K55 CORE vs K70 CORE: What's the difference?

With the release of the K55 CORE there are now two keyboards with the CORE branding. While these two options may sound similar, the CORE name they share is more about design philosophy and not the function. Everything from the switches to the build materials are extremely different so let’s go over some of the details and talk about which one is right for you.

To understand the differences between these two keyboards it’s important to understand the CORSAIR keyboard lineup. The K55 line is where we hope gamers start. This is where we explore our entry level options trying to focus on lower costs while still providing great experiences and plenty of functionality. The K70 line is our mid-tier option where we aim to provide a serious keyboard for a more competitive and performance-focused user. Because of the extra emphasis on excellence, the K70 series also comes with more options and higher quality materials.

The K55 Core retains the entry level target, being a lighter weight membrane keyboard designed for more everyday use. The unique benefit of this is that it is spill resistant up to 300ml on top of being a quieter experience than higher end options. With more expensive mechanical keyboards that have more complex switches, water and other liquids can easily wash away lubricants or cause parts to jam up.

But despite being targeted for entry level gamers who are simply looking for a gaming keyboard standard 1000hz polling rate, the K55 CORE keeps a suite of convenience features. The included media controls, brightness button, and WIN lock create a keyboard that’s not just about the typing experience, but the user experience as well. Everything from the feel of the keys to the iCUE controlled 10-zone RGB lighting is core to the identity of a CORSAIR keyboard.

The K70 CORE is the newest iteration of the popular K70 that is more focused on performance and quality. This is immediately apparent with extra weight provided by the aluminum top plate, two layers of sound dampening, and the CORSAIR MLX Red switches of the fully mechanical design. Designed with the standardized cross stem, the double shot ABS keycaps are replaceable with most 3rd party full sized layout keycap sets.

The RGB and media controls are also taken to the next level. The K70 CORE is upgraded to per-key lighting, allowing for smoother, more detailed lighting effects. These can be switched with the five on-board profiles or adjusted with the new multi-functional rotary dial. The dial can be configured to control volume, RGB brightness, zoom, scroll, and more.

Those are the most important functions of both the K55 CORE and K70 CORE. While initially there may be some comparisons due to the CORE naming, they're both two different keyboards made for two different audiences. Both are great options for gamers looking for just the essentials in their next keyboard. They provide plenty of functionality while slimming down more extraneous functions and staying true to their lineup, giving them the title of CORE.