Tag Archives: Backlit Keyboard

2021 MacBook Pro Restores 4 Features Jony Ive Threw Out!

The 2021 MacBook Pro restored four great features that famed designer, Jony Ive threw out!

Well, isn’t it fortunate that he left Apple?

 

2021 MacBook Pro Restores 4 Features Jony Ive Threw Out!

Famed designed Jony Ive did many things right, but he also screwed up the MacBook Pro for many years.

In his obsessive quest for ever THINNER form factors, Sir Jony dumped four great features that MacBook Pro users loved.

  • Physical function keys
  • SDXC card reader
  • MagSafe charging port
  • HDMI port

The good news is – the 2021 MacBook Pro restores all four features that Jony threw out!

Magic Keyboard With Physical Function Keys!

Jony Ive introduced the butterfly keyboard mechanism because it was THINNER. However, it has less key travel (of course) and was prone to failure.

Apple finally gave up on the butterfly keyboard after Jony left, when they introduced the Magic Keyboard with a scissor mechanism in the 16-inch MacBook Pro (2019).

But it was with this new 2021 MacBook Pro that nailed the coffin shut for the Touch Bar, which many MBP users considered an expensive boondoggle.

FINALLY, MacBook Pro users have a proper keyboard with physical function keys that provide tactile feedback!

SDXC Card Reader + HDMI Port Are Back!

Many MacBook Pro users are photographers who loved how their MBPs had an integrated SDXC card reader. They can just slot in their SD cards and get to work.

Many users also loved the convenience of an integrated HDMI port, which allowed quick and easy video output to an external monitor or even a projector.

Unfortunately, Jony Ive sacrificed both the SDXC card reader and the HDMI port on the altar of a THINNER profile, forcing users to use USB card readers and dongles.

Well, the good news is the 2021 MacBook Pro restored both the SDXC card reader and the HDMI port!

MagSafe 3 Charging!

Another stupid decision Apple made with their 4th Gen MacBook Pro was to remove the MagSafe charging connector.

Not only does the MagSafe prevent damage if anyone trips over the cable, it also has a very nifty indicator light that quickly tells you its charging status.

Fortunately, Apple just introduced MagSafe 3 in the 2021 MacBook Pro. It is now slimmer, and can support up to 140 watts of power delivery!

Don’t worry – you can still use USB-C charging if you want to.

 

2021 MacBook Pro So Much Better After Jony Ive Left

Now, I do not mean to disparage Sir Jony Ive’s excellent design work. I just think he went overboard with his obsession with THINNESS.

How much functionality is worth trading away to shave off an extra millimetre or two? Never enough in Jony’s book, from what I can tell.

Even with all that gone, he couldn’t even get the MacBook Pro to be thinner or lighter than the Dell XPS 13… so what was the point of removing them???

Hence, it is fortuitous for MacBook Pro users that he is no longer in charge of the design work at Apple.

The restoration of these four long-missed features arguably makes the 2021 MacBook Pro far more functional than its fancy mini LED display or M1 Pro / Max processor could achieve.

Read more : 100% Correct : MagSafe 3, SDXC + HDMI 2.0 In 2021 MBP!

 

Please Support My Work!

Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp

Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > Computer | Tech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

Please support us by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or donating to our fund. Thank you!

HyperX Alloy FPS Pro Mechanical TKL Keyboard Review!

The HyperX Alloy FPS family of mechanical gaming keyboards is designed for FPS players. They even created a lean and mean Alloy FPS Pro model for the truly dedicated FPS player.

Join us for a close look at the HyperX Alloy FPS Pro (US | UK | AU | MY) keyboard and see if this is the gaming keyboard for you!

 

The HyperX Alloy FPS Family

The HyperX Alloy FPS family currently consists of two models – a full-sized Alloy FPS (US | UK | AU | MY) keyboard, and a tenkeyless (TKL) HyperX Alloy FPS Pro (US | UK | AU | MY).

