Cooler Master CK530 V2 Review | 64 Data compared

double-arrow
  • Avg. price in UK: ~£80
  • Avg. price in US: ~$90
  • Layout size: TKL
  • Connection type: USB
  • Switch type: mechanical
  • Polling rate: ?

Cooler Master CK530 V2 review. Compare 64 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among keyboards and if it is worth buying.

5.5

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the keyboard's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best keyboards on the market.

Score components:

80.0%

4.6

Technical Score

20.0%

9.2

User score

Good
4.6

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the keyboard's technical performance, covering key areas such as switch feel, typing and gaming performance, layout and features, connectivity, build quality, backlighting, software, and comfort.

When it matters: When you want to compare keyboards based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

34.0%

3.6

Connectivity & Power

28.0%

2.9

Switches

20.0%

7.0

Materials

12.0%

6.3

Features

6.0%

7.3

Design

Poor
9.2

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the keyboard.

When it matters: When you want to understand how a keyboard performs in daily use or gaming and how reliable it is in terms of typing feel, noise level, comfort, and long-term durability.

Score components:

70.0%

8.8

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
(974)
amazon
4.4
(574)
amazon
4.5
(283)
amazon
4.5
(157)
amazon
4.1
(91)
amazon
4.2
(65)
amazon
3.9
(20)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(974)
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(574)
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
(283)
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
(157)
Amazon_logo.png
4.1
(91)
Amazon_logo.png
4.2
(65)
Amazon_logo.png
3.9
(20)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

Exceptional
  • 4.3
    Gaming

    Score components:

    28.0%

    9.0

    Polling rate

    24.0%

    1.0

    Rapid trigger

    20.0%

    1.0

    Adjustable actuation

    16.0%

    1.0

    Hot-swappable switches

    12.0%

    10

    Onboard memory

  • 9.1
    Typing

    Score components:

    28.0%

    10

    Wrist rest included

    24.0%

    10

    Legend method

    20.0%

    10

    Adjustable feet

    15.0%

    9.0

    Typing angle

    13.0%

    4.0

    Pre-lubed stabilizers

  • 1.2
    Programming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    1.0

    QMK support

    26.0%

    1.0

    VIA support

    18.0%

    1.0

    Mac compatibility

    14.0%

    0.0

    Multi-device pairing

    12.0%

    4.0

    Connection type

  • cooler-master-ck530-v2
  • cooler-master-ck530-v2
  • cooler-master-ck530-v2
  • cooler-master-ck530-v2
  • cooler-master-ck530-v2
  • cooler-master-ck530-v2
cooler-master-ck530-v2
cooler-master-ck530-v2
cooler-master-ck530-v2
cooler-master-ck530-v2
cooler-master-ck530-v2
cooler-master-ck530-v2

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Cooler Master CK530 V2 is a compact tenkeyless (TKL) mechanical gaming keyboard featuring a durable brushed aluminum top plate and floating keycap design. It is equipped with mechanical switches (available in Red, Blue, or Brown) rated for 50 million keystrokes, a 1000Hz polling rate, and a 1ms response time powered by a 32-bit ARM Cortex M3 MCU. Key advantages include per-key RGB backlighting with 16.7 million colors, on-the-fly controls for macros and lighting without needing software, and an included soft foam wrist rest for enhanced comfort. However, notable drawbacks include its non-detachable 1.8m rubberized cable, the use of ABS plastic keycaps which may develop shine over time, and a lack of dedicated media keys or USB passthrough.

Technical Specifications of Cooler Master CK530 V2

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the keyboard's technical performance, covering key areas such as switch feel, typing and gaming performance, layout and features, connectivity, build quality, backlighting, software, and comfort.

When it matters: When you want to compare keyboards based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

34.0%

3.6

Connectivity & Power

28.0%

2.9

Switches

20.0%

7.0

Materials

12.0%

6.3

Features

6.0%

7.3

Design

4.6
Cooler Master CK530 V2 has a technical score of 4.64 points, which is lower than that of 93.6% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the keyboard.

