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.
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
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
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.
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.