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Tag: keyboard gaming

  • HyperX Alloy Elite 2 Review, Software, Manual

    The HyperX Alloy Elite Introduce

    The HyperX Alloy Elite 2 keyboard takes the design of its predecessor and is positioned as a very complete mechanical keyboard emphasizing its RGB lighting.

    For this, it takes advantage of the brand’s new two-tone keys which house high-performance HyperX Red mechanical switches already seen on the Alloy Origins .

    HyperX Alloy Elite 2 review

    Two years after the release of the Alloy Elite RGB keyboard , HyperX is back in the spotlight with a new iteration stamped “2”. This new version brings with it some new features which appear very thin on reading the technical sheet.

    The HyperX Alloy Elite 2 gaming keyboard offers a design identical to that of its big brother with a strong emphasis on RGB lighting and performance since the novelties of this model revolve around its keys and switches.

    Offered at a fairly high price of around 170 euros, this new iteration will have a lot to do to convince us, as the market has evolved in recent years.

    Design & Ergonomics for HyperX Alloy Elite 2

    In terms of design, HyperX did not put much effort into this new keyboard since it has exactly the same design as the two previous models. We made the same observation during our test of the RGB version.

     

    See Also : Corsair K95  RGB Platinum Review

     

    The keyboard offers here a “frameless” hard plastic frame overhung by a metal plate which gives it significant rigidity and allows the keyboard and its kilo and a half to hold well in place on our mat.

    The keys and their RGB lighting thus sit directly on this aluminum plate in order to efficiently diffuse the light.

    Keys and buttons HyperX Alloy Elite 2

    Above the typing zone, we find this bar slightly detached from the body of the keyboard. On the right, you will find the various multimedia control buttons as well as a very practical although a little cheap volume adjustment wheel .

    On the left, three other buttons are positioned to allow you to customize certain functions of the Alloy Elite 2 on the fly.

    The first allows to manage the power of the lighting, the second to switch between the different profiles. And the last activates the game mode which deactivates for example the Windows key.

    Lighting RGB

    Due to their slightly translucent white rim, they therefore better diffuse the light coming from the RGB switches.

    Here, it is clearly a matter of taste. Some will love it, others will find it very ugly. For my part, I am quite convinced. Even if at full power the lighting is a bit too powerful on this model.

    Note also that this news touch almost overshadows the usual light bar on the top of the keyboard and which can display rather varied lighting effects.

    Mechanical Switches

    The other novelty of the Alloy Elite 2 is hidden under these new keys since the keyboard features the red mechanical switches signed HyperX.

    We had already been able to test these switches during our test of the Alloy Origins and personally I’m still a fan. We will come back to this a little later in the article.

    On the other hand, we find the usual very imposing braided USB cable. Which will need to be connected via two separate ports to be able to take advantage of the USB port on the back of the keyboard.

    Profile Setting

    As far as the functionalities are concerned, nothing very exciting since. As usual, it will be necessary to turn to the HyperX NGenuity driver to manage the entire keyboard configuration. The driver has not changed at all since our last test of a HyperX product and we still find this interface not necessarily very clear or easy to use.

    Note that, as before, the driver must remain open and cannot be minimized in the Windows notification bar.

    First, there is an interface dedicated to configuring the lighting effects of the Alloy Elite 2. The operation here is quite clear and offers an interface similar to the layers found in Photoshop.

    Configuration

    The second tab is dedicated to the allocation of keys and has a fairly wide range of possible configurations. You can thus choose to remap the keys with any other on the keyboard. Certain system functions or even recordable macros directly from the driver.

    All these settings can obviously be saved in profiles that we will associate with our games or applications. The keyboard also has an internal memory capable of storing 3 different profiles.

    Be careful though: these profiles will only be accessible when the pilot is not running. If this is the case, the profiles present in Genuity will take precedence over those saved on the Alloy.

    Driver software for HyperX Alloy 2

    Download Driver : Driver 

    Performances

    We are now tackling the performance of the Alloy Elite 2 which. Like the Alloy Origins range, benefits from the new HyperX Red switches.

     

    Related Post : Logitech K750 Keyboard : Perfect for typing

     

    The difference is in the stroke which is shorter on HyperX switches with “only” 3.8mm.  And an activation point located at 1.8mm. The gain in responsiveness is quickly noticeable and will also require a little adaptation time to master the keyboard perfectly.

