# HK Gaming GK61 60% Mechanical Keyboard Review
Verified HK Gaming GK61 Specifications
We put the HK Gaming GK61 through its paces. Here are the hard numbers and key specs for the version we tested, featuring Gateron Optical Red switches:
- Form Factor: 60% ANSI
- Switch Type: Gateron Optical (Hot-swappable)
- Tested Switch Model: Gateron Optical Red
- Actuation Distance: 2.0 mm
- Actuation Force: 45 g
- Total Travel: 4.0 mm
- Case Material: Plastic
- Plate Material: Aluminum (White)
- Keycap Material: Doubleshot ABS
- Keycap Profile: OEM
- Stabilizer Type: Plate-mounted Cherry-style
- Connectivity: USB-C (Braided Cable Included)
- Port Location: Top-left, recessed
- Backlighting: RGB (16.8 million colors, 21 brightness levels, 9 presets)
- Programmable Layers: 3 on-board
- Dimensions: 290.07 x 100.08 x 29.97 mm
- Weight: 0.546 kg
- Ingress Protection: IP68 (Water and Spill Resistant)
- Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux, ChromeOS
- Rubber Feet: 4
Design, Build & Physical Fit of the HK Gaming GK61
Running your fingers across the case, the HK Gaming GK61 feels surprisingly solid for its price tier. The construction uses a thick plastic housing paired with an aluminum plate. Flexing the board by hand does nothing; it stays rigid on the desk. This blend of materials minimizes chassis movement and helps portability.
At 0.546 kg, it holds its spot well without feeling like a paperweight. The compact 60% layout measures 290.07 x 100.08 x 29.97 mm, saving significant desk space. This board opts for high-profile case walls, keeping the switches tucked away instead of a floating-key design. The standard ANSI layout and bottom row are good news for custom keycap fans, allowing broad aftermarket options.
White aluminum makes up the top plate, reflecting the RGB light well in dimmer settings. Be aware, though, that this plate scratches easily if you're not careful when removing switches. Four rubber feet keep it stable. There are no adjustable kickstands, so you rely on the case's fixed, slight incline for typing angle. This might not suit everyone, but it’s a common design choice in the budget sector.
Core Performance & Feel of the HK Gaming GK61
The Gateron Optical Red switches in our test unit deliver a light, smooth keystroke. With an actuation distance of 2.0 mm and a force of 45 g, these switches respond quickly. This low actuation force can, at times, lead to accidental key presses, especially during fast typing. Optical switches inherently boast faster response times than traditional mechanical switches, which gives a clear edge in reaction-based games.
N-key rollover works reliably, as expected with a wired connection, ensuring every press registers. The board's sound profile is a pleasant surprise. Unlike many hollow-sounding optical keyboards, the GK61 sounds relatively full right out of the box. Adding internal case foam would dampen it further. Stock stabilizers also sound better than those found on other budget optical boards, landing squarely in the middle of all tested boards.
The doubleshot ABS keycaps have textured tops and glossy sidewalls. The primary legends use a unique stenographic font, with separated loops on characters like O, P, B, and D. Main legends won't fade due to their doubleshot build. However, the laser-etched sub-legends will show wear over time. Expect the glossy sidewalls to develop shine with long use.
Power, Connection & Setup for the HK Gaming GK61
The HK Gaming GK61 is a wired keyboard, relying on a USB-C connection. The port sits recessed on the top left. This placement and recess can make it tricky with some thicker custom USB-C cables, so keep that in mind if you plan to upgrade the included braided cable. For power, it operates efficiently with low power draw, functioning via standard power management. It's truly plug-and-play across a wide range of devices.
The wired-only design ensures a stable connection without any wireless interference or latency worries. You simply plug it in, and it works. This direct approach means you don't need to fret about battery life or charging cycles, which is a pro for set-it-and-forget-it desk setups. Just know you'll always have a cable running to your machine.
Controls, Software & Daily HK Gaming GK61 Maintenance
Managing the HK Gaming GK61’s features mostly happens through secondary Fn key shortcuts. You can access arrow key functions on a layer right next to the far-right Fn key, allowing one-handed navigation. Other shortcuts include toggling RGB lighting presets via Fn + Backspace, or locking the Windows key with Fn + Windows. There are also specific 'logic lights mode' (Fn + ]) and 'code lights mode' (Fn + \) that sync RGB to audio via the built-in microphone. This is a neat trick, if a little niche.
