Ahead of RazerCon 2024, I was able to try out several upcoming products from the manufacturer. While all of them were quite impressive, I'm most excited about its brand new gaming keyboard model, the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%.
I was able to briefly test out the standard keyboard model, hear from popular tech industry professionals about their own experiences with modding it, and try out those modded versions for myself. Judging from what I have seen so far, this will easily be one of the best gaming keyboards and the best keyboards in general.
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%: Price & availability
The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is $299.99 / £299.99 / AU$499.95 and has excellent availability as it's available in the US, UK, and Australia as well as several other regions.
It's pretty expensive compared to its competition, even one as high quality as this one. This is clearly a hobbyist's keyboard since the average user would balk at paying such a high entry price. In return, however, you get a fully moddable and hot-swappable keyboard with some of the latest tech built into it.
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%: Design
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The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is a sleek, heavy-set keyboard made of aluminum alloy. It sports Razer's trademark black color and extensive RGB lighting. The 75% size is a new addition to the lineup and was, according to the manufacturer, in high demand from its user base.
One of the most striking features of the V4 Pro 75% is its OLED display on the top right corner paired with the command dial to its side. The screen and command dial allow for quick setting configuration without needing to access the Razer Synapse software and for creating or downloading animations. It's a nifty feature that can be quite useful.
The other main draw to this keyboard is its high level of customizability due to the ease of disassembly (it only requires you to remove eight screws on the underside) and the several layers that it's composed of. These layers include the keycaps and switches, the aluminum alloy top case, a gasket-mounted white FR4 plate, plate foam, tape-enhanced PCB with hot-swap sockets, and bottom foam.
I was able to personally see the results of that, with several tech YouTubers displaying their creations during my time with the keyboard. When I asked about the customization, it was confirmed to me that due to how easily and quickly the keyboard can be taken apart and thanks to all the layers that make it up, it's much simpler to do so but has a real depth to it that allows for some truly unique works. Some of the keyboards, as pictured in the gallery above, are completely unrecognizable from the original model.
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%: Performance
I only had a limited amount of time to play around with the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%, but my short stint with it has certainly piqued my interest. Like the Alienware line of gaming keyboards, the V4 Pro 75% uses Razer's in-house switches. From what I felt, the accusation point balances that trademark resistance mechanical switches are known for, while also not requiring too much force to push down keys.
One of the other most noticeable qualities of the switches during my test run was how clear and sharp the sound was. This is due to several factors, including the PCB with tape that helps absorb higher frequencies while boosting mid and low frequencies, the plate foam that helps remove unwanted resonance, and the bottom case foam that helps reduce hollowness. Clearly much thought and care had been put into this design, and it shows in every aspect.
According to Razer, this keyboard's battery life can last up to 2100 hours in power-saving mode, which is a staggeringly high number considering it accounts for the RGB lighting and OLED mini-screen.
(Image credit: Future)
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%: Early verdict
The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% looks to be one of the best gaming keyboards that Razer has ever produced. Not only is the construction of the keyboard itself made of a high-quality metal chassis, but it comes with an OLED screen that bypasses the software for simple specs configuration. Further, the customization options balance depth with accessibility in a way few gaming keyboards achieve.
What has me truly excited is seeing just how far you can push said customization. Seeing what capable tech pros could accomplish in a short period blew my expectations out of the water. It makes me giddy to get my hands on one myself and really see what I can do with it.
Simply, it's the most I've been excited for a Razer keyboard in years.
The ROG Delta II wireless headset is the latest in the Asus Republic of Gamers line of audio peripherals for gaming. The set maximizes comfort without diminishing audio quality in a lightweight, over-ear headset that’s clearly made for all aspects of gaming. While gaming peripherals from companies like ROG or Razer can feel gimmicky for streamers or, at the very least, don’t stand up to higher-end, general-purpose counterparts, the Delta II is surprisingly versatile and even excels beyond something like the costlier Audeze Maxwell. With so many different headsets on the market, ROG had to find a way to separate the Delta II from the crowd, and despite its general simplicity, it succeeded in most ways.
The biggest surprise is the comfort level. The lightweight design, forgiving band, and plush mesh or PU leather ear cushions minimize the occurrence of headaches. Even with a looser band, the earcup creates a seal that cuts down on external noise despite no active noise cancelation.
