63 of 69 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
What You Need To Know, March 17, 2009
This review is from: Cyborg Gaming Keyboard with Tri-Color Backlighting (Personal Computers)
PREFACE
When I decided to replace my old standard Dell keyboard, I opted for an illuminated one. I settled on a choice of three, reading virtually every rating on the Cyborg P17UK and Logitech's G11 & G15 on several sites before finally selecting the Cyborg.
I use the Windows XP- 32 bit operating system. I am not a gamer anymore; but am an extensive user of productivity software and developer of sophisticated macros including using VBA and SQL, especially for MircoSoft Office products. I also use PhotoShop & Corel Draw as well as some audio editing software, and do some web programming with Java and HTML. I am not a touch typist, but no slouch either, and I do a lot of writing. So understand, my recommendations are from this perspective.
RECOMMENDATION:
In my opinion (IMAO), this is a sturdy, high quality board. Like many, I was torn between the G11, G15 and the Cyborg. All are roughly equivalent and, depending upon your needs, will work well. I chose the Cyborg because I didn't need or think the G15's LCD panel useful, and perhaps a bit fragile; and because I'm not impressed with Logitech- ok equipment, but not certainly top-of-the-line. However, you should be satisfied with any of these. I also found the non-gaming boards seem not to be as durable as these three.
The four star rating is based on poor documentation, navigation on the website is somewhat confusing, other reviewers report support problems with Saitek (although I have found this not to be the case), and because I think many will find installation and programming a bit sophisticated- not hard for anyone with any savvy at all, but certainly more difficult than it needs to be. Note Saitek has updated their on-line manuals and software which makes installation much easier and less time consuming.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Quality of Construction: (Excellent)- The Cyborg is made of the same extruded plastic material as most, if not all keyboards. The WASD and arrow keys are aluminum clad for extra wear, and all keys are laser etched.
System Requirements: Windows XP, XP 64-bit or Vista
Dimensions: 21.5" W x 9.5" D x 1.5"H
Connection: one USB 2.0 port
Ports: Microphone, audio, and one USB- all are pass-through; that is, the ports are really extension connectors that plug into your computer
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Keyboard Design: Gaming Series
Illuminated: Yes- white, green, amber, red, & dark red; no blue
Illumination levels: 4- Off, Dim, Medium, Bright, Intense; the specs say only three but perhaps I have a newer model with a brighter intensity
Keys (Number of): 118 (including a standard 104 layout with keypad)
Multimedia Keys: Yes
Internet Keys: No
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Programmable Keys: (Cyborg or "C" keys)
Physical: 12, each with three possible shiftstates: Unshifted, Shift +, and a third shiftstate using one of the "C" keys (instead of Alt+ or Ctrl+) as a state shifter
Virtual: 33 (12 keys x 3 states = 36 less 3 lost for the "C" key used as the third shiftstate shifter)
Program Code: SST (Saitek Smart Technology)
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Cordless/Wireless: No
Mouse Included: No
Warranty Terms: Parts and Labor- 2 years
CONSIDERATIONS:
Installation isn't simple; there will most likely be issues and it will take some time. Note this can be made substantially easier by following the advice provided below.
This keyboard uses a USB port; the on-board port will use a second (but since its pass-through, there's only a net use of 1 port)
The USB version is whatever it is plugged into on the computer (most probably 2.0); Logitech's G11/15 uses 1.1 (much slower)
Keyboard is wider (21.5") than the 18" `standard'; you may want to check your physical space.
Keys are a bit smaller than standard- most notably the Escape & "F" keys-but I don't find this to be a problem at all.
The keys are quiet but not silent- see advice below if you want or need key-click.
This may be a newer model as I have noticed some different features than those listed or mentioned by other reviewers. Certainly the programming software has been updated, much easier to use, and includes a new SST programming help manual.
There are two types of software used by the keyboard: Drivers (there are 4), and the programming software (Optional- used to program the "C" keys).
Programming the "C" keys requires a little knowledge of macros.
The "C" keys are keystroke not, strictly speaking, command programmable keys. However, you can program hotkeys and emulate commands in many cases.
ADVICE:
If you follow the advice below, you should have few problems in installing and using the Cyborg keyboard, at least on the Windows XP Pro 32 bit operating platform.
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After ordering the Cyborg, register for the Saitek online forum [..]. The process will take a day or so as Saitek checks for a legitimate e-mail address and sends you an activation code (they report having porn spamming problems). Registration is free.
Once registered on the forum, download the following:
Updated drivers and software [Beta 2]([..]). Do not install, just save for future installation once you receive your keyboard. Install this updated software instead of that which comes with the keyboard.
The user manual that will come with your new keyboard[..]
A better user manual albeit for a different keyboard (but the setup is essentially the same) that includes a troubleshooting section. [..]
SST (Saitek Smart Technology) Guide if you plan to program the "C" keys [..]
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When installing the keyboard & software:
Disable USB Power Management- refer to [..], Post #1, Solution 1.
