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Razer BlackWidow Ultimate mechanical keyboard offers backlit, programmable keys
There are mechanical keyboards, and then there's Razer's newest duo. For the past three years, the gaming accessory company has been toiling in a back room trying to figure out how to really get mechanical keyboards right; according to it, the vast majority of the options today "feature stiff keys that cause key actuation fatigue," and it has sought to remedy said issue with the BlackWidow and BlackWidow Ultimate. Launched today over at Gamescom, these two keyboards offer key actuation that feels much like a mouse click, with an actuation point that's actually halfway through the full travel distance. The company claims that its power-packin' pair has one of the lightest actuation forces for all keyboards, making it ideal for hardcore gamers who can't be bothered with missing a single keystroke. The standard BlackWidow offers up fully programmable keys with on-the-fly macro recording as well as five additional gaming keys, while the Ultimate edition adds individually backlit keys with five levels of lighting, 3.5mm audio and microphone out jacks as well as an additional USB port. Both 'boards are due out next month for $79.99 / $129.99, respectively, and you can peek the full specs list in the press release just past the break.
Logitech's G700 mouse and G930 headset cut the cords, G510 chops price tag of primo keyboard parts
If you've already got a headset, mouse or keyboard, here's hoping they suit you just fine, because if they don't you'll be tempted to blow oodles of money on Logitech's latest gaming peripheral lineup. Today, the company revealed (and is launching) the G510 keyboard, the G930 headset and G700 mouse, and while the first is merely an amalgamation of solid peripherals that have come before (customizable RGB backlighting, USB audio, 18 programmable buttons, the whole nine yards) the latter two are premium wireless products. That's right, Logitech finally has an answer to Razer's Mamba and Microsoft's Sidewinder X8 with its own 2.4GHz, 1000 report-per-second hybrid wireless mouse (with thirteen programmable buttons on tap) and they've ripped the wires right out of the G35 surround sound headset to stuff a play n' charge battery and two 2.4GHz antennas on board. They'll run you a pretty penny, of course, at $160 for the headset, $120 for the keyboard and $100 for the mouse, but you'll find out if two of the three are worth your while later today when we publish our full review. We'll let you guess which two. Press release after the break. Update: Logitech's got a breakneck video rundown of all the hot new G-series features; spot it right after the break. All three products are also on Logitech's website now, though the headset and keyboard are labeled "out of stock."
Tron gaming peripherals soothe your nostalgia with calming blue light (video)
We don't have the foggiest idea whether Tron: Legacy will serve to reboot Disney's venerable light cycling franchise, but it's certainly got peripheral vendors in high gear -- you'll be able to hack the ENCOM Digitizing Molecular Laser with a genuine Tron keyboard and mouse or toss virtual light discs with an Tron-themed Xbox 360, PS3 or Wii controller this holiday season. Gaming favorite Razer crafted this $130 laser-etched keyboard with swappable numpad and programmable macros; it will ship alongside a $100, 5600dpi laser mouse in October, and PDP will provide the console controllers for $50 at an unspecified date. We were bummed to hear that the Xbox 360 and PS3 pads are wired, but in retrospect that might be a good thing -- by comparison, Razer's detachable keypad is just begging to be thrown at an MCP-generated foe. See all the new Tron toys lit up in a video after the break. (Caution: video loads automatically.) %Gallery-96137%
Razer shows off Starcraft II series of gaming peripherals
Razer has been teasing these for months, but it's just now given us our first look at its new Starcraft II series of gaming peripherals. Those include the Razer Spectre gaming mouse, the Razer Marauder gaming keyboard, and the Razer Banshee gaming headset, which all boast the same Starcraft-themed designs complete with blue LEDs, and all the gamer-friendly touches you'd expect from Razer -- 1000Hz Ultrapolling / 1ms response on the keyboard, 5600 dpi resolution and button force adjustment on the mouse, and a detachable mic on the headset, to name just a few features. Of course, they'll also demand a bit of a premium price -- look for the Spectre mouse to run $80, and the Marauder keyboard and Banshee headset to each set you back $120 when they roll out sometime in the third quarter of this year (presumably alongside Starcraft II). Head on past the break for the complete press release, and hit up the gallery below for a closer look at the whole lot. %Gallery-95569%
SteelSeries debuts 6Gv2 mechanical gaming keyboard
The clickety-clack of a mechanical keyboard may not be for everyone, but there's a sizable group that will accept no substitute, and SteelSeries now has yet another model for them to consider in the form of its new 6Gv2 gaming keyboard. Nothing but business here, with the keyboard passing over things like media keys and a USB hub in favor of more performance-oriented features like 18-karat gold-plated mechanical switches, and "anti-ghosting" technology to give gamers every possible advantage. Still no firm word on a ship date, but you can get your pre-order in now for $99.99.
