GIGABYTE AORUS K1 [INTRODUCTION]

09/2020 by PAUL GÖRNHARDT / HOLGER DASSLER - Back to overview

With the AORUS K1, GIGABYTE has expanded its range of gaming peripherals with a mechanical gaming keyboard. The model is characterized by focusing on the essentials and offers a full layout with numeric keypad in a relatively compact form factor. Essential gaming features such as RGB lighting, macro functions and onboard memory are also included. In this blog post, we'll find out what other special features GIGABYTE has hidden behind the slim design.

AORUS K1 in detail

With the AORUS K1, the manufacturer GIGABYTE delivers a versatile all-rounder that is at its best in gaming, but also knows how to hold its own in everyday situations. The sleek design concentrates on the essentials and its compact form factor frees up as much space on the desk as possible. This leaves enough space for extensive mouse movements without having to give up the number pad. Alternative key assignments via the Fn key provide 22 additional multimedia and software functions. As is typical for gaming keyboards, comprehensive RGB lighting, full macro compatibility of all keys and integrated memory are also on board.

Unique and space-saving design

Externally, the AORUS K1 makes no compromises and dispenses with dedicated multimedia keys or a palm rest. This functional approach enables a complete keyboard layout with numeric keypad despite its compact appearance. At the same time, the frameless design with floating keys in combination with the matte black color scheme makes for a chic first impression. Detail-oriented accents such as the characteristic notches and the slogan "Team up, fight on" engraved on the left edge provide the finishing touches.

The principle of optimal space allocation is also reflected in the permanently attached cable, which can be routed through three different housing openings depending on preference. The two-meter-long cable is sleeved with fabric for a long service life.

Functionality for gamers

By pressing the Fn key, the AORUS K1 allows access to a total of 22 alternative multimedia and hardware functions. In addition to the usual suspects like volume control and song control, there are also more unusual shortcuts, such as for detailed RGB lighting adjustments or for opening the browser.

As you would expect from a gaming keyboard, all keys are programmable. In the required companion software AORUS Engine, macros and alternative functions can be defined at will and stored in the onboard memory. The latter also allows access to familiar keyboard configurations at LAN parties or tournaments. Of course, even numerous simultaneous keystrokes are registered error-free thanks to 100% Anti-Ghosting/N-Key-Rollover.

RGB lighting with gaming modes

Behind the 16.7 million color RGB lighting is GIGABYTE's proprietary RGBFusion 2.0 software, which is part of the unified AORUS ecosystem. This software provides various preset RGB effects such as pulsing, as well as dedicated FPS and MOBA modes that can be easily synchronized with other AORUS hardware. Alternatively, completely customized configurations are also possible.

CHERRY MX RED switches

The built-in CHERRY MX RED switches ensure particularly fast reactions during gaming. With their linear switching characteristics, these switches convert inputs without delay after a pre-travel of 2.0 millimeters. They release with an actuating force of 45 centinewtons with a pleasant light touch. Thanks to their high build quality these switches guarantee 100 million strokes without loss of performance. Long-lasting fun is pre-programmed!

Conclusion

The AORUS K1 gets by without big frills and knows where its strengths lie. With a clear gaming focus in the most compact form factor possible, the keyboard is attractive for FPS players and strategists alike. Despite its slim design, multimedia functions on the AORUS K1 are not neglected thanks to a variety of shortcut keys. Its matte black floating keys are stylishly highlighted by the multi-faceted RGB lighting, and the onboard memory makes it easy to use your own keyboard settings on other PCs. Together, these features make the AORUS K1 a well-rounded package that gamers can't go wrong with.