Review of the NZXT Function Elite MiniTKL Keyboard: A Magnetically Enchanting Experience

I’m a sucker for a great keyboard. Whenever I find myself at a store like Best Buy or Microcenter, I can’t resist the urge to wander over to the keyboard section and start typing away on the latest models.

I’m on a quest for that next amazing feel or experience at my fingertips. It might sound a bit indulgent, but when you spend over 12 hours a day typing, you develop a deeper appreciation for this essential tool.

This is precisely why I couldn’t pass up the chance to dive into the NZXT Function Elite MiniTKL Keyboard. A keyboard boasting magnetic switches? Sign me up!

Let’s jump right into why this keyboard is a stellar choice for anyone chasing a high-end, top-notch typing experience.

Why You Should Trust Me

Hey, I’m Michael Hoglund. With 25 years of experience gaming and tinkering with PCs, I’ve pretty much typed on every keyboard under the sun. I was even a pro competitor back in the Xbox 360 days, and I’ve tested countless setups using my go-to games.

Function Elite MiniTKL: Pricing and Specifications

Now, let’s delve into the specs and pricing of the NZXT Function Elite MiniTKL. This powerhouse keyboard comes in at $199.99, packing a premium punch in a compact form. Sure, it’s not a bargain, but the quality you’re getting justifies the expense. From advanced RGB lighting to exceptional performance tweaks, its price is spot-on for anyone looking for a cutting-edge tool.

To put it up against its peers, this MiniTKL stacks up in the compact, high-performance keyboard category. Consider the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro TKL, priced slightly higher at $219.99. NZXT is gunning for a top spot in this competitive arena.

Available in sleek black or white, this model flaunts the market’s prized Hall Effect switches. Each key press feels effortlessly smooth and precise, elevating your typing game.

Packed with diverse software customizations and hardware capacity rivaling or surpassing the competition, NZXT is stepping confidently into the high-end gaming keyboard battlefield with this strong contender under $200.

Function Elite MiniTKL: Design and Build Quality

For $200, you’d expect something premium—and NZXT doesn’t disappoint. Much like its acclaimed PC cases, the Function Elite MiniTKL boasts top-notch finish quality. It features a sleek, brushed aluminum casing that exudes elegance while safeguarding the keyboard from potential accidents. Even during intense gaming sessions, when my mouse goes wild, this keyboard holds its ground.

Despite its compact size, it weighs in at an impressive 1.09 kg, providing a substantial feel similar to larger, fully equipped models like the Logitech G815. The added heft ensures stability in intense gaming moments, making it as unshakeable as a steadfast vessel on a stormy sea.

The sides come with a textured grip enhancing comfort, especially when adjusting the keyboard’s position. And, of course, it can be laid flat or tilted using detachable feet. It’s these little details that make using this keyboard a delight.

Inside the box, users get more than just a keyboard. There’s a sturdy, two-meter USB-C to USB-A cable, a dual-purpose switch and keycap puller for keys swapping or upkeep, and three spare switches ready for emergencies.

Now, those keys deserve a mention. With Double-shot PBT keycaps, dual-rail switch design, pre-lubed switches, and sound-dampening foam, using this keyboard feels like typing on a cloud. Hall Effect switches combined with these features create a delightful typing experience.

Function Elite MiniTKL: Typing Experience

Coming from a lineage of Corsair, Ducky, and Logitech keyboards, NZXT had fierce competition—and they’ve risen to the challenge. I’m captivated by the NZXT’s dual-rail switch system and sound-dampening foam, offering one of the most pleasing typing sensations my fingers have ever known. I’m not into overly clicky keyboards that rival a trumpet’s blare!

Each key press felt soothing, like a tiny de-stressing tool. I know I sound like I’m waxing lyrical, but I can’t help it—the keyboard’s touch is just that pleasing. This review was crafted entirely on the NZXT Function Elite MiniTKL, a testament to its comfort and usability.

The tactile joy originates from the exceptional Hall Effect switches and the device’s outstanding build quality. If optical switches are akin to a swift knife in the air—straight and precise yet lacking charm—the Function Elite MiniTKL is like gliding through butter with grace. You really need to try it to understand.

A minor drawback is the space bar’s distinct ‘ping’ sound—different from the other keys, it stands out. It’s not overwhelming but noticeable, and I’m considering sound dampeners for long-term enjoyment.

Lack of a numeric keypad may also hinder those who rely on number crunching or certain gameplay—but hey, this is a TKL review! It’s crucial to highlight this for a thorough evaluation.

