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Corsair Vanguard Pro 96

Corsair Vanguard Pro 96

Manufacturer: Corsair

The Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 is a mechanical gaming keyboard designed for gamers who seek precision and customization. It features Hall effect switches for a linear feel and offers an enhanced typing experience. The keyboard has full RGB lighting and a sturdy build with both aluminum and plastic materials for durability.

Key specifications include a full 96% layout, adjustable actuation for customizable key response, and a high polling rate of 8000 Hz. It also supports hot-swappable switches, offers dual actuation, and includes a wrist rest for comfort. The Vanguard Pro 96 is built with an aluminum plate and features a standard ANSI layout with PBT double-shot keycaps.

Pros
  • The keyboard features hot-swappable switches, allowing users to easily customize the typing experience without soldering.
  • The inclusion of a rotary dial provides convenient and intuitive control over volume and other functions.
  • With RGB lighting and a backlit keyboard, the keyboard offers a visually customizable and enhanced user experience.
  • The keyboard has adjustable feet, allowing users to modify the angle for better ergonomics and comfort during use.
  • A wrist rest is included, improving comfort during long typing or gaming sessions.
Cons
  • The keyboard does not have USB passthrough, limiting options for connecting other devices directly through the keyboard.
  • It lacks support for popular customization firmware like QMK, ZMK, or VIA, which may restrict some advanced users from configuring their ideal key layouts.
  • The keyboard is not specifically designed for Mac users, as it does not have Mac keys.
Who is this for?

The Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 is well-suited for gamers and enthusiasts who prioritize customization and precision in their keyboard setup. Its hot-swappable switches allow users to easily experiment with different switch types, while the dual actuation and adjustable actuation features offer highly customizable key response. The inclusion of a rotary dial also makes it a great option for users who need quick and intuitive control over media and volume settings during gaming or content creation sessions.

Who is this NOT for?

This keyboard may not be ideal for users who need advanced customization through software, as it lacks support for QMK, ZMK, and VIA. Additionally, users who require USB passthrough for connecting additional devices will find this keyboard lacking in that regard. It also does not cater specifically to Mac users, as it does not have Mac keys, limiting its appeal for those on Apple systems.

General info:
Keyboard type Mechanical, Gaming
Keyboard layout size Full (96%)
Profile Standard
connectivity Wired
connection type USB
polling rate 8000 Hz
designed for Mac ✕
has a detachable cable ✓
height 141 mm
width 388 mm
thickness 43 mm
weight 1095 g
release date September 2025
warranty period 2 years

The Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 is a mechanical gaming keyboard with a full (96%) layout and a standard profile. It features a detachable cable for easy portability and a wired headphone connection. The keyboard offers a high polling rate of 8000 Hz for rapid response and is designed with a USB mouse interface. It has a height of 141 mm, a width of 388 mm, and a thickness of 43 mm, weighing 1095 g. This model includes a 2-year warranty period and does not have Mac-specific keys.

Design:
has RGB lighting ✓
Has a backlit keyboard ✓
Case material Aluminum, Plastic
Plate material Aluminum
Case colors Black, White
has adjustable feet ✓
includes a wrist rest ✓

The Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 features RGB lighting and a backlit keyboard for a customizable and illuminated typing experience. The case is made from a combination of aluminum and plastic, with an aluminum plate for added durability. The keyboard is available in two case colors: black and white. Additionally, it includes adjustable feet for ergonomic customization and a wrist rest for added comfort during extended use.

Switches:
Switch type Hall effect
Switch feel Linear
Hot-swappable switches ✓
Switch name Corsair MGX Hyperdrive
Actuation distance (min) 0.1 mm
Actuation distance (max) 4 mm
Actuation force 55 g
Total travel distance 4 mm

The Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 features Hall effect switches with a linear feel, offering smooth keystrokes. These switches have a fast actuation distance of 0.1 mm and a total travel distance of 4 mm, with an actuation force of 55 g. The keyboard is equipped with hot-swappable switches, allowing for easy customization without soldering. The switches are labeled Corsair MGX Hyperdrive, providing precise and responsive input.

Features:
has analog input ✓
has rapid trigger ✓
has dual actuation ✓
has adjustable actuation ✓
has NKRO ✓
has USB passthrough ✕
Has a display ✓
has QMK support ✕
has ZMK support ✕
has VIA support ✕

The Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 includes several advanced features designed for customization and performance. It offers analog input, dual actuation, and adjustable actuation for precise control. The keyboard also supports NKRO for simultaneous key presses without ghosting and has a built-in display for added functionality. While it lacks USB passthrough and support for QMK, ZMK, or VIA, these features provide a flexible and responsive experience for gaming and productivity.

Keys & layout:
Keyboard layout ANSI (United States)
Keycap type PBT, Double-shot
Keycap profile Cherry
uses a standard key layout ✓
Media keys Via Fn key
has a rotary dial ✓

The Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 features an ANSI (United States) key layout with PBT, Double-shot keycaps in a Cherry profile. It uses a standard key layout, ensuring familiarity for most users. For media control, the keyboard includes dedicated media keys accessible via the Fn key and is equipped with a rotary dial for easy volume adjustments and other functions.

Final Verdict

The Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 is a highly customizable mechanical gaming keyboard that excels in providing precision and flexibility with features like hot-swappable switches and adjustable actuation. Its rotary dial and RGB backlighting further enhance the user experience, making it a great choice for gamers and enthusiasts looking for both performance and style. However, its lack of support for advanced customization firmware and USB passthrough may limit its appeal for some users. Overall, it’s a solid choice for those who prioritize customization and performance in their gaming setup.