Introduction

The Genesis brand debuted in 2011, but was so localized in operation that I had never heard of it until recently, as part of the 10th anniversary rebranding exercise, whereby Genesis saw the potential for better marketing of its products, and what better way to do so than with detailed product reviews on TechPowerUp? We have had two separate Genesis case reviews and a mouse review already and are today examining a keyboard from the brand. Thanks to Genesis for providing a review sample!


Several keyboards are sold under the Genesis label, and they are split into different series: Cobalt, Rhod, Lith, Thor, and RX. The elemental naming scheme was cool enough, but probably ran its course over time. We have here the RX85 RGB, which is the sole entry in the RX series at this time and happens to be a keyboard released nearly two years ago—Windows 11 is not even listed as a supported OS on the product page. It's at the top of the Genesis keyboard lineup, however, and what the brand suggested, too. The RX85 is a full-size keyboard that comes in a few different language options and utilizes a mix of small bezels on the case, paired with a detachable wrist rest and dedicated volume wheel, among other things. We aim to find out how well this keyboard holds up in 2022 in our review which begins with a look at the product specifications in the table below.

Specifications

Packaging and Accessories

Genesis makes no qualms about calling itself a gaming brand, so the packaging in a mix of the "classic" red and black gaming colors doesn't surprise. This sample was clearly marked as such on the product box, which is cardboard with a banderole. On the front is the Genesis logo and product name along with a large render of the keyboard lit up, and some salient marketing features go with it. This continues on the back with more specific information about the various keyboard components, including the Kailh Brown switch. Product specifications and more marketing, this time in multiple languages, are listed below. Two seals on the sides keep what we now find out is a two-piece packaging together, with the sides opening up to allow the inner box to slide out.


The inner box is also made out of cardboard and has more printing on it, which is unusual, including the product name and a larger version of the Genesis logo. A double flap on the side secures the contents inside in place during transit, and opening the box, we see the keyboard neatly packed inside a plastic wrap and held in place between two thick foam pieces. Genesis includes a multi-language quick installation guide, whose online copy can be found by scrolling towards the bottom on the product page here. It goes over the pre-programmed onboard controls and serves as a reminder to download and install the accompanying software drivers to make the most of the keyboard. The only other accessory comes in the form of a wrist rest found underneath the keyboard and inside another plastic wrap.


The wrist rest uses magnets for installation and has an angled front edge to mate with the keyboard's bottom edge. There is a mix of glossy and matte surfaces, including the top employing a layer of foam padding for added comfort and support when needed. There are several anti-skid rubber pads on the bottom, and a look from the side reveals the wrist-rest elevation.