Two keyboards in one: Logitech's intriguing solution for gamers
Logitech is trying to do something in the G512 X 98 that no major manufacturer has done to date: combine mechanical and magnetic switches on the same keyboard. The result is a flexible, original, and particularly enjoyable product for gamers and also for those who type for long hours. The big question is whether all this is worth the price?
After reviewing the PRO X2 SUPERSTRIKE last April, Logitech's advanced and first-of-its-kind magnetic gaming mouse, the new keyboard from the company, the G512 X 98, has now landed on my desk. This is the company's new addition to the G5 series, which targets hardcore gamers but not necessarily the professional competitive audience. The new G512 may not bring a technological revolution like in the case of the Pro X2, but it does innovate and brings several interesting ideas to the gaming and work desk, such as Dual Swap, which allows switching between magnetic and mechanical switches on the same keyboard.
Design: bolder than ever
Against the more sterile and uniform trend in gaming keyboards in recent years, Logitech's new keyboard is not afraid to be bolder than ever, bordering on gimmicky. The keyboard I received for review is black with purple sides, while the two rotating buttons in the upper right corner, the ESC key, and the arrow keys are also purple (there is also a white version with turquoise keys, ed.). This combination of black and purple is not common, and it makes the keyboard look different from what is usually seen on the market. The look is completed by a substantial light strip in the front that adds even more style to the package.
Originally, the accessories that come with the keyboard for removing keys and switches can also be used as height-adjustment feet that attach under the keyboard. In addition, in the back, there is a storage area that can hold up to nine switches, and there are even five slots for SAPP Rings. Without a doubt, this is a sophisticated and original design. However, although the key material (PBT) is of very high quality and most parts of the keyboard are stable, there are some misses in build quality. The top panel and the thin frame surrounding the switch base, especially in the very thin bottom part, move too easily. This makes some parts of the keyboard feel a bit cheap.
Magnetic switches, but with a twist
The keyboard comes with mechanical switches in one of the following two options: red switches (linear) or brown switches (Tactile). The brown switches provide a pleasant typing sound and a springy feel for typing, whereas the red ones are more recommended for gaming due to their smooth and constant movement. But here is the plot twist: in both versions, you will find in the keyboard's storage compartment nine magnetic switches of the GATERON K20 type (linear, and excellent), while 39 of the keys on the keyboard (out of 98 total) are hybrid and support Dual Swap. That is, it is possible to switch between magnetic or mechanical switches in these places freely, without disconnecting the keyboard from the power.
Specifically here, it refers to the left part of the keyboard, in the part of the keys up to the number 7 and what is below it, including the space bar, and also the arrow keys. So 99% of the keys important for gaming support this option. In fact, this opens up support for the vast majority of switch types you will find on the market, whether they are magnetic switches or your favorite mechanical switches. This is an excellent option that allows for higher compatibility that is good for both the general consumer and the more professional gamers. It didn't even take me a day and I already used this feature: I switched between the red switches I had on another keyboard I intended for work with the brown switches I received in the G512 X, and I replaced the W, A, S, D, SHIFT, CTRL, SPACE, and ALT with the magnetic switches.
Logitech's settings app, G HUB, is excellent as usual, smooth and easy to use. When connecting new hardware for the first time, a short and to-the-point interactive guide opens that shows you all the functions and features of what you connected, and it is convenient and efficient. Of course, you can also find in the app the Rapid Trigger and Rapid Tap features, which are fully supported in the magnetic switches, and see animations that illustrate the different depth levels that can be chosen. That is, it is possible to make use of the full potential of the magnetic switches, and there are no compromises at all derived from the hybrid nature of the keyboard.
The elephant in the room
Why 39 and not all the keys on the keyboard? Probably to lower its cost, which is already at 849 shekels for the 98 version we tested (for the matching wrist rest you will need to part with another 200 shekels). It is clear, therefore, that a keyboard with full Dual Swap for all keys is simply not attainable at the moment. But even with the compromise that Logitech chose, some will say that the price of the keyboard is not competitive enough. Although it is a very useful and efficient feature, most gamers will probably prefer to pay the same price, perhaps even less, for a full analog or mechanical keyboard, despite the smart design and flexibility of the G512 X.