    On our side, we are really fans of these switches which perfectly meet our needs whether in game or in writing. They turn out to be a little louder than the Cherry MX Reds and are in a way similar to the SteelSeries QX2 Red switches found on the Apex 7 .

    In the same way, he was put to contribution for the writing of this article and answers there too present. HyperX seems to have found the right recipe for their homemade switches, which are simply excellent.

    Conclusion

    In the end, HyperX gives us here a fairly mixed evolution of its Alloy Elite RGB model. If we always take advantage of an efficient design, we regret the lack of real novelty. The new two-tone keys may nevertheless appeal to some even if the absence of the wrist rest seems frankly disappointing.

    It is in terms of performance that the evolution is most felt with the arrival of HyperX Red switches which are very efficient. They are among our favorite linear switches on the market.

    We recommend that you turn to this model instead if you are ready to skip the multimedia controls. And very “bright” RGB lighting of the Alloy Elite 2.

     

  • The Roccat Vulcan TKL Pro Review, Manual Guide, Software Support

    The Roccat Vulcan

    ROCCAT VULCAN TKL PRO

    The Roccat Vulcan TKL Pro is a compact version of the Vulcan 120 unveiled in 2018 . By skipping the numeric keypad, it adapts more easily to purely gaming oriented use .

    This Pro version is also distinguished by the integration of new Roccat Titan Optical switches, even more responsive and durable. It is offered at a manufacturer price of 159 €.

    A non “Pro” version is also available, it uses an identical design but incorporates traditional mechanical switches. Count 129 €.

    Roccat Vulcan TKL Pro Test

    After a convincing Roccat Vulcan, the German manufacturer finally unveils a TKL version of its flagship keyboard. Two models are presented, with on one side the Roccat Vulcan TKL carrying mechanical switches at 129 € and on the other a Pro version at 159 € , opting for new optical switches. It is on this second version that we are focusing today.

    Roccat Vulcan TKL Pro – A compact and powerful gaming keyboard
    This switch to the TKL format mainly targets competitive players, those who do not necessarily need a numeric keypad when gaming but rather additional space to move their mice.

    See Also : Redragon Karura K502 Nice Gaming Keyboard

    For the rest, the design and general conception of this Vulcan TKL takes again the bases of what we had already discovered with the original model. We therefore remain on a well-defined style, with low-profile chassis and switches giving pride of place to the backlighting.

    Design & Ergonomics

    As explained in the introduction, this new Roccat Vulcan TKL Pro broadly resumes the design of its big brother. The rather atypical style of the full version seems to have been a hit with gamers and this Ten Key Less version should probably catch the eye of many gamers.

    Before going into a little more detail on the design of the keyboard itself, a point concerning its new dimensions. If the Vulcan was rather large on a desk, this switch to TKL brings a much more compact format.

    With a length of 36 cm and a width of 13.3 cm, the keyboard is much more discreet when placed on its desk. The borders around the keyboard are thinner and this TKL version does not include the wrist rest that came with the Vulcan 120.

    Reduce Format

    Thanks to this reduced format, you save space for moving your mouse and this is particularly interesting if you are used to playing with low sensitivity. The Vulcan TKL Pro is also much easier to transport, especially since it now has a removable USB-C cable.

    On the finish side, the keyboard frame is made of plastic but the upper part is accompanied by an aluminum plate reinforcing its structure. The set withstands our various tortures well and does not bend under pressure. No complaints.

    On the back, there are two retractable feet to manage the inclination of the keyboard. Unlike some competitors, including the Logitech G915 TKL , only one height is available. Several rubber inserts make it possible to stabilize the whole once placed on its desk or an XXL mouse pad.

    The Roccat Vulcan

    Keys for Roccat Vulkan TKL Pro

    As for the keys, there are no differences compared to the Vulcan 120. There are transparent switches that perfectly highlight the different RGB lighting effects. The keycaps cover only the top of the switches and have a slightly curved shape that is supposed to better fit the fingertips.

    Note that these are ABS keycaps and not PBT. A bit of a shame not to benefit from a better finish on this Pro version compared to the classic TKL.

