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Cooler Master CK550 V2 Review | 64 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£80
Avg. price in US: ~$90
Layout size: Full-size
Connection type: USB
Switch type: mechanical
Polling rate: 1000 Hz

Cooler Master CK550 V2 review. Compare 64 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among keyboards and if it is worth buying.

5.6

Good

4.8

Poor

9.0

Exceptional

2.1
Gaming
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
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
8.6
Typing
Score components:
28.0%
10
Wrist rest included
24.0%
8.0
Legend method
20.0%
10
Adjustable feet
15.0%
9.0
Typing angle
13.0%
4.0
Pre-lubed stabilizers
2.5
Programming
Score components:
30.0%
1.0
QMK support
26.0%
1.0
VIA support
18.0%
8.0
Mac compatibility
14.0%
0.0
Multi-device pairing
12.0%
4.0
Connection type

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Verdict

The Cooler Master CK550 V2 is a full-sized mechanical gaming keyboard featuring a sturdy brushed aluminum top plate and durable mechanical switches (Gateron or TTC variants) rated for 50 million keystrokes. It boasts a 1000Hz polling rate and 1ms response time, supported by an on-board 32-bit ARM Cortex M3 MCU and 512KB of memory for macros and profile storage. Main pros include its vibrant per-key RGB backlighting with 16.7 million colors, convenient on-the-fly hardware controls for real-time lighting and macro adjustments, and the inclusion of a comfortable foam wrist rest. However, notable cons include its non-detachable, non-braided rubber cable, the lack of dedicated multimedia keys, and the use of laser-etched ABS keycaps which may wear over time compared to double-shot alternatives.

Technical Specifications of Cooler Master CK550 V2

Overall score

5.6

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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.

Switches

2.0

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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

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Design

9.0

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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

Full-size

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

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

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Connectivity & Power

4.9

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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

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

?

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

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Features

7.2

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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

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

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

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

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

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Materials

6.0

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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

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Cooler Master CK550 V2 vs the average keyboard

Why is Cooler Master CK550 V2 better than the average keyboard?

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Underglow lighting
Cooler Master CK550 V2 includes underglow lighting, the average keyboard does not. 31.6% of keyboards include underglow 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
Cooler Master CK550 V2 includes underglow lighting, the average keyboard does not. 31.6% of keyboards include underglow lighting.
17 more keys
Cooler Master CK550 V2 has more keys than the average keyboard (104 vs 87). The average keyboard has 87 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
Cooler Master CK550 V2 has more keys than the average keyboard (104 vs 87). The average keyboard has 87 keys.104 vs 87
21 more RGB zones
Cooler Master CK550 V2 has more RGB zones than the average keyboard (104 vs 83). The average keyboard has 83 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
Cooler Master CK550 V2 has more RGB zones than the average keyboard (104 vs 83). The average keyboard has 83 RGB zones.104 vs 83
Includes wrist rest
Cooler Master CK550 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 CK550 V2 includes a wrist rest, the average keyboard does not. 17% of keyboards include a wrist rest.
62.5% cheaper
Cooler Master CK550 V2 is cheaper than the average keyboard (£80 vs £130).
Cooler Master CK550 V2 is cheaper than the average keyboard (£80 vs £130).£80 vs £130
12.1% higher user score
Cooler Master CK550 V2 has a higher user score than the average keyboard (8.97 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 CK550 V2 has a higher user score than the average keyboard (8.97 vs 8.000).8.97 vs 8
17 more keys
Cooler Master CK550 V2 has more keys than the average keyboard (104 vs 87). The average keyboard has 87 keys.
Includes wrist rest
Cooler Master CK550 V2 includes a wrist rest, the average keyboard does not. 17% of keyboards include a wrist rest.
Underglow lighting
Cooler Master CK550 V2 includes underglow lighting, the average keyboard does not. 31.6% of keyboards include underglow lighting.
21 more RGB zones
Cooler Master CK550 V2 has more RGB zones than the average keyboard (104 vs 83). The average keyboard has 83 RGB zones.

Why is Cooler Master CK550 V2 worse than the average keyboard?

