MSI Forge GK600 TKL specifications and in-depth review

MSI Forge GK600 TKL

Manufacturer: MSI

The MSI Forge GK600 TKL is a tenkeyless mechanical keyboard designed for gaming, offering a clean, compact form factor without the numpad. It features RGB lighting and mechanical switches for a responsive gaming experience.

This keyboard supports both wired and wireless connectivity options, with Bluetooth 5.1 and 2.4GHz wireless. It includes hot-swappable switches and a polling rate of 1000 Hz for improved performance. The design is made of plastic and comes in a white color, while the keyboard layout is ANSI with PBT keycaps and a Cherry profile.

Pros
  • Supports both wired and wireless connectivity options, offering flexibility in how it's used.
  • Hot-swappable switches allow for easy customization and modification of the keyboard's feel.
  • Includes adjustable feet for improved ergonomics and comfortable typing angles.
  • Features RGB lighting and backlit keys for a customizable and visually appealing experience.
  • Compact tenkeyless layout makes it more portable and suitable for limited desk space.
Cons
  • Does not include a wrist rest, which could affect long-term comfort during extended use.
  • Lacks USB passthrough, limiting the ability to easily connect other devices through the keyboard.
  • Does not support popular firmware options like QMK, ZMK, or VIA, which limits customization potential.
Who is this for?

The MSI Forge GK600 TKL is well-suited for gamers and users who prefer a compact, tenkeyless layout for more desk space or portability. Its hot-swappable switches and adjustable actuation make it ideal for users who enjoy customizing their keyboard feel to match their gaming or typing preferences. Additionally, the RGB lighting and backlit keys provide a visually appealing setup, making it a good fit for those who value aesthetics in their gear.

Who is this NOT for?

This keyboard may not be the best option for users who require a wrist rest for long typing or gaming sessions, as it does not include one. Additionally, those seeking extensive customization options through firmware might find it lacking, as it does not support QMK, ZMK, or VIA. Finally, its lack of a USB passthrough means it may not be ideal for users who need easy access to extra ports while using their keyboard.

General info:

Keyboard type Gaming, Mechanical
Keyboard layout size Tenkeyless (80%)
Profile Standard
connectivity Wireless & wired
connection type Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, USB
polling rate 1000 Hz
Battery life 480 hours
designed for Mac
has a detachable cable
height 140 mm
width 348 mm
thickness 45 mm
weight 943 g
Bluetooth version 5.1
release date September 2025
warranty period 1 years

The MSI Forge GK600 TKL offers a gaming mechanical keyboard experience in a tenkeyless (80%) layout with a standard profile. It supports both wired and wireless connectivity options, including Bluetooth 5.1 and 2.4GHz wireless. With a polling rate of 1000 Hz and up to 480 hours of battery life, this keyboard is designed for long-lasting performance. It features a detachable cable for convenience and measures 348 mm in width, 140 mm in height, and 45 mm in thickness, weighing 943 g. The product is backed by a 1-year warranty and does not include Mac-specific keys.

Design:

has RGB lighting
Has a backlit keyboard
Case material Plastic
Case colors White
has adjustable feet
includes a wrist rest

The MSI Forge GK600 TKL features RGB lighting and a backlit keyboard for a customizable and illuminated gaming experience. Its durable plastic case comes in a sleek white color, and the keyboard includes adjustable feet for better ergonomics. However, it does not include a wrist rest for added comfort.

Switches:

Switch type Mechanical
Switch feel Linear
Hot-swappable switches
Switch name MSI Mechanical Linear
Actuation distance (min) 2 mm
Actuation distance (max) 2 mm
Actuation force 43 g
Total travel distance 4 mm

The MSI Forge GK600 TKL is equipped with mechanical switches that offer a linear feel, providing smooth key presses. These switches are hot-swappable, allowing for easy customization. The actuation distance is set at 2 mm, with a total travel distance of 4 mm, and an actuation force of 43 g for responsive keystrokes.

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 MSI Forge GK600 TKL comes with several advanced features, including analog input for a more precise control experience. It supports adjustable actuation for custom key response and offers NKRO (N-Key Rollover) for accurate multi-key presses. The keyboard also includes a display for easy monitoring, but it does not support rapid trigger, dual actuation, USB passthrough, or popular firmware options like QMK, ZMK, and VIA.

Keys & layout:

Keyboard layout ANSI (United States)
Keycap type Dye-sub, PBT
Keycap profile Cherry
uses a standard key layout
Media keys Via Fn key
has a rotary dial

The MSI Forge GK600 TKL features an ANSI (United States) keyboard layout with dye-sub, PBT keycaps and a Cherry profile for durability and comfort. It uses a standard key layout and includes media keys accessible via the Fn key, though it does not have a rotary dial for additional controls.

Final Verdict

The MSI Forge GK600 TKL is a solid choice for gamers and users seeking a compact, customizable keyboard with a focus on flexibility. Its hot-swappable switches and adjustable actuation settings cater to those who value a personalized typing experience. While it offers essential features like RGB lighting and wireless connectivity, it may not be ideal for users requiring advanced firmware support or extra ergonomic features like a wrist rest. Overall, it's a well-rounded option for those looking for a reliable mechanical keyboard without compromising on customization.

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