Logitech G15 Gaming Keyboard

Reviews: Peripherals

Accessories | Gaming Devices | Keyboards / Mice | Printers

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Anthony Fiti
Kurtis
Logitech
Mar. 7, 2006

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Taking a Closer Look

The 18 extra keys on the left side of the keyboard may make it look strange at first, but it is no impediment to the functionally of the device. However, I did have to make more room on my desk for the keyboard, and if you use some sort of keyboard tray it might be too wide. Just in case, here's the keyboard dimensions: 21.7 x 10.35 x 3.2 inches (with the LCD flipped up and the wrist rest attached). If it's a problem for you, just cut off one side with a Dremel and get going. (Ed. - For your safety we recommend using something more along the lines of, say, a spoon to modify the keyboard.)

The G15 is noticeably heavier than most keyboards I have used, save the aforementioned key switch-based type from the early '90s. Of course, this is no ordinary keyboard. The LEDs needed to backlight the keys, the wider platform to accommodate the "G Keys," the LCD and 2-port USB hub no doubt contribute to the G15's heft. Luckily, the extra weight doesn't detract much, since it is just going to sit on your desk anyhow. Even if you strap up and take the keyboard to LAN parties, the extra weight is nothing compared to the other 25lbs (conservative estimate) of case and monitor you're likely to have in tow.

The top row of keys (ESC, F1-12, Scroll Lock, Pause/Break!) are all half-height keys. The indicator LEDs for Num Lock, Caps Lock and Scroll Lock are located in the upper right portion of the keyboard, and will light up an orange color when turned on.

At the top of the keyboard are two places for straps or other restraints to go through to pack the keyboard up for a LAN party. The areas could also function as handles to carry the keyboard with, but my fingers are just too big to fit through the holes. Like most keyboards, there are two flaps on the bottom of the device that will flip up and prop the keyboard up at an angle for those who like to type on an incline. Finally, there is an optional removable wrist rest at the front of the keyboard. It easily attaches and detaches on the underside of the keyboard.

Setup

Connecting the keyboard to the computer is the easiest part of the setup process. One USB connection is all that is required to run the keyboard, no need to plug your keyboard into the wall for extra juice. Power for the LCD device is delivered over the USB connection to the keyboard.

When it comes to installing the software, I have learned to skip the CD and to head directly to the manufacturer's website for the most up-to-date version. To take full advantage of the keyboard you'll want to be sure to get the driver as well as the associated LCD software. If you fail to install the LCD software, nothing but the Logitech logo will be shown on it. After a quick 2MB download I installed the software and I was good to go.

Once the software is installed, it will cycle through three simple applets that control what is displayed on the LCD. There is a third party piece of software that I will cover later in this review that will jazz it up and create some interesting animations for your LCD.

I should mention that on the CD there are several other applications included with the drivers. The first is Ricochet Lost Worlds, which is a breakout-style arcade game (you know, the one where you have the paddle on the bottom and have to bounce the ball to break the blocks). The next bit of software is Gamespy Arcade which facilitates online game matchmaking as well as chat, instant messaging and file transfer tools. There is also Roger Wilco software, which allows for voice chats during games. The final piece of software on the CD is Adobe Acrobat Reader.

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Page 1: Introduction / First Looks
Page 2: Taking a Closer Look / Setup
Page 3: Testing
Page 4: Conclusion

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1 User Comment

1 - Posted by Sergiy_Canada on May 5, 2008 - 7:25 am

This is the best keyboard I have ever had...!!!!!

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