Syed Imran Haider 
With the launch of the K65 Plus Wireless, Corsair is jumping on the enthusiast keyboard bandwagon. Its goal is to provide a product that is a cross between boutique custom keyboards and mainstream gaming keyboards. It manages to deliver a good typing experience and does not sacrifice any gaming chops while doing so.
Design and features
The K65 Plus Wireless keyboard is a unique addition to Corsair’s line-up, as it has adopted a 75% compact layout that splits the difference between productivity and gaming. It has a smaller footprint as compared to a tenkeyless mechanical keyboard, but is capable of offering the same functionality. This is because the navigation cluster is compressed to a single column of keys that are frequently used, such as the Page Up, Page Down and Home keys.
All keys are given secondary commands that you can access by holding onto the Fn button, with the exception of the Delete key. While the layout has become quite popular in the last couple of years, it does leave out some things. There are no dedicated media controls given, nor are there any buttons for changing profiles. Likewise, no buttons have been provided for recording macros, or to adjust the brightness of RGB backlighting. While you can find these options as Fn commands, it can mean a steeper learning curve.
Luckily, the metal volume knob, or the multifunction control dial is still available. It boasts knurled sides that work quite well and are easy to use. You can use it for controlling volume, or for page scrolling, zoom, or backlight brightness. It is a smart move to make the functions accessible via shortcuts rather than software.
Some things that Corsair has done differently here is the use of PBT plastic for keycaps that makes them very durable. They will not look shiny or dirty, even after extended use. A floating keycap design has not been used for showing off the top of the RGB switches, unlike other keyboards from Corsair. A top case has been used instead and this is quite great.
The performance
With this keyboard, Corsair’s priority is performance and it clearly shows. The typing experience is easily the best of any keyboard from the brand, including both feel and sound. It uses the MLX Red linear switches that are pre-lubed and they are quiet smooth and sound downright excellent. If you need to change or repair the switches, you can just pull them out with the tool that has been included.
There are two different layers of sound dampening foam inside the keyboard. They can remove the hollowness from the case and make it sound softer. Some bits of foam have also been added below the spacebar to ensure it sound similar to the rest of the keyboard. You will not feel any rattling and it sounds a lot like an enthusiast keyboard. It is apparent that Corsair has put an emphasis on feel and sound.
Software
In terms of software, the K65 Plus Wireless uses Corsair’s iCUE software for its programming. Here, the tricks are not unique if you have used any other keyboard from Corsair, as it is quite similar. You can remap the keys, adjust parameters such as the polling rate and change the lighting effects of every key. You can also find options for recording macros, assigning shortcuts and even for launching programs. One thing that stands out about iCUE is that it has been redesigned to enable you to download what you require and the initial download is just 3.2MB.
The Verdict
The Corsair K65 Plus Wireless is an excellent gaming keyboard and also functions as a good general keyboard. You can get the best typing experience on it and it certainly does not skimp in the performance department.