Logitech's G110 gaming keyboard announced
The just announced Logitech G110 gaming keyboard is the followup to the G11 -- and it shows. Aesthetically, it's a bit tamer looking than the previous version. This bad boy boasts customizable red and blue backlighting LEDs, 12 programmable G keys, three M keys, automatic game detection which allows you to create custom profiles for each game, plus integrated headset support (definitely going to need that), and a USB 2.0 port. There's no word on pricing or availability for the G110 quite yet -- we'll keep you posted.
OCZ's Sabre OLED gaming keyboard now shipping, priced at $135
We've already gotten the official word that it was coming last month, and gone hands-on with the identical United Keys OLED keyboard even earlier than that, but it looks like OCZ is now finally shipping its own Sabre OLED gaming keyboard and, consequently, given it a price. Somewhat surprisingly, OCZ is letting this one go for just $135, which, while still not exactly a bargain, is a heckuva lot cheaper than the $260 that the United Keys version still runs. That'll get you nine customizable OLED keys, along with most of the standard specs you'd expect from a gaming keyboard, including "super tactile" keys, plenty of macro configuration options and, of course, some blue LEDs to remind you that you didn't buy this thing for work.[Thanks, Jay]
OCZ rolls out Sabre OLED gaming keyboard
If this OLED-laden keyboard looks a little familiar, it should, 'cause we saw the same one back at Computex when it was known as the United Keys OLED Display Keyboard (itself manufactured by Foxconn). Of course, with the OCZ name comes widespread US availability, although there's unfortunately still no word of a price or release date just yet (the United Keys version runs $260). Otherwise, it looks like this new Sabre model has remain unchanged from its earlier counterpart, with it still packing the same nine user-programmable OLED keys, 128MB of on-board memory, blue LED "sidelighting," limitless macro configurations, some "super tactile, low-noise" key feedback and, unfortunately, a lack of Mac compatibility.
Logitech's totally rad G19 gaming keyboard now on sale
For no particular reason -- let's just blame blatant capitalism in the face of uncertain times -- Dell's online store has a 30 day exclusive on Logitech's new G19 gaming keyboard, and just started selling the thing at $180 a pop, or $260 when bundled with the G9 laser gaming mouse. Sure, that might sound like a lot of money, but just remember the next time you reach a weathered, calloused index finger across your keyboard to toss your last grenade at a grim virtual enemy: you could've paid $180 to do the exact same thing while listening to Korn.[Thanks, Brian]
Logitech G18 gaming keyboard shows its not-so-ugly face
We spied the Logitech G13 Gamepad when it was announced earlier today, and now Engadget Chinese has caught wind of something else that may be in store for us. The keyboard pictured above is apparently the G18, and we while we have almost no solid info on it, we can glean a few things, such as the apparent groupings of fast function keys on the left side of the board (some which seem to be numbered G11-G15), not to mention that tiny display at the center. We don't know when we can expect this beast to arrive, but the G13 Gamepad is expected in January so fingers crossed.
Razer rolls out Lycosa Mirror, Arctosa gaming keyboards
It's been almost exactly a year since Razer introduced its Lycosa gaming keyboard and it looks like the company's decided to celebrate by rolling out a new, slightly updated model. From the looks of it, the Lycosa Mirror (pictured above) is identical in most respects to its predecessor, with the exception of a new high-gloss mirror finish on the keys (as opposed to rubber), and some "enhanced backlighting." Those looking to head in the opposite direction can also now opt for Razer's new Arctosa keyboard (check it after the break), which does away with the backlighting and non-slip rubber finish altogether but hangs on to the usual programmable macro and media keys. You can look for it to be available in both silver on black and black on black versions for $50 next month, while the Lycosa Mirror will set you back $80 when it lands in December.
OCZ debuts Alchemy gaming peripheral line with Elixir keyboard
OCZ has already made a few forays into gaming peripherals, but it now looks like its attempting to step things up considerably with a whole new line dubbed "Alchemy," which has just made its debut with the Elixir gaming keyboard. This one takes square aim at the likes of Razer's Lycosa, with it offering the same non-slip rubber keys and ten tri-mode programmable macro keys, but a decidedly more budget-minded price: just $30 list. No firm word on any other additions to the Alchemy line just yet, unfortunately, but OCZ assures us that the Elixir is just the "first of many gaming keyboards, mice, another other computer gaming accessories."[Via TrustedReviews]
Gigabyte's GK-K8000 gaming keyboard briefly spotted
If you weren't enthused about the SteelSeries 7G for whatever reason, Gigabyte looks to have another alternative headed down the pike. At the company's Spring Break event and Plug-Fest 2008, folks from Tweaktown were able to spend a few hurried minutes with the GK-K8000 gaming keyboard. We're told that "design issues" were holding 'em up from being released right now, but we get the impression that it's certainly nearing completion. Initial thoughts were that typing felt great and the unit itself seemed mighty sturdy, but why take our word for it? Hop on down to the read link for a few more snaps.
