I have been very fortunate to review some exceptional gaming peripherals, but I have waited an awful long time to get my hands on this one. The MU01 keyboard from Akko is a thing of beauty. Housed in a fully wooden case, this keyboard is simply divine. I love the styling, the clean lines, and the wonderful complementary tones. It is a real head turner and something that has to be seen to be truly appreciated.
Not only does this keyboard look amazing, but it is packed with modern tech as well. The tri-mode connectivity makes it unbelievably versatile. Suitable for Windows or Apple products, this doesn’t ignore any key user. Furthermore, it has an impressive 4000 mAh battery for extended wireless usage. If that isn’t enough, the battery has fast charging capabilities, and the inputs are exceptionally accurate and responsive thanks to the low-latency connectivity.
On top of this, the 65% form factor makes it the perfect option if you love to commute or you have a small workstation. Alternatively, maybe you just want a small keyboard for your gaming needs. Either way, this compact design is easy to use and ideal if you want to pop it in your bag when you head to work.
What’s in the box of the MU01 keyboard?
- The packaging is sleek, attractive, and robust. Moreover, it can be recycled.
- The MU01 keyboard is a streamlined device with no external switches or buttons. If you want to change modes, you must lift the “Caps” key and flip a switch. This was slightly inconvenient, but not a major concern as I used the wired option.
- Use the USB-C cable to connect or charge the keyboard.
- Switches and pulling tools are provided.
- Learn the basics with the user manual.
Technical aspects.
This is a beautiful device. However, it is the tech-packed underbelly that makes the MU01 keyboard pop. With glorious south-facing RGB and macro shortcuts to change your lighting profile, you will find the correct lighting array for you. If you are not a fan of RGB, you can turn it off to improve your battery life.
Talking of battery life, the 4000 mAh battery offers over a week of gaming from one charge. This will change if you use the maximum RGB light setting. Accordingly, you must decide whether a fancy and lit keyboard is more important than a full day’s battery life. Either way, the quick charging or using it wired removes this issue.
Wired connectivity is how I went with this device. However, you can use the wireless dongle or the 3-profile Bluetooth connectivity for a cleaner look. If you go for option 1 or 2, you’ll enjoy up to 1000 Hz polling for extremely low-latency inputs. This was ideal when competing with others online. Alternatively, you can use 1 of 3 Bluetooth profiles and connect to 3 different devices. This comes at a cost as the polling drops considerably to 125 Hz. Therefore, this mode is suitable for slow-paced games or office work.
Build quality.
The build quality of the MU01 keyboard was exceptional. The exquisite walnut finish delivers an eye-catching case that is durable and built to last. This is complemented by the subtle and attractive MOA Asian-inspired keycaps. These durable double-shot PBT keys are designed to withstand grease and unsightly marks. Moreover, the font will last longer, no matter how hard you treat it.
If you love a particular type of switch, you can hot-swap the 5-pin ones provided. I found them to be accurate, responsive, and comfortable to use. It didn’t matter if I was gaming or working; they felt nice, and there was no unwanted fatigue. If you do wish to swap them out, the keycap puller and switch removal tool make the task exceptionally easy.
Audio profiling is as important as build quality. Thankfully, the MU01 keyboard offers a delightful typing soundscape that doesn’t sound hollow or overbearing. Thanks to the acoustic foam layers and the plate-mounted stabilisers, the keys sound creamy, and the actuation is comfortable and smooth.
Is the MU01 keyboard worth it?
I absolutely love this keyboard. It is a head turner, a conversation starter, and a thing of beauty. The wooden finish is gorgeous, and the keycaps are absolutely stunning. When combined with the RGB, it pops! On top of this, the low-latency and stable inputs are comfortable, and I love the small form factor. Accordingly, I adore it, and I recommend buying it here!
(More information on Akko can be found here!)
(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)
