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CIDOO QK61 review: A deal that’s hard to ignore

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It’s a new day, and I have a new keyboard to look at. This time, it’s a wallet-friendly option with an eye-catching design and some interesting omissions.

The CIDOO QK61 represents an intriguing entry into the competitive compact keyboard market. This 60% form factor design makes deliberate compromises in its layout, removing the numeric keypad, dedicated arrow cluster, and function row in favour of a more travel-friendly footprint. While this reduction in keys might initially seem limiting, the streamlined dimensions make the QK61 particularly well-suited for mobile professionals who frequently work from different locations.

At its $59 price point, the QK61 positions itself in the budget-conscious segment of the mechanical keyboard market. This pricing strategy is notably aggressive, especially considering the current landscape where comparable 60% keyboards often command higher premiums. However, potential buyers should carefully consider whether the space-saving benefits outweigh the learning curve associated with accessing secondary functions through key combinations.

CIDOO QK61 review: A deal that’s hard to ignore

Design and build quality

The CIDOO QK61 keyboard is a compact, minimalist option designed to maximize efficiency in small desk setups, cater to gaming needs, and accommodate users on the go. With a 60% layout, it eliminates extra features like knobs, displays, and status lights, delivering a streamlined look and feel focused purely on essential functionality. The frosted, semi-translucent case adds a bit of flair by allowing the RGB lighting to subtly shine through, creating a partial glow effect across the board. Additionally, a distinctive light strip on the left edge offers a soft accent that’s visible from both top and side angles, giving the keyboard a modern aesthetic.

The bottom of the QK61 is practical, with a two-step adjustable kickstand and four long rubberized feet that keep it stable during use. On the back, the keyboard has a dedicated slot to store the wireless dongle, along with a switch for toggling between connection modes and a USB-C port for wired operation and charging. The overall design of the CIDOO QK61 embraces a minimalist approach.

Read also: KiiBOOM Loop 65 Mechanical Keyboard Review: In One Word, Gorgeous

CIDOO QK61 review: A deal that’s hard to ignore

Though the CIDOO QK61 doesn’t feature a metal frame, the frosted plastic case offers a surprisingly premium feel, comparable to, or even exceeding, the quality of high-end plastic keyboards.

The QK61 features a gasket-mounted structure, which improves typing feel and sound, along with a polycarbonate plate and five layers of dampening materials, including PET, IXPE, dual-foam, and silicone. These dampening layers work together to reduce keystroke noise and provide a softer typing experience.

Additionally, the keyboard supports hot-swapping with a wide range of 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches.

Read also: Logitech POP Icon review: Eye-Catching Design and Four Magic Buttons

CIDOO QK61 review: A deal that’s hard to ignore

Switches

The CIDOO QK61 arrives pre-assembled with a high-quality PBT keycap set, including two additional transparent polycarbonate caps for the ESC and Enter keys.. The PBT keycaps are surprisingly robust, with a substantial thickness and a unique sandy texture that enhances grip while remaining comfortable to the touch.

CIDOO QK61 review: A deal that’s hard to ignore

The keyboard is also pre-fitted with CIDOO’s Pearl White linear switches. These Pearl White switches have an actuation force of 40g. While the QK61 currently offers no other pre-installed switch options, the hot-swappable board allows for easy replacement with nearly any 3- or 5-pin mechanical switch.

Verdict

Priced at under $60, the CIDOO QK61 offers surprising quality that defies expectations for a budget keyboard. The QK61 has a substantial weight to it, lending a sense of durability and solidity that’s rarely found in this price range. In fact, it’s hard to believe it’s that cheap.

The typing experience is impressively comfortable, with a smooth and responsive feel that stands up well even in prolonged use.

Review ratings
Design
8
Materials
8
Build quality
8
Set
8
Performance
9
Price
10
Priced at under $60, the CIDOO QK61 offers surprising quality that defies expectations for a budget keyboard. The QK61 has a substantial weight to it, lending a sense of durability and solidity that’s rarely found in this price range. In fact, it’s hard to believe it’s that cheap.
Denis Koshelev
Denis Koshelev
Tech reviewer, game journalist, Web 1.0 enthusiast. For more than ten years, I've been writing about tech.
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Priced at under $60, the CIDOO QK61 offers surprising quality that defies expectations for a budget keyboard. The QK61 has a substantial weight to it, lending a sense of durability and solidity that’s rarely found in this price range. In fact, it’s hard to believe it’s that cheap.CIDOO QK61 review: A deal that’s hard to ignore