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105 mm wider width
Cooler Master CK550 V2 is wider than the average keyboard (460 mm vs 355 mm). The average keyboard width is 355 mm.
2.5 mm higher keyboard height
Cooler Master CK550 V2 is taller than the average keyboard (41 mm vs 38.5 mm). The average keyboard height is 38.5 mm.
2 older release date
Cooler Master CK550 V2 is older than the average keyboard (2,021 vs 2,023). The average keyboard was released in 2,023.
May 2021.
Less versatile connectivity
Cooler Master CK550 V2 offers less versatile connectivity than the average keyboard (USB vs USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth). The average keyboard offers USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth connectivity.
Fixed cable
Cooler Master CK550 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 CK550 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 CK550 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 CK550 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 CK550 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 CK550 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 CK550 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 CK550 V2 does not support hot-swappable switches, the average keyboard does. 65.5% of keyboards support hot-swappable switches.
No pre-lubed stabilizers
Cooler Master CK550 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 CK550 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 CK550 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 CK550 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 CK550 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 CK550 V2 has a fixed cable, while the average keyboard has yes. 90.8% of keyboards come with a detachable cable.
12.3% worse value for money
Cooler Master CK550 V2 has worse value for money than the average keyboard (6.95 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 CK550 V2 has worse value for money than the average keyboard (6.95 vs 7.802).6.95 vs 7.8
105 mm wider width
Cooler Master CK550 V2 is wider than the average keyboard (460 mm vs 355 mm). The average keyboard width is 355 mm.
What it is: Measures the keyboard from side to side.
When it matters: When the keyboard has to match limited desk width or fit inside a specific setup.
Importance: MEDIUM
Cooler Master CK550 V2 is wider than the average keyboard (460 mm vs 355 mm). The average keyboard width is 355 mm.460 mm vs 355 mm
2.5 mm higher keyboard height
Cooler Master CK550 V2 is taller than the average keyboard (41 mm vs 38.5 mm). The average keyboard height is 38.5 mm.
What it is: Measures the keyboard's vertical dimension from its base to its highest point.
When it matters: When the keyboard has to fit under shelves, trays, or other tight desk constraints.
Importance: MEDIUM
Cooler Master CK550 V2 is taller than the average keyboard (41 mm vs 38.5 mm). The average keyboard height is 38.5 mm.41 mm vs 38.5 mm

Connectivity & Power

Graphic comparison of Cooler Master CK550 V2 and

Attribute category

Attribute

No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

What customers like about Cooler Master CK550 V2?

Brushed aluminum top plate provides a premium look and enhanced durability
Vibrant per-key RGB lighting with extensive customization via software and on-the-fly controls
Includes a comfortable dedicated wrist rest (unlike the original V1 model)
Intuitive and lightweight MasterPlus software for managing macros and lighting profiles
On-board memory (512KB) allows users to save and carry profiles without needing software on every PC
Standard bottom row layout makes it easy for users to find and install custom keycap sets

What customers dislike about Cooler Master CK550 V2?

Switch from Gateron to TTC switches in the V2 version is often viewed as a downgrade by enthusiasts
Non-detachable rubber cable feels less durable and modern than braided or removable alternatives
ABS keycaps are prone to developing a 'shine' and wearing down over time compared to PBT
Non-hot-swappable switches make repairs or switch customization difficult for most users
Hollow typing sound reported by some users due to the plastic base and lack of internal dampening
Keyboard height can be uncomfortable without using the included wrist rest

Expert reviews

techarx.com

22/02/2022

Cooler Master CK 550 V2 Review: No-Nonsense Performance

The Cooler Master CK 550 V2 is a full-sized, 104-key mechanical keyboard utilizing an open-plate ANSI layout and standard TTC mechanical switches (available in Red, Blue, or Brown). Designed primarily as an entry-level option for beginners, it improves upon its predecessor by including a wrist rest and arriving at a more affordable price point. Built with a gunmetal brushed aluminum...Read more

derstandard.de

18/09/2021

Cooler Master CK550 V2 Review: The No-Bullshit Gaming Keyboard

The derStandard review evaluates the €90 Cooler Master CK550 V2 mechanical gaming keyboard after two and a half months of daily use, praising its straightforward, "no-bullshit" design. Built with a premium brushed aluminum top housing, this full-sized keyboard features laser-engraved keycaps to prevent lettering wear and an un-cramped layout with a traditional reverse "L" Enter key....Read more

vonguru.fr

26/11/2021

Cooler Master CK352 Review: Following the Legacy of the CK550 V2", "Cooler Master CK352 Test: In the Footsteps of the CK550 V2

