The Corsair K65 RGB MINI is a compact 60% gaming keyboard with a sturdy build and very low latency. It is also one of Corsair’s first keyboards to advertise a polling rate of 8000 Hz, although this has not been specifically tested. While it does not offer many additional features, its controls are highly customizable. Macros can be set for all keys, or they can be adjusted directly on the keyboard or through the companion iCUE software. It also features full RGB lighting, with keys lighting up individually, and the linear MX Cherry Speed switches on the test model provide a very light and responsive typing feel. Unfortunately, there is no wrist rest and the tilt is not adjustable.
The Corsair K65 RGB MINI is very well suited for programming. It has a sturdy feel build, full RGB backlighting, and companion software for customization that is compatible with Windows and macOS. Software is not Linux compatible, but all keys work. There are no dedicated macro keys, but there are plenty of preset functions and two layers of control. You can also set macros for any key, either directly from the keyboard or through software. Unfortunately, there is no wrist rest or tilt adjustment and no connection to wireless devices.
[content-egg-block template=offers_logo hide=price]To compensate for the cut keys, almost all keys have secondary input that can be operated with the FN keys; you’ll find this on 60% and 65% of keyboards, but Corsair has gone all out on shortcuts. Not only do they add missing keys and media controls, but they also include onboard profile cycle keys, lighting controls, and buttons for controlling the mouse cursor on the keyboard. These inputs, from standard to unique, are indicated by side caps on the inside of the keys. This is important because there are so many inputs to remember.
The custom spacebar is cool looking, although we prefer the terrain design HyperX used on the Alloy Origins 60. Its light texture adds a bit of flair without getting in the way of every key press. And it probably would have been enough to make the K65 RGB Mini stand out. But Corsair didn’t stop there. Even the standard keycaps have been given a custom finish, making them look as if someone with dandruff had scratched their scalp on the keyboard.
The indistinct legends on the keycaps also make it difficult to see the RGB backlighting, making the keys look a bit cluttered even when the lighting is off. This problem is most noticeable in the number rows, but affects other keycaps as well. Of course, this is not an issue while the keyboard is actually in use, but it does ruin Corsair’s other efforts to make the K65 RGB Mini beautiful.