    In use, however, this format requires a little adaptation time and during the first uses it is sometimes a little more difficult to actually slide your fingers from one key to another. You get used to it fairly quickly.

    More Shortcut Keys for Roccat Vulkan TKL Pro

    On the right of the keyboard, there is a wheel to manage the sound volume as well as an additional button to mute the sound. Other additional commands are available as shortcuts with the Fn button. In particular, you can manage your music using the F9 to F12 keys or adjust the effects and lighting intensity using the directional arrows.

    By combining Fn + Del, it is possible to lock Fn mode to have direct access to these shortcuts. You can also replace the Windows key with the Fn key or activate Game Mode directly from the keyboard.

     

    See Also : Roccat Kone AIMO Remastered Review Test And Support Software

    Roccat Swarm software

    Like most of the brand’s peripherals, the Vulcan TKL Pro is compatible with Roccat Swarm software . You can create up to 5 configuration profiles and load them automatically according to your games or applications.

    The first tab “General characteristics” allows you to manage the delay and speed of key repetitions or to obtain audio feedback on each keystroke. Nothing very interesting here unless you want to hear a laser noise with each activation

    Software Support For Roccat Vulkan TKL Pro

    Software Support

    The “Key Assignment” tab can be used to modify the mapping of each of the Roccat Vulcan TKL Pro’s keys. You can create your own macros or select actions proposed by Roccat. It is also possible to assign a secondary action via EasyShift mode [+]. This second mapping is accessible via the Caps Lock key when Game Mode is activated.

    Finally, the last tab “Key lighting” allows you to adjust the various RGB effects of the keyboard. Here we find the usual options of the brand and in particular the AIMO lighting that can be synchronized with other Roccat peripherals. For the rest, it is a little less complete than what Razer or Roccat offers for example.

    Performance and Optical Switches

    Now it’s time for the performance of this Vulcan TKL Pro and its new Roccat Titan optical switches. Unlike conventional switches, activation is carried out here when the switch passes through a light beam and no longer by mechanical contact.

    The new Roccat Titan Optical switches

    A design that is found on more and more keyboards, including the Huntsman range from Razer or the recent Corsair K100 RGB . In practice, this makes it possible to overcome the rebound delay after each activation, but also to improve the durability of the switches. For its Titan, Roccat announces up to 100 million pressure.

    Currently, Titan Optical is only offered in a linear version. They have a total stroke of 2.8 mm, for activation at 1.4 mm. The activation force is not specified by Roccat, but according to our research it would be 45 g.

    In use, the keystrokes benefit from a particularly pleasant activation. The optical switches are very “fluid” and the keyboard does as well during daily tasks as in gaming. It is responsive and precise and each key benefits from a very correct stabilization. A good job from Roccat.

    Roccat Vulcan TKL Pro’s Performances

    Regarding the noise of these linear optical switches, you can find a demonstration in our presentation video. The activation itself is not particularly loud, but the keyboard frame can tend to resonate with the keys, especially when the keyboard is tilted slightly on its feet.

    Conclusion

    By taking the basics of the Vulcan 120, this new Roccat Vulcan TKL Pro should once again convince many players.

    Its atypical but successful design allows it to stand out from the competition and its new optical switches respond perfectly to the slightest strike. Its compact size is better suited to purely gaming use , with much smaller dimensions than the original version.

    Now there is the question of price, because at nearly 159 € , this Pro model is clearly not cheap. The classic TKL version is for its part offered at a price of 129 € and seems to us to display a better quality / price ratio for the majority of users.

    Summary

    GOOD POINTS

    •  A very compact TKL format
    •  A design as efficient as ever
    •  Responsive and durable optical switches
    •  Detachable USB-C cable
    •  Bright RGB lighting

    NEGATIVE POINTS

    •  Keycaps a little too “square”
    •  Roccat Swarm software still lagging behind the competition
    •  Too expensive ?

     

  • Razer Cynosa Chroma Gamer Keyboard Software

    razer cynosa

    ABSOLUTE GAMING. INFINITE LIGHTING

    If you think that a keyboard with all the essentials could not improve, think again. With the Razer Cynosa Chroma, we kept the needs up and improved with features. It now features full game performance with individually backlit keys, so you have more customization options.

