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Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M Review | 64 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£130
Avg. price in US: ~$110
Layout size: 1800-compact
Connection type: USB
Switch type: mechanical
Polling rate: 1000 Hz

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

5.1

Good

4.5

Poor

7.3

Very good

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
6.4
Typing
Score components:
28.0%
4.0
Wrist rest included
24.0%
8.0
Legend method
20.0%
10
Adjustable feet
15.0%
5.5
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

Best prices in UK

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Verdict

The Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M is a unique hybrid mechanical keyboard that fits a near-full 92-key layout into a compact tenkeyless (TKL) footprint (38.0 x 14.4 x 4.2 cm) by integrating the navigation cluster into the number pad. It features genuine Cherry MX switches (Red, Brown, Blue, or Silver), a 32-bit ARM Cortex M3 processor for on-the-fly macro and lighting adjustments, and a detachable braided 1.5m micro-USB cable with a three-way routing system. Main pros include its space-saving yet functional design, exceptional build quality with a white steel backplate that enhances the bright per-key lighting (available in RGB or White LED variants), and 100% anti-ghosting with N-key rollover for high-performance gaming. However, some cons include a steep learning curve for the combined numpad/arrow key layout, a lack of dedicated media keys, and no included wrist rest despite its relatively tall profile.

Technical Specifications of Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M

Overall score

5.1

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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

Cherry MX

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

7.2

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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

1800-compact

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

4.6

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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

6.4

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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

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

steel

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 MasterKeys Pro M vs the average keyboard

Why is Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M better than the average keyboard?

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5 more keys
Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M has more keys than the average keyboard (92 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 MasterKeys Pro M has more keys than the average keyboard (92 vs 87). The average keyboard has 87 keys.92 vs 87
9 more RGB zones
Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M has more RGB zones than the average keyboard (92 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 MasterKeys Pro M has more RGB zones than the average keyboard (92 vs 83). The average keyboard has 83 RGB zones.92 vs 83
5 more keys
Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M has more keys than the average keyboard (92 vs 87). The average keyboard has 87 keys.
9 more RGB zones
Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M has more RGB zones than the average keyboard (92 vs 83). The average keyboard has 83 RGB zones.

Why is Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M worse than the average keyboard?

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3.9 mm higher keyboard height
Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M is taller than the average keyboard (42.4 mm vs 38.5 mm). The average keyboard height is 38.5 mm.
4.4 mm thicker design
Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M is thicker than the average keyboard (42.4 mm vs 38 mm). The average keyboard thickness is 38 mm.
5% higher weight
Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M weighs more than the average keyboard (1,025 g vs 976 g). The average keyboard weighs 976 g.
7 older release date
Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M is older than the average keyboard (2016 vs 2023). The average keyboard was released in 2023.
August 2016.
22 mm wider width
Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M is wider than the average keyboard (377 mm vs 355 mm). The average keyboard width is 355 mm.
Less versatile connectivity
Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M 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 MasterKeys Pro M is not Mac compatible, the average keyboard is. 55.8% of keyboards are Mac compatible.
Less convenient charging port
Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M uses Micro-USB for charging, while the average keyboard uses USB-C.
No hot-swap support
Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M 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 MasterKeys Pro M 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.
Less durable legends
Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M uses laser-etched legends, while the average keyboard uses double-shot.
No pre-lubed stabilizers
Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M does not have pre-lubed stabilizers, the average keyboard does. 81.1% of keyboards come with pre-lubed stabilizers.
Less versatile connectivity
Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M 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 MasterKeys Pro M 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 MasterKeys Pro M 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 MasterKeys Pro M does not support hot-swappable switches, the average keyboard does. 65.5% of keyboards support hot-swappable switches.
Less durable legends
Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M uses laser-etched legends, while the average keyboard uses double-shot.
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
Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M uses laser-etched legends, while the average keyboard uses double-shot.laser-etched vs double-shot
Limited Mac support
Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M 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 MasterKeys Pro M is not Mac compatible, the average keyboard is. 55.8% of keyboards are Mac compatible.
No pre-lubed stabilizers
Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M 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 MasterKeys Pro M 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 MasterKeys Pro M 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 MasterKeys Pro M 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
Less convenient charging port
Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M uses Micro-USB for charging, while the average keyboard uses USB-C.
What it is: Specifies the connector used to charge the keyboard.
When it matters: When you care about cable availability, charging convenience, or compatibility with the rest of your gear.
Importance: MEDIUM
Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M uses Micro-USB for charging, while the average keyboard uses USB-C.Micro-USB vs USB-C
20% worse value for money
Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M has worse value for money than the average keyboard (6.50 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 MasterKeys Pro M has worse value for money than the average keyboard (6.50 vs 7.802).6.5 vs 7.8

Connectivity & Power

Graphic comparison of Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M and

Attribute category

Attribute

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M?

