AOC GK480 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Review: A Budget-Friendly Option
Table of Contents
Introduction
The AOC GK480 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a budget-friendly option that aims to deliver a satisfying typing experience with its mechanical switches and vibrant RGB lighting. It’s designed for both gamers and everyday users looking for a more tactile keyboard. In this review, we’ll delve into its features, performance, and overall value to see if it’s worth your investment.
Features
The GK480 packs a variety of features into its budget-friendly package:
- AOC Mechanical Switches: The red switches offer a linear actuation with a smooth, quiet feel, making it suitable for both gaming and typing.
- Double-Shot Keycaps: These keycaps provide a durable finish with clear and consistent legends that won’t fade over time.
- RGB Lighting: The keyboard boasts vibrant rainbow RGB backlighting with multiple lighting effects, including static, breathing, blink, wave, ripple, react, and custom setup.
- N-Key Rollover: Ensures accurate keystroke registration, even when pressing multiple keys simultaneously.
- 3 Adjustable Angles: Allows you to find the most comfortable typing position.
- USB-C Wired Connectivity: Provides a stable connection and allows for easy cable management.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model name | GK480 |
| Connectivity Technology | USB-C Wired |
| Keyboard Switch | AOC Mechanical Switch, Red |
| Illumination | Light FX Rainbow + RGB Sidelight |
| Light FX | Off / Static / Breathing / Blink / Wave / Ripple / React / Custom Setup |
| Light FX Sync | Yes |
| Dedicated Macro Keys | No |
| Programmable keys | All Key Programmable |
| Expansion port | No |
| Media control | FN Combine Keys |
| Keyboard Rollover | N-Key Rollover |
| On-Board Memory Profile | 1 Profile |
| Software Requirement | AOC G-Menu |
| Wrist Rest | No |
| Cable | 1.8M |
| Product Dimensions | 435(L) x 128(W) x 40(H)mm |
| Gift Box Dimensions | 471(L) x 179(W) x 55(H)mm |
| Net weight | 1070g |
| Gross weight | 1270g |
| Color | Black |
Performance
The AOC GK480 delivers on its promise of a smooth and responsive typing experience. The red switches provide a linear actuation with a light touch, making it a joy to type on for extended periods. The keycaps feel sturdy and comfortable under the fingers, contributing to the overall typing comfort.
In gaming, the keyboard performs well. The N-key rollover ensures that every keystroke registers accurately, even during intense gaming sessions. The light actuation of the red switches allows for quick and responsive key presses, giving you a competitive edge in fast-paced games.
While the keyboard doesn’t have dedicated macro keys, you can program any key using the AOC G-Menu software. This allows you to customize the keyboard to your specific needs and preferences. The software is easy to use and allows for granular control over lighting effects, key bindings, and macro creation.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Budget-friendly price point
- Smooth and responsive red mechanical switches
- Durable double-shot keycaps
- Vibrant RGB lighting with multiple effects
- N-Key rollover for accurate keystroke registration
- Programmable keys for customization
- Easy-to-use software for further customization
- Durable construction
Cons:
- No dedicated macro keys
- Lack of wrist rest
- No on-board memory for storing multiple profiles
Final Verdict
The AOC GK480 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a solid choice for budget-minded gamers and users looking for a mechanical keyboard with a smooth typing experience and vibrant RGB lighting. While it lacks dedicated macro keys and a wrist rest, its overall performance and affordability make it a compelling option. If you’re on a tight budget and want a keyboard that delivers a good typing experience and looks stylish, the GK480 is definitely worth considering.
