You update firmware and control features of the GK61 mechanical keyboard with the software download tool. This utility program is available from the manufacturer, HK Gaming, and includes options to set up macros, adjust lighting and control the standard and FN layers.
You use the Windows Device Manager tool for driver updates, as this is a plug-and-play keyboard.
To download the latest version of GK61 software, visit the HK Gaming official software downloads page.
Is GK61 Software Safe to Use?
The GK61 software is a legitimate utility program and safe to download and install on your PC. It passes a VirusTotal scan with a 100% pass rate; therefore, it is not infected with any malware, spyware, or viruses.
You can see the test result, which includes a detailed scan from over 85 security analysis vendors. Before downloading, you should perform your scan and always download from the official website, not a third-party source.
What Does the GK61 Software Do?
The GK61 software program is the primary tool used to control the mechanical keyboard’s main features, including setting up keybindings, adjusting lighting profiles, and managing the standard and FN layers.
The program is available as a free download from the manufacturer, HK Gaming, and doesn’t take up much space on your hard drive.
It’s a simple application with a simple user interface that is easy to navigate. Even if you’re unfamiliar with using such tools, you’ll be able to figure it out within a few minutes.
Once installed, you can launch the program and customize your keyboard to suit your needs better.
For example, if you play many games requiring quick reflexes, you can set up macros to certain keys to make things easier or even bind specific keys to in-game commands. The works best ran alongside a stream recorder such as Xsplit that captures game clips on the fly.
You can also use the software to adjust the lighting of your keyboard, which is an excellent feature if you like to have a specific color scheme or want to add some personality to your device.
There are numerous preset profiles available, or you can create your own.
Is the GK61 Software Any Good?
It’s fair to say that the software has received mixed reviews. It seems to work well for setting up key bindings, macros, and lighting control, and most people are happy with its performance.
However, there have been complaints about the firmware updates. The process has failed and caused the keyboard to become unusable.
In general, it’s a good idea to create a backup before updating the firmware, as this will allow you to revert if something goes wrong.
Overall, the GK61 software is a decent tool that offers some basic features for customizing your keyboard experience. Still, we recommend you let Windows control the drivers and think twice before updating the firmware.
What About Better Alternatives to GK61 Software?
There is no viable alternative to GK61 software as the firmware is proprietary to HK Gaming. Open source solutions such as OpenRGB are not genuinely compatible and should not be used. The only option is to try and make the GK6X software work.
The GK6X is an open-source project and is available to download on GitHub.
This command-line tool is designed for mapping keys, macros, and lighting on GK6X keyboards (GK64, GK84, GK61).
This can be used as an alternative to the official software (Windows / Mac), providing a more custom solution.
Is the GK61 Keyboard Right for Me?
The GK61 is a 61-key mechanical gaming keyboard with RGB backlighting and optical switches. Optical switches provide faster response times and are more durable than traditional mechanical switches.
The keyboard also has fully programmable keys and software that allows you to customize the lighting effects, macros, and keybinds – useful if you want to integrate it with instant replay software in order to record winning moments in-game!
The GK61 is compatible with both Windows and mac OS and comes with a USB Type-C to Type-A cable.
In terms of build quality, the GK61 is made of ABS plastic and has a matte black finish. The keycaps are also made of ABS plastic and are double-shot injected, so they’re unlikely to fade or wear down over time.
The keyboard also has a few practical features that gamers will appreciate, including spill-resistant construction and dust-resistant keycaps.
Overall, it’s a solid budget mechanical keyboard, but the software is not the best, with many users opting for alternatives like GK6X for macros and key bindings.
Conclusion
The GK61 is a good budget mechanical gaming keyboard with some great features. The optical switches provide fast response times, and the keyboard is durable with spill-resistant construction.
The software leaves something to be desired but functions OK – if you find a version that works well for you, we recommend that you don’t update the firmware.
Everything else about the keyboard software is good and meets expectations.
Finally, If you want a more custom solution, you can try using GK6X as an alternative to the official software.
This open-source project offers decent customization options and allows you to map keys, macros, and lighting according to your needs.