ROCCAT intros new line of gaming peripherals
ROCCAT may not be quite as well known as some gaming-centric peripheral makers, but it looks like its doing its best to make its mark with a new line of peripherals, including a gaming mouse and keyboard. Dubbed the ROCCAT Kone, the mouse looks to sport all the features an excessively-demanding gamer would expect, including no less than ten buttons, four removable weights, and a customizable light system with "thousands of colors." While you apparently won't get quite as many color options with the ROCCAT Valo keyboard (pictured after the break), you will still at least get illuminated keys (including 41 macro keys), along with 2MB of memory for storing up to five profiles, and even an integrated noise-canceling microphone. Look for it and the mouse to set you back €100 and €70 (or $147 and $103), respectively, when they hit Europe in February, with a matching mousepad also available for €20 (or about $30).[Via Randomly Accessed, thanks Steve]
Everglide's DKTboard gets inspiration from Razer
It's been a hot minute since we've heard any racket from Everglide, but the company seems to have tapped into what Razer's got going on for its latest gaming peripheral. The DKTboard is a sleek, all-black keyboard that features an ultrathin design, aluminum top case, eight multimedia hot keys and optional backlight illumination to keep your fingers on the right track even when the roommate turns in for the evening. The 'board is being offered up with an accompanying DKTmat for $69.99, but you'll have to wait for it to return to stock before calling dibs on your own.[Via RandomlyAccessed, thanks Steve]
Crazy new Wolf King gaming keyboard hits the FCC
It looks like those that prefer their keyboards as unconventional as possible could soon have a new option to consider from Wolf King, which has just seen its latest less-than-ergonomic wonder pass through the FCC. From the looks of it, this one boasts a good deal of similarities to the Wolf Claw keyboard we saw a while back, minus the full-size QWERTY keyboard. That gets replaced by a jumble of keys that could probably be used to actually type something in a pinch, although we're guessing you'll want to have another keyboard as a backup. According to the manual, you can also expect a pair of extra USB ports, seven customizable hotkeys and, of course, some blue backlighting to really make it stand out on your desk. No word on a price or release but, as you can see above, it sure looks about ready to roll out the door.
Saitek offers up Cyborg Keyboard for the gamer in you
You can't seriously consider snapping up Saitek's Cyborg gaming mouse without picking up the Cyborg Keyboard to match, can ya? If you've managed to elude the already-launched alternatives up until now, this version sports an equally futuristic motif with multi-color backlighting, a touch sensitive, backlit control panel, a dozen programmable hot keys and the ability to morph into Cyborg mode -- which instantly disables the Windows keys and configures the color / brightness of your gaming keys with a single press. Furthermore, the 'board features metal-plated keys in "gaming areas," a pass-through USB socket, audio and microphone ports, an adjustable wrist rest and gold-plated connectors for good measure. Currently, pricing and availability details are nowhere to be found, but hang in there soldier, Saitek should be filling in those holes soon enough.[Via Uber-Review]
Razer announces Lycosa keyboard, Piranha headset
If Belkin's new Razer-powered SpeedPad keyboard is a bit too unfamiliar for you, then perhaps Razer's own new Lycosa keyboard will be more to your liking. As you can see, it boasts a full complement of keys to handle those odd non-gaming tasks, although its not without its share of gaming-minded amenities as well. Those include backlighting on the all-important WASD key cluster, a non-slip rubber finish on all the keys, and support for up to 10 different software profiles which you can switch between on the fly. Those looking to stick with Razer for all their gear will also soon be able to get their hands on the company's just-announced Piranha headset, which boasts a noise-filtering microphone, an in-line remote with volume and microphone-muting controls and, of course, that trademark blue glow. Look for it to be available sometime this month for $80, with the keyboard set to follow in November for the same price.Read - Razer LycosaRead - Razer Piranha
Belkin intros n52te SpeedPad gaming keyboard
Belkin certainly took its time producing a successor to its Nostromo n52 gaming keyboard, but it looks like the company has now finally gotten its ergonomic act together, with it today showing off its new and slightly improved n52te SpeedPad for all to see. Designed to be equally adept at FPS, MMORPG, and RTS games, the SpeedPad boasts 15 fully programmable keys that are "built for speed," along with a programmable 8-way thumb pad and a removable joystick. Also new this time around is some nifty blue backlighting on the keypad and scroll wheel, as well as some software courtesy of the gaming-minded folks at Razer. Look for it to set you back $70 when it launches in November, although 50 gamers will get a chance to take home one for free as part of Belkin's "Proud to PWN" contest, which requires gamers to submit a video of themselves that "showcases their dominance in multiplayer, online PC games."
Microsoft Reclusa gaming keyboard reviewed
Microsoft and Razer's collaboration on a gaming mouse has been pretty well received, but it looks like their attempt at a gaming keyboard may not have been quite as successful, at least if ExtremeTech's review is any indication. While they liked the Reclusa's design and nifty blue backlighting, they were less than impressed by the comparative lack of macro keys (just ten of 'em), which are limited to only eight keystrokes apiece -- and, as neat as that backlighting is, they would have appreciated a way to turn it off. That said, they still think the keyboard should be more than enough to satisfy casual gamers, although they recommend those with more demanding needs stick to their G11 or G15.
