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Compare Gamakay MK61 vs Skyloong GK61 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two popular 60% hot-swappable mechanical keyboards. The Gamakay MK61 is a straightforward, wired pre-built, while the Skyloong GK61 offers multi-mode wireless connectivity and is often sold as a customizable kit. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize a plug-and-play experience with specific optical switches or desire the flexibility of wireless use and deeper physical customization from a kit.

64
Gamakay MK61 60% Mechanical keyboard
77
SKYLOONG GK61 Black Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Released in 2021
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Released in 2022
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 600 g
  • Sized at 30 x 104 x 292 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Plastic, Aluminum case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
Scores
  • Performance: 72.3
  • Build Quality: 53.6
  • Productivity: 69.6
  • Customizability: 70.1
  • Portability: 76.2
Scores
  • Performance: 56.9
  • Build Quality: 78.2
  • Productivity: 78.3
  • Customizability: 78.8
  • Portability: 90.2
Name
Gamakay MK61
Name
Skyloong GK61
Release year
2021
Release year
2022
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
60%
Layout Size
60%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
Display Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
-
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
Hall Effect Support
 
Hall Effect Support
 
QMK Support
 
QMK Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIAL Support
 
VIAL Support
 
N-Key Rollover
 
N-Key Rollover
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Mount Style
-
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
-
Case Material
ABS, Plastic, Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
30 x 104 x 292 mm
Weight
-
Weight
600g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you want a simple, affordable, and ready-to-use wired keyboard with optical switches, the Gamakay MK61 is suitable. If you value wireless freedom, enjoy building and customizing your keyboard from a kit, and want features like a gasket mount, the Skyloong GK61 is the more flexible platform, though it may require additional investment.

Gamakay MK61

  • +Uses Gateron optical switches with a claimed 50-million keystroke lifespan.
  • +Features IPX4 waterproof rating, offering protection against accidental spills.
  • +Comes as a complete pre-built with PBT double-shot pudding keycaps.
  • +Includes large on-board memory to save lighting and key settings.

  • Wired-only connectivity limits placement and portability.
  • Lacks the advanced mounting systems or kit options found in the GK61.
  • The vendor description warns that flashing incorrect firmware can damage the keyboard.

Skyloong GK61

  • +Offers Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, and wired connectivity for versatile use.
  • +Sold as a customizable DIY kit including case, PCB, plate, and stabilizers.
  • +Features a proprietary gasket mount (O-ring mount) for a potentially more refined typing feel.
  • +Includes a unique replaceable space bar system to improve typing efficiency.

  • Being a kit, it may require purchasing switches and keycaps separately for a complete build.
  • The listed price range is very wide, suggesting significant cost variation based on configuration.
  • The product description focuses heavily on aftermarket parts, indicating the base kit is a starting point.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Skyloong GK61 is the more versatile choice, winning in office, travel, modding, and content creation due to its wireless modes and kit-based design. The Gamakay MK61 takes the edge for dedicated gaming with its optical switches and wired reliability. For programming, both keyboards offer similar core hot-swap functionality in a compact form factor, making it a tie that comes down to switch preference.

GamingGamakay MK61
  • The MK61 uses Gateron optical switches, which the manufacturer states offer a smooth and responsive gaming experience.
  • It features N-key rollover for accurate keystrokes, a detail highlighted in its product description.
  • It is a wired-only connection, which can provide a more consistent signal for competitive gaming.
OfficeSkyloong GK61
  • The GK61 offers Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity, allowing connection to multiple devices without cable clutter.
  • Its replaceable space bar feature, described by Skyloong, can improve typing rhythm and efficiency.
  • The kit includes sound-dampening features, which may help reduce noise in shared workspaces.
ProgrammingTie
  • Both are 60% layouts, requiring heavy use of function layers for programming symbols and navigation.
  • Both are hot-swappable, allowing programmers to choose their preferred switch type for long typing sessions.
  • Both support on-board memory or driver software for key remapping, as indicated by their respective vendor pages.
TravelSkyloong GK61
  • The GK61's wireless functionality eliminates the need to carry or connect a cable on the go.
  • It has a built-in 4000mAh battery for cordless operation.
  • Its dimensions (30 x 104 x 292 mm) and 600g weight are comparable to the MK61, but the lack of a mandatory cable adds portability.
ModdingSkyloong GK61
  • The GK61 is explicitly listed as a DIY kit/barebones option, designed for customization from the ground up.
  • It features a gasket mount design with Skyloong's proprietary O-ring system for a different typing feel.
  • The kit includes a steel plate and the vendor sells separate plates (PC, fiberglass) for further customization.
Content CreationSkyloong GK61
  • Wireless connectivity provides a cleaner desk setup for filming or streaming.
  • The ability to connect to multiple devices via Bluetooth can streamline workflows across a computer and tablet.
  • The customizable RGB lighting and macro programming via dedicated driver software, as mentioned by Skyloong, aids in shortcut management.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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