The keyboard market is finally catching up with the needs of gamers worldwide, with several specialized gaming keyboard offerings. Two popular choices among them are Logitech’s G15 keyboard and Ideazon’s Zboard.

The G15 functions well in tandem with their gaming mice. Even if you don’t have a Logitech gaming mouse, the G15 is still a great option because it packs useful features. The new G15 has fewer programmable keys which is an improvement over the old G15 because it reduces keyboard clutter (fewer keys).

The new G15 is also enhanced for World of Warcraft enthusiasts with dedicated keyboard support for critical functions.

Key features:

1. It has an LCD display that shows gaming information (amount of ammunition left etc.) during play time, as well as showing system information such as RAM usage, what MP3 is playing, date, time, etc. at all times.

2. It has 6 programmable keys in 3 modes. The keyboard is C++ programmable and the LCD display can be used to edit C++ code to create Macros for each of the programmable keys. It is therefore a highly customizable keyboard.

3. In-built Media Center functions and hotkeys to pull up an Internet Browser and email, etc.

4. It has a backlit display available in two colors so that it can be used in the dark without any trouble. The brightness of the backlit can be adjusted (3 levels).

5. It allows up to 10 simultaneous key presses.

6. It has 2 USB ports to expand the total USB device supporting capacity of your PC. These can be used to attach specialized gaming hardware as well.

7. It has palm rests for more comfortable typing.

Drawbacks:

1. The keyboard is larger than a standard keyboard. It may not fit in many keyboard trays and will definitely use up a lot of desk space. If you plan to use it along with a gaming mouse, make sure you have enough space to begin with.

2. Although the keyboard is designed for gaming and serious computer use (such as document creation) alike, users report it having not the required feel for serious typing at high speeds.

3. Beware: freely distributed Macros can also spell trouble.

Ideazon Zboard

Ideazon’s Zboard is an excellent keyboard solution with specialized features for playing games such as Age of Empires, Half Life, Doom, and Battlefield. There is a standard keyset which can be used for all your standard applications and games. (there is also a detachable palm rest). There are a number of function keys including media controlling keys and other hot keys.

Key features:

1. The interchangeable keysets mean that you can buy a keyset for your favorite game and you are away.

2. First / Third person action games can be played easily by virtue of the gaming keyset(s).

3. It has 2 USB ports. You can attach more USB devices to your computer through the keyboard.

4. A row of multimedia and functional keys.

5. A selection of business oriented keysets such as one that has Adobe Photoshop functions on board (other options are MS Excel, Flash and more). Further improving flexibility.

Drawbacks:

1. It has a split space bar which requires some getting used to.

2. It does not have the option of programmable keys.

3. Keyboard feel is not as good as more expensive products that are available on the market.

4. Keysets have an associated learning curve.

Conclusion

If you are into serious gaming and play a variety of games then the G15 is the automatic choice because of the programmable keys. Although the Zboard has the hot swappable keysets, the problem is that if you play several games the cost of the keysets can add up (each has to be purchased separately). G15’s LCD screen is a great feature that actually makes it even more attractive than more expensive keyboards.

The advantage that the Zboard has over G15 is in the pricing. If you play just the one game or two, it turns out to be very good value.

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