    POWERED BY RAZER CHROMATM

    With individually programmable backlit keys and 16.8 million color options. Choose predefined lighting effects or create your own unique color palette for a truly unique gaming experience – all easily configured with Razer Synapse 3 (Beta).

    See Also : Logitech M750 Software Drivers

    SOFT. SILENT. FAST

    Our soft, cushioned touch keys provide comfort as they have a case support that is superior to that of rubber membrane keyboards, so that each key press is solid. With each touch, fully feel the scrolling and responsiveness of the keys, so you can be sure you’re pressing with deadly precision, regardless of the game you’re playing.

    See Also : Logitech Marathon Mouse M750 Review

    LET’S CUSTOMIZE

    Finally, a keyboard that is exclusively yours. With Razer Synapse 3 (Beta), you can reassociate buttons, assign macros, customize device lighting, and more to transform your gameplay the way you want it. There is no limit to what this unified hardware configuration tool can do, so make it yours.

    MANUAL GUIDE

    Master guides : Download pdf

    SOFTWARE

    Firmare v1.01.00_r2 : Download

    SPECIFICATIONS

    1. Special gaming keys with soft, cushioned touch
    2. Individually customizable backlit keys
    3. Razer ChromaTM backlight with 16.8 million customizable color options
    4. Razer Synapse enabled
    5. 10 overlapping keys with anti-ghosting effect
    6. Durable and spill-resistant design
    7. Fully programmable keys with real-time macro recording 1,000 Hz Ultrapolling
      game mode option
  • Roccat Vulcan II Mini review

    Roccat Vulcan II Mini review

    GAMING SUPPORT –  The Roccat Vulcan II Mini keyboard and its very compact format. We can notably mention Razer with its Huntsman Mini and Blackwidow V3 Mini , SteelSeries with its Apex 9 and Pro Mini, the K65 RGB Mini and K70 Pro Mini Wireless from Corsair or even Fnatic and its Streak65 . Only Logitech G still seems a little behind, but we imagine that their model will not be long in coming.

    So with a little delay on the competition, can Roccat impose itself on this format more and more appreciated by the players? Response after a dozen days at his side.

    Design & Ergonomics

    The Vulcan II Mini generally takes up the design of the previous keyboards in the range and in particular the Vulcan and Vulcan TKL Pro that we had already had the opportunity to present to you on GamerTech.

    The look of these keyboards is clearly one of their main strengths, with the various iterations of the Vulcan standing out quite a bit from the competition thanks to an airy and slender design, emphasizing RGB lighting.

    The main novelty of this Mini version is thus found in its format, which as its name suggests now passes on a reduced model, here at 65%.

    As a reminder, this design, even more compact than that of the TKL models, ignores the numeric keypad and the F1 to F12 keys. Faced with the 60% models, on the other hand, we retain direct access to the directional arrows as well as to an additional column on the right of the keyboard.

    In practice, there is a tendency to favor this design at 65% rather than 60%. The difference in terms of dimensions is not huge and we gain in comfort of use as well as in productivity.

    Dimensions

    Once placed on a desk, the latest addition to the brand knows how to be discreet. With dimensions of 324 x 116 x 31 mm, the Roccat Vulcan II Mini adapts to the smallest spaces while providing a large sliding surface for mouse movements. An essential point if you are used to playing with low sensitivity. To give you a better idea, the animation below compares the Roccat model to a few other references that have already passed through our hands.

    A little more in detail, the finishes of the keyboard are similar to those of previous Vulcans. We thus find a chassis with an always very thin design, here reinforced by an aluminum upper plate. The model takes the torture pretty well despite a fairly light weight of 500 g.

    We also find these “floating”-looking keys, with these keycaps which only cover the upper part of the mechanical switches. It’s a bit of the hallmark of this Vulcan range and we must admit that visually the result is still just as convincing. Note that it is now possible to replace these keycaps with more traditional models if desired (cross stem).

    Regarding the keycaps installed by default, Roccat does not specify their design but everything seems to lead to believe that they are ABS plastic models. Not necessarily ideal in terms of durability and fingerprints can quickly appear.

    Accessible

    On the command side, all the actions of the deleted keys obviously remain accessible via the FN key. You can also access some additional shortcuts to manage your music, the sound volume or the intensity of RGB lighting. Classic.

