This HyperX Alloy Elite 2 review comes two years after I took a look at the HyperX Alloy Elite RGB. This time around, we’ve got a keyboard that adds some flair in the form of shine-through pudding keycaps, implements HyperX’s own key switches, and makes other changes that result in this “sequel” being a worthwhile evolution. Read on for my full thoughts.
Unmatched RGB brightness
The main attraction of the HyperX Alloy Elite 2 is the crazy bright RGB lighting. Make no mistake, this keyboard pushes things further than even the Alloy Elite RGB. The use of pudding keycaps, which have a milky white shine-through border, really helps to enhance the lighting.
For keyboard enthusiasts, these pudding keycaps are widely renowned as being a relatively cheap go-to solution for enhancing a keyboard’s RGB lighting, with HyperX itself having sold a separate bundle pack for quite some time. The sold-separately pack is actually made up of PBT keycaps, however, while the Alloy Elite 2 comes with ABS keycaps, which are generally not as durable. While it won’t be a dealbreaker, I think this fact is worth noting.
Buy the HyperX Alloy Elite 2 here
As someone who has purchased HyperX’s pudding keycaps before, I can tell you that, while the results are indeed impressive, the underlying RGB lighting on the board itself has a big impact on the overall consistency of the effect. Thankfully, the HyperX Alloy Elite 2 RGB lighting appears even across the entire surface, which really makes it pop and look premium.
I should also add that the “signature light bar” that separates the standard keys from the multimedia functions also helps with that RGB wow factor. When it comes to the sheer brightness of the lighting, this is the most impressive keyboard I’ve seen.
The sequel
A lot of what I said about the Alloy Elite RGB also applies to the HyperX Alloy Elite 2, so you’ll want to check out that review for a deeper dive into the technical aspects.
When it comes to this “sequel” and the differences between this new model and the older variants, there are a few important things to note. First up is the price, which is $129.99. This is significantly cheaper than the Alloy Elite RGB’s launch price of $169.99, which I think is a sensible move. However, potential buyers should note that the extra keycaps, keycap puller, and wrist rest no longer come included in the box.
Next up is the NGenuity software, which is still described as a “beta.” To have such solid hardware paired with a functional, but overall pretty rough, application doesn’t make a great impression. It might not be top of the list of HyperX’s priorities, but I think actually launching the app with a final bit of polish would go a long way.
Then there are the key switches. HyperX is now using its own switches. I got to test the Red Linear variants and I’m happy to say that I came away impressed. To me, they feel very similar to my Cherry MX Red keyboard, which I imagine is what HyperX is going for. I was particularly impressed by the spacebar which is very, very stable, with hardly any rattle at all. That is usually the weak point for mainstream boards, but the Alloy Elite 2 does extremely well in this department.
The USB passthrough makes a return, which means an extra thick cable that can be a little unwieldy. However, once you have plugged in the optional second USB, you can then easily connect your mouse or other peripheral to the keyboard. It’s a nice little option that I think is worth that extra chunkiness.
HyperX Alloy Elite 2 Review | The Final Verdict
The HyperX Alloy Elite 2 takes everything that I liked about the Alloy Elite RGB, including dedicated media keys and volume wheel, solid build quality, as well as RGB that has been made even brighter, and elevates the product line to the next level. With a cheaper price of $129.99, this new HyperX keyboard for 2020 is competitive in its RRP and set of features.
HyperX shines brightest with its Alloy Elite 2 and those incredible pudding keycaps. You can’t help but turn your head in this keyboard’s direction. If you’re big into RGB, then look no further!
HyperX Alloy Elite 2 review unit was provided by HyperX.
