NZXT is looking to level up its peripherals with a new range of ‘Elite’ products. The series features a brand-new wireless gaming mouse, microphone, and mousepads and a refreshed version of the Function MiniTKL keyboard, which has historically been a popular choice within the GeekaWhat office. But what upgrades does this mechanical keyboard provide to grant it the ‘Elite’ mantra?
Along with improvements to the overall design, the main deviation from the Function 2 MiniTKL – a keyboard we’ve previously reviewed – is the introduction of magnetic hall effect switches. Like many refreshed designs recently, switching to magnetic inputs allows users to determine the actuation point, leading to a more personalised typing and gaming experience.
In this review, we’ll be testing the Function Elite MiniTKL keyboard in a wide range of gaming and productivity-related scenarios to see whether this design is a worthy upgrade to NZXT’s previous offerings. In addition, we’ll evaluate the design, performance, and features, comparing it to other mechanical keyboards we’ve tested.
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Specification
From a technical standpoint, the NZXT Function Elite MiniTKL includes all the performance-based features we’d expect from a premium mechanical keyboard. Boasting full key rollover (NKRO) and anti-ghosting technology, you should have minimal issues with false inputs, resulting in a smooth typing experience. On top of this, each key is fully programmable, allowing for macros and plenty of personalisation.
In terms of size, the Function Elite MiniTKL is a 75% keyboard, which is a more compressed version of the TKL (Tenkeyless) layout. This is a popular option for typists and gamers alike, as it provides all the necessary inputs while clearing up desk space by removing the numpad. Unfortunately, the Function Elite MiniTKL doesn’t have a full-sized alternative, a first for NZXT.
| Key Specs | NZXT Function Elite MiniTKL |
|---|---|
| Size | 75% |
| Keycap Material | Double-Shot PBT |
| Switches | NZXT Magnetic |
| Key Rollover | Full Key (NKRO) w/ Anti-Ghosting |
| Macro Keys | Fully Programmable |
| Connectivity | Wired |
| Report Rate | 8000Hz |
| RGB | Yes |
Another concern is connectivity, as this keyboard is a strictly wired device. The lack of wireless connectivity will be an immediate red flag for a large demographic because it significantly impacts its versatility and portability. However, the Function Elite MiniTKL does at least feature a detachable USB cable, making it slightly easier to move this keyboard around.
Additionally, the wired connectivity enables greater performance capabilities, with the 8000Hz polling rate being very difficult to achieve without a wired connection. This leads to improved responsiveness, which is ideal for competitive gamers.
NZXT Function Elite MiniTKL Design
Like the previous NZXT mechanical keyboards we’ve reviewed, the Function Elite MiniTKL has a strong design. Whilst this keyboard still maintains the minimalist style that NZXT are widely renowned for, there are several significant changes to the design, which makes the Function Elite MiniTKL one of the more interesting NZXT products we’ve picked up in a while.
While reviewing the Function 2 MiniTKL, it wasn’t easy to differentiate it from the previous iteration (disregarding the colourways). Both designs shared a similar layout, materials, and size. However, the Function Elite MiniTKL possesses a few distinct features, giving this keyboard a refreshing look.
Featuring a thick aluminium frame surrounding the switches and a uniform white or black aesthetic throughout, the Function Elite MiniTKL is actually more reminiscent of the LoFree Flow – one of the best mechanical keyboards we’ve ever tested. However, the LoFree Flow is a low-profile design, and the NZXT Function Elite MiniTKL includes a heavier implementation of RGB lighting.
Personally, I find this to be a positive change, as it creates a more luxurious look and feel compared to the previous designs. Plus, one of the main issues I had with the Function 2 MiniTKL was the lack of RGB lighting, so it’s nice to see it addressed here.
Another benefit of the revitalised design is the enhanced durability. Although the previous models felt sturdy and remained intact over time, the thicker aluminium frame makes the Function Elite MiniTKL feel even stronger. In turn, this makes the Function Elite MiniTKL heavier than its predecessors, further restricting the portability of this keyboard.
However, NZXT has also removed a feature that appeared on all previous ‘Function’ keyboards, as the Function Elite MiniTKL does not include dedicated multimedia controls. Instead, they have blended the media controls with the function keys in the top right corner. It might not be the greatest loss, but it is interesting that such a heavy focus from the previous designs has been completely removed this time around.
It’s a similar story under the hood, as this keyboard significantly improves on the Function 2 MiniTKL, which already felt quite premium. This is mainly due to the introduction of magnetic switches, replacing the optical switches of the previous design. Magnetic switches allow complete control over the actuation point of each input, with the ability to select anywhere between 0.6mm and 4mm.