    The Vulcan II Mini is also compatible with the EasyShift[+] option, found on most of the brand’s mice and keyboards. The feature provides access to an alternative mapping and therefore benefits from many additional shortcuts.

    By default, the option is activated when you hold down the TAB key, but you can also imagine activating it from your Roccat mouse . These options are adjusted from the Roccat Swarm software that we present to you a little further down.

    At the back of the keyboard, there are two retractable feet allowing the tilt to be adjusted on two levels. A rubber insert placed on the front part of the base ensures good stability to the whole.

    Finally, let’s finish with a point on connectivity. The Roccat model works only wired, via a USB-C connector placed in the center of its rear edge. For once, we would have liked the manufacturer to finally offer a switch to wireless with this new version in compact format. The keyboard could thus have been placed as an alternative to the Corsair K70 Mini Wireless , Razer Blackwidow V3 Mini HyperSpeed ​​or Cooler Master CK721 .

    Roccat Swarm Software

    As explained above, the different keyboard options can be configured via the in-house Roccat Swarm software. It is available free of charge from the manufacturer’s site and if you already have it, all you have to do is launch it and then update it.

    The tool allows you to create up to 5 configuration profiles, which can then be automatically loaded according to your games or applications. Enough to allow it to display good versatility despite its compact format.

    From the “Key assignment” tab, you can modify the secondary mapping of the keys, the one accessible via the EasyShift[+] functionality. Here, it is possible to choose among the different categories of actions already offered by Roccat or to create your own macros.

    The EasyShift[+] option is activated by default by holding the Tab key, but only when the keyboard is in “Gaming” mode, which can be activated via Fn + Windows.

    On the lighting side, they are configured from a second tab. Here you can choose between different effects or customize each of the keys with the color of your choice. Nothing really new on that side, even if we have to admit that some competitors offer slightly more complete options, including the possibility of customizing several layers of lighting.

    A new tab is also appearing on the lower part of the software, allowing you to customize the second LED found on 30 keys of the keyboard, namely those offering a second mapping accessible via the FN key. To our surprise, only some of them are customizable, especially those dedicated to media or sound volume. For example, the second lighting of the numeric keys is not customizable, while the latter have two LEDs.

    Also, for some keys the second lighting is always activated, while for others it only activates when the action in question is activated. In short, all this deserves in our opinion to be reworked a little and we hope that a firmware update will offer a little more latitude on the side of these second lights because the idea is rather good.

    Overall, the Roccat software meets most of our expectations, but as often, we regret an interface that is not necessarily the most intuitive. The tool has changed very little in recent years and a global overhaul would be really welcome.

    Switches & Performances

    The Vulcan II Mini inaugurates the brand’s new optical switches: the Roccat Titan II Optical. They take up a design fairly close to the manufacturer’s previous linear switches, still with a total stroke of 3.6 mm, an activation at 1.4 mm and a force of 65 g. They are advertised with a durability of 100 million activations.

    Without really giving more details about their design, the brand promises an even smoother activation with this second generation. These new switches mainly benefit from a revised design at the stem level, offering much better compatibility with other keycaps .

    In use, these new switches are rather convincing and we benefit from a pleasant keystroke. Activation is perfectly responsive and the keyboard does well for both gaming and office use. However, not everyone will necessarily be a fan of the keycaps installed by default on the Vulcan II Mini and these require a little time to adapt to keys with a more classic design.

    On the noise side, Roccat improves what we discovered on the previous Vulcan TKL Pro. The switches are quieter when activated and above all no longer resonate inside the chassis. Good news !

    Conclusion

    With this Roccat Vulcan II Mini, the brand presents its first mechanical keyboard in an ultra-compact format. Fans of the range will therefore now have the choice between three different sizes, with the classic “Full-Size” version, the TKL model and therefore this new 65% version.

    The keyboard itself does not really revolutionize the sector. In addition to its design which contrasts a little with the competition, the rest is rather classic. Offered at the manufacturer price of €149 , we could have expected a little more from Roccat, with in particular wireless connectivity options or even a “Hot-Swap” design.

  • How To Choice The Right Gaming Keyboard

    What is a Gaming Keyboard?

    Do you like playing games? do you want your game to be better? some gamers upgrade their gaming gear so they can play games more optimally. For those of you who are still beginners, there are a number of things that need to be considered so that your game play can be maximized besides your playing skills. And the keyboard is an important part when playing games. That’s why we will provide an overview of how to choose a keyboard.