When it matters: When you want to understand how a keyboard performs in daily use or gaming and how reliable it is in terms of typing feel, noise level, comfort, and long-term durability.

Score components:

70.0%

8.8

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
(974)
amazon
4.4
(574)
amazon
4.5
(283)
amazon
4.5
(157)
amazon
4.1
(91)
amazon
4.2
(65)
amazon
3.9
(20)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(974)
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(574)
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
(283)
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
(157)
Amazon_logo.png
4.1
(91)
Amazon_logo.png
4.2
(65)
Amazon_logo.png
3.9
(20)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

9.2
Cooler Master CK530 V2 has a user score of 9.16 points, which is higher than that of 78.4% of products in this category.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the keyboard.
When it matters: When you prefer a keyboard that has already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.
10
Cooler Master CK530 V2 has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 68.6% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the keyboard's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a keyboard that offers a strong balance of performance, features, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

5.5

Overall score

40.0%

10

Price

6.9
Cooler Master CK530 V2 has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.9 points, which is lower than 88.5% of products in this category.
Switch type
What it is: Identifies the switch technology used by the keyboard, such as mechanical, optical, or Hall effect.
When it matters: When you are choosing between different response technologies and their long-term behavior.

Importance: HIGH

mechanical
Switch feel
What it is: Describes the keypress character, such as linear, tactile, or clicky.
When it matters: When the sensation of each keypress changes comfort, control, and noise level for your use.

Importance: HIGH

linear / tactile / clicky
Switch name
What it is: States the specific switch model used by the keyboard.
When it matters: When the exact switch model matters because small tuning differences affect your preference.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
Actuation force
What it is: Measures how much force is needed to actuate a key.
When it matters: When finger fatigue, accidental presses, or key resistance matters to your typing style.

Importance: HIGH

45 g
Min actuation distance
What it is: Measures the shortest key travel needed to register an input.
When it matters: When faster key response matters and you want the shortest possible trigger point under your fingers.

Importance: MEDIUM

2 mm
Cooler Master CK530 V2 has a minimum actuation distance of 2 mm, which is longer than 66.3% of keyboards and equal to 33.4% of keyboards.
Show more
Keyboard type
What it is: Identifies the keyboard technology, such as mechanical, membrane, optical, or Hall effect.
When it matters: When you need a keyboard built around a specific switch technology or feel profile.

Importance: HIGH

mechanical
Layout size
What it is: States the keyboard form factor and how much of the standard keyset it includes.
When it matters: When desk space, portability, or access to a full key set affects how you work or play.

Importance: HIGH

TKL
Layout standard
What it is: Specifies the regional layout standard, such as ANSI, ISO, or JIS.
When it matters: When you need a regional key layout that matches your language habits or keycap set.

Importance: MEDIUM

ANSI
N. of keys
What it is: States how many keys are present on the keyboard.
When it matters: When you need a certain number of keys for shortcuts, navigation, or a numpad.

Importance: MEDIUM

87
Cooler Master CK530 V2 has 87 keys, which is more than 44.5% of keyboards and equal to 17.6% of keyboards.
Profile
What it is: Describes whether the keyboard uses a low-profile or standard-height design.
When it matters: When key height changes your typing comfort, travel distance, or the overall desk setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

standard
Show more
Connection type
What it is: Specifies how the keyboard connects, such as USB, 2.4 GHz wireless, or Bluetooth.
When it matters: When latency, cable management, or wireless flexibility is part of your buying decision.

Importance: HIGH

USB
Cooler Master CK530 V2 offers USB connectivity, which is less versatile than 56.7% of keyboards and equal to 43.3% of keyboards.
Multi-device pairing
What it is: Shows whether the keyboard can stay paired with multiple devices for quicker switching.
When it matters: When you switch regularly between a laptop, tablet, and other devices on one desk.

