Once you switched to a mechanical keyboard, it’s hard to go back. Mechanical keyboards offer a noticeably better typing experience compared to the standard type. Each key has its own dedicated switch, which means you get more precise feedback, faster response times and a satisfying tactile feel. Whether that’s while gaming or just replying to emails.
They’re also built to last, often rated for tens of millions of keystrokes or more. Lots of models let you customise everything from the switches to keycaps. So, you really can make a mechanical keyboard your own.
And as heavy typers, we were very excited to get our hands on the Cherry Xtrfy Northern Light Bundle. We’ve being using it for a week and here’s what we found.
First impressions: a setup that shines
This limited-edition bundle includes the K5V2 mechanical keyboard and the GP6 XL mousepad, both wrapped in a Northern Lights-inspired, icy gradient design. It’s the kind of thing you might have as a desktop design or on a picture above your desk. So, to have this Northern lights motif integrated into the tech really helps this bundle stand out from the crowd.
The keyboard itself may be compact, but the mat is very much XL. It creates a great working space for your mouse and other peripherals.
What’s in the box?
Inside the sturdy black and red box you’ll find:
K5V2 mechanical keyboard
GP6 XL mousepad
USB-C cable
Extra keycaps
Keycap and switch puller
Manual
It’s a well thought out bundle. The keycap and switch puller means you can try out other caps and switches if you want to experiment.
Swapping out mechanical parts might sound daunting, but we gave it a go and it really is simple. The keycap popped off without any real resistance and the switch popped out easily too. We’ve tried changing over switches on other mechanical keyboards, and this really was the smoothest process so far.
Swapping out keys and sockets was easy!
K5V2 keyboard: compact, customisable and seriously comfy
The K5V2 is a 65% compact keyboard, which means it saves space without sacrificing essential keys. And it’s designed to be fully modular. So, you can swap out switches, keycaps, the frame, cable and even the logo plate.
Typing on it feels fantastic! The CHERRY MX Northern Light switches are smooth and silent. The switches give you just enough bounce so there’s a real fluid motion that’s genuinely satisfying. The keycaps are made from a material called PBT – which is both sturdy and hard wearing but also have a textured feel.
Performance-wise, the keyboard features Super-Scan technology, which checks for keystrokes every 0.5 milliseconds. That means your inputs are registered almost instantly.
If you’ve ever muttered “I’m pressing the button and it’s not doing anything” this tech is what you need in your life.
Add in double-layer sound-dampening foam and pre-lubed stabilisers, and you’ve got a keyboard that’s quiet, responsive and comfortable to use for long stretches. The K5V2 is also built for more than 100 million keystrokes per key.
GP6 XL mousepad: an upgrade for your desk
The GP6 XL mousepad isn’t just a visual match for the keyboard. It’s just as comfortable to use too. The mat is made from ultra-dense cloth that’s a great surface for your mouse - making it ideal for both gaming and creative work. The grippy rubber base also means there’s no chance of slipping.
We liked how big it was – creating a real workspace for the keyboard, peripherals and more. But if you’re going for the XL, it’s worth checking if it will fit on your desk.
It may look like a work of art but it’s practical too. Slopped coffee or energy drink can be easily wiped off!
Getting to know the keyboard
So, on a 65% keyboard, you’re missing a few keys you might be used to. But this is where the Function key comes in clutch. F1 – F12 are covered with Fn + 1, 2, 3 etc.
You can also play with the keyboard backlights until your heart’s content. Fn + caps lock turns them on and off. Then Fn + F brightens them and Fn + G dims them. Then there’s a huge choice of patterns and changing key colours by groups. A nice touch if you want to give WASD keys a different colour during gaming sessions.
But that’s really the tip of the iceberg. For even more control, Cherry Utility software lets you play with colours, map keys, macros and much more.
Downloading the software was in fact very helpful. The only downside of the Northern Lights aesthetic is that it sacrifices the secondary labelling on each key. So, it was good to have a back up way for us to know what we were controlling without relying on trial and error.
Who is the Northern Lights bundle for?
While the keyboard and mat will be a nice touch for the home PC set up, they’re actually far more practical than just a nice colour scheme.
The keyboard is small and light enough to take with you anywhere – so it could certainly light up an office. (You could obviously turn off the colourful RGB lights if your CEO was doing a tour of the workplace!)
Anyone who mostly uses a laptop won’t miss many keys on the 65% form factor, which has everything most people need day-to-day. And the fact that it’s so easy to swap out key caps, switches and case means you can switch things up should you want to try something new.
The Cherry Xtrfy Northern Light Bundle is more than just a pretty face. After a while, we forgot about the colour scheme and just started to appreciate it for its feel and responsiveness with every use.
Overall, the Northern Light Bundle delivers on both style and substance. Whether you're gaming, writing or just taking in the Northern Lights, it’s a setup that feels as good as it looks.
FAQs
Is the K5V2 keyboard hot-swappable?
Yes, it’s fully modular. You can swap out switches, keycaps and even the frame without soldering or special knowhow.
What type of switches come with the Northern Light edition?
It comes with CHERRY MX Northern Light linear silent switches, designed for smooth and quiet typing.
Is the GP6 XL mousepad machine washable?
While it’s not officially listed as machine washable, it can be cleaned gently with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid soaking or scrubbing too hard.
Does the keyboard support RGB lighting?
Yes, the K5V2 features customisable RGB lighting that complements the Northern Light theme beautifully.
Can I use the keyboard with Mac?
Yes, it works with macOS, though some key remapping may be needed for full compatibility.
