Most gamers will tell you that mechanical key switches are a must when buying a gaming keyboard: they are more responsive, have a greater tactile feel and are more durable than cheaper membrane keyboards. Typically companies use key switches manufactured by Cherry for their mechanical boards, but QPad has opted to use Kailh switches for the MK-90 – specifically the MX Red versions.

These switches are linear, meaning there's no loud click or bump when you press one down. It makes typing very smooth, and double-tapping keys is made slightly easier. Each switch only requires around 45-50cN of force to actuate too, meaning you don't have to hit each key hard in order to register an input.

There's virtually no difference between the Kailh and Cherry switches in terms of design or construction, and we certainly couldn't spot any real differences between the MK-90 and a rival keyboard equipped with Cherrry Red MX keys. That means typing is fluid, with little noise to distract anyone else that might be in the room while you're typing or gaming. Full N-Key rollover means every key press registers, even if you press multiple keys at once.

The MK-90 is refreshingly restrained for a gaming keyboard, with a fairly standard layout and no superfluous macro or multimedia keys. Instead, the Function keys double up as multimedia controls and profile toggles, using the Fn button in the bottom right. This is also how you control the RGB backlighting, which can be customised through QPad's software suite.

Two USB ports and pass-through audio jacks on the back of the board are welcome inclusions, letting you hook up a headset or other peripherals without having to reach for your PC tower. It's a shame the USB ports aren't the faster USB3 versions though.

The optional wrist rest creates a comfortable typing position, and although it isn't as padded as other gaming keyboards we've tried the soft-touch finish stops your palms getting sweaty and lets your hands glide over the keyboard. With the wrist rest in place, the MK-90 is still no larger than any other full-size gaming keyboard, meaning you should have no trouble fitting it on your desk.