Importance: HIGH

N/A
Bluetooth version
What it is: States the Bluetooth generation supported for wireless pairing.
When it matters: When wireless stability, compatibility, and energy efficiency are part of what you compare.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
Mac compatibility
What it is: Shows whether the keyboard is intended to work properly with macOS layouts, shortcuts, or legends.
When it matters: When you need the keyboard to work properly with macOS shortcuts and key mapping.

Importance: HIGH

no
Cooler Master CK530 V2 is not Mac compatible. 55.9% of keyboards work with Mac.
Battery life
What it is: Estimates how long the keyboard can run on a full charge.
When it matters: When the keyboard needs to last through workweeks, travel, or long gaming stretches without constant charging.

Importance: HIGH

N/A
Show more
RGB lighting
What it is: Shows whether the keyboard includes customizable RGB lighting effects.
When it matters: When visual customization and desk aesthetics matter to your setup.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Cooler Master CK530 V2 has RGB lighting. 12.3% of keyboards have RGB lighting.
Per-key RGB
What it is: Shows whether each key can be lit and controlled independently instead of sharing one uniform lighting zone.
When it matters: When customizing each key individually matters for visuals, games, or shortcut visibility.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Cooler Master CK530 V2 has per-key RGB lighting. 23% of keyboards have per-key RGB lighting.
RGB zones
What it is: States how many RGB lighting zones can be controlled separately.
When it matters: When you want more lighting control than a simple all-at-once backlight can provide.

Importance: LOW

87
Cooler Master CK530 V2 has 87 RGB zones, which is more than 58.6% of keyboards and equal to 11.8% of keyboards.
Underglow / side lighting
What it is: Shows whether the case includes lighting around the underside or outer edges in addition to the keys themselves.
When it matters: When edge lighting is part of the visual style you want from the keyboard.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Cooler Master CK530 V2 does not include underglow lighting. 31.7% of keyboards include underglow lighting.
Backlight direction
What it is: Specifies whether the switches use north-facing or south-facing backlighting.
When it matters: When you care about switch compatibility, keycap interference, or lighting placement.

Importance: LOW

north-facing
Show more
Case material
What it is: Describes the main material used for the keyboard case.
When it matters: When build feel, rigidity, and overall finish influence your sense of quality.

Importance: HIGH

aluminum/plastic
Plate material
What it is: Describes the material used for the mounting plate beneath the switches.
When it matters: When keyboard stiffness, sound profile, and bottom-out feel matter more than the switch spec sheet alone.

Importance: HIGH

aluminum
Keycap material
What it is: Describes the material used to make the keycaps.
When it matters: When surface texture, wear resistance, and sound of the keycaps affect your choice.

Importance: HIGH

ABS
Keycap profile
What it is: Describes the shape and height profile of the keycaps.
When it matters: When key shape and sculpting affect comfort, wrist angle, and the sound of each press.

Importance: MEDIUM

OEM
Legend method
What it is: Describes how the legends are applied to the keycaps, which affects durability and visibility.
When it matters: When you care about how long key legends stay readable after heavy use.

Importance: MEDIUM

double-shot
Cooler Master CK530 V2 uses double-shot legends, which are more durable than 25.8% of keyboards and equal to 74.2% of keyboards.
Show more

Cooler Master CK530 V2 vs the average keyboard

  • 24.3% lower weight
    Cooler Master CK530 V2 weighs less than the average keyboard (739 g vs 976 g). The average keyboard weighs 976 g.
    Without cable.
    What it is: Measures the total mass of the keyboard.
    When it matters: When you care whether the keyboard feels easy to carry or heavy enough to stay planted on the desk.

    Importance: HIGH

    Cooler Master CK530 V2 weighs less than the average keyboard (739 g vs 976 g). The average keyboard weighs 976 g.739 g vs 976 g
  • Includes wrist rest
    Cooler Master CK530 V2 includes a wrist rest, the average keyboard does not. 17% of keyboards include a wrist rest.
    What it is: Shows whether a wrist rest is included in the box instead of needing to be purchased separately.
    When it matters: When long typing or gaming sessions make wrist support more important.