They are both very similar in features, differing only in two aspects – the presence of the numeric keypad, and a second USB port. Here is a table comparing their specifications :

SpecificationsHyperX Alloy FPS ProHyperX Alloy FPS
ModelHX-KB4RD1 (Cherry MX Red)HX-KB1RD1 (Cherry MX Red)
HX-KB1BR1 (Cherry MX Brown)
HX-KB1BL1 (Cherry MX Blue)
DesignCompact tenkeyless mechanical keyboardCompact full-sized mechanical keyboard
BuildSolid Steel FrameSolid Steel Frame
Numeric KeypadNoYes
Switch TypeCherry MX Red linear switch (45 cN)Cherry MX Switches
- Red linear switch option (45 cN)
- Brown tactile switch option (45 cN)
- Blue click switch option (50 cN)
- Guaranteed for more than 50 million keystrokes
BacklightingYes, only Red LED lighting
5 built-in lighting modes
1 custom lighting mode
Yes, only Red LED lighting
5 built-in lighting modes
1 custom lighting mode
N-Key Rollover (NKRO) CapabilityYes, up to 6 keysYes, up to 6 keys
Connection TypeUSB 2.0 (one USB connection)USB 2.0 (two USB connections)
USB PassthroughNoYes, mobile phone charging only
USB CableDetachable, braided cable (1.8 m)Detachable, braided cable (1.8 m)
Dimensions358.14 mm wide
129.38 mm deep
35.59 mm high
441.65 mm wide
129.38 mm deep
35.59 mm high
Weight900 g1,049 g
[adrotate group=”1″]

 

Unboxing The HyperX Alloy FPS Pro

The HyperX Alloy FPS Pro (US | UK | AU | MY) comes in a heavy but compact cardboard box. There is no doubt that this is the smaller, tenkeyless (TKL) Pro model. A sticker on the upper right corner makes sure you know what type of switch it uses – Cherry MX Red.

When you unbox the HyperX Alloy FPS Pro (US | UK | AU | MY), you will find the following items :

  • One HyperX Alloy FPS Pro mechanical gaming keyboard
  • One micro USB to USB Type A braided cable (1.8 m)
  • One set of HyperX welcome card and Quick Start Guide

In case you are wondering, no, it does not come with a key cap puller.

Next Page > HyperX Alloy FPS Pro Up Close + Key Features

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!


The HyperX Alloy FPS Pro Up Close!

The HyperX Alloy FPS Pro (US | UK | AU | MY) is a tenkeyless keyboard. That means it lacks the numeric keypad of a full-size keyboard.

The term is a misnomer because the there are really 17 keys in the numeric keypad. Let’s take a look at its key features in this video.

The HyperX Alloy FPS Pro is designed to be compact. To keep the base thin and yet rigid, it uses a solid steel frame, topped by a metal alloy plate. The thinner profile also means it does not need a wrist rest.

 

Tenkeyless Compact Design

Thanks to the removal of the numeric keypad, the HyperX Alloy FPS Pro (US | UK | AU | MY) is a really compact keyboard.

At less than 36 cm in width, it is only a tad wider than the Logitech K480 (Price Check) Bluetooth keyboard designed for tablets!

The compact design gives you a lot more space to use your mouse. It also makes it easy to pack for LAN parties. In fact, the Alloy FPS Pro (US | UK | AU | MY) was designed with travel in mind.

 

Alloy FPS Pro Keys & Switches

Like most mechanical keyboards, the HyperX Alloy FPS Pro (US | UK | AU | MY) comes with double-shot keycaps. Oddly, HyperX did not provide a keycap puller. But we have our own, so we pulled one out to take a look underneath…

While HyperX offers the full-sized Alloy FPS (US | UK | AU | MY) keyboard with Red, Blue and Brown switch options, the Alloy FPS Pro (US | UK | AU | MY) only comes with Cherry MX Red switches.

The Cherry MX Red is a linear switch without tactile feedback. The popular perception is that gamers favour this switch for its lighter, faster actuation. It is also a quiet switch, which is great for LAN parties.

The Alloy FPS Pro (US | UK | AU | MY) does not have RGB backlighting, but the keycaps are individually back-lit. In the picture above, you can see the LED light embedded just above the switch.

