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After reviewing the GamePro Asgard Drakkar, Asgard Yord, and Asgard Ragnar, I was interested in examining the Asgard series in more detail. In addition to the models already covered, the lineup also includes mice, headsets, and several other keyboards. Among them are the GamePro Asgard Valhalla MK210W Pro, GamePro Asgard Valhalla MK160W Pro, and GamePro Asgard Valhalla Pro MK160B-D-Pro.
Read also: Gaming Keyboard Reviews
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
GamePro Asgard Valhalla Video review
Positioning and price
If the somewhat confusing and not particularly informative model nomenclature is set aside, the price of all three models is broadly comparable to that of the previously reviewed Asgard keyboards – namely the Drakkar, Yord, and Ragnar. This is worth noting because the Valhalla models share several similarities with those keyboards while also differing from them in a number of significant ways.
Transparent PBT
The primary difference lies in the keycaps. According to the manufacturer, PBT keycaps have traditionally been considered opaque, while ABS keycaps are typically used when illuminated legends are required. However, if the manufacturer’s description is accurate, the Valhalla series is among the first to implement so-called hybrid PBT keycaps, in which the legend area is made from a different material.
This does not necessarily mean that the legend itself is made from ABS. In some cases, the legend layer is produced from another material. Whether it is more durable than ABS is uncertain, although the possibility cannot be ruled out. Since shine-through PBT keycaps do exist, the manufacturer’s explanation appears plausible.
This distinction is relevant because, on more than one occasion, colleagues and acquaintances have noted that keyboards without transparent legends are of little interest to them. The KAT profile – relatively uncommon in this market – did not attract their attention, nor did the potential durability benefits of the keycaps. Their priority was simply the presence of illuminated legends. For users with similar preferences, the Valhalla models may therefore be a more suitable option than the Drakkar.
It is also important to note the differences in the overall backlighting, as some users may prefer the implementation used in the Valhalla series. The lighting is noticeably more pronounced and brighter, though somewhat less restrained in appearance. This approach may appeal more to gaming-oriented users, which aligns with the intended positioning of these keyboards. For typing tasks, however, the Drakkar with KAT-profile keycaps proved to be the more suitable option.
Color and Profile
Unlike the Drakkar, none of the Asgard Valhalla models change the keycap profile depending on the color variant. The color options themselves are somewhat inconsistent. The lineup includes four sub-models – Valhalla, Valhalla Pro, Valhalla D-Pro, and Valhalla Max – yet there are seven variants available in total. This means the distribution does not follow a simple pattern such as three colors for each sub-model; instead, the seven color options are spread unevenly across the range.
The Valhalla D-Pro also features a built-in TFT display capable of presenting a range of information, from the clock and battery status to user-defined GIF animations. Control of the display is implemented through a mode switch: holding the Fn key and pressing the volume knob activates display control, indicated by a red flashing backlight. In this mode, the knob is used to navigate display functions. Repeating the same action returns the knob to its standard role of adjusting volume.
It’s worth noting that the Valhalla, Valhalla Pro, and Valhalla Max – all except the D-Pro – come with a full set of additional keycaps in an alternate color. This means that, depending on your preference, these models can be equipped with either a complete set of white keycaps or retain the standard black set.
Software
Moving on, unlike the previously reviewed models, each keyboard in the Valhalla series has its own dedicated software. On the positive side, the software works offline and is generally comprehensive in terms of functionality. However, there are some inconsistencies. The applications differ in design and features across models. For example, the D-Pro software does not include the option to upload custom GIF animations, despite this feature being advertised on the website. Additionally, some models do not support the software when connected via USB receiver and require a wired connection instead.
Next, there was some confusion regarding the switches – though technically, the confusion originated with the manufacturer, and I became its unintended victim. On the website and in promotional materials, the same keyboard model is listed with different switches. For example, the Valhalla Max is shown with Otemu Magnetic switches on the website, but the promo materials reference Rainy Magnetic switches. In reality, Otemu does not manufacture Rainy switches.
Furthermore, the Valhalla MK210Pro presents another inconsistency: the website lists QLAB Orange switches, while the box indicates QLAB Mango switches. Neither of these switch models is known outside of GamePro – they appear to be exclusive to the brand.
Additionally, the Rainy switches differ even within the same lineup. For example, the Valhalla Max uses magnetic switches rated for 100 million keypresses, while the Valhalla D-Pro has standard switches rated for 50 million keypresses. It’s unclear where the official specifications are documented. I will provide a detailed breakdown of all these switches separately, but the takeaway is this: if you are looking for established brands like Keychron or at least Kailh, these are not equivalent.
On a positive note, the manufacturer has acknowledged these inconsistencies and plans to correct them soon. However, my review reflects the units currently available in stores. Fortunately for GamePro, all three Valhalla models I received share several significant advantages – features that are sometimes missing even on the Ragnar or Drakkar keyboards.
Advantages of the GamePro Asgard Valhalla
For example, the keyboards use braided cables rather than plain silicone ones. Some models also include sticker sets – added on top of the full set of spare keycaps, as a reminder.
On the keyboard itself, in addition to the Type-C port, there’s a switch for not only Bluetooth, USB, and 2.4 GHz modes, but also for Windows and Mac layouts. The 2.4 GHz adapters are integrated into the chassis on all models. Even on the Valhalla D-Pro, the adapter sits neatly under a foot rather than protruding from the edge.
By comparison, on the Asgard Ragnar, the adapter is completely separate. And, as it turns out, this feature does not depend on keycap color or profile – the Blue version does not hide the adapter either.
Add to that the 3,000–4,000 mAh batteries, which provide up to 72 hours of continuous use. The keyboards can charge while connected or operate during charging. All models also feature a dedicated volume control knob – a feature that, again, the Ragnar lacks.
And don’t forget – all switches on all GamePro Asgard keyboards are hot-swappable, while the cases use a Gasket Mount design with dampening. As for the sound of the Valhalla switches, you’ll have to judge that for yourself.
A Few Words on the Valhalla Max
Before wrapping up, a note on the Valhalla Max. This model is so different from the other Valhalla keyboards that it really can’t be directly compared. First, it is strictly wired – there are no wireless capabilities at all. Second, the magnetic switches, regardless of their specific designation, provide genuinely unique functionality.
They support a polling rate of up to 8,000 Hz – something standard receivers and even Bluetooth connections cannot handle, which explains the absence of wireless functionality. Additionally, the software for this keyboard allows adjustment of the actuation depth, ranging from 0.1 mm to 3 mm. The switch behavior can also be customized so that partial and full key presses register differently.
And I haven’t even touched on the macro depth – without even opening the macro tab in the software, you can perform impressive functions just through key combinations. Most importantly, the magnetic switches aren’t just “analog-like”; they also produce a highly satisfying sound. I found myself typing with genuine enjoyment even on the OEM profile without using the feet. The switch sound really speaks for itself.
Summary
I have a strong suspicion that the GamePro Asgard Valhalla MK210W Pro, MK160W Pro, and MK160B-D-Pro represent a clear success – arguably coming very close to the “silver medal” next to the outstanding Drakkar, Ragnar, and Yord. However, this is a suspicion rather than certainty, as even the manufacturer appears unsure about some of their own specifications. In particular, the confusion around switches is extreme, almost comical.
That said, all the Valhalla models I reviewed have clear advantages. Features such as transparent legends, additional customization options, controllable displays, predictable special functions, and in some cases even generous extras make the Valhalla series not necessarily superior to my favorites, but fully competitive in every respect.