Function Elite MiniTKL: Gaming Experience

When it comes to gaming, the customizable actuation and rapid trigger features pull this keyboard into a league of its own, making it a game-changer for pros and enthusiastic gamers alike. The ridiculously precise actuation settings, reminiscent of Razer’s V3 Huntsman boards, offer up to 40 settings per key, all thanks to the Hall Effect genius.

Both optical and Hall Effect switches shine in their own right for gaming victories. Optical tech might be faster on paper as it relies on light, but Hall Effect switches win in overall accuracy and debouncing potential.

Unlike optical analog switches, which can vary up to 0.5mm between keystrokes, Hall Effect switches maintain a rigorous 0.1mm variance—an advantage worth noting in competitive scenarios. Whether blitzing through latency comparisons or field trials, Hall Effect emerges ahead.

Powered by 905 Gauss magnets, NZXT cites superior strength against competitors, benchmarked at around 700 Gauss. In gaming terms, this translates into about 30% more oomph.

Together with sophisticated gaming optimizations in NZXT’s CAM software, the Function Elite MiniTKL accelerates your game. Its rapid trigger, where any key release followed by a re-press at any distance reactuates the key, lets you outmaneuver opponents with seamless keys. Plus, a dual-action feature offers two functions per key press, turning every game into an immersive experience. Picture controlling acceleration in racing games with a keyboard!

Throw in an 8k polling rate, syncing with your PC’s input tempo, and you’ve got unbeatable precision. It’s remarkable how swift and spot-on our gaming gadgets have become!

Function Elite MiniTKL: RGB

Let’s chat about the eye-catching RGB. Overall, it’s fantastic. Vibrant and radiant, it stands toe-to-toe or even outshines other premium keyboards I’ve encountered.

The array of customization options for coloring each key separately or overlaying them with imaginative animations is vast. It’s a fun way to personalize your setup to fit your gaming personality. After all, your keyboard is your canvas, letting your WASD keys dance with a color-shifting green to pink, your numbers swap rainbows, and your space bar pulse in red!

Yet, the vibrant display does have its quirks. Occasionally, colors skew from intended shades, like a toned-down green appearing more turquoise. While minor, it stands out on a premium piece that promises more precise color fidelity.

Moreover, perimeter RGB lighting doesn’t always match set colors, likely due to direct versus reflective light transmissions—a tiny hiccup but worth fixing for perfection.

Function Elite MiniTKL: Competition

Looming competitors at this price point are plentiful and renowned, mostly from brands well-established in PC accessories. Typically, NZXT is known for its PC cases and prebuilts, not peripherals, yet this keyboard might just redefine that expectation.

Consider the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro, complete with extra knobs and optical switches—you’ll find it generous yet large. Similarly, SteelSeries’ Apex Pro TKL V2 offers Hall Effect technology in a slightly bigger frame, joining the elite league.

The Keychron K2 HE, priced at a more budget-friendly $140, also promises Hall Effect experience and wireless usability. However, its 1000Hz polling rate pales next to NZXT’s 8000Hz, a critical factor for dedicated gamers. Plus, its RGB leaves much to be desired.

While competition is fierce, if you’re after a robust Hall Effect gaming keyboard promising relentless speed and boundless personalization encased in a sturdy frame, the NZXT Function Elite MiniTKL stands unmatched in my view. It’s one of the best for accuracy and user experience.

Function Elite MiniTKL: Final Thoughts

Overall, this keyboard shines as one of the finest instruments I’ve had the pleasure of using. With a few manageable quirks aside, I’m committed to making it my regular choice moving forward. Should the numeric keypad become indispensable, I have plenty of options, though I’ll likely stick with NZXT in eager anticipation of a full layout someday.

Between the silky smooth keystrokes, flexible recreation options, and unrivaled precision, it’s a bona fide champion in the realm of keyboards.

You should buy this if…

• You’re after a high-level gaming keyboard: If a top-of-the-line board is what you’re after—boasting exceptional polling rates, dynamic RGB, and the accuracy of Hall Effect switches—you’ve found it in NZXT’s offering. It’s the perfect choice for gamers aiming to save a bit of cash compared to Razer’s Huntsman series.

• You want a keyboard that shines as it performs: With its high-quality build and dazzling aesthetic, it’s a perfect base to enhance with your preferred RGB palette.

You should not buy this if…

• You need a wireless setup: Be advised; this keyboard depends solely on a wired connection. Wireless enthusiasts might want to explore other options.

• Budget constraints are a priority: There are cheaper alternatives available that can deliver close-to-similar performance to the Function Elite. Don’t feel pressured to splurge if it’s beyond your needs.

In summary, the NZXT Function Elite MiniTKL Keyboard is a defender in gaming and everyday use, bringing unparalleled precision and a delightful typing experience straight to your fingertips.