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Date: November 21st, 2008
Article by: Jackie Mueller (Hardware Reviewer)
Edited by: Nathan Glentworth (Owner / Head Editor)
Product was submitted by: WolfKing
<--CLICK FOR PRICES ON A GAMING KEYBOARD IN THE UNITED STATES
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PRODUCT FEATURES AND SPECIFICATIONS

Features

• Innovative design - combines the patented WARRIOR 52 key gamepad with an additional 47 "QWERTY" keys and controls.

• USB Plug & play - No drivers required.

• 2 USB ports - allow you to hook up devices such as gaming mice and headphones.

• Specially weighted keys - enables greater precision and control of your keystrokes.

• Communication keys - allow you to stay in touch with your friends at the touch of a button.

• Customizable - height adjustment gives you better comfort.

• Noise reducing technology - flexible 3-layer silicon membrane allows you to play quietly.

• Quality & Performance - keyboard lifespan rated at over 10 million keystrokes.

The XXtreme is one of the more unique gaming keyboards currently on the market. When one looks past the key arrangement, most of the other features are the same as any standard keyboard. The exception to that would be the blue backlighting and dual USB ports, both of which we'll take a look at later on.

 

PRODUCT COMPOSITION

The packaging is more exciting than what is found on most other keyboards. The front sports a flip up lid that gives the buyer a nice view of the product. A carrying handle is also attached to the box for easy transport.

Inside is the keyboard itself and a color instruction manual. No driver disc is included since it is completely plug-and-play.

 

PRODUCT PICTORIAL AND WALKTHROUGH

The left side is where most of the action will take place. All the familiar FPS controls are here, with the Z, X, and C, keys noticeably larger and the vertical spacebar strategically placed right where your thumb will rest. The function and number keys form an arc shape along the top.

Two control keys are provided so you can choose whichever one is most comfortable to reach. In a FPS game, control is usually mapped to the “crouch” function so it's nice to see an important key accessible to people with both large and small hands.

The O, B, and < > keys are oval shaped and enlarged for easy access using the thumb. They are just a short distance away from the space bar, so they can be assigned to frequently used functions like changing a weapon or to bring up a menu.