The Corsair K70 RGB MK.2 and STRAFE RGB MK.2 are full-size, wired mechanical gaming keyboards announced in 2018. They share per-key RGB lighting, onboard profile storage, dedicated media controls and USB pass-through. The key distinction is construction and choice: the K70 has an aluminum frame and a wider range of Cherry MX switches, while the plastic STRAFE was offered with MX Red or MX Silent. The STRAFE RGB MK.2 is a legacy model, so check the exact switch, layout, condition and warranty terms on any listing.
What these two keyboards have in common
Both models are full-size wired keyboards with per-key RGB lighting and support for Corsair’s iCUE software. Each has 8 MB of onboard profile storage for hardware playback, dedicated multimedia controls with a volume scroller, a USB 2.0 pass-through port, a detachable wrist rest, a Windows lock, and full N-key rollover. Corsair also included textured FPS and MOBA keycaps; HotHardware reports that a key puller and gray replacement gaming keycaps came with the keyboards it reviewed.
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Those shared features make the choice less about basic gaming functions and more about chassis material, switch availability and the specific configuration on offer. Corsair introduced both lines on June 12, 2018. Corsair’s launch announcement describes their shared features and distinguishes their construction.
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K70 RGB MK.2 vs. STRAFE RGB MK.2
| Feature | K70 RGB MK.2 | STRAFE RGB MK.2 |
|---|---|---|
| Chassis | Aluminum construction, per Corsair’s launch comparison | Plastic construction, per Corsair’s launch comparison |
| Switches listed at launch | Cherry MX Red, Brown, Blue, Speed and Silent | Cherry MX Red and MX Silent |
| Core features | Per-key RGB, 8 MB onboard profile storage, media controls, USB pass-through, detachable wrist rest and full N-key rollover | Per-key RGB, 8 MB onboard profile storage, media controls, USB pass-through, detachable wrist rest and full N-key rollover |
| Layout and availability | Varied by region; verify the exact layout and switch variant on the particular unit or listing. | |
The K70’s aluminum frame is its clearest physical advantage if you prefer a metal chassis. The STRAFE’s plastic body is the trade-off for choosing that model; the available evidence does not establish that the material alone makes one keyboard more durable in use. In his 2018 review, Dave Altavilla of HotHardware described both as having a “premium feel” and a dense weight, a subjective impression rather than a durability test. HotHardware reviewed both models on June 29, 2018.
#1 Best Overall
- Magnificent Mechanical Keyboard Experience: Pre-lubricated CORSAIR Red linear mechanical switches deliver smooth, responsive keystrokes, enhanced by two layers of sound dampening for extremely satisfying gaming and typing
- Masterful Media Control: Control volume and more with a multi-function rotary dial and programmable media button, customizable with iCUE
- Robust Aluminum Top Plate: The durable aluminum top plate offers another layer of stability and style
- Sturdy Double-Shot Keycaps: Tough and resilient ABS double-shot keycaps won’t crack under pressure
- Magnetic Detachable Soft-Touch Palm Rest: A magnetic soft-touch palm rest conveniently adds a comfortable spot to rest your hands, with easy magnetic attachment.
Switch choice, sound and typing feel
K70 RGB MK.2
Corsair listed five switch families for the K70: Cherry MX Red, Brown, Blue, Speed and Silent. That broader selection gives buyers more options, but the switch fitted to a particular unit matters more than the model name. Confirm it in the seller’s description or product label, especially for a used keyboard.
STRAFE RGB MK.2
The STRAFE was listed with Cherry MX Red and MX Silent. Corsair said its MX Silent switches reduce noise by “up to 30%.” That is a manufacturer claim from the June 2018 announcement, not an independent measurement of either keyboard or a guarantee of how loud a particular setup will sound.
Rank #2
- Dynamic RGB Backlighting: Light up your desktop with six onboard lighting effects, assign a color to each lighting zone, or program your own vibrant lighting effects across five RGB lighting zones with CORSAIR iCUE software.
- Six Dedicated Macro Keys: Activate functions, shortcuts, or keypresses in just one stroke with six dedicated macro keys, easily set up through CORSAIR iCUE software, or use instant streaming commands through Elgato Stream Deck software.
- Dust and Spill-Resistant Design: IP42-rated protection guards against accidents so your gameplay never has to stop.
- Detachable Palm Rest: A soft rubber palm rest reduces stress on your hands so you can play longer in comfort, with a textured surface to keep your hands from slipping.
- Dedicated Volume and Media Keys: Convenient control for media playback and fine-tuning volume on-the-fly without having to interrupt your game.
