Thocky, slim and a NuPhy alternative: MARVO ColorReco A75 in review
If you're like me, you're always on the hunt for the perfect keyboard. One that not only looks good but also feels like an angel programmed your fingers. Enter: the MARVO ColorReco A75. A low-profile keyboard with a name that sounds like a Transformer but with a typing feel that promises: thock, thock, baby.
The MARVO ColorReco A75 is the kind of cousin NuPhy would rather not have invited to the family party - cooler, cheaper and somehow... nicer.
What we're looking at here: a slim mechanical keyboard with QMK/VIA programming, RGB disco vibes and enough wireless flexibility to free you from your desk. Does it really work? Let's dive in.
Transparency first! Yes, the MARVO ColorReco A75 was provided to me by MARVO - I have to be honest. But: This review reflects my own thoughts and fingerprints. They had no influence on my judgment. If I love it, you'll hear it. If it's rubbish, you'll hear it too. No paid praise here - just honest words and maybe a bad keyboard joke or two.
It was a normal Monday morning. The coffee tasted, well, mediocre, and my setup felt kind of... boring. Then a package arrived and I thought: "What is this now, another gadget that I don't need but really want to try out?"
Spoiler: It was the MARVO ColorReco A75. A keyboard that screams "low profile" but sounds "thocky", with enough RGB to turn your room into a mini disco. Plus QMK and VIA for limitless customization and wireless for cable-free freedom. Sounds like the jackpot, right?
But is it really? This review isn't just a keyboard analysis - it's a journey. From the first key to the last RGB pulse, I'll tell you whether the MARVO ColorReco A75 really delivers... or whether it gets lost in the big wide world of low-profile keyboards.
Design and workmanship: Slim, smart and always ready for use
The MARVO ColorReco A75 doesn't make a big statement at first glance - but that's exactly what makes it so charming. No flashy "I'm a premium keyboard" attitude, just simple, functional and light. The case is made of plastic, but feels solid. It's light enough to easily put in your pocket, and that's exactly why MARVO includes a simple fabric bag. No unnecessary frills, just plug it in and go - just like a travel keyboard should be.
But now for the cool features: On the back you'll find a switch that lets you easily switch between Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless and USB-C. And hey, the USB-C cable? Braided. No cheap plastic cable vibes, just robust and stylish. Speaking of switching: Another switch makes switching between Mac and Windows almost a hobby. Simply flip it over and your keyboard speaks the language of your system.
A small but crucial feature ensures typing comfort: fold-out feet. Whether flat as a disc or slightly angled - the A75 adapts to your style.
And now the absolute killer feature: the extra battery. Seriously, who does that? MARVO thought: "What if the user doesn't feel like charging?" Bam, backup battery. Just replace it and carry on. It's as if your keyboard had a spare life bar. If that's not love, then I don't know what is.
Typing feel: Low profile with thock? It really exists
I'll tell it like it is: The MARVO ColorReco A75 is a low profile keyboard that shows you that thin doesn't have to be boring. The Kailh Low Profile White Peach Switches make the difference. They provide gentle tactile feedback that feels like your keyboard is giving you a high-five with every keystroke. And the best part? It doesn't sound like plastic garbage, but gives you that rich thock that is about as common in the low profile world as ISO-DE keycaps. Spoiler: Very rare.
Speaking of keycaps: MARVO has installed PBT double-shot keycaps here, which not only look stylish, but also reliably ward off fingerprints and wear. Yes, they are flat - it is a low profile keyboard after all - but they still feel high quality and easy to grip. No cheap clatter, but a harmonious overall package.
But the A75 goes even further. A clever gasket mount system with dampening layers made of Poron, IXPE and PET is hidden under the keycaps. Sounds fancy, right? In short: your keyboard doesn't vibrate like a cheap razor, but sounds muted, rich and really clean. The typing feel is buttery smooth without you missing the tactile feedback. It's basically the definition of "low profile, but with character".
If you thought low profile was always flat and boring, the A75 has officially said "hold my beer".