Unique hybrid 90% layout that retains the number pad in a compact tenkeyless (TKL) footprint
Genuine Cherry MX mechanical switches (available in Brown, Blue, Red, and Silver)
Solid build quality with a sturdy frame and minimal desk flex
Bright and clear backlighting with a white plate for better light diffusion
Detachable braided cable with multi-directional cable routing channels
On-the-fly macro recording and profile switching without requiring mandatory software
Standard bottom row layout makes it easy to find and fit aftermarket keycaps

What customers dislike about Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M?

Steep learning curve for the combined numpad/navigation cluster layout
Stock keycaps are made of thin ABS plastic and can become shiny over time
Lack of a dedicated wrist rest, which some users find necessary due to the keyboard's height
No dedicated media keys; functions are buried under secondary layers
Macro recording can be unintuitive and difficult to manage through hardware commands alone
The Micro-USB port on the keyboard is sometimes cited as feeling delicate or outdated compared to USB-C
Lack of RGB on the standard 'White' model may feel limited for the price point

Expert reviews

trustedreviews.com

30/03/2017

Summary of the review

Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M RGB Review

The Trusted Reviews analysis of the Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M RGB highlights a compact, sturdy mechanical keyboard featuring a unique layout that merges arrow keys into the number pad, offering a space-saving, robust design with excellent per-key RGB lighting and Cherry MX switches. Key pros include a rigid build, versatile lighting, and onboard macro recording, while limitations focus on the specialized layout's learning curve and a somewhat short USB cable. The device is ultimately praised for its high-quality construction and performance suited for gamers needing extra desk space.

eteknix.com

28/02/2017

Summary of the review

Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M RGB Keyboard Review

The reviewer highlights several major advantages for this peripheral, explicitly noting its rock-solid build quality, compact 90% aesthetic, built-in multimedia shortcuts, and highly versatile on-the-fly customisation options. The integration of the layout is praised as highly refined and focused, saving valuable desktop workspace without sacrificing actual functional inputs. The per-key lighting effects are described as exceptionally slick and intuitive, and the internal processing hardware allows users to play retro mini-games like Snake directly on the LED keys. On the downside, the reviewer notes a personal preference against 90% layouts, pointing out that sharing the arrow cluster with the Numpad block requires a learning curve for people who prefer dedicated individual key zones. However, despite that layout preference quirk, the article lists no formal design flaws or hardware cons for the device, declaring it one of the absolute best portable options on the market.

eteknix.com

09/08/2016

Summary of the review

Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M Mechanical Keyboard Review

The Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M is a space-saving mechanical keyboard that cleverly bridges the gap between full-sized functionality and a compact form factor. Targeted at a diverse audience ranging from gamers to accountants, the keyboard features a minimalist design with a durable construction consisting of a plastic housing reinforced by a sturdy internal metal frame. It is equipped with bright, crisp "Intelligent White" LED backlighting designed to outperform standard RGB setups in pure white clarity, and it runs on a powerful 32-bit ARM Cortex M0 CPU to handle snappy processing demands. Additionally, the hardware package includes high-quality components such as authentic Cherry MX switches (available in Red, Blue, or Brown variants), a 1.5-metre detachable braided USB cable with a gold-plated connector, and a top cover finished with a premium matte coating. A major pro of the MasterKeys Pro M is its unique layout, which preserves complete number pad functionality while minimizing desk clutter through its compact design. Users benefit from a highly responsive typing experience, extensive customization via on-the-fly macro key recording, repeat rate adjustments, a Windows lock feature,...

overclock3d.net

28/02/2017

Summary of the review

Cooler Master Masterkeys Pro M and Pro S Review

The Cooler Master Masterkeys Pro M and Pro S are praised for their robust build quality, premium Cherry MX switches, and versatile on-the-fly RGB lighting, with the Pro M offering a unique, space-saving hybrid layout. While the keyboards offer exceptional functionality, the review highlights drawbacks including an awkward, left-angled USB cable routing and the relatively uninspired, white-LED-only design of the Pro S model compared to its vibrant counterpart.

neetishop.medium.com

25/10/2019

Summary of the review

Mechanical Keyboard review of Cooler Master Masterkeys Pro White LED Would you like me to look for current pricing and availability for either the Whi...

