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The Corsair K70 RGB MK.2 and STRAFE RGB MK.2 are closely matched, full-size wired mechanical keyboards from 2018. Both offer per-key RGB lighting, dedicated media controls, onboard profiles, USB pass-through, and detachable wrist rests. The K70 is the more premium-feeling option, with an aluminum frame and a broader choice of switches; the plastic-bodied STRAFE is the quieter-minded alternative when fitted with Cherry MX Silent switches. These are legacy models, so a purchase decision today depends as much on the exact switch, layout, condition, and coverage as on the model name.
What separates the K70 RGB MK.2 from the STRAFE RGB MK.2?
The main distinction is construction and choice. Corsair specified an aluminum frame for the K70 and a plastic body for the STRAFE. The K70 line was offered with Cherry MX Red, Brown, Blue, Speed, and Silent switches, while the STRAFE line was listed with MX Red and MX Silent. Availability varied by region, so the model name alone does not identify the switches or layout in a particular listing. Corsair’s June 2018 announcement is the source for those launch configurations.
| Feature | K70 RGB MK.2 | STRAFE RGB MK.2 |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | Aluminum frame | Plastic body |
| Launch-listed switches | MX Red, Brown, Blue, Speed, Silent | MX Red, MX Silent |
| Form and connection | Full-size, wired | Full-size, wired |
| RGB lighting | Per-key | Per-key |
The construction and launch switch lists come from Corsair; the exact switches and regional layout of any individual unit should be confirmed with its seller or by checking the keyboard itself.
What features do both keyboards share?
Despite their different chassis, these are feature-rich, full-size boards with broadly similar everyday gaming controls. Corsair listed the following features for both models:
#1 Best Overall
- Magnificent Mechanical Keyboard Experience: Pre-lubricated CORSAIR Red linear mechanical switches deliver smooth, responsive keystrokes, enhanced by two layers of sound dampening for extremely satisfying gaming and typing
- Masterful Media Control: Control volume and more with a multi-function rotary dial and programmable media button, customizable with iCUE
- Robust Aluminum Top Plate: The durable aluminum top plate offers another layer of stability and style
- Sturdy Double-Shot Keycaps: Tough and resilient ABS double-shot keycaps won’t crack under pressure
- Magnetic Detachable Soft-Touch Palm Rest: A magnetic soft-touch palm rest conveniently adds a comfortable spot to rest your hands, with easy magnetic attachment.
- 8 MB of onboard storage for hardware profiles and playback.
- Dedicated media controls and a volume scroller.
- USB 2.0 pass-through.
- A detachable wrist rest.
- Full N-key rollover and a Windows lock function.
- Textured FPS and MOBA keycaps, plus a keycap puller, according to the launch materials and HotHardware’s review.
- Lighting and profile control through Corsair’s iCUE software.
Corsair’s support documentation also lists K70 RGB MK.2 and STRAFE RGB MK.2 variants among keyboards that support hardware profiles. That can help when checking a specific SKU or looking for compatible support information. Corsair’s hardware-profile guidance covers the feature.
How do the switches affect feel and noise?
K70: more switch choice
The K70’s larger launch lineup makes it easier to seek a particular switch style: Red, Brown, Blue, Speed, or Silent. Those labels identify different switch families, but they cannot tell you whether a used board’s switches suit your hands or preferences. If possible, confirm the exact variant and try the switch type before buying.
Rank #2
- Dynamic RGB Backlighting: Light up your desktop with six onboard lighting effects, assign a color to each lighting zone, or program your own vibrant lighting effects across five RGB lighting zones with CORSAIR iCUE software.
- Six Dedicated Macro Keys: Activate functions, shortcuts, or keypresses in just one stroke with six dedicated macro keys, easily set up through CORSAIR iCUE software, or use instant streaming commands through Elgato Stream Deck software.
- Dust and Spill-Resistant Design: IP42-rated protection guards against accidents so your gameplay never has to stop.
- Detachable Palm Rest: A soft rubber palm rest reduces stress on your hands so you can play longer in comfort, with a textured surface to keep your hands from slipping.
- Dedicated Volume and Media Keys: Convenient control for media playback and fine-tuning volume on-the-fly without having to interrupt your game.
STRAFE: Red or Silent in the launch lineup
The STRAFE’s narrower lineup included MX Red and MX Silent. Corsair said its Cherry MX Silent switches reduced noise by “up to 30%” in the company’s June 2018 announcement. That is a manufacturer claim, not an independent measurement or a guarantee of how loud a complete keyboard will sound in a particular room.
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1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteReview results for one switch variant should not be transferred to another. RTINGS identifies its tested STRAFE as a Cherry MX Red model, so its assessment does not establish the typing sound or feel of the MX Silent version. RTINGS’ STRAFE RGB MK.2 review discusses its tested board and comparison with the K70.
