When it comes to high-end gaming keyboards, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the Corsair K100 RGB and the ROCCAT Vulcan Pro. Both of these keyboards are designed to provide exceptional performance, durability, and features that cater specifically to gamers' needs. In this comparison, we'll delve into the details of each keyboard, exploring their similarities and differences to help you decide which one is best suited for your gaming requirements.
Design and Build Quality
The Corsair K100 RGB boasts a sleek and premium design with a sturdy aluminum frame, providing a solid foundation for typing and gaming. The keyboard's dimensions are 472mm x 150mm x 36mm, making it a standard full-size keyboard. The ROCCAT Vulcan Pro, on the other hand, has a more compact tenkeyless (TKL) design, measuring 360mm x 123mm x 32mm. While both keyboards have a premium feel, the Corsair K100 RGB's larger size and weight (1.23kg vs 0.93kg) give it a more substantial presence on the desk.
Switches and Typing Experience
Both keyboards feature high-quality switches designed specifically for gaming. The Corsair K100 RGB comes with Cherry MX Brown switches, which offer a tactile bump and moderate actuation force. In contrast, the ROCCAT Vulcan Pro is equipped with ROCCAT's proprietary Titan Switches, which have a similar feel to Cherry MX Browns but with a slightly shorter actuation distance. Both switches provide excellent typing experiences, with fast and precise keystrokes. However, some users may prefer the more pronounced tactile feedback of the Cherry MX Brown switches on the Corsair K100 RGB.
RGB Lighting and Customization
Gaming keyboards are known for their vibrant RGB lighting, and both the Corsair K100 RGB and ROCCAT Vulcan Pro deliver in this regard. The Corsair K100 RGB features per-key backlighting with 16.8 million color options, as well as a range of customizable effects through the iCUE software. Similarly, the ROCCAT Vulcan Pro has customizable per-key lighting with 16.8 million colors and various effects, which can be controlled using the Swarm software. While both keyboards offer impressive RGB capabilities, the Corsair K100 RGB's iCUE software is generally considered more user-friendly and feature-rich.
Performance and Features
In terms of performance, both keyboards are designed to provide fast and accurate keystrokes. The Corsair K100 RGB has a 4,000Hz polling rate and supports N-key rollover (NKRO), ensuring that every key press is registered correctly. The ROCCAT Vulcan Pro also features NKRO and a 1,000Hz polling rate, although it can be adjusted up to 8,000Hz using the Swarm software. Both keyboards have media controls, dedicated macro keys, and USB passthrough, making them well-suited for gaming and productivity applications.
Conclusion
The Corsair K100 RGB and ROCCAT Vulcan Pro are both exceptional gaming keyboards that cater to different needs and preferences. If you prioritize a premium full-size design with Cherry MX Brown switches and advanced RGB lighting features, the Corsair K100 RGB may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more compact tenkeyless design with ROCCAT's proprietary Titan Switches and a slightly more affordable price point, the ROCCAT Vulcan Pro is an excellent alternative. Ultimately, both keyboards are top-notch options in the world of gaming keyboards, offering outstanding performance, durability, and customization features that will enhance your gaming experience.