The Medium review of the Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro White LED (Cherry MX Brown) praises its heavy-duty build quality, excellent tactile feel for fast, heavy typing, and convenient software-free macro programming stored on the keyboard’s onboard memory. Additionally, the bright white LEDs and clear keycaps provide an aesthetic that is highly customizable and less distracting than traditional RGB setups. neetishop.medium.com ·Neetish Raj On the downside, the review notes that advanced LED customization requires downloading an SDK and a basic understanding of C++ programming. Furthermore, the reviewer finds that the excessive key travel of the Cherry MX Brown switches can cause finger fatigue during long typing sessions, favoring thinner, shorter-travel profiles. neetishop.medium.com ·Neetish Raj

overclock3d.net

28/02/2017

Summary of the review

Cooler Master Masterkeys Pro M and Pro S Review - OC3D

The Overclock3D review of the Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro S and Pro M highlights high-quality construction featuring Cherry MX switches, bright backlighting, and detachable cables, with the Pro S offering a compact TKL layout and the Pro M providing a unique hybrid numpad design. Key pros include the versatile layout options and excellent build quality, while the primary cons revolve around the left-facing USB cable connector causing awkward cable management, along with a steep learning curve for the Pro M's integrated arrow key/numpad layout.

aphnetworks.com

12/08/2016

Summary of the review

Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M Review - APH Networks

The Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M is a 90% layout mechanical keyboard that balances a compact, space-saving footprint with the functionality of a full Numpad. Encased in a solid matte-black plastic and metal chassis weighing 1 kg, the board feels like a premium product and stays firmly planted on desks during intense use. It features tactile Cherry MX Brown switches and crisp, adjustable "Intelligent" white LED backlighting that supports five distinct lighting modes configurable directly through the hardware without needing extra software. For workflow efficiency, it boasts highly effective anti-ghosting technology combining N-key and 6-key rollover, robust cord management via a braided micro-USB cable routed underneath, and dedicated visual LED indicators for the Caps and Num lock keys. However, the keyboard's compressed layout introduces a major drawback, as the arrow keys are visually buried inside the bottom of the NumPad, making them virtually indistinguishable and hindering quick access. Ergonomically, the unit completely lacks a wrist rest, which might dissuade certain users during prolonged typing sessions. While the Cherry MX Brown switches are generally well-rounded, testing revealed occasional performance hitches during...

kitguru.net

02/08/2016

Summary of the review

Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M White Keyboard Review

YouTube · The review explicitly outlines a clear set of performance and design pros and cons for this specific model: Pros: It features high-quality Cherry MX Brown mechanical keys, offers a small footprint that saves valuable desk space, and provides a solid frame with total support. It is praised for its strong white LED lighting with five steps of brightness, a versatile cable guide that feeds to the rear, left, or right, and a recessed Micro USB port for enhanced protection. Lastly, at its £79.99 retail point, it is considered good value for money. Cons: The hybrid layout means doubling up key functions, which can get confusing during use. The lack of RGB lighting makes the aesthetics feel a bit boring or dull. Additionally, it includes no control software, forcing all adjustments into complex keyboard commands, and it lacks a wrist rest for ergonomic comfort. YouTube

hardwareinside.de

29/04/2017

Summary of the review

Cooler Master Masterkeys Pro M RGB Review

The Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M RGB is a highly compact mechanical gaming keyboard that blends space-saving architecture with vibrant RGB illumination. It opts for a hybrid design by removing the traditional arrow and navigation keys, instead integrating those secondary functions directly into the layout to maintain a slim, narrow-bezeled plastic frame. Built with high-quality Cherry MX Blue switches, the keyboard provides a deeply tactile and audibly clicky typing experience that is ideal for heavy typists, though it remains available in Brown, Silver, and Red switch variations to suit different preferences. It functions completely plug-and-play without requiring mandatory software, as profile lighting, macros, and effects are saved directly to its onboard memory. It features handy cable routing channels on the underside alongside a detachable Micro-USB cable, giving users flexibility in managing their desk space. The review highlights several definitive strengths and weaknesses for potential buyers. On the positive side, the keyboard boasts exceptional build quality, a clean and understated design, exceptionally bright RGB lighting, and secure stability on desktops. It is also praised for its onboard macro and profile storage...

