Skip to main content
HK GAMING GK61 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard - 61 Keys Multi Color RGB Illuminated LED Backlit Wired Programmable for PC/Mac Gamer (Gateron Optical Red, Lavender)
HK Gaming

HK GAMING GK61 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Bottom line: The HK GAMING GK61 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard ($26.99 on Amazon as of 2026-10-06): Gateron Optical Red switches rated for 100 million keystrokes; main trade-off: 61-key layout drops the number pad, arrow cluster, and function row.

$26.99

As an Amazon Associate, SpecPicks earns from qualifying purchases. Full disclosure →

Mike Perry — Hardware researcher since 2014. For keyboards, mice, headsets and other PC peripherals, synthesises manufacturer specs and independent reviews rather than first-hand lab testing. Core beat: GPU performance across gaming, rendering, and local-LLM inference.

*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-06. Price and availability subject to change.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • ✓ Gateron Optical Red switches rated for 100 million keystrokes
  • ✓ Hot-swappable optical sockets accept new switches with no soldering
  • ✓ 60% 61-key layout frees desk space for low-sensitivity mouse swings
  • ✓ Full NKRO anti-ghosting registers every simultaneous press in FPS and MMO play
  • ✓ Detachable USB-C to Type-A cable simplifies travel and cable swaps

Cons

  • ✗ 61-key layout drops the number pad, arrow cluster, and function row
  • ✗ Arrows and F-keys require learning layer shortcuts to reach
  • ✗ ABS doubleshot keycaps develop shine faster than PBT over heavy use
  • ✗ Macro and advanced lighting setup needs the software, not onboard controls

Manufacturer description

The HK Gaming GK61 packs a full 61-key, 60% layout into a footprint that clears desk space for wide-swing mouse movement, and it does it at a price most mechanical boards can't match. Gateron Optical Red switches drive the typing feel here: light, linear, and rated for 100 million keystrokes, with an optical actuation that registers faster than a comparable mechanical contact. They're hot-swappable too, so you can pull the stock reds and drop in other optical switches with no soldering. Full RGB backlighting covers all 61 keys individually with 16.8 million color combinations, adjustable…

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?

Not as dedicated keys. The 61-key 60% layout omits the arrow cluster, number pad, and function row, so arrows and F-keys live on a secondary layer accessed through a modifier combination.

Can I swap the switches without soldering?

Yes. The GK61 uses hot-swappable sockets, so you can pull the stock Gateron Optical Reds and install other optical switches with no soldering or desoldering. Note that the sockets take optical switches, not standard mechanical MX-style switches.

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. RGB lighting and the base keymap run plug-and-play with no driver install.

Are the Gateron Optical Red switches good for gaming?

They are linear and light with an optical actuation for fast response, which suits FPS and MOBA play, and full NKRO anti-ghosting means simultaneous presses all register. They are rated for 100 million keystrokes.

Is this keyboard worth it for the price?

It is strong for a hot-swappable optical board with per-key RGB. Check the product listing for current pricing and warranty terms.

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

BrandHK GAMING
ColorLavender
StyleGaming
LanguageEnglish
Model NameGK61 60% US Layout
Style NameGaming
Unit Count1 Count
Switch TypeLinear
ConnectivityUSB-C
Model NumberGK61
Power SourceDC power supply
CompatibilityPC, Mac
Built-In MediaKeycap Puller, USB Cable
Number of Keys61
Button Quantity61
Connection TypeWired
Keyboard LayoutQWERTY
Mfr Part Numbergk61_lv_opt_red
Special FeatureLighting
Antenna LocationGaming, Office
Full listing titleHK GAMING GK61 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard - 61 Keys Multi Color RGB Illuminated LED Backlit Wired Programmable for PC/Mac Gamer (Gateron Optical Red, Lavender)

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 Red, Lavender) 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.

Buy on Amazon — $26.99

*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-06. Price and availability subject to change.

Related Gaming Peripherals

More guides & deep dives from the SpecPicks archive

Browse all articles & guides →

More reviews from the SpecPicks archive

Browse all reviews →

Earliest SpecPicks reviews

Browse full archive →