HK GAMING GK61 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Bottom line: The HK GAMING GK61 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard ($36.98 on Amazon as of 2026-10-06): Hot-swappable optical switches change without solder; main trade-off: 60% layout drops arrow keys, F-row, and numpad.
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-06. Price and availability subject to change.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Hot-swappable optical switches change without solder
- ✓ Gateron Optical Yellow rated 100 million keystrokes
- ✓ 16.8M RGB colors, plug-and-play with no drivers
- ✓ Detachable USB-C cable and included keypuller
Cons
- ✗ 60% layout drops arrow keys, F-row, and numpad
- ✗ Macros and lighting need separate software
- ✗ ABS doubleshot keycaps shine faster than PBT
- ✗ Optical switches limit swaps to optical stems only
Manufacturer description
The HK Gaming GK61 packs a full 61-key 60% layout into a footprint that frees up desk space for wide mouse sweeps, and it backs that compact form with Gateron Optical Yellow switches rated for 100 million keystrokes. Light-based actuation gives you the fast response competitive FPS and MOBA players chase, and the switches are hot-swappable with other optical switches, so you can change feel without a soldering iron. Full RGB backlighting drives 16.8 million color combinations across individually lit keys, with adjustable brightness and multiple effects that work plug-and-play, no drivers…
SpecPicks Verdict
SpecPicks scored HK GAMING GK61 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the gaming peripherals category. HK Gaming's gaming peripherals lineup sits within the broader category mid-tier; price and specs are the deciding factors over brand loyalty here. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.
Common buyer scenarios for gaming peripherals of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the GK61 have arrow keys and a number pad?
No. It is a 60% layout with 61 keys, so arrows, the function row, and the numpad are accessed through a secondary layer using the Fn key rather than dedicated keys.
Can I swap the switches without soldering?
Yes. The GK61 is hot-swappable, but only with other optical switches. The stock Gateron Optical Yellow switches pull out and drop in with no solder or desolder work needed.
Does it work with a Mac?
Yes. HK Gaming lists compatibility with macOS as well as Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP, and it works with any computer or laptop brand over the included USB-C to Type-A cable.
Do I need to install software to use the RGB lighting?
No. Lighting effects and brightness are plug-and-play with no drivers. Software is only needed for macro recording and advanced lighting customization.
Will it register multiple keys at once for gaming?
Yes. It has full anti-ghosting with n-key rollover (NKRO), so simultaneous inputs all register, which matters for FPS, MOBA, and MMO key combinations.
Key Features
- FULL RGB BACKLIT GAMING KEYBOARD – 16.8 million Color combinations, adjustable brightness levels and multiple different lighting effects. Plug & Play, no drivers needed.
- GATERON OPTICAL SWITCHES – Extremely fast response time make these the best choice for getting an advantage in gaming. Hot-Swappable with other Optical switches. No solder or desolder necessary. Extremely durable switches rated for 100 million keystrokes.
- FULLY PROGRAMMABLE - Macro recording, advanced lighting effects and customizations through software. Features multimedia keys through multiple layers. Full Anti Ghosting Mode n-key Rollover (NKRO) for ideal FPS, MOBA and MMO gaming experiences.
- PRACTICAL FEATURES – Small form factor mini 60% Layout with 61 keys with individual backlighting. Spill and dust resistant to withstand accidental spills while playing. Switchable ABS Doubleshot keycaps that can be changed with the included keypuller.
- COMPATABILITY WITH MAC & WINDOWS - Compatible with Windows 11, Win 10, Win 8, Win 7, Win Vista, Windows XP and Mac OS. Ideal Keyboard for all Environments works with all Computer or Laptop Brands and Gaming PCs. Compatible for Home and Office use. Detachable USB C to Type-A cable included.
Full Specifications
| Brand | HK GAMING |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Style | Gaming |
| Theme | Video Games |
| Language | English |
| Model Name | GK61 |
| Style Name | Gaming |
| Switch Type | Linear |
| Connectivity | USB-C |
| Model Number | GK61 |
| Power Source | DC |
| Compatibility | PC, Mac |
| Built-In Media | Keycap Puller, USB Cable |
| Number of Keys | 61 |
| Button Quantity | 61 |
| Connection Type | Wired |
| Keyboard Layout | QWERTY |
| Mfr Part Number | GK61 |
| Special Feature | Backlit |
| Antenna Location | Gaming |
| Full listing title | HK GAMING GK61 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard - 61 Keys Multi Color RGB Illuminated LED Backlit Wired Programmable for PC/Mac Gamer (Gateron Optical Yellow, Black) |
Ready to buy?
HK GAMING GK61 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard - 61 Keys Multi Color RGB Illuminated LED Backlit Wired Programmable for PC/Mac Gamer (Gateron Optical Yellow, Black) is listed on Amazon. Price, availability, shipping and returns are set by Amazon and its sellers — check the listing for current terms. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.
*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-06. Price and availability subject to change.
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