extreme.pcgameshardware.de

27/09/2016

Summary of the review

Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M Review - Compact Cherry MX Gaming Keyboard

Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M The Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M is a compact, well-built mechanical gaming keyboard designed to balance portability with full functionality, making it an excellent option for LAN party attendees. Its standout feature is its hybrid layout, which integrates the arrow keys directly into the numpad area to minimize the keyboard's overall desktop footprint. The reviewed model features Cherry MX Brown mechanical switches, though variants with Red and Blue switches are also manufactured. It is equipped with bright, single-color white LED backlighting supported by a white interior base plate that ensures even light distribution across all keys. Users can customize lighting effects directly on-the-fly via the onboard memory or build custom scripts using Cooler Master's SDK. Structurally, it features a heavy frame with reliable rubber feet, an elevated writing angle, and a detachable braided Micro-USB cable that can be routed through left, center, or right physical channels. The review highlights several core strengths and one notable drawback of the keyboard. On the positive side, the MasterKeys Pro M offers exceptional build quality, a highly practical compact...

extreme.pcgameshardware.de

29/09/2016

Summary of the review

Cooler Master Masterkeys Pro M: Keyboard review in the PCGHX forum

The Cooler Master Masterkeys Pro M review posted by Junatic in the PCGHX-Forum highlights a unique mechanical keyboard built around high-quality Cherry MX switches. Shipped in a medium-sized "M" form factor, its primary design innovation is the hybrid layout that saves desk space by eliminating dedicated arrow and navigation clusters, opting instead to embed those functionalities directly into a integrated number pad. A major pro praised by the community and the review is this ingenious compact footprint, which provides the portability of a tenkeyless (TKL) keyboard while still retaining full numpad access for users. Furthermore, the review outlines robust build quality, crisp illumination—enhanced by a white background beneath the keycaps—and a modular, detachable cable routing system that can feed out from multiple channels. YouTube

hardwareluxx.de

26/09/2016

Summary of the review

User Review - Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M

The Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M is a compact mechanical keyboard featuring a unique "M" (medium) layout, a full number pad, and true white LED backlighting. Positioned between a Tenkeyless (S) and a full-sized (L) keyboard, it saves desk space by embedding the arrow and navigation keys directly into the numpad, which are activated by toggling Num Lock. The keyboard is built on a white-painted metal plate with standard black-housing Cherry MX switches (Brown or Red), offering excellent key rollover (NKRO) and dynamic onboard lighting effects that do not require external software. It also features a practical three-way cable routing system on the bottom for its detachable braided micro-USB cable. Key Pros and Cons Pro: Compact design retains full numpad functionality. Pro: High-quality, true white LEDs avoid RGB "dirty" colour issues. Pro: Onboard macro and lighting customisation requires no software. Pro: Excellent stability via rubber feet and smart cable routing. Con: Shared navigation and arrow keys require constant Num Lock toggling. Con: Non-standard "00" key layout limits third-party numpad keycap compatibility. Con: Minor case flex noted on the top housing...

tech-review.de

31/10/2016

Summary of the review

MasterKeys Pro M: Cooler Master's Hybrid Tenkeyless Review!

The Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M is a hybrid tenkeyless mechanical keyboard featuring a compact layout that integrates a full number pad into the navigation and arrow key area. Built with high-quality tactile Cherry MX-Brown switches, a robust 930-gram frame, and a matte soft-touch finish, it delivers an ergonomic and highly stable typing experience. Unlike its RGB predecessor, this model utilizes a crisp white LED backlight system that offers multiple dynamic lighting modes, such as "Snake" and "Wave". The keyboard operates entirely through software-free configuration, utilizing an onboard 32-bit ARM Cortex-M3 processor to manage macro profiles, repeat rates, and media functions directly via secondary FN key assignments. The review highlights several prominent advantages, including excellent build quality, uniform gap dimensions, a highly readable key font, and effective rear cable management grooves. Additionally, the revised firmware successfully addresses previous repeat-rate bugs, allowing users to type normally even at maximum repeat settings. On the negative side, the review criticizes the restrictive switch selection, as Cooler Master limits this specific layout strictly to MX-Brown switches in Germany. The 1.5-meter modular USB cable is...

conseil-config.com

29/09/2016

Summary of the review

Review - Cooler Master Masterkeys Pro L White (Featuring its smaller brother, the M)

The Conseil Config review evaluates the Cooler Master Masterkeys Pro L White, a high-end mechanical gaming keyboard that trades the flashy RGB trends of its predecessor for a minimalist, single-colour white illumination. Priced at €120—which is €50 cheaper than the RGB model—this keyboard features a highly robust chassis made of premium plastics that do not flex or creak during intense use. Inside the box, the bundle includes a braided 1.5-metre detachable micro-USB cable with gold-plated connectors, a keycap puller, and a user manual. The reviewer strongly praises its high build quality and its "on-the-fly" customisation system, which allows users to configure pre-recorded lighting effects, macro loops, polling rates (from 1x to 8x), and four distinct profile keys (P1–P4) directly on the hardware without requiring external software. The review explicitly outlines several distinct pros and cons regarding the keyboard's aesthetics and functionality. For pros, the primary highlight is its exceptionally bright and vivid illumination; Cooler Master integrated larger LED modules and a white-painted internal baseplate to reflect light perfectly between the keys. The neutral white backlighting is lauded as elegant and...

gamertech.fr

02/08/2017

Summary of the review

Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M RGB | TEST - GamerTech", "Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M RGB | REVIEW - GamerTech

The Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M RGB is a mechanical keyboard noted for its hybrid 377mm layout that merges arrow keys into the numpad, offering a compact, space-saving design ideal for FPS gaming without sacrificing full functionality. It features reliable Cherry MX Red switches for fast, quiet actuation and a white backplate that boosts RGB lighting, contributing to a solid 3.5/5 rating. Key advantages include a robust metal-reinforced chassis, a detachable cable with built-in routing options, and stable, adjustable rubber-footed legs. However, the unconventional layout requires a significant adaptation period, and despite the sturdy build, the overall aesthetic is considered less premium than some competitors.

wap.xtremehardware.com

28/11/2016

Summary of the review

Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M - Keyboards - Xtremehardware

The Xtremehardware review identifies the Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M as a sturdy, compact 90% layout keyboard featuring genuine Cherry MX switches, an internal metal plate for rigidity, and a hybrid design that integrates navigation keys into the number pad. It operates without software, relying on a 32-bit ARM Cortex M3 processor to manage backlighting, macros, and profile settings directly via FN key combinations. Reddit ·r/ Key strengths noted are the excellent build quality and versatile, space-saving design, while the primary drawbacks include a steep learning curve for the softwareless setup and potential workflow disruption when toggling between gaming and data entry. The review also highlights the convenience of the detachable micro-USB cable with three-way routing.

xtremehardware.com

28/11/2016

Summary of the review

Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M Review - XtremeHardware

The Cooler Master MasterKeys Pro M review highlights a mechanical keyboard that balances functionality and space-saving efficiency by expanding the MasterKeys lineup with white LED backlighting. Built on a solid and robust frame, the keyboard is designed specifically for markets like Italy with a native Italian layout, offering premium, authentic Cherry MX Brown or Red mechanical switches. It retains advanced features typically reserved for high-end RGB counterparts, such as on-the-fly macro recording, custom lighting profiles, multiple brightness steps, and up to four distinct profile configurations without requiring heavy external software. The primary pros of this model include its sturdy, compact build that leaves a smaller footprint on the desk, alongside rich on-board customization for light intensity and macro controls. It provides a reliable tactile performance thanks to its premium Cherry MX switches. On the downside, the cons focus on its aesthetics and layout limitations, notably the lack of full RGB color options—restricting users entirely to white LEDs—and the learning curve of its layout, which condenses essential functionality into a more tight, modified shape.

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