Introduction

We recently took a look at the HyperX Alloy Origins Core, partly as a break from all the 60% form factor keyboards and to see how the company's Aqua tactile switches were. I mentioned then that the keyboard was not the newest release, and that the Alloy Origins 60 was quite new at the time. It still happens to be a recent release, so back we are again with HyperX. Thanks again to the company for sending a review sample to TechPowerUp!


Part of the Alloy Origins series, the HyperX Alloy Origins 60 is a 60% form factor keyboard in that it keeps the alphanumeric section of a keyboard and only certain modifiers. This was traditionally meant to be an ergonomic solution with the base layer for typing and other layers for the rest. But it appears mainstream companies have seen the increasing market for such small keyboards for a variety of use cases, including gaming, to where this recent entry from HyperX did not surprise me whatsoever. As with other HyperX keyboards released recently, it uses the company's own mechanical switches, too. Let's dig deeper into the features of the keyboard in this review that begins with a look at the specifications below.

Specifications

Packaging and Accessories

HyperX operates a web shop in the USA. However, this sample came from a marketing hub, so we begin with a look at the product packaging. The packaging aesthetic is similar to other Alloy Origins keyboards with a vibrant red and white wrap on the cardboard box. A lot of information has been put on front, including the product and company name on the corners, mentions of the switch type and layout, and a big illustration of the keyboard with some marketing features. This continues on the back and sides with more illustrations, features, and specifications. Two seals on an edge keep the contents inside in place.


We see single flaps on the sides, and opening the box gives us a look at the keyboard front and center, inside a plastic wrap that is surrounded by more cardboard on all sides for additional protection during transit. A compartment up top holds the paperwork neatly tucked in. The quick start guide is all you need to go over the first few times you use the keyboard, mostly for familiarity with the pre-programmed functions HyperX has built into the keyboard. The other accessories are in a separate layer to prevent any damage to the keyboard in transit.


As other Alloy Origins keyboards, the Alloy Origins 60 uses a detachable cable, and we get one with a USB Type-A connector on one end and a Type-C connector on the other. To keep with the color scheme of the keyboard, the cable uses black sleeving and connector housings. We also have a plastic ring-style keycap puller with the company name etched in, as well as two replacement keycaps for Esc and the space bar. These keycaps are out of thin ABS (wall thickness 0.90 mm) and have laser etched legends, and the design adorning that space bar keycap with he HyperX logo on the front. The keycaps are backlighting compatible, which will go well with the RGB backlighting on the keyboard.