http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/ Engadget Comments for http://www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2008 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/products/details/US/EN,CRID=2135,CONTENTID=10716]]>Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/
I have a Logitech keyboard and I've been waiting for a year for them to get off their butts and create a firmware update to support the browser that has some Microsoft execs quaking in their boots.]]>Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/
Also, you could get the keyboard to show things like current (real) time. That would certainly help out in a marathon gaming fest--it would help you ensure that you don't surpass the all-too-critical 50-hour mark.

But, beyond all that, this keyboard looks cool--and, in the end, isn't that what really counts?]]>Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/
Nobody has yet invented a keyboard that looks more impressive in real life than the IBM Model M w/ trackpoint in "stealth black". It doesn't come through so well in pictures, but up close it makes every single other keyboard look like an absolute child's toy.

Not only that, but nobody has yet invented a better alternative to the old buckling spring mechanism.

I've got a non-black Model M (the black ones are still around $100 if you can find one), and I don't see anything that these "gaming keyboards" offer that's a real improvement. Being able to disable the Windows key? My keyboard has no stinkin' Windows key! How's that for a solution to that problem? I don't see how an LCD screen is going to help anybody either - it just forces you to take your eyes off the screen. Which, against the guys I play against (when I do play online), could easily mean the difference between life and death. If the LCD is just duplicating stuff that's on-screen anyway, how is it anything other than a gimmick?

$80 for this seems to me to put this in the realm of "overpriced hunk of cheap plastic".
]]>Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/
1: More expensive.
2: Ugly.
3: Has an LCD.
4: And no interchangable keysets.

It could be useful, but then again...

"If you're looking at the keyboard while playing a game (checking your health etc...) you're going to wonder why the health reading always says ZERO."

Well said, however...

"It would also be handy to display FPS, or the name of who is talking over Teamspeak."

I could see it having some use in that way.

I use a standard Dell keyboard and that works fine. I can press up to 4 keys at once and have them all work. But nobody can ever surpass the Model M.

I'll be getting a ZBoard soon. Lets see how it is.]]>Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/
If used as an auxiliary display it can actually be quite useful when gaming.

Some Examples (I am sure y'all could probably think of more).

Instant Messaging: I depend on IM for much of my communications (as do most of my friends and coworkers). So if someone is trying to get in touch with me via IM while I am plauying a game, it is far more convenient to be able to glance down at an auxiliary LCD to see who that is, rather than to Alt-Tab out of the game to do so. Sort of like checking the caller ID on your cell phone before commiting to answering the phone "Do I NEED to interrupt my killing spree? Or can I just ignore it and keep on fragging?"

Score: If I can get my score during an FPS by glancing down at my keyboard instead of hitting a key to bring up a full screen standings board, that is far more efficient and far "safer" than having my primary PoV obscured for that second/fraction of a second.

As for how it looks... it's not THAT bad.. especially with the LCD in its stowed position (so if it bothers y'all that much just stow the thing till you need it).

I am curious if ALL the keys backlit or only some. Hoping for all.]]>Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/
Doesn't look very ergonomic either...]]>Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/
Doesn't look very ergonomic either...]]>Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/
http://www.wolfclaw.com.sg/

It's very new the market and not well known yet but it really really is awesome...]]>Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/
I agree with the notion that the standard buttons on keyboard is more than enough, additional buttons is pointless, with volume adjustment been the exception. How about detachable numpad instead, so one can move it to the left of the keyboard as additional shortcut keys during game? And this time make it "normal" size, unlike the dinovo one, which has like a 1 inch border.

Finally, pressure senstive wsad buttons (like the buttons on PS2 controller) or a analog joystick somewhere on the keyboard would be nice, so I don't have to hold down shift all the time]]>Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/
20: I use my 10 key for quick weapon buying in CSS. Each key is a different weapon. Althoug there is something to be said for simplicity in game control, but thats what I have a Nintendo for.