[adrotate group=”1″]

 

N-Key Rollover (NKRO)

Like many gaming keyboards, the HyperX Alloy FPS Pro (US | UK | AU | MY) has N-Key Rollover (NKRO) capability. HyperX also states that it is ”anti-ghosting”, which is basically the same thing.

They did not reveal just how many simultaneous keys it can register. But we tested and confirmed that it can register up to 6 simultaneous keys, making it a 6-KRO keyboard.

 

LED Backlight Modes

All of the keys on the HyperX Alloy FPS Pro (US | UK | AU | MY) have LED backlighting in a single solid colour – red. Each key has an individual LED light, which allows for some interesting backlight modes.

There are five built-in LED backlight modes, as well as a custom option :

[adrotate group=”2″]
  • Solid : Constant lighting (default)
  • Breathing : Slow blinking that mimics breathing
  • Trigger : Individual keys will light up when pressed, and slowly fade after one second
  • Explosion : A lighting effect will radiate from individual keys when pressed
  • Wave : Keys will light up from left to right in a wave pattern
  • Custom : You can choose which keys to backlight – usually the WASD keys

Don’t worry if you screw up the custom option. If you need to reset the keyboard for whatever reason, just press the Function + Escape keys together for 3 seconds to perform a factory reset. You will know you succeeded if the keyboard backlights blink.

Next Page > More Features, Our Verdict, Price + Availability

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!


Detachable USB Cable

Unlike many mechanical keyboards, the HyperX Alloy FPS Pro (US | UK | AU | MY) has a detachable USB cable.

The 1.8 m long cable plugs into a micro USB port located behind the last row of keys. The connectors are not gold-plated, but the cable is braided for strength and durability.

Removing the cable during transportation makes for easier packing, and will help prevent damage to the cable joint, or scratches to neighbouring items, that could occur when you carry it in a bag.

On the other hand, you could misplace the cable… and the micro USB interface could possibly loosen after repeated insertions and disconnections.

 

Rubber Feet & Stand

The HyperX Alloy FPS Pro (US | UK | AU | MY) has four small rubber feet to reduce movement even during the most frenetic action. It also has two small flip stands at the back, with their own rubber feet. They raise the back of the keyboard by an additional 8 mm.

That may not be a lot, but the good news is – these flip stands are quite solidly-built, and should take a lot of wear and tear without breaking.

 

Our Verdict On The HyperX Alloy FPS Pro

The tenkeyless design is really nice, if you don’t use the numeric keypad. It allows you to place your mouse closer, and a lot more real estate to use your mouse. Its slim profile also allows for a more comfortable typing experience without a wrist rest.

Because the HyperX Alloy FPS Pro (US | UK | AU | MY) is compact, and lighter than many other gaming keyboards, it is easy to slide it into a bag. The detachable cable helps too, although one must be careful not to lose it.

 

Unlike the larger Alloy FPS (US | UK | AU | MY) model, which comes with Blue and Brown switch choices, the Alloy FPS Pro only comes with the Cherry MX Red linear switch, which lacks tactile feedback. The popular perception is that gamers favour this switch for its lighter, faster actuation. However, if you prefer tactile feedback when you type, then this keyboard is not for you.

The HyperX Alloy FPS Pro (US | UK | AU | MY) does not come with fancy RGB backlighting, but that’s not a deal killer. The red backlights are just great in the dark, and you can customise the keyboard to only turn on backlights for certain keys.

The only downsides of the Alloy FPS Pro? If you are hoping for a software utility to configure the backlights, it doesn’t come with one. And for some reason, HyperX did not provide a keycap puller.

Otherwise, this is a really nice compact mechanical keyboard. If you are gamer who don’t need the numeric keypad, this would be a great choice, especially if you intend to bring it to LAN parties. Just make sure you like the feel of the Red linear switch!

 

Where To Buy HyperX Alloy FPS Keyboards

Here are some online purchase options for the Pro ten keyless model, and its full-size brother.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > First PageComputer | Gaming | Home

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!


Microsoft Surface Go Signature Type Cover Revealed!

