Introduction
Mechanical keyboards have exploded in popularity over the last few years. What started as a niche hobby has gone mainstream, with gamers and typists alike chasing that perfect sound and feel. Features that were once exclusive to expensive enthusiast boards, like gasket mounting and hot swappable switches, are now appearing at much more accessible prices.
The GXTrust Xyra TKL is a prime example. It is a tenkeyless mechanical gaming keyboard with a gasket mounted design for a softer, more cushioned feel. It comes with smooth LEOBOG Seiya linear switches, supports hot swapping both 3 pin and 5 pin switches without soldering, and has per key RGB lighting with north facing LEDs. A detachable coiled USB-C cable and 12 dedicated function keys complete the package.
What makes it stand out is the combination of enthusiast features and a budget friendly price. It offers a genuine entry into custom keyboard territory without the usual cost.
We used the Xyra for two weeks of gaming, work and general typing to see whether it lives up to the hype.
Quick Verdict
Overall rating: 4.5 out of 5
Best for: PC gamers, keyboard enthusiasts on a budget and anyone wanting a premium typing feel without premium pricing
Short summary: The GXTrust Xyra TKL is a superb value mechanical keyboard. The gasket mount and linear switches create a smooth, satisfying typing feel with a pleasant sound, hot swap sockets invite customisation and the RGB lighting is bright and vibrant. It is wired only and the software is functional rather than polished, but for the price it is hard to beat.
Main pros
- Gasket mounted design for a softer feel
- Smooth LEOBOG Seiya linear switches
- Hot swappable 3 and 5 pin sockets
- Per key RGB with north facing LEDs
- Compact TKL layout
- Detachable coiled USB-C cable
Main cons
- Wired only
- Linear switches will not suit those who prefer tactile feedback
- Software is basic
Quick buying recommendation: If you want an affordable mechanical keyboard with enthusiast features, the Xyra is a brilliant choice.
Where to buy: Check the latest price on Amazon
Product Overview Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Trust GXT 872 Xyra TKL Mechanical Gaming Keyboard |
| Brand | Trust (GXTrust) |
| Product Type | Tenkeyless mechanical gaming keyboard |
| Key Features | Gasket mount, hot swap 3/5 pin, LEOBOG Seiya linear switches, per key RGB, 12 Fn keys |
| Main Purpose | Gaming and typing |
| Price Range | Around £75 to £90 depending on retailer |
| Materials | See Trust for full specification |
| Best For | Gamers and keyboard enthusiasts |
| Available Variants | Check retailer for colour and layout options |
Design & Build Quality
First impressions
The Xyra looks sleek and modern, with a compact tenkeyless footprint and vibrant RGB. It feels solid on the desk with no noticeable flex.
TKL layout
The tenkeyless layout removes the number pad, freeing up space for mouse movement. This is ideal for gamers who need room for wide sweeps.
Gasket mount
The gasket mounted design cushions the keys, giving a softer, more refined typing feel and a deeper, less harsh sound.
Switches
LEOBOG Seiya linear switches are smooth and consistent, with no tactile bump. They are rated for 60 million keystrokes.
Hot swap
The hot swap sockets accept 3 pin and 5 pin switches, so you can swap switches without soldering. This makes it easy to experiment.
Cable
The detachable coiled USB-C cable looks great and makes the keyboard easy to transport.
Features & Performance
Typing feel
Typing is smooth and satisfying. The combination of gasket mount and linear switches creates a soft, consistent keystroke with a pleasing sound.
Gaming
Linear switches are popular with gamers for their fast, smooth actuation. Our tester found the Xyra responsive and accurate in fast paced games.
RGB lighting
Per key RGB with north facing LEDs is bright and vibrant. Software allows customisation.
Function keys
Twelve dedicated Fn keys provide quick access to media and productivity functions.
Software
The software works but is basic compared to premium brands.
Real-World Experience
Our tester is a PC gamer who also works from home. They previously used a membrane keyboard.
The upgrade was immediately noticeable. Typing felt smoother and more satisfying, and the sound was deep and pleasant rather than clacky.
During gaming, the linear switches felt fast and responsive. The compact layout gave more room for mouse movement.
Our tester experimented with hot swapping a few switches from a friend’s collection, which was easy and fun.
Frustrations included the lack of wireless connectivity and fairly basic software.
Pros & Cons Table
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Gasket mount for soft, refined feel | Wired only |
| Smooth linear switches | Linear feel not for everyone |
| Hot swap 3/5 pin support | Basic software |
| Vibrant per key RGB | No number pad |
| Compact TKL layout | RGB may not suit minimal setups |
| Detachable coiled cable | Price varies by retailer |
Who Should Buy This?
The Xyra TKL is ideal for PC gamers, budget keyboard enthusiasts and anyone wanting a premium typing feel without spending a fortune.
It is less suited to people who need wireless connectivity, a number pad or tactile switches.
As a gift, it is perfect for gamers and anyone interested in mechanical keyboards.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Keychron V3
A popular budget custom keyboard with hot swap and QMK support. Similar price, different style.
Razer Huntsman V3 TKL
A premium gaming keyboard with optical switches. Much more expensive.
Royal Kludge RK87
A budget wireless mechanical keyboard. Offers wireless but less refined typing feel.
Membrane keyboards
Cheaper but far less satisfying to type on.
Is It Worth The Money?
The Xyra offers outstanding value. Gasket mounting, hot swap and per key RGB at this price make it one of the best budget mechanical keyboards.
Final Verdict
The GXTrust Xyra TKL is a superb budget mechanical keyboard that brings enthusiast features to a wider audience. Smooth switches, gasket mounting and hot swap sockets make it a joy to use.
It is wired only and the software is basic, but for gamers and enthusiasts on a budget, it is a top pick.
Overall rating: 4.5 out of 5
Where to buy: Check the latest price on Amazon
FAQs
Is the Trust Xyra keyboard hot swappable?
Yes. It supports both 3 pin and 5 pin switches.
What switches does the Trust Xyra use?
It comes with LEOBOG Seiya linear switches.
Is the Trust Xyra wireless?
No. It is wired with a detachable coiled USB-C cable.
What does gasket mount mean?
It means the keyboard plate is cushioned, creating a softer typing feel and deeper sound.
Does the Trust Xyra have RGB?
Yes. It has per key RGB lighting with north facing LEDs.
Is a TKL keyboard good for gaming?
Yes. The compact layout gives more room for mouse movement.
