Alza discounted the MSI mechanical keyboard by more than half. For 549 CZK, it offers a metal top plate and hot-swappable switches.

Looking for an affordable mechanical keyboard that doesn’t feel like a cheap piece of junk? As part of Black Friday, Alza has discounted the MSI Forge GK320 model with Czech keycaps, from the original 1,149 CZK to just 549 CZK. It features a metal top plate and a rotary knob for volume control.

Quick summary:
✅ Makes sense if you’re switching from a membrane keyboard or building a cheaper gaming setup.
⚠️ Consider if you’ll miss wireless connectivity or a smaller form factor without a numpad.
💡 For 549 CZK, you get a metal top plate, hot-swappable switches, and RGB backlighting without needing to install an application.

Red switches that you can replace anytime

The keyboard uses mechanical linear Red switches. Linear means that the key press is smooth, without a tactile “bump” and without a clicky mechanism. However, it’s not completely silent; when fully pressed, the keys tap like any mechanical keyboard. Gamers prefer this for fast repeated presses, while for typing, it’s more a matter of habit. MSI states a lifespan of 50 million presses for the switches, and the N-Key Rollover feature registers all keys, even if you press multiple at once.

The main attraction, however, is hot-swap. The switches are seated in sockets, so you can pull them out and replace them with others without soldering. According to the manufacturer, the keyboard also supports third-party switches, whether you want quieter, stiffer, or clicky ones. However, MSI does not specify whether the sockets only accept 3-pin or also 5-pin switches. Before ordering any, it’s a good idea to verify this, for example, by carefully pulling out one of the switches and checking the number of pins.

Set up backlighting and macros without an application

In the upper right, there’s a rotary volume knob, which, according to Alza, mutes the sound directly when pressed. This is more convenient than combinations with the Fn key; you can adjust the volume with a single movement even in the middle of a game. Additionally, keys F1 to F5 serve for custom macros, i.e., stored sequences of commands.

The RGB backlighting offers five preset modes, and you can save your own profile using the Fn + Scroll Lock combination. Everything is controlled by keyboard shortcuts, so according to Alza, you don’t need to install any software on your computer.

Metal top plate and almost a kilogram in weight

The top plate is metal and covered by a removable magnetic frame, which makes cleaning the keyboard easier. With a weight of 978 grams, it won’t easily slide across the desk. However, account for space: it’s a full-size format with a numpad, 44 centimeters wide.

It connects to the computer with a detachable 1.6-meter USB-A cable, so you can easily replace it when moving or transporting. The manufacturer states compatibility with both Windows and macOS, and the keycaps are Czech and Slovak.

The GK320 is neither wireless nor compact

Those who play on the couch in front of the TV or want a cable-free desk will appreciate a wireless keyboard more. If you need space for a mouse, it’s worth considering a compact form factor without a numpad. And if you like a distinct click under your fingers, standard Red switches won’t provide it. You would have to purchase those separately.

An affordable entry into the world of mechanical keyboards

For 549 CZK, the GK320 makes the most sense for someone who has been typing on an ordinary membrane keyboard and wants to try a mechanical one without much risk. It will also serve a student well who is building their first gaming setup and doesn’t want to spend more on peripherals than on games. And those who like to tinker with equipment will get an inexpensive base on which they can try different switches.

Do you type on a mechanical keyboard, or do you remain loyal to membrane?