The barrier to entry is gradually decreasing, making it somewhat complicated and costly for most users to purchase a mechanical keyboard.
Recently, while chatting with a friend, I realized that many people find buying a mechanical keyboard to be quite troublesome. They fear they might not choose a keyboard they like or that the keyboard they are excited about may have issues. As someone interested in eSports, I dislike having to install drivers that take time to navigate just for additional functionalities, yet I’m reluctant to install them.
For you and me, Scoia’tael Party, this might seem trivial. It almost feels like an excuse, so we don’t take it seriously. However, it wasn’t until I received this mouse and keyboard set from MSI that I recalled our conversation.
From the packaging, it’s evident that the MSI Forge GK310 Combo is a mouse and keyboard set. When you flip it over, two intriguing features stand out: the magnetic upper cover design and the emphasis on a hot-swappable mechanism. It comes equipped with full functionality along with specialized tools and three spare switches.
The first notable feature is the magnetic casing. After gaining some insight into the manufacturer’s specifications and actual usage, I believe this is a clever sales strategy; the GK310 has two modes that can be switched by pressing and holding the knob located in the upper right corner. One mode is for office use, and the other is for gaming. The mode is indicated by the color displayed in the center of the knob.
In gaming mode, pressing the knob briefly allows you to switch between RGB lighting modes (with a total of 20 options), select to adjust the brightness, and the three shortcut keys on the side enable you to toggle between three quick-lighting profile modes. In office mode, a short press functions as the mute switch, the knob controls volume, and the three shortcut keys can be used to change tracks or pause/play music. This straightforward yet practical design could be described as comprehensive, making volume control intuitive and easy.
For example, if you prefer a low-profile keyboard, you can switch to a gaming mode with more subtle brightness and understated lighting effects, then return to office mode where you can enjoy a quality red switch mechanical keyboard. Conversely, if you desire a more vibrant keyboard, simply remove the upper cover! Next, crank up the RGB brightness to maximum, and the GK310 will transform into a striking keyboard. However, I still recommend reverting to office mode. Why? I’ll elaborate on that shortly.
The first advantage is that there are three lighting effect profiles available in gaming mode. If used for the first time, you’ll notice it presets commonly used key ranges for three classic games. For a more precise definition, you can long press the control key, at which point the keyboard will turn off, and the knob will flash, indicating you’re in setting mode. From there, select the key you want to illuminate, then click the profile button to save.
In other words, this profile functionality does not have the more complex features found in other keyboards, such as macros or custom commands. Instead, it serves gamers like me who need an auditory cue and enjoy “cheating” by adjusting volume. The volume control in office mode is more intuitive and user-friendly, and I suggest you give it a try.
Another feature is the hot-swappable switch functionality, which can be considered innovative for a keyboard at this price range. MSI includes tools and three extra switches. The GK310 is fitted with Outemu high-end red switches. Players only need to have 3-pin type switches to replace them easily without soldering.
However, despite the included tool, the GK310’s switch is not particularly easy to remove. It’s advisable for users to first practice with the spare switch to understand the tool’s interaction with the switch body and then proceed with caution. Ensure that both pins are correctly aligned during installation and apply downward pressure to avoid misalignment.
In terms of tactile feel, the MSI GK310 adopts a classic keyboard height arrangement. If your daily keyboard is arranged similarly, switching to this one will be seamless and comfortable; plus, the GK310 features a metal bottom plate, which makes using it feel more premium than you would expect from a mouse and keyboard set that costs around 2,000 yuan. It’s genuinely impressive!
On the other hand, the included mouse with the GK310 is the GM310. The overall shape resembles a classic symmetrical gaming mouse, yet it’s designed to be lower in the center, resulting in a slightly shorter overall form. This classic design has proven itself in the market, appealing to a broad range of users, which makes it, along with the GK310, capable of meeting diverse needs.
The GM310 utilizes an optical sensor and has a DPI setting that reaches up to 7200. You can switch between six levels, including 1200, 1600, 2400, 3200, 4800, and 7200 using the button on the top of the mouse body. The RGB lighting effects can be changed via buttons located on the mouse’s bottom, with a total of 13 modes available.
The main feature of the GM310 is its micro switch, which boasts a lifespan of up to 20 million clicks. While I’m unsure of the switch manufacturer, it’s worth noting that the tactile feedback from this micro switch is quite pronounced, and the clicking sensation is robust. Based on my past experiences, this type of trigger has become increasingly popular among gamers. I’m just uncertain about how it will fare in an office environment…
My main criticism is about the cable. Although the GM310 also features a braided cable, which is often praised in specifications, I noticed that the GK310 keyboard comes with a softer braided cable, which is typically more suitable for frequent use. In contrast, the GM310’s cable is somewhat stiffer… Perhaps this is for durability? That said, it still feels like a missed opportunity.
Overall, MSI’s mouse and keyboard set is an impressive offering. Just like my friend, who is torn between options, many people seek a simple, user-friendly keyboard and a durable, easy-to-use mouse. Bright lighting might not be a primary concern, but showcasing it occasionally (without needing to purchase another keyboard) is a bonus. Most significantly, affordability is essential.