To complement the new Surface Go, Microsoft is also introducing the Surface Go Signature Type Cover with luxurious Alcantara fabric!  Let’s take a look!

 

The Microsoft Surface Go Signature Type Cover

The new Surface Go Signature Type Cover is designed to offer a fast, comfortable typing experience. Lined with Alcantara fabric from Italy, it is not only elegant, it is durable and easy to care for.

Mechanical Keys

Its keyboard features the scissor key mechanism that provides 1.0 mm of mechanical and stable key travel for a more pleasant and accurate typing experience. With LED backlighting, the keyboard can be used even in dark environments.

[adrotate group=”2″]

Large Precision Trackpad

For better productivity without a mouse, its glass trackpad is not only extremely spacious, it also supports five-finger gestures!

Adds Stability

The Signature Type Cover clicks easily into the Surface Go for additional stability. Adjust the Surface Go’s kickstand to virtually any angle so you can work comfortably at your desk, on a plane or at a coffee shop.

Luxurious Alcantara Fabric

The Surface Go Signature Type Cover is wrapped in luxurious Alcatara fabric for a more comfortable typing experience. Not only is Alcantara durable and easy to care for, it is available in three rich colours – Platinum, Burgundy and Cobalt Blue!

 

Surface Go Signature Type Cover Specifications

SpecificationsSurface Go Signature Type Cover (2018)Surface Go Type Cover (2018)
CompatibilityMicrosoft Surface Go (2018)
KeyboardMechanical scissor keys with 1.0 mm of key travel
QWERTY layout with F1-F12 function keys, 4 directional keys, Windows key, brightness and media control keys
LED backlighting
TrackpadLarge glass trackpad
- five-finger multi-touch gesture support
SensorAcceleratometer
InterfaceMagnetic Surface connector
MaterialAlcantara fabric and polyurethanePolyurethane
Colour OptionsPlatinum / Burgundy / Cobalt BlueBlack
Dimensions248 mm wide x 190 mm deep x 4.6 mm thick
Weight243 g / 0.54 lbs
WarrantyOne Year Limited Hardware Warranty

 

Surface Go Signature Type Cover Availability

The Surface Go Signature Type Cover is available for pre-order from 11 July 2018 onwards in Australia, New Zealand. Pre-order in Malaysia starts from 2 August 2018.

In the coming weeks, it will be available for pre-order in Japan, Singapore, Korea, and Thailand and in China, Hong Kong and Taiwan with more markets to follow.

Go Back To > Computer Hardware + Systems | Home

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!

MasterKeys Pro L GeForce GTX Edition Keyboard Revealed!

Cooler Master just teamed up with NVIDIA to create and launch a GeForce GTX Edition keyboard for gamers and NVIDIA fans – the MasterKeys Pro L GeForce GTX Edition. Here are the full details!

 

MasterKeys Pro L GeForce GTX Edition

The MasterKeys Pro L GeForce GTX Edition provides luminous green LED backlighting combined with a fast responsive feeling. The keyboard is equipped with Cherry MX Red switches, multiple LED lighting modes, on-the-fly macros, and profile support all in the simplistic design everyone loves topped with custom GeForce keycaps.


GeForce Keycaps

The MasterKeys Pro L GeForce GTX Edition is dressed with three custom GeForce keycaps and a white steel back plate that aids the radiant green LEDs shine bright and true. Users can conveniently customize preset lighting modes without software including wave, responsive effects, breathing and have on-the-fly macro and profile support available to them.

On-the-fly System to Adjust Lighting Modes

The intuitively placed function keys layer allows you to manually adjust the lighting speed and mode to match your personal taste. To alter the lighting modes, press FN + F4 to cycle.

[adrotate group=”2″]

You can also modify the light speed by pressing FN + the up and down arrow keys with the speed icon and direction with FN + Left or right arrow. Whatever your style or preference is, it can be altered at the tip of your fingers, without the need to install or use software.

Suitable for Work and Play

The keyboard comes with a default and gaming profile modes. While working or doing homework you can disable gaming macros and lighting modes by pressing FN + ESC to enter default mode and prevent the use of any macro’s.