Make sure you logged on with administrator's rights or the drivers/software will not install (the manual omits this).
Follow the installation guide precisely- ALL drivers are required (including the "magic mouse"), but you don't need the software unless you are going to program the "C" keys (installation will give you a choice).
Use the newer (Beta 2) version of the software/drivers downloaded previously instead of the CD that comes with the keyboard.
I would advise against a USB/PS2 (keyboard port) adapter since the keyboard needs power from the USB port to operate.
If you want to program commands, download a hotkey manager utility such as EvoKey. I find HotKey Manager from [..] simpler to use (both are freeware).
If the keys are too quiet for you, install a utility that will give them a sound such as Noisy Keyboard (freeware from:[..])
You could use this from your lap, but I'd remove the wrist pad.
RESPONSE TO CRITICISMS:
Be sure to remove the protective clear plastic covering over the touchpad and "C" keys. This isn't mentioned in the manual but should be.
Slippery keys: I haven't noticed my fingers slipping off the keys.
Shoddy workmanship: Sounds to me like a quality control (QC) issue; especially when a customer receives 2 "B" keys and no "V". I have had no hardware issues.
No blue or white light: Mine has white light; is it a deal breaker that there's no blue hue?
Illumination not bright enough: I find it plenty bright, especially on white and light amber. Dark red isn't as intense (but looks meaner), but then it's a dark color. Also, I have four intensities.
Key Wear: This has been reported in several different places; but the keys are extruded plastic and shouldn't wear through any more than wearing the letters off a regular key. One reviewer reports the keys were reengineered in response to this difficulty (I haven't experienced this).
Only 12 Programmable Keys and 36 possible functions: Well, actually only 33 but I can't imagine anyone needing more than that. If you really need 18 physical keys & 54 functions, get the other keyboard.
Gapped Wrist Pad: I don't know why Saitek designed a gap in their wrist pad, but its no problem for me; probably because I learned typing the old way (wrists-up).
Cord to short: its a standard size cord- you could get a USB extension if that's a problem.
Too Pricy: maybe, but its within market prices of competitors and you know this up front.
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29 of 34 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Too Cool For School..., May 24, 2008
This review is from: Cyborg Gaming Keyboard with Tri-Color Backlighting (Personal Computers)
This keyboard is unbelievably cool.
This is a standard US keyboard, with the key layout being familiar to most. The keys are a standard height with a solid feel, as opposed to low profile scissor keys which some say have a faster response. In the end it is a matter of taste. This keyboard responds well, and has a low noise level, which makes for a wonderful typing experience.
This keyboard is bright, even in a well lighted room. Cyborg is unique in the the ability to switch colors, zones and brightness level. Of course, if you like blue, you might want a different keyboard, since blue is not an option.
Having metal keys seems to be a good idea, and while the keys wont break, more of the typing force should transfer itself more easily to the plastic keyboard underneath the keys, which could conceivably cause some damage. Of course, when or if that damage does occur, I will either would have died of old age, or would have bought a new keyboard, so I am not too worried about that.
There are a few nice auxilliary features worth mentioning. The keyboard has a mic/headphone input, and a usb port, which might come in handy for a few folks. The standoffs, or "feet" as I like to call them are the best I have seen on a keyboard, with feet in the front and the back, and the back ones have two levels of height adjustment.
The optional (as in non attached) handrest is an interesting feature. The keyboard without the handrest is almost unusable, since the front of the keyboard has a slope similar to Mount Everest. The handrest itself is very functional, being able to slide it out to two different levels to lay flatter or stick tighter to the keyboard. The problem I have with the handrest (and the reason for the four star rating) is the little gap in the middle. While this makes it look quite cool, your poor right has to suspend itself over this gap, while your left hand types in comfort. You would think this wouldn't make a difference but it does. You can tell by sliding your right hand over to the number pad. It's a big difference.
Now, sure this is a "gaming" keyboard, so the bulk of the handrest is situated around the "gaming" areas of the 'arrow keys' and the 'wasd keys' but certainly even gamers need to type like a regular person every now and then. I think I would have sacrificed the slightly cooler appearance of a "notched" handrest for one that functioned as a handrest should.
Now, there are a few things that could have been improved and might even be considered goofy... like the stupid looking 'cyborg' icon, and the inability to select an entirely 'monochromatic' lighting scheme. While the keyboard itself lights up in the colors you choose, they touch panel at the top stays green and red regardless. While this scheme looks fine in some settings, it increases the gaudiness of a keyboard that already has a striking design, and it would have looked kinda classy to have all red or all green lights as an option.
The cyborg icon makes me feel as if I have bought a control panel to a toy laser gun. To go along with the icon they need a button which spoke something in a mechanical voice if pressed like "Cyborg patrol officer reporting for duty, sir..."
This keyboard might not be the best keyboard for the heavy duty typist. But, if you are looking for something cool looking to go with your cool computer, this keyboard is even cooler than the pictures suggest. Try it out. You're left hand is gunna love it.
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