor GK50 Elite is its intuitive hotkey mapping right from the start. It allows you to effortlessly switch between modes for media, adjust volume, and launch software. Additionally, you can conveniently manage RGB settings, tweaking speed, colors, and brightness. This feature is handy because it eliminates the need to download or open separate software to customize your lighting.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a mechanical keyboard, consider the MSI Vigor GK50 Elite. It’s not just about listing specifications; MSI has created a keyboard that’s comfortable, and I enjoyed every moment of typing or gaming with it. It’s also a good choice for those who experience wrist fatigue.
On the downside, this keyboard only offers clicky, tactile mechanical switch options, which might be tiring for gaming, especially if you’re used to linear switches. Additionally, the cable doesn’t appear to be the most durable.
However, considering its price, the Vigor GK50 Elite provides excellent value. I usually use a Logitech G915 TKL, a top-notch wireless keyboard that’s more expensive at $230. Still, I would lean towards the (approximately) $80 Vigor GK50 Elite for its full-sized typing experience and straightforward RGB control. Designed for comfortable gaming while maintaining a stylish appearance, this keyboard stands out as a versatile choice.
In conclusion, the MSI Vigor GK50 Elite stands out as a compelling choice, offering comfort and value for both gaming and typing. Despite some limitations with switch options and cable durability, its full-sized design and accessible RGB control make it a worthwhile and affordable investment.
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