When you’re ready to get back into the game, use the four dedicated profiles for all your lighting and macros for a quick and easy switch to boost your performance. The Status Indicator System, by holding down the FN key, makes it easy to navigate the On-the-fly System and easily change settings and profiles by just glancing at the keyboard.

 

MasterKeys Pro L GeForce GTX Edition Price + Availability

The MasterKeys Pro L GeForce GTX Edition is now available at major resellers in Malaysia, priced at RM 389 / US$ 98.

Go Back To > Computer Hardware & Systems | Home

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!

The ASUS ROG Strix Flare Mechanical Keyboard Revealed!

ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) today announced that ROG Strix Flare, a versatile RGB mechanical gaming keyboard that improves upon a well-established formula with exceptional performance and unrivalled personalization features, is now available in select markets.

 

ASUS ROG Strix Flare Mechanical Keyboard

The ASUS ROG Strix Flare is currently offered with four different Cherry MX RGB switch types — red, blue, brown and black —to deliver the precise mechanical feel and responsiveness demanded by gamers. The keyboard also features 100% anti-ghosting technology with N-key rollover to ensure all keystrokes are registered reliably, no matter how many keys are pressed simultaneously.

Unrivalled personalization

ROG Strix Flare lets gamers experience a new level of personalization with a customizable illuminated badge that can be inserted directly into the keyboard. Gamers can keep the pre-installed ROG logo badge or design their own insignia on the provided blank insert and see it flare up with Aura RGB lighting. The badge can be easily customized using paint or printed stickers, or gamers can seek professional printing or laser etching for a premium touch.

Individually backlit keys are housed in a dual-textured case displaying the signature ROG slash design, and a row of LEDs under both sides of the case creates a vibrant underglow that extends the customizable lighting beyond the keyboard.

Powered by Aura Sync, ROG Strix Flare puts the entire color spectrum and a range of dynamic lighting effects at gamers’ command, enabling them to create a unique color scheme. All onboard lighting can be synchronized with the extensive portfolio of Aura Sync-enabled devices for a truly immersive gaming environment.

Designed for convenience and comfort

[adrotate group=”2″]

While most gaming keyboards place media controls on the upper-right, ROG Strix Flare features its dedicated media keys and a smooth-scrolling volume wheel positioned on the upper left. This gives gamers instant access with their keyboard hand, eliminating the need to take their finger off the trigger to make adjustments mid-game.

The keyboard also features a handy USB passthrough port for conveniently connecting other devices and a detachable soft-touch wrist rest for extra comfort.

New ROG Armoury II configuration utility

ROG Strix Flare comes with ROG Armoury II, an enhanced, driver-based version of ROG’s peripheral configuration utility that offers improved controls while using less system resources. ROG Armoury II enables gamers to create profiles, customize colors and lighting effects, map keys, record macros, and even track hardware stats during gameplay for data analysis.

 

ASUS ROG Strix Flare Price

The ASUS ROG Strix Flare is currently priced at $179.99.

Go Back To > News | Home

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!


The Tecware Phantom RGB Mechanical Keyboard Review

Mechanical gaming keyboards are increasingly becoming a must-buy accessory.

The only thing holding back mass adoption is cost – mechanical keyboards cost a lot more than membrane keyboards.

That changes with the Tecware Phantom RGB mechanical keyboard!

 

Tecware

Tecware is a relatively new PC accessories brand with a focus on PC gaming cases, and now mechanical keyboards.

They currently have just two keyboard models – the full-sized Tecware Phantom (Price Check), and the tenkeyless (TKL) model – the Tecware Phantom 87 Key (Price Check).