The keyboard supports three on-board programmable layers. This means you can create custom macros and remap keys without needing active software running. For deeper customization, downloadable software lets you fine-tune RGB effects and program these layers. The GK61 works with both Windows and macOS, though it doesn't include Mac-specific keycaps, a minor oversight. It also plays nice with Linux and ChromeOS via standard USB HID.
For maintenance, the GK61 comes with an impressive IP68 rating, making it water and spill resistant. This is a huge plus for daily use and peace of mind. Cleaning is straightforward, but remember the laser-etched sub-legends will wear. The doubleshot ABS keycaps will eventually develop shine, which is normal for this material.
How the HK Gaming GK61 Compares
Pitting the HK Gaming GK61 against other budget optical keyboards highlights its strengths, and a few weaknesses. For instance, its stabilizers punch above their weight; they sound better than those on many competing budget optical boards. This places the GK61's acoustics squarely in the middle of all boards I've tested, which is a compliment in this price bracket.
Where most optical keyboards often sound quite hollow, the GK61 sounds notably fuller out of the box. This provides a better, less plasticky typing experience without needing immediate mods. For switch options, the GK61 offers six Gateron optical variants (Black, Blue, Brown, Red, Silver, Yellow). This is more diverse than the standard three colors (Blue, Brown, Red) often found on budget mechanical boards.
Directly comparing it to the Epomaker SK64, a key difference emerges: dedicated arrow keys. The SK64 manages to include these in a similar compact footprint. If you absolutely cannot live without dedicated arrow keys, even with the GK61's one-handed Fn-layer arrow shortcuts, the Epomaker SK64 offers an alternative without greatly increasing desk space. However, for sheer switch modding accessibility and robust build, the GK61 stands strong.
What I Like & What Could Be Better (Pros & Cons)
After extended use, the HK Gaming GK61 proves itself as a capable board, but it is not without its quirks. Here’s what stood out:
What I Like:
- Budget-Friendly: This is one of the most affordable hot-swappable keyboards out there, offering excellent value.
- Fast Optical Switches: The Gateron Optical Reds offer quick, smooth response, great for gaming.
- IP68 Spill Resistance: A huge bonus for daily desk life. Accidents happen, and this board can handle it.
- Quiet Operation: The linear switches keep noise low, making it good for shared spaces.
- Modding Potential: Optical hot-swap sockets make switch changes easy. You can also tune stabilizers and case swap.
- Standard Layout: Its 60% ANSI layout means plenty of aftermarket keycap sets will fit.
- Solid Build: The thick plastic case and aluminum plate resist flex well.
What Could Be Better:
- Wired-Only: No wireless or Bluetooth options, which some competitors now offer.
- Recessed USB-C Port: Can cause issues with certain custom USB-C cables.
- No Adjustable Kickstands: A fixed angle might not suit all users' ergonomic preferences.
- Laser-Etched Sub-Legends: These will wear off over time, unlike the main doubleshot legends.
- Messy Factory Lube: Stabilizer lube can be overdone and visible, though it does improve sound.
Who Should Skip the HK Gaming GK61
The HK Gaming GK61 is a strong contender for many, but it's not for everyone. If you routinely crunch numbers or rely heavily on dedicated arrow and function keys, this 60% layout will slow you down. The learning curve for using Fn layers for basic navigation is steep for heavy data entry. In that case, consider something like the Epomaker SK64, which fits dedicated arrow keys into a compact design. Serious macOS users might also find the lack of Mac-specific modifier keycaps frustrating, even with compatibility.
Additionally, if a clutter-free desk is your top priority and you need wireless freedom, the GK61's wired-only connection is a dealbreaker. You will need to check the current market for wireless optical alternatives if that is crucial for your setup. Finally, if you demand absolute top-tier acoustic dampening without any modification, the GK61's stock sound is good for the price, but dedicated enthusiasts will want to add case foam, a step not everyone wants to take.