Hello guys,
I had the chance to try multiple keyboards these last few months, and here are my thoughts on one of my favorites so far.
A little intro:
Mechanical keyboards aren’t exactly a good-looking gadget. They’re great devices that provide a completely different experience when it comes to typing, but they are often aesthetically challenged because of their typist-friendly design. When I first opened this Azio MK Retro (check out my super quick unboxing), I was sure of the trade-off. Looks for actual functionality. And was I wrong.
Actual review:
The MK Retro works like any other mechanical keyboard. Underneath each key there’s a mechanical switch that goes down on every single keypress. There are multiple types of mechanical switches, and, according to Azio’s websites, the MK Retro has the “Blue” type of switches. While these switches seem to be unbranded, Blue switches are typically very clicky and provide a lot of feedback. And these are no exception –clicks feel not only very similar to Cherry MX Blues, but they even seem to require a little bit less force to press, making a long typing session less tiring and very enjoyable.
The MK Retro is a full-size keyboard, meaning that you not only get a numeric pad, but also the full row of F keys that double as media/computer controls. And speaking of keys, the Retro’s keycaps have a very good looking round design that while might feel awkward at first due to the consequent key separation, does a great job at balancing looks and typing experience. The keycap texture also has an excellent feeling, providing just the right amount of grip on every keystroke.
The keyboard weights 2.3lbs or 1kg, and while it is made out of plastic, it still feels extremely sturdy. There’s absolutely no flex, and this is partially to the metallic reinforcement that surrounds it.
If we flip it around, we find that the vintage-looking pillars that hold it in position are capable of rotating up and down, allowing the user to adjust the tilt angle.
Lastly, while not necessarily cutting edge wireless technology, the included wire is long and braided, so some abuse due to poor cable management shouldn’t be a problem.
Conclusion:
The conclusion is the part where I usually say about all the compromises of the product that make me reach the conclusion that it sucks/rocks. However, I really do not have a lot of negative things to say about this keyboard. Is it the ultimate typing experience for the most professional typist? Probably not. However, for most people, and even the occasional writer, this keyboard is an excellent choice. If you dig the looks, go for it. There are really very little to no compromises with the MK Retro.
Thanks for reading! If you have any questions, please let me know. I'll do my best to help you.
I had the chance to try multiple keyboards these last few months, and here are my thoughts on one of my favorites so far.
A little intro:
Mechanical keyboards aren’t exactly a good-looking gadget. They’re great devices that provide a completely different experience when it comes to typing, but they are often aesthetically challenged because of their typist-friendly design. When I first opened this Azio MK Retro (check out my super quick unboxing), I was sure of the trade-off. Looks for actual functionality. And was I wrong.
Actual review:
The MK Retro works like any other mechanical keyboard. Underneath each key there’s a mechanical switch that goes down on every single keypress. There are multiple types of mechanical switches, and, according to Azio’s websites, the MK Retro has the “Blue” type of switches. While these switches seem to be unbranded, Blue switches are typically very clicky and provide a lot of feedback. And these are no exception –clicks feel not only very similar to Cherry MX Blues, but they even seem to require a little bit less force to press, making a long typing session less tiring and very enjoyable.
The MK Retro is a full-size keyboard, meaning that you not only get a numeric pad, but also the full row of F keys that double as media/computer controls. And speaking of keys, the Retro’s keycaps have a very good looking round design that while might feel awkward at first due to the consequent key separation, does a great job at balancing looks and typing experience. The keycap texture also has an excellent feeling, providing just the right amount of grip on every keystroke.
The keyboard weights 2.3lbs or 1kg, and while it is made out of plastic, it still feels extremely sturdy. There’s absolutely no flex, and this is partially to the metallic reinforcement that surrounds it.
If we flip it around, we find that the vintage-looking pillars that hold it in position are capable of rotating up and down, allowing the user to adjust the tilt angle.
Lastly, while not necessarily cutting edge wireless technology, the included wire is long and braided, so some abuse due to poor cable management shouldn’t be a problem.
Conclusion:
The conclusion is the part where I usually say about all the compromises of the product that make me reach the conclusion that it sucks/rocks. However, I really do not have a lot of negative things to say about this keyboard. Is it the ultimate typing experience for the most professional typist? Probably not. However, for most people, and even the occasional writer, this keyboard is an excellent choice. If you dig the looks, go for it. There are really very little to no compromises with the MK Retro.
Thanks for reading! If you have any questions, please let me know. I'll do my best to help you.