Review impressions also depend on the exact switch. RTINGS identifies its tested STRAFE as a Cherry MX Red version; its comments about that unit should not be read as a test of the MX Silent model. It describes the STRAFE as performing similarly to the K70, while identifying the K70’s aluminum top plate and broader switch selection as notable differences. See RTINGS’ STRAFE RGB MK.2 review and tested configuration.
Which model makes more sense for your setup?
- Choose the K70 RGB MK.2 if an aluminum frame or a wider range of switch options is your priority.
- Consider the STRAFE RGB MK.2 if you find the switch configuration you want—particularly MX Silent—and are comfortable with its plastic construction.
- Compare the exact listings if price matters most. These are older models, and current stock, condition and asking prices depend on the individual seller; launch-era prices are not a guide to today’s market.
Neither model is inherently the better fit for every player. Decide first which switch you want and whether the aluminum-versus-plastic distinction matters to you, then compare the specific units available in your region. Tom’s Guide’s review also discusses the K70’s full-size layout, aluminum surface, switch range and shared convenience features, but its retail prices are not current offers. Read Tom’s Guide’s K70 RGB MK.2 review.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Space-Saving Tenkeyless Layout: The compact tenkeyless footprint fits in tight gaming setups and leaves more room for sweeping mouse movements
- Pre-Lubed MLX Red v2 Switches: Pre-lubricated CORSAIR MLX Red v2 linear mechanical switches deliver smooth, responsive, and stable keystrokes, with enhanced ultra-bright per-key RGB backlighting
- Ultra-Satisfying Typing Acoustics: Two sound dampening layers made from premium foam material, plus pre-lubricated stabilizers, temper unwanted pings and clacks for pleasantly subdued typing
- Masterful Media Control: Control volume and more with a multi-function rotary dial and programmable media button, customizable with iCUE
- Sturdy Double-Shot Keycaps: Tough and resilient ABS double-shot keycaps won’t crack under pressure
Rank #4
- Speed is Everything: It’s all about speed. With Rapid Trigger, ultra-fast polling rates, and per-key adjustable switches, K70 PRO TKL removes every barrier that comes between you and gaming greatness
- Space-Saving Tenkeyless Layout: The sleek, streamlined tenkeyless layout fits in nearly every gaming setup, while leaving room for sweeping mouse movements
- MGX Hyperdrive Magnetic Switches*: Pre-lubricated CORSAIR MGX Hyperdrive magnetic switches deliver a smooth, ultra-responsive keypress. Its sturdy double-rail structure reduces wobble and guarantees peak performance for 150 million keystrokes. *Function keys and non-primary keys feature CORSAIR MLX switches
- Rapid Trigger Advantage: Rapid Trigger dynamically changes your keys’ actuation and reset points, so you can move and reset your movements faster than ever
- Customizable Per-Key Actuation: Adjust the actuation point of each key from a super-sensitive 0.4mm to a deep 3.6mm (in 0.1mm steps) or set two actions to a single keypress with dual actuation for quick-fire combos and action pairs
Rank #3
- Get the RAPIDFIRE advantage CHERRY MX Speed mechanical key switches provide the reliability and accuracy you demand, with blistering fast 1.2mm actuation
- Aircraft grade silver anodized brushed aluminum frame, built to withstand a lifetime of gaming
- White PBT double shot keycaps for superior durability, look and feel
- 8MB profile storage with hardware macro and lighting playback allow access to up to three stored profiles on the go, independent of external software
- Per key dynamic multi color RGB backlighting offers near unlimited color customization and control. HID keyboard report rate 1000Hz
What to check before buying a used or older listing
- Confirm the full model name and switch. Check that the listing is for the RGB MK.2, not a different K70 or STRAFE generation, and verify the fitted Cherry MX switch. Corsair’s support page lists K70 RGB MK.2 and STRAFE RGB MK.2 SKU variants among keyboards with hardware profiles, which can help identify a specific variant. Corsair’s onboard profile storage article lists the relevant SKU families.
- Check keyboard layout and region. Key arrangements and switch availability varied by region. Make sure the pictured and described layout matches what you need rather than assuming every listing is the same.
- Inspect condition and included accessories. Ask about key operation, lighting, the cable and USB pass-through, wrist rest, and whether the FPS/MOBA replacement caps and key puller are included. Their inclusion in period reviews does not establish that every resale listing still has them.
- Verify warranty coverage directly. Corsair stated a two-year warranty at launch in 2018. That historical term does not establish that a used keyboard remains covered or that the original warranty applies to a current buyer; check the seller’s documentation and Corsair’s applicable terms.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
