| Nice backlit keyboard with extra features, lackluster drivers/USB support |
| (updated 11/21/2008)
This is a great keyboard. After a month of use, I've gotten used to the extra keys (at first, I was pressing macro keys instead of Ctrl/Shift) and I love the visual impact of its sleek design. The "throw" of the keys is perfect -- not too much like a membrane, and fairly quiet, but just the right amount of tactile response.
The backlighting is similarly impressive, enabling you to type/play in the dark (even touch-typists need to see, sometimes). The USB cord docking feature is very nice -- it allows you to have the cord snake out of three convenient positions along the backside of the keyboard.
I haven't really noticed an enhanced response rate between the keys and software, but it's certainly no slouch.
The volume control (top right dial) is a welcome addition -- but why not a "mute" button? I can't find a way to program a "mute" command via the Reclusa software.
Now for some downsides.
The macro software is somewhat lackluster. It switches on-the-fly for running programs, but there are no presets (other than the defaults) -- you'll have to hunt for .EXE files and assign keys to their profiles. To top it off, there are only 5 profiles available. Most gamers would probably prefer dozens. One key ejects the CD/DVD -- not helpful during a game, to be sure. The mail/web browser keys are in the same boat -- why enable them for full-screen game software?
The ESC key is in an awkward position. It's somewhat blocked by the (otherwise pretty) top layer of translucent plastic.
It's too easy to hit the right (or left) side buttons with a mouse. Disabling them helps, somewhat.
To top it off, connecting a Razer Copperhead (mouse) in one of the USB "convenience" on the top left/right causes the keyboard to remain unresponsive when rebooting the host PC. Once fully booted, connecting the mouse works. Connecting other common devices (like a flashcard reader) sometimes results in a "low power" message in Windows XP.
If not for the dismal support software and the fact that mine came with what looks like a small "blister" or crack under the top layer of translucent plastic, I'd call this an excellent gaming keyboard. If there was a chance the software would be improved, over time, I'd mark it higher, but most companies release completely new versions of hardware with software, nowadays, opting to never improve on the original versions for current customers. 3/5 stars, 4 if they improve the drivers.
*update: driver updated, fixes a few things. Wrist pad has since broken off -- build quality may be somewhat lackluster, here. Lighting is still excellent, but I notice a significant brightness difference between the (always-on) NumLock indicator and the (never on) CAPS LOCK lights. If your PC is on 24/7, the keyboard stays lit, so LED brightness apparently degrades, over time.
| | In my quest for a solid gaming keyboard I ordered the Reclusa for a great price. I'm typing this right now on it and I must say, it's quite comfortable. The keys I naturally reach for are in the right spot. This has been a problem for some of the wireless keyboards I'm using on my HTPC and PS3. The spacing is very good and there isn't a lot of extra bulk/width like the current G15 on the market. The volume "knob" is also a nice touch as it's easier to dial-in versus the common Up/Down buttons.
Pros:
- Zero lag. I know this is hard to measure, but it's a gaming keyboard and that's one of the reasons I bought this. It's good to know that when I hit a key, what I want to happen, happens.
- Clean, blue backlighting is just the right brightness level in all lighting conditions
- Size. Not too big (cough, current G15) not too small.
- Two built-in USB ports.
- Wristpad is very comfortable.
- Volume knob/jog dial instead of up/down buttons.
- Customization. Shortcuts and marcos are within easy reach of the "home position" or the "WASD" position.
Cons:
- No mute key. Seriously. If the volume knob would push in (think Xbox 360 controller) it would be a great mute button.
- When you stand the keyboard up (you know, those little legs in the back) it loses the rubber grip it had on the desk and it's not as sturdy. I usually use my keyboard in this inverted position so it's going to take me a while to get used to it flat.
- The shape is a bit dated. Square, edgy, cut is in. Egg-shaped is out.
- Shiny/glossy plastic part (where the Microsoft logo is) is bound to get scratched up. I know, nitpicky, but it's going to happen.
Conclusion:
All in all, a great gaming keyboard in the ~$50 range.
Note: Make sure to get the latest driver/software from Microsoft. Version 1.02 (came out July 20th 2007) fixed a bug which did not allow programming of modifier (CTRL/ALT/SHIFT) keys.
| | This is a nice keyboard for the money. Good key response, feels solid. There are a couple extra keys for macros, not overkill like the G11 from Logitech. All black with no silver accents, so it looks sharp. Has good coverage as far as the blue lights are concerned. The function keys along the top are a little dark, but its not bad. Has a nice leather'ish wrist rest that comes along with it.
The only problem I have had with this is (I believe) software related. The Razor utility that comes along with it that allows you to program the different keys. It worked great for a couple weeks for me, then I started having problems. Seems like something is always pushing the right direction arrow key. Or pushing left then right over and over again. It isn't right away, I can get about 4-5 minutes of good use out of it before this happens. If the utility loads you can not stop this problem, even if you terminate the process. If you pull the USB and re attach, sometimes you can get another good 5 mins out of it. I had to uninstall the Razor software to correct the problem. Rendering the extra keys useless.
Still, I'd rather lose those keys than the functionality of the entire keyboard. I'm sure they will release a revision at some point to correct it. Its still only v 1.0
| | Good board for those with more to do than just play games |
| Pros:
- Sticky feet. As long as the board is not tilted on its rear feet, this thing is going NOWHERE.
- Backlit keys. Very nice implementation. Easy to see unlike Saitek II which were much too dim.
- Short cut keys. Very handy for both games and non-game applications.
- Good feedback on key presses. You'll know when you pressed a key.
Cons:
- Very stiff keys. Requires heavier key press than normal keyboards. Seems optimized for WASD pressing rather than report writing. This means some mistyping in non-game situations but not too bad once you get used to the stiffness.
- Smooth plastic microsoft bezel. This collects dust out of the air like a swiffer collects dust off the floor. Pretty annoying but does not affect function.
- BIG. The keyboard is much bigger than it seems like it should be. If you have a small desk and you want to use the wrist rest be warned - it may not fit. Check the product dimensions first!
| | I purchased the Microsoft Reclusa a little over a month ago, and I must say that this is an awesome keyboard. The board has a great feel when typing and is very responsive to the slightest touch. It is also a comfortable board to type on and comes with an optional wrist pad (I prefer not to use those).
As a gaming keyboard it has been great! The board software is easy to use, and makes setting up macros hassle free... I have read reviews where people are disappointed that the Reclusa does not have more macros, but for my purposes it has been perfect. The board also has two knobs that can be set up to control volume or can also be used to store macros.
The blue led looks awesome. The light coming from under the keys creates a perfect illumniation for typing/ gaming late at night. Though the led cannot be adjusted, I feel that it gives off the perfect amount of light.
I use my computer for gaming and word processing/ web applications. I have concluded that this board offers the perfect combination for gaming and comfortable typing, and I would highly recommend it.
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