Tecware Phantom Specifications

SpecificationsTecware Phantom
Available ColoursBlack / Gunmetal
DesignMechanical Keyboard (104 Keys)
Keycap TypeDoubleshot ABS keycaps
Switch OptionsOutemu Brown - 55g tactile bump
Outemu Red - 50g linear
Outemu Blue - 60g tactile click
Switch Lifecycle50 million keystrokes
BacklightingYes, individual RGB SMD LED
18 preset modes, 5 levels, 5 speeds
N-Key Rollover (NKRO) CapabilityYes, Full NKRO
Windows Key DisableYes
InterfaceUSB 2.0 (1000 Hz polling rate)
USB Cable1.8 m braided cable
Dimensions444.5 mm wide
133.5 mm deep
22.5 mm high
Weight1,140 g

 

Unboxing The Tecware Phantom RGB Keyboard

Let’s unbox the Tecware Phantom (Price Check) and see what we find inside!

Once you fully unbox the Tecware Phantom (Price Check), you will find the following items :

  • One Tecware Phantom mechanical keyboard (with 1.8 m USB cable attached)
  • One Tecware Phantom Quick Start Guide
  • One keycap puller (on keyboard underside)
  • Four spare Outemu Brown switches
  • One switch puller

Next Page > Design, Keycaps, Switches, NKRO & Anti-Ghosting Capability

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!

The Tecware Phantom Up Close!

The Tecware Phantom (Price Check) is a full-sized keyboard with a 104-key layout.

It comes with Outemu mechanical switches, and individual RGB lighting for each and every key.

This video offers a close-up look!

 

Compact Design

The Tecware Phantom (Price Check) is a full-sized keyboard but it has a compact design. It is just under 45 cm wide, and just over 13 cm deep.

More importantly, the base is just 1 cm thin in the front. This allows it to do away with a wrist rest, making it so much more compact than the GAMDIAS Hermes keyboard. This is important if you plan to travel with it.

 

Doubleshot ABS Keycaps

Tecware did not skimp on the keycaps. The keycaps are manufactured using the double-shot moulding process. This is a two-step process that creates legends (the character on the key) that cannot be worn off.

The only downside – the keycaps are made from ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), instead of PBT (polybutylene terephthalate). ABS keycaps will become glossy over time, unlike PBT keys. However, double-shot PBT keycaps are relatively rare.

 

Outemu Switches

The Tecware Phantom (Price Check) comes with a choice of three types of switches from Outemu. Our sample keyboard came with our favourite switch – the Brown switch. All Outemu switches are rated for 50 million keystrokes.

  • Outemu Brown – they have a 55g tactile bump
  • Outemu Red – linear switches with 50g actuation force
  • Outemu Blue – these switches have a 60g tactile click

Tecware also threw in four spare Outemu switches, and a switch puller. They also cleverly integrated the keycap puller into the base of the Phantom. This ensures you won’t lose the important keycap puller, and have it at hand whenever you need it.

 

N-Key Rollover (NKRO) & Anti-Ghosting

[adrotate group=”2″]

Like many gaming keyboards, the Tecware Phantom (Price Check) has N-Key Rollover (NKRO) capability. But unlike many cheaper mechanical keyboard, the Tecware Phantom boasts FULL NKRO capability.

We tested this and managed to register 73 simultaneous keypresses. So yes, we can confirm that, for all intents and purposes, this is a full NKRO keyboard.

We also confirmed that it is “anti-ghosting” – no extra keys are registered, other than those we actually pressed.

Next Page > RGB Backlighting, USB Cable, 1000 Hz Polling Rate, Rubber Feet & Stand

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!

RGB Backlighting

The Tecware Phantom (Price Check) boasts individual RGB backlighting for every key.

They also used SMD LEDs, instead of the cheaper DIP LEDs used in some keyboards. SMD LEDs are not only brighter, they last much longer.

In addition the ability to program each key with its own backlight colour, the Phantom also comes with 18 built-in lighting modes.

 

Here are the built-in lighting effects :

  • Breathing effect with colour cycling
  • Breathing effect with fixed colour
  • Fixed colour
  • Reactive with a ripple effect
  • Reactive with single key lighting
  • Reactive with a horizontal effect
  • Horizontal wave effect
  • Pulse wave effect
  • Hurricane effect
  • Vertical wave effect
  • Waterfall effect
  • Swirl effect

You can further customise the lighting effects above with 9 LED colour options – red, orange, yellow, green, light blue, dark blue, violet, white and RGB.