    Importance: HIGH

    Cooler Master CK530 V2 includes a wrist rest, the average keyboard does not. 17% of keyboards include a wrist rest.
  • 62.5% cheaper
    Cooler Master CK530 V2 is cheaper than the average keyboard (£80 vs £130).
    Cooler Master CK530 V2 is cheaper than the average keyboard (£80 vs £130).£80 vs £130
  • 14.4% higher user score
    Cooler Master CK530 V2 has a higher user score than the average keyboard (9.16 vs 8.000).
    What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the keyboard.
    When it matters: When you want to understand how a keyboard performs in daily use or gaming and how reliable it is in terms of typing feel, noise level, comfort, and long-term durability.
    Cooler Master CK530 V2 has a higher user score than the average keyboard (9.16 vs 8.000).9.16 vs 8
  • 24.3% lower weight
    Cooler Master CK530 V2 weighs less than the average keyboard (739 g vs 976 g). The average keyboard weighs 976 g.
  • Includes wrist rest
    Cooler Master CK530 V2 includes a wrist rest, the average keyboard does not. 17% of keyboards include a wrist rest.
  • 25 mm wider width
    Cooler Master CK530 V2 is wider than the average keyboard (380 mm vs 355 mm). The average keyboard width is 355 mm.
  • 3 older release date
    Cooler Master CK530 V2 is older than the average keyboard (2,020 vs 2,023). The average keyboard was released in 2,023.
    September 2020
  • Less versatile connectivity
    Cooler Master CK530 V2 offers less versatile connectivity than the average keyboard (USB vs USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth). The average keyboard offers USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth connectivity.
  • Limited Mac support
    Cooler Master CK530 V2 is not Mac compatible, the average keyboard is. 55.8% of keyboards are Mac compatible.
  • Fixed cable
    Cooler Master CK530 V2 has a fixed cable, while the average keyboard has yes. 90.8% of keyboards come with a detachable cable.
  • No hot-swap support
    Cooler Master CK530 V2 does not support hot-swappable switches, the average keyboard does. 65.5% of keyboards support hot-swappable switches.
  • 0.3 mm longer minimum actuation distance
    Cooler Master CK530 V2 has a longer minimum actuation distance than the average keyboard (2 mm vs 1.7 mm). The average keyboard has a minimum actuation distance of 1.7 mm.
  • No pre-lubed stabilizers
    Cooler Master CK530 V2 does not have pre-lubed stabilizers, the average keyboard does. 81.1% of keyboards come with pre-lubed stabilizers.
  • Less versatile connectivity
    Cooler Master CK530 V2 offers less versatile connectivity than the average keyboard (USB vs USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth). The average keyboard offers USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth connectivity.
    What it is: Specifies how the keyboard connects, such as USB, 2.4 GHz wireless, or Bluetooth.
    When it matters: When latency, cable management, or wireless flexibility is part of your buying decision.

    Importance: HIGH

    Cooler Master CK530 V2 offers less versatile connectivity than the average keyboard (USB vs USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth). The average keyboard offers USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth connectivity.USB vs USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth
  • No hot-swap support
    Cooler Master CK530 V2 does not support hot-swappable switches, the average keyboard does. 65.5% of keyboards support hot-swappable switches.
    What it is: Shows whether the switches can be removed and replaced without soldering.
    When it matters: When you want to try different switches, replace a bad switch easily, or tune feel without soldering work.

    Importance: HIGH

    Cooler Master CK530 V2 does not support hot-swappable switches, the average keyboard does. 65.5% of keyboards support hot-swappable switches.
  • Limited Mac support
    Cooler Master CK530 V2 is not Mac compatible, the average keyboard is. 55.8% of keyboards are Mac compatible.
    What it is: Shows whether the keyboard is intended to work properly with macOS layouts, shortcuts, or legends.
    When it matters: When you need the keyboard to work properly with macOS shortcuts and key mapping.

