K55 RGB PRO XT vs K55 RGB PRO

CORSAIR’s K55 RGB PRO incorporates 5 independent lighting zones and a total of 6 on-board pre-baked lighting effects (plus static lighting options) that can be enabled at the stroke of a key. That’s two more zones than the original K55 RGB.

The K55 RGB PRO XT by contrast has per-key RGB backlighting across the keyboard and ten built-in effects, plus more powerful lighting configuration options through iCUE software. Additionally, the XT variant is equipped with iCUE Game Integration, an SDK that allows game developers to take direct control of iCUE lighting for more atmospheric and immersive experiences.

The key takeaway for any gamer on a budget is that the differences between XT and non-XT K55 RGB PRO models are purely aesthetic rather than fundamental to your gaming experience.

Rubber Domed Membrane switches



Any key switch relies on two core principles: a point of actuation where the switch closes and a press is detected, and some resistive component that will push the key back into place once actuated.

Mechanical switches rely on closing metal contacts for the former and a small spring for the latter. The predictable nature of a spring's response to compression is what gives a mechanical switch a consistently smooth, linear action. Two metal contacts closing at the mid-point of the stroke ensures reliable detection that the key has been pressed.

Membrane keyboards substitute a buckling spring for a dome of rubber. Actuation occurs when the dome is pressed, pushing a conductor into the circuit board on which the dome sits to register a keypress. Rubber domes don’t collapse in the same linear fashion as springs and typically need to be pressed more firmly. The mechanism also requires that the key be fully depressed to register rather only a nominal mount, which can cause fatigue.



The K55 utilises a plastic conduit to guide the action of the keycap as the key is pressed, but the feel of the keypress is nonetheless typical of other rubber dome designs.

Additional Features - IP42 Certified

An interesting footnote in the K55 RGB PRO XT’s specs are its’ dust and spill resistance certification. It is rated up to IP42, but what does that actually mean?
A product's Ingress Protection code defines how well it prevents small objects, liquids and particulate matter from entering its inner workings. The first number in the code refers to its solid particle protection, whereas the second outlines its liquid ingress protection, both defined by the specific test it passed. In this instance:



This isn’t a license to eat your cereal from it, but does provide some decent protection against spills and larger dust particulates. This should help to maintain the responsiveness of the keyboard and improve its effective life span.

Clip-on wrist rest.

The K55 RGB PRO XT also arrives with a wrist-rest. This is a solid piece of wedge-shaped plastic that’s gently curved, the upper-most surface of which is textured and feels soft to the touch. It clips on in two locations and rests on the desk rather than fitting between desk and keyboard, so it doesn’t affect stability.