 

USB Cable

Like most mechanical keyboards, the Tecware Phantom (Price Check) comes with an attached USB cable, braided for strength and durability.

It is 1.8 meters long, or just under 6 feet. The are three cable channels on the underside of the keyboard for cable management.

It has a gold-plated USB connector. The gold-plating does nothing for performance, but prevents corrosion and keeps the connector look shiny for a long time.

It even comes with an attached cap to avoid scratches to other devices during travel.

 

1000 Hz USB Polling Rate

The Tecware Phantom (Price Check) boasts a 1000 Hz USB polling rate, which is 8X higher than the default USB polling rate of 125 Hz.

This is important for speed typists and gamers, because it allows for more key presses to be registered per second, and with much lower latencies to boot.

Some people claim that this feature is a gimmick, because of the built-in anti-bounce delay. That is only true if you are tapping the same key. There is no anti-bounce delay when you type different keys.

Without a higher USB polling rate, you would be limited to typing two keys per second. That would be a waste of a mechanical keyboard with its lighter and faster switches and much shorter anti-bounce delays.

 

Rubber Feet & Stand

The Tecware Phantom (Price Check) has four small rubber feet to reduce movement even during the most frenetic action. It also has two small flip stands at the back, with their own rubber feet.

The flip stands raise the back of the keyboard by a full centimetre, from 2.2 cm to 3.2 cm. They also appear to be solidly-made, and capable of handling a fair bit of use and abuse.

Next Page > The Tecware Phantom Verdict & Award

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!

Techware Phantom RGB : Our Verdict & Award

The Tecware Phantom RGB mechanical keyboard (Price Check) is a real nice surprise. Despite its lack of pedigree and low price, it checks off every important feature we like in a mechanical keyboard… and then some.

Like all other mechanical keyboards, it has user-replaceable keycaps. On top of that, they also made the switches user-replaceable. Heck, they even included a switch puller, and four spare switches!

You would have expected a simple LED backlight for mechanical keyboards at this price range. Instead, the Tecware Phantom offers individual RGB lighting for every key!

In addition to the 18 built-in colour modes, you can customise the LED backlight colour, pattern and effect for every key.

They also used SMD LED lights in the Tecware Phantom (Price Check). SMD LEDs are not just brighter and last longer than DIP LED lights, they also use less power. In fact, the Phantom only uses 1.25 W of power.

Tecware did not skimp on the USB interface either. The Phantom has a 1000 Hz USB polling rate, and a gold-plated USB connector protected by a cap during travel.

We not only like it A LOT, we also think that it is a steal. It offers many features that are only found in more expensive keyboards. Tecware has just proven that it is possible to can create an awesome mechanical keyboard that won’t break the bank!

That is why we feel the Tecware Phantom (Price Check) deserves our Editor’s Choice Award. Congratulations, Tecware!

 

Where To Buy The Tecware Phantom

Here is a selection of links to purchase the Tecware Phantom mechanical keyboard, and its Tenkeyless brother, the Tecware Phantom 87 Key :

  • Tecware Phantom (RGB backlight, Outemu Brown) : US$ 49.99
  • Tecware Phantom (RGB backlight, Outemu Blue) : US$ 49.99
  • Tecware Phantom 87 Key (White backlight, Outemu Blue) : US$ 39.99
  • Tecware Phantom 87 Key (Red backlight, Outemu Blue) : US$ 29.99

In Malaysia, you can reach out to SunCycle Distribution (+605-332-5531) or purchase from Lazada.

 

Recommended Reading

Go Back To > First PageComputer | Tech ARP

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!

The Logitech G Pro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Price & Specifications

Apr. 26, 2017 — Logitech G, a Logitech brand, (SIX: LOGN) (NASDAQ: LOGI) today introduced the Logitech G Pro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard (Amazon).

 

The Logitech G Pro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Designed in collaboration with top eSports athletes, the Logitech G Pro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard (Amazon) is a high performance, tenkeyless mechanical gaming keyboard that is purpose-built for professional competition.