    Importance: HIGH

    Cooler Master CK530 V2 is not Mac compatible, the average keyboard is. 55.8% of keyboards are Mac compatible.
  • No pre-lubed stabilizers
    Cooler Master CK530 V2 does not have pre-lubed stabilizers, the average keyboard does. 81.1% of keyboards come with pre-lubed stabilizers.
    What it is: Shows whether the stabilizers arrive factory-lubricated instead of requiring manual tuning for smoother larger keys.
    When it matters: When larger keys like space, enter, and shift need to feel smoother and sound less rattly out of the box.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Cooler Master CK530 V2 does not have pre-lubed stabilizers, the average keyboard does. 81.1% of keyboards come with pre-lubed stabilizers.
  • 0.3 mm longer minimum actuation distance
    Cooler Master CK530 V2 has a longer minimum actuation distance than the average keyboard (2 mm vs 1.7 mm). The average keyboard has a minimum actuation distance of 1.7 mm.
    What it is: Measures the shortest key travel needed to register an input.
    When it matters: When faster key response matters and you want the shortest possible trigger point under your fingers.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Cooler Master CK530 V2 has a longer minimum actuation distance than the average keyboard (2 mm vs 1.7 mm). The average keyboard has a minimum actuation distance of 1.7 mm.2 mm vs 1.7 mm
  • Fixed cable
    Cooler Master CK530 V2 has a fixed cable, while the average keyboard has yes. 90.8% of keyboards come with a detachable cable.
    What it is: Shows whether the cable can be unplugged and replaced instead of being permanently fixed to the keyboard.
    When it matters: When easier transport, cable replacement, or custom cable use matters to you.

    Importance: HIGH

    Cooler Master CK530 V2 has a fixed cable, while the average keyboard has yes. 90.8% of keyboards come with a detachable cable.
  • 13.4% worse value for money
    Cooler Master CK530 V2 has worse value for money than the average keyboard (6.88 vs 7.802).
    What it is: An indicator that combines the keyboard's overall rating with its cost.
    When it matters: When you are looking for a keyboard that offers a strong balance of performance, features, and price.
    Cooler Master CK530 V2 has worse value for money than the average keyboard (6.88 vs 7.802).6.88 vs 7.8
  • 3 older release date
    Cooler Master CK530 V2 is older than the average keyboard (2,020 vs 2,023). The average keyboard was released in 2,023.
    September 2020
    What it is: States when the keyboard was officially launched or became available.
    When it matters: When you prefer a newer board for more recent wireless standards, firmware support, or hardware revisions.

    Importance: LOW

    Cooler Master CK530 V2 is older than the average keyboard (2,020 vs 2,023). The average keyboard was released in 2,023.2020 vs 2023

Graphic comparison of Cooler Master CK530 V2 and

Attribute category
Attribute
No results found

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Cooler Master CK530 V2?

  • Solid build quality with a premium brushed aluminum top plate
  • Customizable per-key RGB lighting with bright, vibrant effects
  • Includes a comfortable low-friction foam wrist rest
  • On-the-fly controls allow for RGB and macro adjustments without needing software
  • Compact tenkeyless (TKL) form factor saves desk space
  • Great value for money as a mid-range mechanical keyboard

What customers dislike about Cooler Master CK530 V2?

