HyperX
Alloy Origins Core
AUTHOR:Onie T.
TESTED BY:James L.
Published:

The HyperX Alloy Origins Core is a tenkeyless (TKL), wired mechanical keyboard designed primarily for gamers but versatile enough for other users as well. It boasts a full aluminum body, which enhances its rigidity and stability during use. 

The keyboard comes with three mechanical switch options - linear, tactile, and clicky - allowing users to select their preferred typing feel. The Alloy Origins series is available in four different sizes: full-size, tenkeyless, 65%, and 60%. We have previously reviewed the full-size version. The TKL model reviewed here is perfect for smaller desk setups, offering extra space while maintaining essential functionality. As of publication, it is priced at $89.99 USD MSRP on the HyperX webstore.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

THE GOOD

  • Build Quality

    The keyboard features a full aluminum body, offering excellent rigidity and stability.

  • Switches

    It comes with three mechanical switch options (linear, tactile, and clicky) to suit different typing preferences, although not hot-swappable.

THE BAD

  • Ergonomics

    The keyboard lacks a wrist reset and has a high profile, which could lead to wrist strain over long periods of use.

  • Keycap Material

    The ABS keycaps tend to shine over time due to regular use, though they are double-shot and shine-through.

THE REST

  • Overall

    This keyboard is a solid option for gamers who want a TKL keyboard that saves desk space while offering build quality and mechanical switches. However, its high profile and lack of ergonomic support may not make it ideal for extended typing sessions.

LINKS
Where to buy*
AmazonNewegg

*This website uses affiliate links. Purchases made through these links may provide compensation to Linus Media Group.

Hardware
HardwareNotes

The Alloy Origins Core is a wired-only keyboard, but the included detachable USB Type-C to Type-A cable is braided and measures 180 cm, providing durability and flexibility. The keyboard itself is constructed with an all-aluminum top plate and frame, ensuring high rigidity and long-lasting stability during use. 

However, the keycaps are made from ABS plastic, which tends to develop a shiny appearance over time from use. While they are double-shot and shine-through for durability and backlight visibility, HyperX does offer PBT keycaps in a few colorways for users who want to upgrade.

In the Box

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Front of the box.

Dimensions
The keyboard is placed on a 900 x 400 mm desk pad next to a Logitech MX Master 2S mouse.

The keyboard is placed on a 900 x 400 mm desk pad next to a Logitech MX Master 2S mouse.

Height
Width Max
Depth W/ Palm Rest
Depth
Weight
Construction
The right side of the keyboard containing the navigation keys.

The right side of the keyboard containing the navigation keys.

Chassis Material
Base Plate Material
Base Plate Color
Stabilizers
Keycaps
The left side of the keyboard.

The left side of the keyboard.

Keycap Material
Lettering
Shine Through Keycaps
Connectivity
The keyboard is connected by a USB Type-C to Type-A detachable cable.

The keyboard is connected by a USB Type-C to Type-A detachable cable.

Wireless
Wired
Bluetooth
Bluetooth Version
Multi-Device Pairing
Receiver
Receiver Storing
Battery Type
Computer Side Connector
Keyboard Side Connector
Cable Length
Detachable Cable
USB Passthrough
Features & Software
Features & SoftwareNotes

The Alloy Origins Core is supported by HyperX’s NGENUITY software, which is available exclusively for Windows computers. Though not compatible with QMK or VIA, NGENUITY allows users to customize the keyboard’s per-key RGB lighting, set up macros, and configure Game Mode. A dedicated Game Mode key (shared with F12) is included, enabling users to disable the Windows key during gaming sessions to prevent accidental interruptions.

Software
Software
Mandatory Registration
Number Of Profiles
Onboard Memory
Cloud Sync
Macro Programming
QMK Firmware Compatible
VIA Key Configurator Compatible
Windows Compatible
MacOS Compatible
Backlighting
RGB Software
Backlighting
Backlighting Color
Per Key Illumination
Performance
PerformanceNotes

The Alloy Origins Core offers three mechanical switch options: HyperX Red (Linear), HyperX Aqua (Tactile), and HyperX Blue (Clicky). For testing, the HyperX Red Linear switches were used. These switches have an operating force of 45.97 gf, 2.27 mm of pre-travel, and 2.06 mm of total travel. In wired mode, the keyboard demonstrated above-average latency, averaging 10.1 ms, ensuring an adequate response for gaming.

Keystroke
Latency
Sound Sample
Productivity & Efficiency
Productivity & EfficiencyNotes

While the Alloy Origins Core does not come with a wrist rest, it does offer three adjustable incline angles —3°, 7°, and 11°— for some degree of ergonomic comfort. However, its high-profile design may still cause wrist strain during prolonged use, especially for those who type or game for extended periods.

Ergonomics

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The keyboard ergonomics at an angle of 3 degrees, with the adjustable leg in.

Board Size
Board Type
Palm Rest Included
Low Profile
Incline Angles
/ /
Key Alignment
Numpad
Dedicated Function Row
Dedicated Arrow Keys
Key Spacing
Ghosting & Rollover
KRO Wired
KRO Receiver
KRO Bluetooth
Ghosting
Test Configuration
Tested Settings
Firmware Version
Software Version
Polling Rate (Wired)
Polling Rate (Wireless)
Debounce Time

FREQUENTLY COMPARED KEYBOARDS