At its current price, there are worse choices you might make, but there are also better ones.
It only comes in one color, black, and the stylings typical of this market are largely absent.
Its also a very substantial piece of hardware, weighing in at 1.3kg.
Propping up the back feet did help somewhat, but not enough to alleviate the discomfort altogether.
Whats really needed here is a wrist rest but, unfortunately, the Alloy Rise doesnt come with one.
As you would expect from a premium gaming keyboard, the keycaps are made from PBT.
They are mildly textured, offering enough grip while still retaining a smooth feel.
However, I found that misinputs were an issue for me, especially when typing.
The compact layout makes adopting the WASD position comfortable, with all the important keys easily accessible.
Less of a highlight is HyperXs take on peripheral software.
It does feature a macro recorder, though.
Theres also a 75% variant available, which costs $169 / 149 / AU$277.
It uses optical mechanical switches that are also quick and precise.
However, the Asus Armory software isnt up to the same standards as its competitors.
It does come with a wrist rest, though.
There are some wireless options available for a similar price, too.
Naturally, theres some RGB lighting to liven up proceedings, but branding is kept to a minimum.
Aside from these accouterments, theres very little to distinguish the Alloy Rise from any other workaday keyboard.
That said, there are some aesthetic customization options for the Alloy Rise.
One of the major drawbacks of this board, though, is the lack of wrist support.
The back feet help to alleviate the problem somewhat, but not enough to solve the issue completely.
Disappointingly, they feel cheap and out of place compared to the rest of the board.
Pressing it also mutes the audio.
It even includes a macro recorder.
you’re free to also sync your lighting preferences between compatible HyperX devices.
Key presses emit the typical mechanicalthock, if sounding a little hollower than usual.
Performance:4 / 5
Should I buy the HyperX Alloy Rise?
Unfortunately, there is no macOS support.
We werent so impressed with the Asus Armory software, though.
Read our fullAsus ROG Strix Scope II RX review.
Read our fullKeychron C3 Pro review.
How I tested the HyperX Alloy Rise
I tested the Alloy Rise for around two weeks.
I used it for gaming, playing fast-paced FPS games such asSelacoand others.
I also used it for work and general productivity, which included plenty of typing.
Read more about how we test