The keyboard features Logitech’s exclusive Romer-G mechanical switches, offering 25 percent faster actuation than standard mechanical keyboards, all in a switch design that delivers quiet performance. It also features a detachable cable system, making it easy to transport with customizable RGB lighting and onboard memory.

 

Romer-G Key Switches

Logitech’s exclusive Romer-G mechanical switches are purpose-built for pro-grade performance, responsiveness and durability offering precision and speed. With a short-throw actuation point of 1.5 mm, Romer-G switches register key presses up to 25 percent faster than standard mechanical switches and are designed for performance.

Compact, Durable Design

The Logitech G Pro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard (Amazon) features a compact tenkeyless design, making it easy to pack for tournament travel and freeing up table space for low-sensitivity mouse movement. The keyboard is reinforced with a steel back plate, adding stability and rigidity for gameplay.

[adrotate banner=”4″]

Detachable Cable System

A detachable Micro-USB connector ensures that the cable won’t break at the connection point when bouncing around in a bag and transported between events. The three-pronged design features support arms for an easy, reliable data connection.

Customizable RGB Lighting

Using optional Logitech Gaming Software (LGS), players can select and personalize each individual key light from more than 16.8 million colors, and save a lighting pattern to onboard memory so it’s available for use in competition.

 

Pricing and Availability

The Logitech G Pro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard (Amazon) is expected to be available at authorized resellers in mid-April 2017 for a suggested retail price of RM629.00 (inclusive of GST) / ~US$ 139.

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support out work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!

AORUS Computex 2016 Tech Overview

On the third day of Computex 2016, we were invited to the GIGABYTE VIP Showroom up on the 36th floor of Taipei 101. Part of their VIP Showroom was dedicated to AORUS, their premium, gaming brand. Let’s show you what’s new in the AORUS Computex 2016 showcase!

 

AORUS Computex 2016 Tech Overview

In this video, Cyril Largent, GIGABYTE Senior Marketing – Europe, gives us an overview of the new technologies that will be introduced into new and upcoming AORUS gaming laptops. Check them out!

 

AORUS RGB Fusion Keyboard

After AORUS introduced their individual key backlit keyboard at CES 2016 earlier this year, they received a lot of requests to add RGB colour functionality to that keyboard. During Computex 2016, they introduced the AORUS RGB Fusion Keyboard with individual RGB backlit keys!

The new RGB Fusion Keyboard features per-key backlighting, with up to 16.8 million colour variations. Because there is a dedicated LED behind each key, you can customise the keyboard to light up only certain keys. You can also create animated illumination patterns, like breathing, waves or ripple effects.

The new RGB Fusion Keyboard will be introduced in the next-generation of AORUS X5 and X7 gaming laptops.

[adrotate banner=”5″]

 

AORUS X7 DT Gaming Laptop

AORUS won the 2016 Computex Design and Innovation Award for the new AORUS X7 DT gaming laptop. The AORUS X7 DT is powered by an overclocked 6th Generation Intel Core i7 processor, and a desktop-class GPU – the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 980. Yet it is just an inch thick and weighs only 3.2 kg.

The AORUS X7 DT also claims to be the thinnest and lightest VR-Ready gaming laptop. In fact, it is the only laptop to win the “Gaming & Virtual Reality” category of the 2016 CES Innovation Awards.

 

2016 Limited Edition MultiCam Design

The 2016 Limited Edition MultiCam design is an AORUS trademark style, offering a military-style look that is subtle enough to look sophisticated. This year, they will make the Limited Edition MultiCam Design available worldwide on the AORUS X3, X5 and X7 models.

 

All-In-One Streaming Solution

AORUS will be making their Hardware Live Stream Engine part of their AORUS X5 and X7 models. This fully-integrated video encoder card eliminates the fuss of connecting an external compressor to record and stream your full HD video simultaneously without compromising system performance.

The AORUS X5 and X7 gaming laptops will also come with a 1-year Premium subscription to both XSplit Gamecaster and Broadcaster, allowing you to record, edit, and stream anytime, anywhere.

[adrotate banner=”5″]

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participate in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donate to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!