Introduction

Today we have a review of Rosewill’s new RK-9000 mechanical keyboard.  This also represents the first review of a mechanical keyboard on Guru3d.com, so hold on tight!  You may be wondering what's in a keyboard that needs a review?  Well, there's a surprising amount of detail to cover, much more than I thought when I started this review a few weeks ago.  Let's get to it!

The previous model RK-9000 was an enthusiast favorite for being a less expensive mechanical keyboard, but still had the same high quality parts as other high end keyboards.  The RK-9000 was even made in the same factory as the Filco, and the family resemblance is striking, but was discontinued in 2010 for mysterious reasons.  Now we know why, they were working on new ones!

The new RK-9000 is based on the same clicky Cherry MX Blue switch as the previous model, but Rosewill changed the design to include detachable USB and PS/2 cables.  It appears the same otherwise, the keycaps are the same, the pretty red plate under the keys is still there, and it still supports NKRO.  Other than that, the RK-9000 hasn’t changed much. It's still one of the best mechanical keyboards you can buy.  Rosewill also expanded the RK-9000 line from the standard clicky switch, to four different models, including MX Black, MX Brown, and MX Red switches to suit your taste.

There are other ‘value’ mechanical keyboard brands out there, Leopold from Korea specifically, but the RK-9000 has much wider recognition in North America in being Newegg’s in-house brand.

But, let’s deal with the elephant in the room, why would you want to spend $100 on a keyboard?  Is it really worth it?  Yes, I think so.  Mechanical keyboards really are in a class all their own.  Are mechanical keyboards really that good?  Yes, they are.  As I discovered, once you have used a mechanical keyboard, there is no going back to a regular keyboard.  The differences are just too great, typing is better and gaming is better.  It's just no comparison.

Now that's over with, I am pleased to present the new RK-9000!