    Pay attention until it’s finished 🙂

    A gamer keyboard is different in the switches. A switch is a switch placed under each key of the keyboard. In all, it is a mechanism that gives you total control over your game and its parameters. In short, when you press a key, the switch is activated and the keyboard automatically responds to your command. It was therefore manufactured to meet the needs of gamers.

    The difference it has with a membrane keyboard is that it is more fluid and does not resist the touches. It is therefore more sensitive and more efficient. If we use gamer jargon, with a mechanical keyboard, you would have a better chance of making a dumpling during your game.

    In its form, a mechanical keyboard is distinguished by the arrangement of the strokes. These are the depths into which the keys sink. Which gives you comfort during your games. A mechanical keyboard is more resistant than another keyboard. It is viable at over 50 million keystrokes. Against 5 million for a membrane keyboard or a chicklet (laptop keyboard).

    How to choose a gaming keyboard?

    If you are convinced by the description, it’s time to show you the ropes to acquire your gaming keyboard. So to find the mechanical keyboard that suits you, the first criterion is the switch.

    This is where you have to keep your attention. Indeed, there are several types of switches. With very distinct characters specific to each model. On the form it is in the depth of stroke and the actuating force that must be seen.

    It is therefore the pressure required to activate the key that changes in all. There are those which are equipped with Cherry MX Red switches, which are ideal for speed. There are those who are equipped with Razer Green switches. They perform well for long gaming sessions as well as for premium precision. There are also two types of switches, those which are linear and tactile.

    The touch screens have a longer and more resistant stroke. On the other hand, the linear ones are subjected to the resistance of a spring. In short, to find the gamer keyboard you need, you just have to find the switch that meets your expectations. It must be robust, precise and comfortable to accompany the gamer who aims for performance. It must be said, the digital keyboard makes the difference in the services.

    Why buy a Gaming keyboard?

    To be able to answer the question, at the risk of annoying inveterate gamers, it is in its use that we must linger. The right question would therefore be the following “what is it for? “They are sold in different types, different formats, different mechanisms.

    If we enter the world of video games, players evolve into amateurs or professionals. The mechanical keyboard allows high performance responsiveness, increased strength, incredible key sensitivity, but also surprising playing comfort. The gamer keyboard is specific, it has full color keys. These colors red, black, brown and blue are there to guide the player.

    The keyboard format is quite important. Especially if you need a number pad. We must also raise the importance of the backlighting of the keys. In the world of gaming, every blow can be fatal. It is therefore useless to insist on the importance of the backlighting in order to manage and light only certain keys. There is more focus. A gamer keyboard is therefore the tool of choice for gamers if they are looking for high performance.

    How to use a Gaming keyboard?

    If you are playing on a PC or PlayStation, aiming is very difficult. In some games it is only possible to play with a keyboard and mouse. How to use it is in how the gadget works. What you have on hand has nothing to do with membrane keyboards. If you long press on a regular keyboard, the letter will loop on your screen until you lift your finger.

    For the digital keyboard it is another mechanism. If you press any key, the switch will take over to guide your computer. The important thing in using your gaming keyboard is to make the right choice when purchasing it.

    It can be wireless so it will work via Bluetooth. It can be connected to your computer or console via USB port, in this case always check compatibility.

    Either way, mechanical communicators will provide tactile feedback. This will allow the gamer to play with confidence.

    The different types of gaming keyboards

    In all, to play on a video game, the gamer can use a mechanical keyboard, a chicklet keyboard and the membrane keyboard. Some manufacturers offer hybrid keyboards as well. In the meca membrane or membranical style. That is, the keyboard works in two different ways and can be simultaneous or solo. Models with chicklets have flat, spaced keys.

    As a result, gamers do not use them too much. Instead, they resort to mechanical keyboards that are in tune with their world. Like the mouse, gaming keyboards are often wired. Programmable keys or macros are an integral part of the heavy artillery of gamers.

    Some manufacturers offer a Cloud or online storage space to go even further. specific to their accessories for example Synapse for Razer. In any case, a gaming keyboard is a video game accessory to make a fun and professional journey at the same time. If you are an apprentice gamer, it is time to acquire your numeric keypad.