  • Permanent, non-detachable USB cable limits portability and maintainability
  • Stock ABS keycaps are prone to legend wear and finger oils over time
  • Keyboard has a high profile that may cause wrist strain without the wrist rest
  • Software (MasterPlus+) can sometimes be unintuitive or buggy for some users
  • Uses TTC switches instead of the more premium Cherry MX switches found in higher-end models
  • Some users report rattly or low-quality stabilizers on certain keys

Expert reviews

P
pmortensen.eu
13/02/2023

The Cooler Master CK550 V2 is an affordable mechanical keyboard that offers advanced, fully autonomous macro capabilities usually reserved for high-end models, functioning reliably across Windows and Linux platforms alike. A major standout feature is its ability to support mouse operations (such as left and right clicks) and custom delays within macros when configured through the...Read more

E
en.overclocking.com
03/02/2022

The Cooler Master CK530 v2 is a compact, tenkeyless (TKL) gaming mechanical keyboard measuring 380 x 135 x 40 mm and weighing 739 grams. It features an internal memory of 512 kB to store custom profile settings, a fast 1 GHz polling rate, and a 1 ms response time. It is equipped with double-injected ABS keycaps designed to prevent key legends from fading over time, along with...Read more

T
thetechrevolutionist.com
31/05/2021

The The Tech Revolutionist review highlights the Cooler Master CK530 V2 as an affordable, no-nonsense mechanical keyboard priced at $99. Designed for programming and gaming needs, its primary advantages include a compact tenkeyless (TKL) form factor that saves desktop space and improves ergonomic hand positioning. The keyboard features an eye-catching brushed aluminum finish paired...Read more

P
pcmasters.de
15/08/2021

The review highlights several pros and cons regarding its overall design and functionality. On the positive side, it offers an appealing visual aesthetic, an included soft palm rest that protects wrists, custom visual modes like displaying CPU usage via lighting, and keycaps that are easily removable for quick cleaning. On the negative side, the keyboard lacks dedicated media,...Read more

H
hardwareinside.de
21/08/2021

Cooler Master CK530 v2 The Cooler Master CK530 v2 is a Tenkeyless (TKL) mechanical gaming keyboard that features linear TTC Red RGB switches designed for a lifespan of 50 million clicks. Built with a minimalist aesthetic, it combines a sleek brushed aluminium top plate with floating keycaps and a compact, space-saving design that is easy to transport. Performance-wise, the keyboard...Read more

O
overclocking.com
30/08/2021

Cooler Master CK530 v2 Review Summary A major advantage of the CK530 v2 is its hardware versatility, offering three mechanical switch variants (Red, Blue, and Brown) manufactured by TTC, which closely replicate the characteristics of classic Cherry MX switches. It also features highly durable, double-injection keycaps to prevent the lettering from wearing off over time, integrated...Read more

O
overclocking.com
30/08/2021

The Overclocking.com review highlights the Cooler Master CK530 v2 as a high-quality, budget-friendly tenkeyless (TKL) mechanical keyboard that provides extensive features for under €100. A major positive is its solid build quality, highlighted by a gray brushed aluminium top plate that elegantly curves outward and efficiently reflects the vibrant, per-key RGB backlighting. The...Read more

C
charlestech.fr
19/06/2024

The Cooler Master CK530 v2 is a compact, tenkeyless (TKL) wired mechanical gaming keyboard built with a highly durable brushed aluminium top plate and black matte plastic edges. It features linear RED switches that offer a lightweight 45g actuation force, a 4mm total travel distance, and a lifespan of 50 million keystrokes. Designed for fast-paced gaming, these switches respond...Read more

O
overclocking.com
03/02/2022

The Overclocking.com review highlights the Cooler Master CK530 v2 as a reliable, compact tenkeyless (TKL) mechanical gaming keyboard that offers excellent value, especially when discounted below €60. Measuring 380 x 135 x 40 mm and weighing 739 grams, it is built with high-quality double-injection ABS keycaps that prevent lettering from wearing off over time. On the technical side,...Read more

G
gamertech.fr
12/05/2021

The Cooler Master CK530 V2 is a budget-friendly Tenkeyless (TKL) mechanical gaming keyboard priced under €90, designed for gamers seeking performance without a premium cost. Upgraded from its predecessor, this version replaces Gateron switches with linear TTC Red switches, which offer a smooth 4mm total travel distance and a 2mm activation point that outperforms standard Cherry MX...Read more

Video reviews

Compare Cooler Master CK530 V2 with

VS
VS

Compare