COOLER MASTER SK651 [INTRODUCTION]

05/2020 by LAURA STIEMER (TEXT) / HOLGER DASSLER (PHOTOS) - Back to overview

The Cooler Master SK651 is a mechanical gaming keyboard that relies on the new CHERRY MX Low Profile RGB switches and wireless connectivity via Bluetooth. Due to these flat switches, the overall design of the keyboard is very low and compact. By using the Red switch version of the CHERRY MX Low Profile RGB the keys provide a short travel for lightning-fast input, while the wireless connection reduces cable clutter on the desk. In this blog post we’ll talk about all the features the Cooler Master SK651 has to offer.

COOLER MASTER SK651 IN DETAIL

The Cooler Master SK651 has a compact and elegant look. This is partly a result of the high-quality materials used in this keyboard, such as the aluminum top plate, and partly because of the slim housing, which has a small footprint despite having a numeric pad on the right-hand side. This low-profile model makes a good impression on any desk.

In addition to its straight-forward design, the gaming keyboard impresses with a high stability and clean workmanship. The low height of only 29.8 millimeters is extremely pleasant when compared to other mechanical keyboards.

ERGONOMIC DESIGN AND BLUETOOTH CONNECTION

Thanks to the flat keycaps in the chiclet layout, the Cooler Master SK651 allows you to type pretty fast while sparing your wrists. Because of the minimal incline of the housing, the joints in your hand are only minimally stressed, allowing you to work more ergonomically. The keyboard features double-shot PBT keycaps known for their robustness and durability.

The SK651 uses Bluetooth 4.0 technology to connect to the PC, giving users a flexible, wireless connection, minimal input delay, and low power consumption. In addition, this wireless technology allows simultaneous connections to a total of three devices. For example, the keyboard can be used on a laptop, tablet and PC, as it can be quickly switched between these systems.

SOLID DESK GRIP AND DETACHABLE USB-C CABLE

Despite a low weight of only 629 grams, the Cooler Master SK651 has a solid grip on the desk thanks to its anti-slip feet. The keyboard features a USB Type-C connector to use the keyboard over a wired connection. Having a detachable cable offers advantages: it prevents cable damage when transporting the keyboard and can easily be switched out in case of faults. The USB-C connection is also used to charge the internal battery of the keyboard, during which the keyboard can be used as normal.

INDIVIDUALLY PROGRAMMABLE RGB LIGHTING

With a modern keyboard like the Cooler Master SK651, extensive RGB lighting options are a must-have. Users have the complete RGB spectrum of up to 16.8 million colors at their disposal, as well as numerous lighting effects such as a rainbow pattern. All this can be done in the intuitive driver software. Alternatively, it is possible to control the colors and lighting modes directly with keyboard shortcuts.

RELIABLE AND RESPONSIVE PERFORMANCE

Cooler Master had integrated a 32-bit ARM Cortex processor, which is responsible for processing LED effects, macros and keystrokes. The powerful microcontroller ensures reliable and responsive processing of all user input.

In addition, gamers benefit from N-key rollover and anti-ghosting, which ensures recognition of all keystrokes, even with complex keyboard shortcuts, quick typing sequences, or simultaneously pressed keys. This means that nothing is lost, even in heated battles.

BUILT UPON CHERRY MX LOW PROFILE RGB RED SWITCHES

Cooler Master uses CHERRY MX Low Profile RGB Red switches for its keys. These offer a linear switching characteristic without an audible click, a short travel of 1.2 millimeters, and a low actuation force of 45 centinewtons. Combined with the high-performance processor of the SK651, this results in faster triggering and higher switching frequencies. Even in hectic games, inputs will be responsive and precise. If you are already a fan of CHERRY MX switches, you will quickly be able to make friends with the new Low Profile RGB Red switches.

NEW SOFTWARE FOR MORE CONFIGURATION OPTIONS

The revised Cooler Master Portal software is not a mandatory requirement to use the SK651, but it offers numerous extra options. For example, the user can adjust the colors of the key lighting or choose from different LED effects. Programming macros is also possible with this software tool. Thanks to a clear and user-friendly interface, it’s very easy to use this software.

CONCLUSION

The Cooler Master SK651 impresses with its clean workmanship, high-quality materials, and an elegant design. Thanks to its narrow housing the keyboard hardly takes up space on the desk and its low height gives it a high level of ergonomics. The Cooler Master SK651 also impresses on the inside: its powerful microcontroller is reliable and responsive, and the integrated memory makes your keyboard configuration available on every PC. That being said, the biggest highlights are certainly the ultra-flat CHERRY MX Low Profile RGB Red switches. They ensure fast and precise input in everyday office life and a fast triggering process while gaming.