Logitech Gaming Keyboards

By Xah Lee. Date: . Last updated: .

This page reviews Logitech's gaming keyboards, written by and for programers.

If you use gaming keyboard for playing games, great, but if you are a programer, the key macros feature would be fantastic. Use it to switch {window, apps, workspace}, jump to {editor, IDE, browser, terminal}, switch tabs, close tab, close window, switch views, etc.

Logitech Gaming Keyboards 2018-09

Logitech G613

Logitech G610

Logitech G910

Best, except the teen gamer look, and expensive.

Romer-g key switch (is quiet), on-board memory, programable keys.

When is a Keyboard “Gaming” Keyboard?

In my research, i haven't came across any so-called gaming keyboard that are ergonomic. For example, curved or split into 2 sections. There are fringe gaming keyboards that are split, but isn't really ergonomic at all. This brings up the question: “How do you define the term ‘gaming keyboard’”? Basically, a keyboard designed more or less for playing games. The problem is, some keyboards not branded “gaming” are in fact much better for gaming than dedicated “gaming keyboards”.

The most important element of gaming keyboard in terms of functionality is re-programable keys. Secondarily, with many extra keys, buttons, knobs, and in some cases a LCD display. Many keyboard are actually better for gaming than the so-called gaming keyboards. All you really want is a ergonomic shaped one, with mechanical keys, full function buttons. Or, use the numpad as function keys. 〔see Using Numeric Keypad as Function Keys〕 If you don't have the numpad, then get Logitech G13 Gameboard.

Advantage of Gaming Keyboard

Gaming keyboard are the vanguard of keyboards. They include these features:

• 5 to 18 extra function keys. (Real keys, not some wimpy rubbery buttons.)

• Almost always, the standard function keys {F1, …, F12} are real keys, and arranged in groups of 3 blocks. (this makes them easy to hit correctly without looking.)

• Un-altered and complete set of modifier keys (e.g. Ctrl, Alt, ❖ Window, ▤ Menu), on both sides. (as opposed to omitting some of them or replacing them with the hardwired Fn key or Flip3D key) 〔see Keyboard Modifier Keys, Short Survey

• Gaming keyboard come with the most robust and easy-to-use key macro software. You don't have to spend days to learn about key map tools such as AutoHotkey or Linux bunch of tools. 〔see Linux: Keyboard Software Guide

• High-end gaming keyboards USUALLY have on-board memory. This means, you can plug-in your keyboard to any computer, on {Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X, Linux}, and all your key settings work. (Some gaming keyboard use internet-based (aka “cloud”) config, which is very bad. It means you always need internet connection for your macro keys to work, and or need to install a software on each and every computer you use the keyboard. Examples are Corsair Gaming STRAFE RGB Keyboard, as of 2016-08-28. 〔see Corsair Keyboards〕 and Razer Orbweaver Keypad. )

Why do you need all those function keys? Just take a look at these:

In Photoshop, in emacs, in IDE, and even in browser, you also have some 30 key shortcuts involving Ctrl or other.

Discontinued

Logitech G710+

Cherry MX key switch, on-board memory, programable keys.

Logitech G810 Orion Spectrum

Nah, because it does not have on-board memory. But otherwise, romer-g switches are nice.

Logitech G510

logitech g510-12 keyboard
Buy at amazon 〔image source centrecomau.blogspot.com
logitech g510s keyboard 35102
Logitech g510s keyboard. Buy at amazon

Logitech g510s came out in March 20, 2013. Discontinued in 2016.

• Game Panel LCD screen: Stay informed with real-time game stats, VoIP communication data and more without interrupting game play

• Custom-color RGB backlighting: Assign a unique color to each profile, profile mode and mode style to easily locate any key in the dark

• 18 Programmable G-keys: Simplify actions. Configure up to 54 unique functions per game, including single key presses, complex macros or intricate LUA scripts* (*Requires software installation)

• 3.5 mm audio ports: Quickly plug in your headset, plus independently control game audio output and your headset mic

Multi-key input: Press up to six keys at once to perform multiple complex moves without interference or ghosting

Logitech G110 (discontinued)

Logitech G110 came out in October 15, 2009. Discontinued, in 2014 or 2015.

logitech g110 keyboard
“Logitech G110” Buy at amazon

Logitech also makes a G15, but that's discontinued. Buy at amazon