Ultra-Responsive and Ultra-Striking Gaming Keyboards.
Originally published by Micro Center News.
Written by Siobhan Mekinda | Photography by Jacob Bobo
Not that long ago, MelGeek sent us two keyboards to test out: the REAL81 and MADE68 Pro+. Both are ultra-responsive gaming keyboards with an 8K polling rate, a 16K scan rate, and a latency of about 0.125ms.
They’re also both immediately attention-grabbing keyboards, with the REAL81’s stark black-and-gold aesthetic and MADE68 Pro+’s hot pink shell. But, no matter whether you’re looking for classic keyboard vibes or high-visibility girlie-pop, these are powerful gaming keyboards; I’ve pulled together some quick thoughts after a bit of time with both of them.
Hands on with the REAL81
Photography by Jacob Bobo
Kicking things off is the REAL81, available in Micro Center stores now. The REAL81 features a mostly matte-black shell but has gold metal siding to really make the keyboard pop. As the name might imply, the REAL81 has 81 keys, slicing off the number pad for a 75% keyboard. The keycaps themselves are translucent, shine-through black to match the main part of the keyboard, but do feature two bright pops of orange on the “esc” and “enter” keys.
Under those keycaps are MelGeek Honey magnetic switches. Magnetic switches, also known as Hall Effect switches, are pretty complicated, using a combination of sensors and magnets to read actuation points (the point where a keypress is registered). MelGeek’s Honey switches are fully linear, with no feedback at the actuation point, making for smooth, quick typing and a quiet keypress.
That quiet keypress is supported, at least in part, by a robust five-layer acoustic foam gasket mount that helps keep noise down while still providing a nice, solid “thunk” when the key bottoms out.
It also features an 8K polling rate -- meaning the keyboard communicates with the computer 8,000 times per second -- and a 16K scan rate -- meaning the keyboard checks which buttons are being pressed 16,000 times per second -- for one of the most responsive keyboards I’ve used. While the average gamer might not see the true effect of these absolutely massive polling and scan rates, if you’ve got the skills, it can absolutely be a game changer.
Hands on with the MADE68 Pro+.
Photography by Jacob Bobo
The other keyboard I got to test out is the VERY vibrant MADE68 Pro+. While we don’t have the pastel-pink version I got to use (yet -- It’s coming soon!), we do have the not-quite-as-vibrant-but-still-gorgeous white and purple version. However, the MADE68 Pro+ isn’t just unique for its bold color scheme or customizable RGB. The 68-key keyboard has had everything not completely necessary to gaming removed, cutting out both the number pad and the F-row of keys. But, in a fun twist, it is (unofficially) compatible with LEGO bricks.
The keyboard features conspicuously placed studs up and down on both sides of the keyboard. While this does nothing for your gaming prowess (unless that one minifig is a lucky charm), it does add an exciting level of customization that the average keyboard will never hit.
Like the REAL81, the MADE68 Pro+ uses Hall Effect switches for smooth, linear keypresses as well as an 8K polling rate and 16K scan rate, making it just as powerful a gaming keyboard, albeit a bit smaller and with a LOT more color.
MelGeek Hive Software
Intended for both the REAL81 and MADE68 Pro+, the MelGeek Hive software can dial in your keyboard choices even more. Go in-depth with your RGB customization, set up per-key or universal actuation point changes, as well as unique key macros for quick actions no matter what game you’re playing.
If you’re ready to pick up your next keyboard, stop by your local Micro Center. Our keyboard section features a plethora of options that you can actually touch and try before you buy. And, if you’re not sure which MelGeek keyboard is right for you, first go check out our Keyboard 101 series, then head in-store and our knowledgeable staff will be more than happy to help you find the perfect keyboard for your needs.
Siobhan Mekinda is the editor for Micro Center News, with five years of experience on The Micro Center Community and writing credits across the internet, including Polygon, 25YL, and 614 Magazine. She's been writing about and reviewing tech for over five years.
Shiv has a specialty in gaming, peripherals, and creative projects designed to make your life easier, especially when it comes to tabletop gaming.
Contact Shiv at SMekinda@microcenter.com or find them on BlueSky.