It seems like wired mechanical gaming keyboards are becoming a thing of the past, with wireless optical ones leading the trend. It almost feels odd using a heavier, wired keyboard now. But here we are, and I’m excited to share that the Lang MK8 is a fantastic addition to the market. Although it has a few peculiarities, which I’ll get into, it’s a rock-solid keyboard offering a great experience.
Features
The MK8 packs some playful RGB effects and 13 hot-swappable keys, catering to gamers who love a tactile and sturdy keyboard.
Technical Specifications
– Dimensions: 14 x 5.2 x 1.3 inches
– Connectivity: Wired (detachable USB-C)
– Weight: 1200g (2.6lb)
– Switches: Gateron Mechanical
– Layout: 80% Keyboard
– Keys: 87
Packaging & Contents
Unboxing the MK8 is straightforward and satisfying. The keyboard sits right at the top, with all necessary accessories neatly tucked beneath. The package includes:
– Extra Switches
– Key Swapping Tools
– Quickstart Guide
– MK8 Mechanical Keyboard
– Long USB-C to USB-A Cable
Build Quality
The first thing you’ll notice is the weight. This isn’t a lightweight keyboard, but that heft gives it a premium feel. The sturdy feet keep it firmly planted on your desk, and it takes a good push to make it slide—great for heavy-handed gamers. The stands are robust and snap into place with a solid click, offering a comfortable typing angle even without them due to the keyboard’s natural slope.
Connecting and disconnecting the wire is a breeze. The design allows the wire to exit from the top or either side, making it versatile and convenient.
Keys
The Gateron mechanical switches are responsive and satisfying to use, producing a pleasant, clicky sound. You can swap these for Kailh switches if you prefer. The 13 hot-swappable keys include essential gaming keys like Q, W, E, R, A, S, D, F, as well as Backspace, Enter, Shifts, and Space. While it would be nice to have more hot-swappable options, these are straightforward to change, and the included switches are top-notch.
The compact 80% layout is typical but effective. Initially, I missed the Enter key occasionally due to its position and feel compared to the other keys, but this minor issue fades as you get used to the layout.
User Experience
Using the MK8 is a delight. It’s durable, easy to set up—just plug it in and go—and the RGB effects are striking. The keyboard’s weight keeps it steady during intense gaming sessions, enhancing reliability and performance.
In summary, the MK8 is a durable, responsive, and fun-to-use keyboard that stands out, especially with its RGB effects. It’s perfect for gamers looking for a solid, mechanical keyboard experience.