21: I was scared off from buying the eclipse because of it's "edgy" design. I prefer something more professional looking. I dislike the blue light in both of the keyboards, but thats modable.]]>Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/
A guy rewrote the SetPoint xml file so it supports Firefox and a whole lot more. Just Google "uberoptions."]]>Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/I currently use an Eclipse and the backlight is great for when I'm working... er.. playing.. ahem.. working in the dark. So the backlighting on the Logitech keyboard is something I will find useful.

I have a lot of peripherals so additional USB ports on the keyboard will be extremely useful.

As a lead in my department, people need to get in touch with me all the time (whether I am at work or not, whether I am working or not) so it is useful to be able to see IM's on an LCD while I am in a game. Same goes for friends as IM is their contact method of choice.

Additional keys... I could take or leave.. but I am sure it won't take much effort to find a use for them either.

If you don't "get" this keyboard. You just aren't gonna "get" it.

Which is fine. By it's very nature it's not for everyone.

I'll be getting one as I can see how it will be useful for me, as I am sure many others will as well.
]]>Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/What does this product mean for the future of keyboards, gaming, and even the office environment?

By making a keyboard customizable and adjustable you are taking the first step in incorporating all hardware for more complete manipulation by the user.
Once companies start realizing that a keyboard, a mouse, or a monitor can be used for more than just input, cursor movement, and visual output, then computing (gaming) will in turn incorporate the user all the more. Imagine the speed, efficieny, and sheer fun of that.

This keyboard is a sure-footed step in what could be a future in which all hardware more interactive and integrated - not just designed for one specific function.]]>Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/Good:
Key pressing is softer but firmer then most other keyboards adding to comfort.
The backlight is a toggle, I prefer it on, if you don't like it, push 1 button.
the "gaming" mode for disabling the Windows/file key is a switch. You don't have to use it if you still need the keys available.

Bad:
Seems the media keys do not by default work right off. Winamp file name and progress info display fine on the LCD, but the media buttons will not control it although it says it does in the settings (had winamp 5.0pro and upgraded to 5.1 pro, no change). The volume does not control the windows volume by default either. Also does not control Windows media player as it says it does in settings. (An issue with this? contact your media player's support not Logitech.)
Button setup takes a bit to get used to. Most keyboards your left hand is close to the edge of the left, but now it's ~1/5th the way on, have to get used to putting your hand closer.
LCD does not show game stats as advertised and does not have any help in the Help file or Logitech site.

I understand it is a brand new product, but having issues right out of the box?... not floating too well with me. The help file shows you how to bind your G-keys 5 times over, but does not cover adding games and configuring the LCD for it.]]>Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/
Now I'll have a real IWIN button!]]>Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/
But, of course we'll have to wait for someone who knows C++ to get thier hands on the keyboard and the SDK for that to happen.

Once I get this keyboard in the mail, I'll post up my initial comments about it.

Conclusion, this is a MMO player's dream keyboard.]]>Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/
http://www.g15forums.com]]>Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/
So far, there really isn't any game support, but that will grow with time. They did say that there will be an SDK, though whether it will be publicly available, I am not sure. I certainly hope so!

As for the media player compatabilty... I plugged in my Zboard and it didn't magically support Winamp, but I easily set up the Winamp global hotkeys to use the keypresses from the Zboard and it worked fine. I think a lot of people seem to expect a keyboard to magically create support from other applications, which is sometimes possible, and sometimes not. With respect to an LCD like this, it's not possible (for the most part) without some kind of game developer support. Hopefully we get plenty!]]>Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/Dec 19th 2005 1:36AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/http://www.engadget.com/2005/08/11/logitech-g15-gaming-keyboard-includes-lcd-display-custom-keys/
Cannot configure to work with Counter-Strike or any other games that I play. I do not play MMO's so this keyboard is useless to me.]]>Jan 28th 2008 12:25PM