MSI FORGE GK310 - RED SWITCHES review

The FORGE GK310 is a full-size, wired keyboard from MSI. MSI lists its recommended use as gaming. It has a numeric keypad, RGB backlighting and a dual-mode knob. It plugs in over USB Type-A with a 1.8 m cable, and that is the only connection option.

This version uses mechanical red switches. They are linear and rated for 60 million keystrokes. MSI describes them as durable and dustproof. Owners talk about a clear keypress, which is worth knowing even though the switches are specified as linear.

The keycaps are an ergonomic high-low floating design. MSI doesn't publish the keycap material, so a buyer who cares about plastic type should check before ordering. Rollover is listed as 6-key/N-key, and anti-ghosting is included. Those details matter for fast, repeated inputs in games and for anyone typing quickly.

The keyboard weighs 870 g and measures 442 x 132 x 50 mm. Owners repeatedly describe a solid, sturdy feel. That fits with the weight figure, though the case material isn't stated. The product is black, with a monochromatic finish.

The main customisation feature is hot-swap support. MSI says the 3-pin switches can be swapped without soldering. With that, the red switches here are a starting point rather than a permanent choice. Someone who finds linear reds not to their taste can change them.

There is no stated support for QMK, VIA or other open firmware. Customisation therefore centres on the switches and on the backlight, which is RGB multicolour and adjustable. The knob adds media keys and hotkeys without needing extra buttons on the board.

Connection is wired USB 2.0 only. MSI lists no wireless or Bluetooth. That makes the keyboard a fixed-position desk device, suited to a main PC or a workstation where the cable reaches. The 1.8 m length gives some room for a tower under or beside the desk.

Power comes over USB, so there is no battery to charge or replace. Owners describe setup as plug and play. MSI's specifications don't state that any software is required for basic use. Nothing in them covers macOS or Linux support either, so buyers on those systems should confirm compatibility themselves.

The layout is full-size at 100%, with 104, 105 or 108 keys depending on language. The keyboard is listed as UK International and QWERTY. MSI does not confirm the UK ISO shape, so a buyer who needs the tall Enter key and the extra key beside left Shift should check the key layout before buying.

Two feet give an adjustable tilt angle. There is no pointing device and no mouse in the box. The keyboard has Windows keys. It measures 442 mm wide and includes a numeric keypad. That suits people who enter numbers often, including spreadsheet and admin work, but it takes space from mouse movement.

The GK310 suits a wired desk setup where a numpad matters and the switches may be swapped later. Owner reports of a solid feel and easy setup support that use. It is less suited to anyone who needs wireless connections, multiple paired devices or firmware-level remapping, because none of those are listed.