Connection options: Flexible like a keyboard yogi
The MARVO ColorReco A75 doesn't do things by halves when it comes to connections. Whether you're a cable fan or want to free your desk of cable clutter - the A75 has it all. With a clever switch on the back, you can seamlessly switch between Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless and classic USB-C cable. It's the chameleon of keyboards: it adapts without complaining.
And speaking of switches: another small lever allows you to switch between Windows and Mac mode. This makes the A75 the ideal choice for anyone who constantly jumps between systems. No complicated remapping, no software hack - flip it and you're done.
So whether you're grinding on your gaming PC, taking notes at university or philosophizing over your MacBook in a café: the A75 delivers. And what if you're on the road for a while? No problem - the keyboard not only comes with an extra battery, but also with the flexibility you need to be ready for use anywhere. Wireless, wired or both - your desk, your rules.
Software and customization options: Open to everything (if you have the time)
I admit: VIA and I weren't love at first sight. The interface isn't exactly sexy and you need a bit of patience to get the hang of it. But: Once you get the hang of it, you'll see why it's so celebrated. VIA (and QMK) are open standards that give you practically limitless options for customizing your MARVO ColorReco A75. And the best thing is: you don't have to rely on poorly maintained manufacturer software that will eventually be forgotten.
From keymaps to macros to the perfect RGB light show, you can set everything with VIA. Sure, it takes time, but if you invest it, the A75 will be exactly the keyboard you've always wanted - and more. What's particularly cool is that your profiles are saved directly on the keyboard. No cloud, no login nonsense. Plug it in, and it works.
If getting started sounds too wild for you, don't worry. The VIA key on the keyboard allows you to control a few things like lighting directly - without software. This makes the basics pleasantly simple, and you can leave the big adjustments for the weekend (or until you need a new keyboard excuse for your workflow).
Advantages and disadvantages
Advantages:
Great value for money: Comparable keyboards easily cost 60 euros more, the A75 offers almost the same features at a fraction of the price.
Flexible to the max: With Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz and USB-C you have all the connection options you could wish for.
Endlessly customizable: Thanks to QMK and VIA you can program your keyboard exactly the way you need it.
Thocky typing feel: Kailh Low Profile White Peach Switches make every keystroke a joy - especially for a low-profile keyboard.
Additional battery: Who offers something like that? Just swap the battery and carry on - great for long sessions.
Disadvantages:
ANSI layout: This could be a problem for German users, especially because ISO-DE keycaps for low-profile boards are as rare as unicorns.
VIA requires patience: The software is powerful, but not exactly beginner-friendly. If you want to get started right away, you need nerves.
No metal housing: The plastic housing is solid, but with this design, an aluminum body could look even more elegant.
Conclusion: A real NuPhy alternative with its own twist
The MARVO ColorReco A75 is one of those keyboards that makes you wonder: Why didn't I know about this earlier? It has everything a good low-profile keyboard needs - plus a few extras that make it stand out from the crowd. The typing feel? Surprisingly full and thocky for a low-profile. The features? Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, USB-C and a Mac/Windows switch - it doesn't get more flexible than that. And then there's the additional battery that won't let you down even in the longest sessions.
But how does it fare against the competition? If the NuPhy Air75 is on your wish list, you should definitely consider the A75. Yes, the Air75 looks more elegant and scores points with its aluminum housing. But let's be honest: do you really need aluminum if you're paying almost 60 euros more for it? The MARVO A75 offers 90% of the features of the NuPhy, but at a price that will make your bank account smile - and without sacrificing the most important functions.
Of course, not everything is perfect. The ANSI layout is a small hurdle for German heavy typists, and VIA requires a certain amount of training time. But let's be honest: if you're willing to get involved, the A75 rewards you with a flexibility that only an open standard can offer. No dependence on outdated manufacturer software, but a keyboard that does exactly what you want - if you give it the time to get to know you.
In short: The MARVO ColorReco A75 is the kind of cousin that NuPhy would rather not have invited to the family party - cooler, cheaper and somehow... nicer. And if the ANSI layout doesn't bother you, you're getting a real highlight in the world of low-profile keyboards.
Tosin ei taida TKL olla vieläkään vaihtoehtona, mutta hakkaa kyllä G815:n ihan 6-0.
