ASUS TUF Gaming K1 Aura Sync Keyboard Pros & Cons

Summary

In this video, Mike from Mike Box Reviews evaluates the Asus Tough Gaming K1 keyboard, discussing its strengths and weaknesses. While it offers appealing features like RGB lighting and splash resistance, the keyboard is ultimately a membrane model masquerading as mechanical, with a price tag around £50 that Mike finds excessive. However, he highlights the value of purchasing it second-hand, as he successfully acquired two for £15. The keyboard integrates well with Asus's ecosystem, making it a decent choice for budget-conscious gamers looking for aesthetics and functionality.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Asus TUF Gaming K1 is not a mechanical keyboard, despite its appearance, and is actually a membrane keyboard with some modifications to mimic mechanical feel.
• 😀 💰 The main downside is its price. New, it costs up to £50, but it's more affordable on the second-hand market, with deals around £10–15.
• 😀 🚫 The keyboard lacks true mechanical switches, offering a mushy typing experience compared to high-end mechanical keyboards like the MSI GK 71 Sonic.
• 😀 💧 A key benefit of the membrane design is that it's splash-proof, offering some protection against liquid spills, making it more practical for people who drink near their keyboard.
• 😀 🎨 The keyboard features RGB lighting, which can be controlled via Asus software or on the keyboard itself, though options are limited to color cycling, fading, and solid colors.
• 😀 🔌 Integration with Asus's Armory Crate and Aura Sync allows you to sync lighting across multiple Asus devices for a cohesive aesthetic.
• 😀 🖱️ If paired with an Asus gaming mouse like the M3, the keyboard and mouse combination provides good value for budget gaming setups, especially when bought second-hand.
• 😀 ⌨️ The keyboard includes a rotary volume dial, but unfortunately, there’s no dedicated mute button, which is a missed opportunity for functionality.
• 😀 🖥️ Despite some font issues on the keycaps due to shine-through design, the keyboard is still aesthetically appealing, especially if you're invested in the Asus ecosystem.
• 😀 💸 Ultimately, the value of the keyboard comes down to price. At £30 or less when bought new, or £15 or less second-hand, it’s a solid deal, especially if you’re looking for Asus system integration.

Q & A

What are the main reasons for not buying the Asus TUF Gaming K1 keyboard?

The two major reasons for not buying the Asus TUF Gaming K1 keyboard are its high price and the fact that it is a membrane keyboard, not a mechanical one.

How much does the Asus TUF Gaming K1 typically cost on the new market?

On the new market, the Asus TUF Gaming K1 can cost up to £50.

What features make the Asus TUF Gaming K1 look appealing?

It features addressable RGB lighting, volume control, and a design that aligns well with other products in the Asus TUF Gaming ecosystem.

What type of keyboard is the Asus TUF Gaming K1?

The Asus TUF Gaming K1 is a membrane keyboard designed to feel somewhat like a mechanical keyboard, but it does not actually use mechanical switches.

Why might some users prefer a membrane keyboard like the TUF Gaming K1?

Some users might prefer the TUF Gaming K1 because it is splash-proof, making it more resilient to spills, which is beneficial for those who consume drinks while using their keyboard.

What are the typing characteristics of the Asus TUF Gaming K1?

Typing on the Asus TUF Gaming K1 can feel mushy due to its membrane design, with less tactile feedback compared to mechanical keyboards. Users may notice more resistance when pressing the keys.

How can users customize the RGB lighting on the keyboard?

Users can control the RGB lighting through the Asus Armory Crate software, but basic functions can also be adjusted using the function key and arrow keys for a few preset lighting effects.

What is the significance of the Asus Armory Crate in relation to the keyboard?

The Asus Armory Crate allows users to synchronize lighting across compatible Asus devices, including the TUF Gaming K1 keyboard, enhancing the visual experience for gaming setups.

What is a notable downside regarding the keyboard's design?

The font on the keycaps may not be the clearest due to their shine-through nature and design, making some characters hard to read.

What was Mike's experience in purchasing the keyboard?

Mike managed to purchase two Asus TUF Gaming K1 keyboards for £15 total from the used market, highlighting that they can be found at much lower prices than the retail price if searched carefully.