Hands-on with Logitech's G19 Keyboard and G35 Headset
Posted 01/06/09 at 05:00:00 PM by Norman Chan
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We've already spent some hands-on time with the G13 gamepad announced last month, but now Logitech has finally unveiled its full CES peripheral lineup with the rest of the new G-series family members. The popular G15 gaming keyboard has been completely revamped in a new G19 model, not only boasting more macro keys (the count is now up to 12 physical keys with 3 modes each) and customization options, but also a full color 320x240 GamePanel LCD display. Logitech also announced a brand new USB gaming headset, the G35. Dolby 7.1 surround-sound technology, noise-cancelling mic, convenient button locations, and voice-morphing software make this the first Logitech headset that we’re actually excited about. The $200 keyboard and $130 headset will be available in March, but we have some hands-on impressions and photos for you right now!
The first thing we noticed was the bright 320x240 LCD screen. In addition to displaying the time, CPU/RAM load, and Voip communication data (features of the G15), this screen can showcase photo slideshows and full-color video streamed from your desktop. And just like the G15, Logitech plans on releasing an SDK for the community to program their own apps for the panel. One proprietary app they showed streamed Youtube clips from various feeds, with on-screen options to navigate through the video site (you control the LCD options with designated buttons on the top left of the keyboard). Video playback was smooth for these relatively low-resolution clips, and Logitech promises that even large video files (like DVD rips) will play without a hitch -- perfect for the workplace, right?
Other features we've come to expect from high end keyboards are also present: adjustable backlit keys, two powered USB ports, 36 total macro shortcuts, a gaming mode to disable the Windows key, and multi-key input functionality (up to five keys depressed at once). $200 is a high price to pay for a keyboard, so thankfully Logitech isn't discontinuing the G15.
Next up, the new G35 Headset
G19 Keyboard for Gaming : Overview
Submitted by steel_icon on Thu, 01/08/2009 - 8:08pm
http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/gaming/pc_gaming/mice_keyboards/devices/4956&cl=us,en#
Configureable backlight colours
http://www.logitech.com/repository/1268/jpg/11107.1.0.jpg
http://gearmedia.ign.com/gear/image/article/937/937810/new-logitech-keyboard-photos-leaked-20081211035759288-000.jpg
http://cache.gawker.com/assets/images/gizmodo/2009/01/_MG_4845.jpg
Control
- Tiltable, color GamePanel™ LCD: The (320x240) display shows unprecedented levels of information—both in- and out-of-game—including game stats, system information, VOIP communication data, video playback, image slideshows, and many other items.
- User-selectable backlit characters: Personalize the keyboard to better fit with the rest of your computer and gaming equipment, and easily locate keys—even in the dark.
- Twelve fully programmable G-keys with three macros per key: Program up to 36 single keypresses or complex macros; use the MR key to record new macros on-the-fly.
- Multi-key input: Use up to five keys at once to perform multiple complex actions.
- Game/desktop mode: Disable the Windows/Context Menu keys so they won’t interrupt your game if pressed accidentally.
Convenience
- Two powered Hi-Speed USB 2.0 ports: Transfer data to and from peripherals—such as MP3 players and flash drives—while also charging battery-powered devices.
- Intelligent cable management: Keep mouse, headset, and other cords out of the way by routing them through channels on the underside of the keyboard.
- Instant media access: Use the convenient one-touch controls for volume and media playback.
Looks like my next board and cans!
Submitted by killerxx7 on Wed, 01/07/2009 - 5:14am
I have the gaming g15 and wille its nice its a bit smalle the keys are pretty cramped but i do love the screen
i use it all the time i couldnt go back to a standerd board now,and my bro has a pair of zalerman 5.1 cans that he loves so im sure he would be intreasted in 7.1 .
yeah but ...
Submitted by arkweld on Wed, 01/07/2009 - 2:40am
how does it feel? Some of us actually care about typing on these things and would like to see at least some brief comment in a "hands on" article.
In fact for me that's the most important part of a KEYBOARD. All these comments about how you an get cheaper keyboard that does the same basic thing are missing the point as well. Cheap keyboards feel like spongy crap and have little tactile response. I will happily pay more for a keyboard that actually feels good to use.The media stuff is just a fun extra in that case.
Hey Norm when your done with
Submitted by Keith E. Whisman on Tue, 01/06/2009 - 11:33pm
Hey Norm when your done with this keyboard can I have it? Just wondering.... ;) I mean it's ok but if you don't need it I'll take it.
Submitted by mikemckay on Tue, 01/06/2009 - 10:38pm
some screen apps are pretty useful actually....having fraps draw a graph of fps is nice so you can look at it AFTER the action to see what your frames were
its nice having movie information like time elapsed/left etc on the keyboard when the full screened movie or show is the only thing on your monitor :)
i wont replace my old school G15 anytime soon (blue backlit keys and the ability to TILT THE SCREEN ftw), but it would be nice if they sold a keyboard that could change its backlight colors...like a button to cycle through red, green blue or something....seriously how much money could that add to a keyboard thats already $200? why would anyone care what their headphones LOOK like?? unless you are wearing earbuds, most headsets make us look awesomely nerdy and its the performance/comfort that counts right? Id wear one of the helmets from star wars if it sounded and felt much better than my sennheisers
Submitted by Keith E. Whisman on Tue, 01/06/2009 - 11:28pm
The Saitek Cyborg Gaming Keyboard $79 dollars at Frys.com has three colors that you can cycle through and check this out I think that you can use all three at the same time on different areas of the keyboard. I was actually going to buy this keyboard but decided on the Logitech Desktop Wave keyboard because I loved the feel of the keys and the shear classy looks and out right awesomeness of the Wave. It just feels great to type with my keyboard and it's only $49bucks at the Frys Store. Here's the URL for the Saitek at Fry's http://shop4.frys.com/product/5611371?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG
Submitted by strykyr on Tue, 01/06/2009 - 8:30pm
I won't be replacing my Gamecom777 anytime soon. Am looking for a new keyboard and mouse setup tho. But it won't be this one for $200..That's just too much for a keyboard and the display is kinda too much for me.