The MSI GK310 effectively meets these criteria and excels in delivering a superb typing experience across two usage scenarios. In terms of durability? There’s no need to worry about the mechanical switches. If one does fail, replacing it is easy and affordable. Moreover, this keyboard serves as a fantastic starting point for novices looking to explore mechanical switches.
As for the GM310 mouse, while I wanted to critique it, after reflection, I could only identify the cable issue. Furthermore, I noted the keyboard’s cable is significantly more suited for the mouse.
Reflecting on the days when gaming mice were first taken seriously, braided cables were a widely promoted feature. When I recalled this, I felt that maybe my expectations were too high. Nowadays, entry-level mechanical mouse and keyboard sets have emerged, and the MSI GK310 Combo not only meets the standard expectations for its price but also offers extra features desired by more experienced users. Upon careful consideration, it may be the most suitable option for those new to the world of mechanical keyboards!
Understanding the Challenges of Choosing a Mechanical Keyboard
The threshold for purchasing mechanical keyboards is gradually lowering, but for many users, it remains a complicated and often expensive decision. During a recent conversation with a friend, I recognized that the process can be daunting. Users worry about selecting a keyboard they’ll enjoy or whether their favorite option will malfunction. With an eSports orientation, I find it frustrating to deal with drivers just to unlock certain functionalities.
The MSI Forge GK310 Combo: A Game-Changer
It was only after receiving the MSI Forge GK310 Combo mouse and keyboard set that I recalled these worries. Its packaging immediately conveys it’s a complete set. Notably, two features stand out: the magnetic upper cover and the hot-swappable axis. The GK310 includes necessary tools and three spare switches, simplifying the customization aspect significantly.
Innovative Features of the GK310
Magnetic Casing and Dual Modes
The magnetic casing is not just a gimmick; it reflects a smart design philosophy catering to diverse user needs. The GK310 operates in two distinct modes — office and game. By pressing and holding the knob in the upper right corner, you can switch modes, indicated by color changes on the knob’s center.
In game mode, the knob’s features include:
- Short press to toggle between 20 RGB lighting modes.
- Volume control through the knob.
- Quick shortcuts for lighting profiles.
In office mode, the same knob mutes sound and acts as a volume control as well. This duality makes the GK310 suitable for both gamers and professionals — a notable feature for those requiring versatility in their peripherals.
RGB Lighting and Customization
The keyboard comes with preset light effect profiles tailored for popular games. Long-pressing the control key enables a setting mode where you can customize which keys remain illuminated. This accessibility allows users to personalize their keyboard experience without delving too deep into complicated setup processes.
Hot-Swappable Switch Functionality
One standout feature of the GK310 is its hot-swappable switch capability. This is a significant advantage for players and beginners alike. Outemu’s high-end red switches come standard, and users can easily replace worn-out switches with 3-pin options without soldering. This is especially handy for users who want to experiment with different switch types.
Typing Experience and Build Quality
The GK310 employs a familiar layout reminiscent of classic keyboards, making transitions seamless for most users. The metal bottom plate solidifies its build quality, giving it a premium feel often unexpected at a price point around 2,000 yuan. It’s impressive how MSI managed to integrate such solid craftsmanship into this budget-friendly option.
Mouse Features: GM310
The companion mouse, the GM310, features a classic symmetrical design that comfortably fits various grip styles. It utilizes an optical engine with a DPI up to 7200, adaptable via a switch on its body across six levels. This flexibility caters to different gaming and office needs.
Benefits of the MSI GK310 Combo
- Versatility: It serves well for gaming and typing, making it an excellent all-around option.
- Durability: Hot-swappable components ensure that users can easily maintain and upgrade their equipment.
- Customization: RGB lighting and customizable key profiles allow users to create their desired atmosphere.
- Affordability: Provides significant value for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts without breaking the bank.
Practical Tips for New Users
For those venturing into the mechanical keyboard realm, here are tips to enhance your experience:
- Start with the predefined user modes to get a feel for features before altering settings.
- Test various switch types using the hot-swap feature to find your preferred tactile feedback.
- Explore different RGB profiles and keep your lighting adjustable based on your working or gaming environment.
- Regularly clean your keyboard to maintain its pristine condition and functionality.
Case Study: Transitioning to Mechanical Keyboards
A typical scenario includes a user migrating from a standard keyboard. After trying the GK310 Combo, many noted a significant improvement in typing comfort and response time during gameplay. Switching from a membrane to a mechanical switch helped reduce hand fatigue, proving particularly beneficial during long sessions.
First-Hand Experience and Final Thoughts
Quality and performance are paramount with the MSI GK310 Combo. Users report strong click feedback, rapid response times, and an overall enjoyable typing experience. While I noticed some resistance with the GM310’s cable design, the positives far outweigh any minor setbacks. The GK310 meets and exceeds expectations, marking it as an entry-level mechanical keyboard set that offers substantial value.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Keyboard Model | MSI GK310 |
| Key Type | Hot-swappable Outemu Red switches |
| Switching Modes | Game mode, Office mode |
| Mouse Model | MSI GM310 |
| DPI Switch | Up to 7200 |