Additionally, this freedom results in greater customisation and opens up more features to improve gaming performance. For example, the Function Elite MiniTKL lets you assign two commands to a single input, with two distinct actuation points determining which action should be taken. Also, the Rapid Trigger technology can disable the input as soon as the switch begins to travel upwards, which helps to minimise unwanted movements and actions.
Below the switches are a number of additions meant to enhance the acoustics of this keyboard, such as gasket mounts and layered foam. Combined with the pre-lubed magnetic switches, the overall acoustics of the Function Elite MiniTKL are very pleasing to the ear. In fact, it is one of the most ‘thocky’ keyboards I’ve ever used. Furthermore, customising the magnetic switches makes this keyboard feel as good as it sounds, with typing feeling smooth and effortless.
Despite the intricacies surrounding the magnetic switches, they are hot-swappable. However, it will only accept NZXT’s proprietary switches. This shouldn’t be too much of an issue as you can tailor the actuation points of these switches anyway, and there aren’t many options that would work better, in my opinion. But having the ability to swap out the switches is very useful nonetheless, as it means you can replace broken switches without having to buy a brand-new keyboard, saving you some hard earned cash.
Overall, the NZXT Function Elite MiniTKL’s design is a significant improvement from the previous iterations of this keyboard. With major enhancements to the aesthetics, durability, and typing experience, this mechanical keyboard offers the premium quality you’d expect from a product labelled ‘Elite’. While there are some setbacks – mainly the lack of portability – the design of the Function Elite MiniTKL can comfortably compete with the best wired mechanical keyboards available.
Features We Like
NZXT CAM Software Integration
With the hardware of this keyboard relying heavily on customisation, the software is a vital element that influences the effectiveness of the features included. Fortunately, the NZXT CAM software complements the Function Elite MiniTKL well.
NZXT’s software has improved dramatically in recent years, with each product released accompanied by a range of customisation options. In addition, their signature minimalist style helps to make navigation straightforward, allowing you to quickly find the settings needed to make the appropriate adjustments for a tailored gaming and typing experience.
Ergonomic Design
Thanks to a complete redesign across the board, the Function Elite MiniTKL is one of the most ergonomic mechanical keyboards you can buy. Along with the smooth switches and durable aluminium frame, this 75% keyboard includes multiple small touches that improve the overall comfort when using this keyboard. For example, the rubber and slightly protruded pads on the side of the keyboard makes it easier to pick up this rather heavy keyboard, while also preventing it from sliding along surfaces.
Features We Don’t Like
Lack of Wireless Connectivity
By far the most disappointing exclusion from this design is the lack of wireless connectivity. This severely limits the versatility and functionality of this keyboard, especially compared to other options available for a similar price point. This would also have helped to differentiate this keyboard from the previous versions further, making the ‘Elite’ version a more worthwhile upgrade.
No Included Wrist Rest
For the most part, the NZXT Elite MiniTKL succeeds in offering an ergonomic typing experience that feels luxurious. However, there is one missing piece of the puzzle, as the Function Elite MiniTKL doesn’t come packaged with a wrist rest. Not only would this have elevated the comfort of this keyboard, but it would also help to alleviate some of the disappointment of the strictly wired connection and increase the overall value proposition.
Conclusion
NZXT Function Elite MiniTKL Review
Product Name: Function Elite MiniTKL
Brand: NZXT
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Features
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Design
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Performance
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Value for Money
Summary
After being given an ‘Elite’ redesign, we expected plenty of upgrades from the Function Elite MiniTKL compared to the other keyboards produced by NZXT. In many ways, this keyboard is a great success. The magnetic switches feel incredible and provide a more tailor-made typing experience while boosting performance with the introduction of rapid trigger and snap overrides technology, offering a competitive advantage. Also, the refreshed design greatly enhances the ergonomics, causing the keyboard to feel incredibly sturdy yet comfortable when placed on a desk.
That being said, there are still some key absences that prevent the Function Elite MiniTKL from being the best in class. For example, the lack of any wireless connectivity is a major concern. Though it can be somewhat explained with NZXT prioritising build-quality and performance, many gamers will immediately disregard this choice as a result. After throwing in a hefty price tag to boot, the NZXT Function Elite MiniTKL lacks the star power required to stand out from the competition.
For those looking for a wired gaming keyboard or not bothered by a lack of wireless connectivity, the fantastic build-quality, luxurious typing experience, and high-end gaming performance makes the NZXT Function Elite MiniTKL a worthy option. However, I feel as though the key exemptions will turn most gamers away from this keyboard.
Pros
✅ Magnetic switches
✅ Durable design
✅ NZXT CAM Software
Cons
❌ Wired connectivity
❌ No wrist rest
❌ Expensive
