Final words and conclusion

Final words and conclusion

I had a good time with the new MSI Vigor GK71 Sonic. It's a keyboard that's primarily designed for gaming purposes. Even yet, writing on it is doable (and not too uncomfortable, thanks to the cushioned palm rest). Additionally, the Smart Dual-Touch Volume and Media Control is a fantastic feature. You can quickly manage your media files by using the volume wheel on the top or side of the device, as well as the dedicated media key. The MSI Vigor GK71 Sonic features linear MSI SONIC RED switches (a product of a close collaboration between Kailh and MSI), and it's a safe bet for mechanical keyboard newcomers, particularly those looking to use the keyboard primarily for gaming. Even yet, more experienced users will appreciate the performance provided.

Switch Differently

The primary difference between this switch and MX Cherry Red switches is the 35g (rather than 45g) actuation force, which results in significantly smoother and less fatiguing motions. Additionally, it should improve the operation's quietness. The RGB lighting is present; it can be adjusted with the MSI Mystic Light software (which is a very decent suite, but I had difficulty installing it). The keyboard features dynamic RGB backlighting for each key. The keyboard itself is of excellent quality; there are no complaints here, since the structure is strong and built of aluminum. The rubberized feet ensure that the Vigor GK71 Sonic stays put and that the height can be adjusted. You will not be able to use the USB pass-through.

Aesthetics

The MSI Vigor GK71 Sonic is a full-size keyboard with an attractive design, owing mostly to the aluminum frame and MSI ClearCaps. It includes a transparent dual-layer design that allows light to pass through, resulting in vibrant and spectacular RGB illumination per key. The LED lighting system performs as intended, providing vibrant and sharp colors. Individual key illumination may be adjusted to your taste, so even those who are anti-RGB should be satisfied, as they can select all-white or utilize it on only a few keys.

Final words

The MSI Vigor GK71 Sonic isn’t any revolution on the market. Still, that doesn’t make it a bad choice whatsoever. Why’s that? Because the price is right (109.99 USD) for the offered performance/features, I’d even say – it’s a great price. The MSI Vigor GK71 Sonic is excellently in its intended usage scenario; gaming. The MSI SONIC RED switches (linear type) have very good characteristics, and they act better than the Cherry MX Red, which I’ve previously encountered. It’s a job very well done. The overall quality is very good; the lighting is doing the thing right, the usage of the transparent dual-layer design for the keycaps was a nice idea. You get the Hybrid N+6 Key Rollover - VIGOR GK71 SONIC can automatically detect the current pressed number and switch to 6 key or N key rollover that fight on without fear of missing or unexpected key presses. Last but not least is the cushioned palm rest. It’s a great addition; it makes the gaming much more comfortable in the longer term. However, it is not connected to the frame in any way, which is sometimes preferable in the heat of combat. Continuing on the (a little) nitpicky side of the judgment, we're lacking USB pass-through (which is not a standard in this budget) and PBT (which would increase the price) keycaps. Additionally, it's worth addressing the issue with installing MSI Mystic Light under Windows 11, but that wasn't a major deal because the illumination could be adjusted via keyboard shortcuts. To summarize, it is a totally deserving "Recommended" owing to the extremely low price, the (build/lighting) quality, and the performance of the MSI switches.

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