The MGX magnetic mechanism revitalizes the iconic K70! Introducing the CORSAIR K70 MAX magnetic switch gaming keyboard

The K70 has always been a staple among CORSAIR’s lineup of keyboards. Over time, CORSAIR has continually innovated, introducing various iterations of the K70, ranging from the TKL to the 60%. The latest addition, the K70 MAX, comes with the recently introduced magnetic shaft, offering peak performance. It also boasts two layers of sound insulation and a new hand rest filled with memory foam, ensuring an unparalleled tactile experience for users.

New to the mechanical keyboard scene, the magnetic shaft provides adjustability akin to the electrostatic capacitive shaft. Its operation relies on magnetic force and a Hall sensor, eliminating the need for metallic contacts, which in turn extends the shaft’s lifespan.

Specifications:

Key Layout: 104 Keys
Shaft: CORSAIR MGX
Key Travel: Adjustable between 0.4mm to 3.6mm
Trigger Point Settings: Up to 2
Keycap Material: PBT Dual-color molded
Connection: USB 3.0 or 3.1 Type-A wired
Polling Rate: As high as 8000Hz
Onboard Memory: 8MB
Warranty: 2 years

Table of Contents

MGX magnetic axis and double-layer acoustic damping

The K70 series from CORSAIR stands as an enduring classic among keyboards. While they’ve diversified with varying sizes and styles recently, the standard-sized K70 has seen its first update in a year. Not only does it now feature CORSAIR’s latest MGX magnetic shaft, but it also boasts intricate design tweaks. The overall aesthetic remains recognizable, yet it carries a fresh touch.

A noteworthy feature is the AXON Hyper-Processing technology, enabling a high 8000Hz polling rate. Additionally, the standard K70 now comes with a “competition switch.” Ideal for competitive players or those seeking an edge in gaming, this switch offers a mode that, with a single click, deactivates extraneous functions, allowing for more focused gameplay.

**The packaging is marked as MGX shaft, standard configuration and engraving version.**

**There are product features on the back of the package.**

**This time the keyboard uses new paper packaging instead of the original plastic packaging.**

The recently introduced MGX magnetic shaft by CORSAIR has limited details available officially. While its external appearance is reminiscent of the Cherry shaft, its internal makeup differs notably. Instead of a spring, the shaft cap’s bottom houses a magnet, with a corresponding sensor on the PCB. This magnetic Hall sensor measures button press depth by detecting magnetic force variations. Such a design not only reduces wear on the shaft, enhancing its longevity but also allows gamers to tailor the button activation height via both software and manual adjustments.

The key travel for the MGX shaft is consistent with most shafts at 4mm. Players can choose a trigger point anywhere from 0.4mm to 3.6mm, adjusting in 0.1mm increments. The software also supports setting up two trigger points. This functionality can be particularly useful in games that necessitate double-clicking, as it facilitates a single-click double-action. Nonetheless, it would be beneficial if a trigger button function were added, catering to the needs of most racing game enthusiasts.

**Schematic diagram of double trigger points of MGX shaft body.**

From the official keyboard breakdown imagery, it’s evident that acoustic damping materials have been added both above and below the keyboard’s PCB. This design choice, which has gained traction in the DIY keyboard community recently, aims to mitigate the noise produced when keys are pressed down fully and to provide a softer auditory feedback when keys are tapped.

CORSAIR K70 MAX unboxing

First of all, let’s look at the appearance. K70 MAX still maintains the familiar appearance, but this time in addition to adding texture printing on the upper cover, there are also drilled and cut corners around it, which greatly improves the overall texture. In addition, the lower left corner is indispensable. A / /K70 is printed.

**K70 MAX keyboard appearance overview.**

**There are drilled and cut chamfers around the aluminum alloy upper cover of the keyboard.**

Atop the keyboard, we find the recognizable shortcut keys, indicator lights, and multimedia keys. A distinctive feature this time is the top cover cutouts for the shortcut keys and the volume control section, which now sport drilled corners. This design choice emphasizes the key positions. On the right, the multimedia keys retain their consistent look, utilizing separate keys to ensure they feel distinct from the numerical keypad.

**A list of indicator lights at the top, from left to right are macro recording, mute, Win Lock, Num Lock, Caps Lock and Scroll Lock.**

**The function keys on the left are mode switching, light brightness and Win Lock.**

**On the right are the mute button and volume wheel.**

Located at the back of the keyboard is a USB Type-C port, and on its side, you’ll find the “Competition Switch.” Once activated, this switch swiftly deactivates all macros and extra features, allowing e-sports competitors to instantly revert the keyboard to its default settings during matches. With the competition switch engaged, the keyboard’s default lighting is red. However, if this hue isn’t to your preference, adjustments can be made using the iCue software.

**In the middle is the Type-C port and competitive switch.**

**The default competitive mode is full-key red light.**

The keyboard utilizes the previously mentioned CORSAIR MGX magnetic shaft. The central cross shaft and the lower casing are white, while the top cover boasts a transparent design. Paired with this are two-tone molded PBT translucent keycaps. Thanks to the exposed shaft design, not only do the keycap inscriptions illuminate, but light effects are also visible between the keycaps.

The K70 MAX keyboard retains the familiar threading hole design on its underside. Additionally, it is enhanced with sizable rubber pads around its perimeter and features two-tiered support feet on its sides. A unique touch to this model is the use of a translucent material for the bottom casing. While typically not in direct view, this design choice adds a subtle aesthetic flair to the overall appearance.

**The translucent shell of the keyboard base fabric allows you to directly see the underlying acoustic damping.**

**Two sections of support legs and anti-slip rubber pads.**

**There is also a large area of anti-slip rubber pad at the front end, and a magnet for fixing the handrest is provided on the side.**

The K70 MAX comes with a magnetic handrest, distinguishing itself by featuring a memory foam surface. This offers enhanced comfort when compared to the K70 Pro’s rigid handrest.

**A magnetic handrest can be installed in front of the keyboard, and it will automatically attract when you place the handrest up.**

**The front of the hand rest is made of soft memory foam, and the back also has a transparent bottom shell and anti-slip rubber pad.**

**The memory foam will sink by about 5mm when pressed down.**

iCue software

The iCUE software offers various features including button configuration, lighting customization, and polling rate adjustment. Moreover, users interested in monitoring their hardware specifics can access this information within the iCUE software.

**All 104 keys in the area are MGX axes, and the trigger settings can be adjusted on the key activation page.**

**The device settings page allows you to adjust the cycle rate, button layout, competition mode backlight, etc.**

CORSAIR K70 MAX Unboxing

This iteration of the K70 from CORSAIR incorporates the new MGX magnetic shaft. In hands-on use, it bears a resemblance to the feel of the red shaft. But with the inclusion of two layers of acoustic damping, there’s a more cushioned tactile response and a noticeably quieter keypress sound compared to typical mechanical shafts.

Presently, I infrequently find the need for double-click actions in games. The Hall sensor in the magnetic shaft can emulate joystick movements and triggers. This is especially useful for racing games or any game that demands nuanced button pressure control. This feature sets it apart from conventional keyboards. If CORSAIR can incorporate analog joystick and trigger functionalities in future designs, it would undoubtedly appeal to a broader spectrum of gamers.

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Title: The MGX magnetic mechanism revitalizes the iconic K70! Introducing the CORSAIR K70 MAX magnetic switch gaming keyboard