Closer Examination

The ZM-K700M has a standard 103-key US layout with five extra macro keys on its left edge and four extra function keys above the numpad. Its body is made out of textured plastic that resists fingerprints well, but has a small amount of flex to it.


The keys recess into the keyboard's body, so you will need to pull them all out get any amount of cleaning under them done.


On the bottom, you can see the USB cable's routing channel with its five exits. The cable is not detachable. You can also see the two two-part feet that allow you to adjust the keyboard's elevation.


Here, you can see a side-by-side comparison of the three different heights you can set the keyboard's back to.


On the right side is a "speed meter." It gives visual feedback when lighting levels and volume are adjusted and indicates the rate at which you press keys. There is also the RGB Z LED that will cycle through colors when the keyboard is in "Z-key mode." You cannot disable the speed meter, and if you wish to use Z-key mode, you will have to tolerate the RGB Z LED.


Zalman chose to go with genuine Cherry MX Red switches on the ZM-K700M. These are mounted to a steel base plate that provides the keyboard with some extra rigidity.


The keycaps are nearly frictionless and a little thin-walled, so pulling them out by hand may lead to cracking because of too much pressure. I recommend getting a keycap puller for cleaning this keyboard out.