INTRODRUCTION

When a gamer demands the best keyboard, who does he turn to? Logitech is always a good choice. Keeping with its long history of pleasing gamers, Logitech has released their new G19 keyboard designed specifically for gaming.

The G19, the long anticipated “sequel” to the G15, looks very promising; with a fully colored 320×240 LCD that is a first to the keyboard line.

Features like the custom-color backlighting will keep your keys lit through all those WoW late night raids; 12 fully-programmable macro G-keys that can be bound to almost everything (up to 3 macros per key) are very handy. Multi-key input, using up to five keys at once, makes performing multiple complex actions is easier than ever. Two high speed USB 2.0 ports on the back help keep organization, especially with the Intelligent Cable Management that is underside the keyboard removing any wire from sight.

Like in its predecessor, the G19 has a game/desktop mode which disables that pesky Windows button and context menu, saving great amounts of frustration. The instant media access keys back up this function, virtually rendering ALT+TAB unneeded.

You know a keyboard is seriously packed when it requires its own AC plug (which can be annoying at times frankly). Also, the $200 (USD) price tag is a pain and that money could well go into a second monitor instead. However, if price is not a problem and you’re a hard core gamer looking for some new “swag”, the Logitech G19 is a worthy keyboard.

A VIDEO IS WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS PICTURES

PROS AND CONS

The Good

• Colored backlit keys
• Color LCD
• 36 customizable keys
• Media control
• MMORPG character info and stats
• Two high-speed USB ports
• Game/desktop Mode
• Multi-key input
• Cable organization

The Bad

• 200 dollar price tag
• AC adapter required
• Big, bulk LCD
• Very cheap feel
• Everything is very compact (keys very close to each other, etc)

PRICE

$199.99 (USD)

OVERALL RATING

3.5/5

FINAL VERDICT

This would definitely be an excellent buy if the price would be at least 100 dollars lower and the LCD wouldn’t be so oddly placed. However, if you’re a hard-core gamer and have a lot of spare money, then stop buy your local retail store and pick up one of these beasts because even at the price tag of $200, it is a worthy investment (it will pay for itself when you two shot that sneaky little gnome rogue who tries to sneak up behind you while you are drinking water).

[The image and video used in this review have been borrowed from Logitech’s website strictly for the purposes of reviewing their product.]

[This article has been contributed to dotTech.org by Leeroy Johnson with minor edits by Ashraf.]