Cherry, a renowned German company with a rich history in keyboard manufacturing, has introduced the KW 550 MX LP—a low-profile mechanical keyboard designed for both Mac and Windows users. This review delves into its features, build quality, usability, and overall value.
Unboxing and First Impressions
The Cherry KW 550 MX LP arrives in a sturdy, minimalist box bearing the company’s branding. Inside, you’ll find the keyboard, a USB-A to USB-C cable, and a manual. Available in two color schemes—black with black and grey keycaps, and grey with white and grey keycaps—the keyboard offers options to complement various workspace aesthetics.
Specifications
– Construction: Durable plastic casing
– Connectivity: Supports three Bluetooth 5.2 channels and one wired USB-A to USB-C connection, allowing pairing with up to four devices
– Switches: Equipped with Cherry MX Ultra Low-Profile 2.0 Tactile switches
– Backlighting: White LED backlighting with additional colored LEDs for status indicators
– Adjustability: Foldable feet for height and typing angle adjustments
– Dimensions: 14.8 inches x 4.92 inches x 0.98 inches
– Weight: 24 ounces
– System Requirements: USB-C compatibility
– Customization: Non-hot-swappable; lacks user-replaceable keycaps or switches
Build Quality and Design
Upon unboxing, the KW 550 MX LP impresses with its lightweight yet solid construction. The hard plastic case feels sturdy, and the smooth, legible keycaps contribute to its minimalist design. However, the included manual’s small font size can be challenging to read, and Cherry’s website lacks a downloadable manual or tutorial videos, which could be inconvenient for some users.
The keyboard features Cherry’s proprietary MX Ultra Low-Profile 2.0 Tactile switches, manufactured in Germany. While these switches offer a satisfying typing experience, the keyboard’s non-hot-swappable design means users cannot customize or replace keycaps and switches. The white LED backlighting, complemented by colored LEDs for specific functions, provides clear visibility without overwhelming customization options.
On the back, a single USB-C port and a power switch are centrally located. The underside includes robust, foldable feet, allowing users to adjust the keyboard’s height and typing angle to their preference.
Mac Compatibility and Software Limitations
Cherry offers proprietary software like Cherry Keys and Cherry Utility for customizing key bindings and backlighting. However, these tools are exclusive to Windows, leaving macOS users without official software support. While the keyboard includes function keys to switch between Mac and Windows modes, the lack of Mac-specific software limits customization options for Mac users.
The manual’s limited guidance makes it challenging to locate the correct keys for switching functions between operating systems or changing device pairings. This oversight suggests a need for Cherry to enhance support for Mac users.
Performance and Usability
Over a month of daily use, the KW 550 MX LP demonstrated excellent performance. Its 96% layout, including a full number pad, occupies more desk space than Apple’s Magic Keyboard but offers a superior typing experience. The rubber grips on the bottom prevent slipping, and the keyboard’s size did not disrupt workflow or muscle memory.
Typing is smooth and enjoyable, with the low-profile switches providing a quiet yet tactile response. For gaming, the keyboard performed admirably, with no noticeable hand fatigue during extended sessions. The ability to connect to up to four devices simultaneously—tested with a Mac Studio, gaming PC, and iPad—proved seamless, with quick and easy device switching via function keys.
Conclusion
The Cherry KW 550 MX LP stands out as a high-quality mechanical keyboard that balances cost and performance. Its build quality, typing comfort, and multi-device connectivity make it a compelling choice. Priced at $133, it offers an accessible entry point for those new to mechanical keyboards without compromising on quality.
Pros:
– Satisfying tactile keys
– High build quality
– Familiar layout for Mac users
– Windows compatibility
– Connectivity with up to four devices
– Quick device switching
– Reasonable price point
Cons:
– No macOS software support
– User-unfriendly manual
Rating: 3.5 out of 5
Where to Buy
The Cherry KW 550 MX LP is available on Cherry’s Amazon store for $133.