The Cooler Master CK352 is an entry-level mechanical keyboard designed for users looking to experience mechanical peripherals without breaking the bank. Retailing at a recommended price of €79.99, it features an elegant and durable aluminum housing, vibrant 16.8-million-color RGB backlighting on both the keys and the chassis sides, and standard-format "frameless" AZERTY keycaps....Read more

leclaireur.fnac.com

15/10/2021

Cooler Master: Our Review of a Complete Setup (MM720, CK550 V2, MH751) - L'Éclaireur Fnac

The Cooler Master CK550 v2 gaming keyboard, MH751 headset, and MM720 mouse offer excellent value for money with functional designs aimed at various gaming setups. The CK550 v2 is a durable mechanical keyboard featuring a brushed aluminium frame, customisable RGB lighting via MasterPlus software, and a thick wrist rest. While it lacks dedicated macro keys and features a non-braided...Read more

lesnumeriques.com

07/12/2021

Cooler Master CK550 V2 Review: A mechanical gaming keyboard that gets straight to the basics

The Cooler Master CK550 V2 is an entry-level, full-size mechanical gaming keyboard designed to provide essential features without a high price tag. Structurally identical to the TKL-format CK530 V2 but with an added numeric keypad, this model focuses on delivering practical functionality for gamers. Its strongest advantages include highly extensive RGB backlighting customisation,...Read more

lesnumeriques.com

No specific date provided

Cooler Master CK550 V2: best price - Les Numériques

The Cooler Master CK550 V2 is a wired mechanical gaming keyboard that features red linear switches and highly customisable per-key RGB backlighting. Tested by Les Numériques, it achieved an average score of 3 out of 5 stars, performing better in user experience (4/5) than in pure ergonomics (3/5). The keyboard package includes functional accessories such as an integrated wrist rest...Read more

pausehardware.com

30/09/2021

Cooler Master CK550 V2 Keyboard Review - Pause Hardware

The review from Pause Hardware outlines the Cooler Master CK550 V2 as a full-sized mechanical gaming keyboard priced at just over 90 euros. Serving as a successor to the 2018 model, this updated version features a brushed aluminium top plate and is equipped with linear red TTC mechanical switches. Architecturally built with an ARM Cortex M3 32-bit MCU and 512 KB of onboard memory,...Read more

pausehardware.com

30/09/2021

Cooler Master CK550 V2 Keyboard Review (Spanish/Multilingual Version Available)

The Cooler Master CK550 V2 is a full-sized mechanical gaming keyboard reviewed by Pause Hardware that builds upon its 2018 predecessor with notable quality-of-life updates. Priced at slightly over €90, the keyboard features a premium-looking brushed aluminium top plate with a sleek floating-keycap aesthetic and an ARM Cortex M3 32-bit processor with 512KB of onboard memory to...Read more

geeknetic.es

31/03/2021

Cooler Master CK550 v2 Sakura White Edition Review

The Cooler Master CK550 v2 Sakura White Edition is a limited-edition mechanical keyboard featuring a unique white and pink aesthetic built on a brushed aluminium plate and plastic frame. It features full-size QWERTY ANSI layout, highly durable PBT matte keycaps with enhanced translucency, and per-key RGB lighting controlled via MasterPlus+ software. Performance relies on...Read more

robadainformatici.it

07/03/2026

Cooler Master CK550 V2 - Full Review | RDI

Review Overview The Cooler Master CK550 V2 is a full-sized mechanical gaming keyboard that offers an excellent price-to-quality ratio for gamers seeking mechanical performance without a premium cost. Built with a durable hard-plastic base and an elegant brushed aluminum top plate, it weighs approximately 900 grams and measures 460 x 135 x 41 mm. The keyboard utilizes TTC Red...Read more

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