Rank #3
- Get the RAPIDFIRE advantage CHERRY MX Speed mechanical key switches provide the reliability and accuracy you demand, with blistering fast 1.2mm actuation
- Aircraft grade silver anodized brushed aluminum frame, built to withstand a lifetime of gaming
- White PBT double shot keycaps for superior durability, look and feel
- 8MB profile storage with hardware macro and lighting playback allow access to up to three stored profiles on the go, independent of external software
- Per key dynamic multi color RGB backlighting offers near unlimited color customization and control. HID keyboard report rate 1000Hz
What did reviewers think of the build?
HotHardware’s Dave Altavilla reviewed both keyboards in June 2018 and described them as having a dense, premium feel. That is the reviewer’s subjective impression, not evidence that either model is indestructible or immune to wear. His review also notes the included key puller and gray replacement FPS/MOBA keycaps. Read the HotHardware review.
RTINGS characterizes the STRAFE as performing similarly to the K70 and points to the K70’s aluminum top plate and wider switch selection as notable differences. Tom’s Guide likewise describes the K70 as a full-size wired keyboard with an aluminum surface, media controls, pass-through, and textured gaming keycaps. These reviews help frame the design trade-offs, but neither replaces checking the exact switch and condition of a particular used unit. Tom’s Guide’s K70 review.
Rank #4
- Speed is Everything: It’s all about speed. With Rapid Trigger, ultra-fast polling rates, and per-key adjustable switches, K70 PRO TKL removes every barrier that comes between you and gaming greatness
- Space-Saving Tenkeyless Layout: The sleek, streamlined tenkeyless layout fits in nearly every gaming setup, while leaving room for sweeping mouse movements
- MGX Hyperdrive Magnetic Switches*: Pre-lubricated CORSAIR MGX Hyperdrive magnetic switches deliver a smooth, ultra-responsive keypress. Its sturdy double-rail structure reduces wobble and guarantees peak performance for 150 million keystrokes. *Function keys and non-primary keys feature CORSAIR MLX switches
- Rapid Trigger Advantage: Rapid Trigger dynamically changes your keys’ actuation and reset points, so you can move and reset your movements faster than ever
- Customizable Per-Key Actuation: Adjust the actuation point of each key from a super-sensitive 0.4mm to a deep 3.6mm (in 0.1mm steps) or set two actions to a single keypress with dual actuation for quick-fire combos and action pairs
Which one should you choose?
- Choose the K70 RGB MK.2 if aluminum construction or the broadest choice of switch types matters most.
- Consider the STRAFE RGB MK.2 with MX Silent if you want the quieter-oriented launch variant and are comfortable with its plastic construction and more limited switch selection. Corsair’s noise figure is a company claim, not a measured guarantee.
- Consider the STRAFE with MX Red if that exact switch is what you want and the price and condition make sense; do not use reviews of the Red variant as evidence about the Silent version.
Neither model is an automatic winner on features alone: the shared controls and core gaming functions are substantial, while the chassis and switch lineup are the clearer points of difference.
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Both products were announced on June 12, 2018, so current listings concern legacy hardware, not a newly launched keyboard. Before purchasing, verify the unit rather than relying on a listing title or an old review page.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Space-Saving Tenkeyless Layout: The compact tenkeyless footprint fits in tight gaming setups and leaves more room for sweeping mouse movements
- Pre-Lubed MLX Red v2 Switches: Pre-lubricated CORSAIR MLX Red v2 linear mechanical switches deliver smooth, responsive, and stable keystrokes, with enhanced ultra-bright per-key RGB backlighting
- Ultra-Satisfying Typing Acoustics: Two sound dampening layers made from premium foam material, plus pre-lubricated stabilizers, temper unwanted pings and clacks for pleasantly subdued typing
- Masterful Media Control: Control volume and more with a multi-function rotary dial and programmable media button, customizable with iCUE
- Sturdy Double-Shot Keycaps: Tough and resilient ABS double-shot keycaps won’t crack under pressure
- Confirm the complete model and SKU. Make sure the listing is for the RGB MK.2 version, not a similarly named Corsair keyboard. Corsair’s support list can help identify hardware-profile-capable model variants.
- Ask which switches are installed. Confirm the switch type from the seller or clear product photos; the available configurations differed by model and region.
- Check the regional layout. Inspect the key arrangement and legends, especially if the keyboard will be used with a particular language or regional layout.
- Assess condition and included parts. Ask about key function, lighting, cable and USB pass-through operation, wrist rest, and whether the FPS/MOBA caps or key puller are present. Included accessories in launch materials do not establish aftermarket keycap compatibility.
- Get warranty terms in writing. Corsair stated a two-year warranty at launch, but that historical term does not establish coverage for a current used or old-stock listing. Confirm eligibility with Corsair and the seller.
- Compare the actual offer, not historical pricing. HotHardware’s 2018 review prices and older retailer widgets are not current quotes. Check today’s price, seller, return terms, and condition before deciding.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
