It’s no secret that mechanical keyboards are still a very hot commodity in the enthusiast PC market. With nearly unlimited customization options available for those that want to take a DIY path, to bespoke options that are ready to go out of the box, this is anything but a fad, and a market that is here to stay. With regards to the bespoke keyboard options, in this review we are taking a look at the MQ80 from IQUNIX, a low-profile aluminum mechanical keyboard. This keyboard is a flagship product that holds no punches – full CNC aluminum body, premium finish, five layers of sound dampening, PBT keycaps, amazing battery life, hot-swappable switches, and more. I’m going to stop there and let the keyboard speak for itself throughout the review!
Special thanks to IQUNIX for providing the MQ80 review sample!
Specifications of the IQUNIX MQ80
Packaging of the IQUNIX MQ80
I’m not sure if IQUNIX sells any of their products in brick and mortar stores, so the packaging for the MQ80 is a bit different than we are used to with most products. That isn’t a bad thing, just different, and somewhat expected with an online brand. There is no flashy box that needs to attract customers browsing a wall of products in a store. Instead we are treated to a sturdy carrying case covered in a textured black fabric. On top of the case is a muted IQUNIX logo and nameplate. A single zipper with an IQUNIX logo zipper tag covers 3/4 of the sides of the case, allowing it to open up fully for unobstructed access to the keyboard and included accessories. A simple nylon carrying strap is also found on the outside.
Internally, there is a dual compartment design. The top portion has a 2/3 length pouch that helps keep accessories in place, while the bottom portion is completely open. Two sets of velcro straps on the bottom portion are used to keep the keyboard nice and snug inside the case, helping to make sure it doesn’t fall out or jostle around too much in transportation.
Accessories included with the IQUNIX MQ80
In addition to the keyboard itself, IQUNIX has included a good number of accessories to go along with it. This includes a basic keyboard layout and instruction card for quick reference to some of the keyboard’s key combo settings, a small accessory pouch with keycap puller, switch puller, dusting brush, stickers, and information manual.
Additionally, there is a braided USB Type-A to Type-C cable for charging and using the keyboard in wired mode, as well as a USB Type-A 2.4G wireless dongle and adapter.
Four optional keycaps (“CTRL”, “WIN”, and 2 x “ALT”) are also included with the MQ80, and they replace the factory-installed “OPT”, “CTRL”, and 2 x “CMD” caps that come from the factory.