Submitted by Keith E. Whisman on Tue, 01/06/2009 - 7:03pm
Norm he's right it's all dirty... What did you do with this keyboard huh? Tell me your not back at your licking thing again please?
BTW great article. You deserve a pat on the back and a few clean dust cloths.
Submitted by ExarKun1138 on Tue, 01/06/2009 - 6:45pm
This looks like a great keyboard and the color screen is awesome, but could you PLEASE, next time, take pictures of it AFTER you dusted it off? Sheesh!
BTW, I own the G15, and love it! I don't think I'll be spending $200 to replace it any time soon.
Submitted by Dunimas on Tue, 01/06/2009 - 6:14pm
Every piece of hardware has a market. This one may not fit me to a tee, but it sure is interesting.
::.Dunimas.::
I'd Get One...
Submitted by jediken21 on Tue, 01/06/2009 - 6:00pm
...if they made one with low profile keys. I can't stand those giant bulky nose makers.
Still Orange Backlighting?
Submitted by Columbia747 on Tue, 01/06/2009 - 5:43pm
Seems odd that the backlight is still orange, I would have much perfered something like blue or red or several differnt ones, the orange is just a turn off for me
G35
Submitted by funkyp56 on Tue, 01/06/2009 - 4:54pm
to bad the headphones are hella UGLY! yeah I said hella, cuz I am from the bay area!
Submitted by tehR0XX0Rz on Tue, 01/06/2009 - 4:40pm
A $200 keyboard? I guess it will appeal to idiots with more money than common sense.
Logitech marketing has their collective head up their ass.
Submitted by Muerte on Wed, 01/07/2009 - 8:06am
The macro keys are invaluable to gamers, one key does the work of 3. The LCD screen is useful for MMO,s and vent, its nice to see who's talking.
Plus they really did make the keys feel good. Just enough rebound to keep you from the feel of banging the keys.
The G15 is a really nice keyboard plus they are giving back the macro keys they took away from the revamped G15 gamer. Which was a huge complaint by people who used the old G15. So they get those back plus a color LCD for 100 bucks more.
Sounds like sound marketing to me.
Submitted by Keith E. Whisman on Tue, 01/06/2009 - 4:43pm
Not really there are alot of people that go after the bling such as case modders and the like. Just because I don't have a use for it other people may enjoy and have a use for the features here. Although this keyboard still does the same thing as a $10dollar keyboard does you know like make it possible for you to type words and stuff.
Submitted by t3e871 on Tue, 01/06/2009 - 4:28pm
I'm using an old G15 with 18 Macro buttons x 3 modes ( they went down to 6 buttons I think on later g15s). So this keyboard may have a nice color screen, but not enough macro buttons for my addiction.
Submitted by Muerte on Wed, 01/07/2009 - 7:59am
Actually 36. 12 buttons each can have 3 different macros attached to it via 3 function buttons.
Submitted by Keith E. Whisman on Tue, 01/06/2009 - 4:04pm
So this is why the G15 is only $40 bucks at Wal-Mart now. When my still new Logitech Desktop Wave keyboard get's old and the palm rests that your not supposed to use (that's what my 9th Grade typing teacher told us anyhow with a long yard stick) start to crack and rot I'll get one of the G15's or something else as I type by touch. Why build a keyboard that requires you to take your eyes off the screen anyhow? Why bother learning to type by touch then if you have to look down at the keyboard. This is stupid.
Submitted by Keith E. Whisman on Tue, 01/06/2009 - 11:20pm
Since I am no longer capable of editing my post I will post a note that I have discovered that there are two G15 Keyboards. One is the G15 gaming keyboard that costs lots of cash. Then there is the G15 keyboard that costs $40bucks at Wal-Mart. I discovered this just now as I downloaded the latest Mouse/keyboard setpoint software from Logitech.com. It does appear that the G15 keyboard has fewer features than the Gaming G15. But both have LCD screens but the G15Gaming keyboard has a larger LCD. Not that that matters to me. But I'm sure others love it and to those I say Goody goody.
Submitted by Velcrow on Tue, 01/06/2009 - 4:26pm
Not sure I'd call it stupid. But it certainly seems impractical. Especially for gamers. You're right, taking your eyes off the screen is counter-productive. Except maybe to watch a 15 second clip during load times. Otherwise it's just a fancy gimmick.
this might come as a
Submitted by nekollx on Tue, 01/06/2009 - 4:35pm
this might come as a supprise to you BUT
not all games are FPS
Submitted by Velcrow on Tue, 01/06/2009 - 11:19pm
You're right, I was just thinking of the important games. ;)
But I'll concede that the screen would be less of a distraction for other genre's.
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