(Image credit: Future / Mark LoProto)
While on the higher end of the price spectrum when compared to other Delta models, the Delta II’s $229 / £219 / AUS$368 price tag stings less when you start noticing audio cues that may have been otherwise drowned out through TV speakers or a lower quality headset. The plug-and-play compatibility with the PS5 (via USB-C dongle) and Xbox Series X/S (via 3.5mm cord) are vitally convenient and provide the best gaming experience, whereas use via PC (Bluetooth or USB-C) can be tweaked and customized using the Armoury Crate software.
Asus ROG Delta II: Price and availability
When is it available? Available now
How much does it cost? $229 / £219 / AUS$368
Where can you get it? Available in the US, UK, and AUS
The ROG Delta II officially launched on September 12, 2024, at a price point of $229 / £219 / AUS$368. Though fairly high, especially for a gaming headset, the Delta II justifies the cost with a build that makes the Delta S and its 50mm Asus essence drivers obsolete. Titanium is where it’s at for a fuller audio experience that elevates game audio design to ensure even the most subtle cues aren’t missed.
There’s a market for the ROG Delta II; it just may not be the casual player who picks up a controller every few weeks. Someone willing to drop $229 on a wireless headset when there are options for more than half the price will better appreciate the enhanced audio provided by the 50mm titanium drivers. Though the headset does work quite nicely for PC, it almost feels like a console-specific accessory, especially since connecting any headset to an Xbox or PS5 isn’t as simple as establishing a Bluetooth connection, and compatibility isn’t guaranteed.
What really justifies the price is how well the headset handles the PS5’s spatial audio to suck players in. With that being said, that’s only good for PS5 players, leaving Xbox gamers to once again deal with the antiquated 3.5mm audio plug. That’s when it gets difficult to recommend a $200-plus headset because while the drivers work wonders, I can’t help but wonder if the much cheaper, 3.5mm-compatible Delta Core could get the job done for very casual players.
Value: 3.5 / 5
Asus ROG Delta II: Specs
Asus ROG Delta II: Features
DualFlow Audio for simultaneous device use
Tri-Mode connectivity with ROG SpeedNova
Few features lend to a user-friendly experience
ROG didn’t go too heavy on features for the Delta II, which is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it allows the headset’s base audio quality to shine without forcing you to navigate a sea of button presses and app integrations. The Delta II caters to a plug-and-play crowd, especially for consoles. It also supports the notion that this headset isn’t meant for audiophiles, and even casual players can get the most out of the titanium drivers without fuss.
Then again, an older competitor like Razer’s Kaira Pro (2022), which retails for only $30 less (for the PS5 model), is brimming with different audio-enhancing features. Along with haptic feedback, the Kaira Pro includes a toggle that swaps between improved bass, amplified audio, and a gaming profile for a more diverse user experience. You may be wondering why you’d spend more for what seems like less, but the Delta II’s success is that it hones in on a well-rounded build to render all of those enhancements unnecessary.
Of course, you can still control your sound design on a PC. The Delta II connects with ROG’s Armoury Crate software to optimize sound with toggles for an equalizer, reverb, and virtual surround sound along with slides for bass boost and compression. You can also choose between preset profiles for movies, music, gaming, and communicating, which change the necessary settings to adjust sound for each application.
One of the Delta II’s more interesting features is DualFlow Audio. Using both the 2.4 GHz wireless and Bluetooth, it feeds audio from two devices simultaneously. That may sound like chaos, but it’s a great way to game on a PS5 and still be able to use Discord (or TeamSpeak, if you're still using it) or chat with viewers on the PC without a mixer or additional equipment. The input audio skipped infrequently, but the rare hiccup is worth dealing with for something so simple and useful.
None of this matters all that much if the headset is dead within hours of charging. Thankfully, ROG found a way to prolong the life of the Delta II to up to over 110 hours (using 2.4GHz wireless without RGB lighting). I tried to run the battery dry, but it’s quite resilient and looks like it does live up to at least a sizable portion of that 110 hours. ROG also boasts a quick charge, where you can squeeze 11 hours of use time after only 15 minutes on the included USB-C charger.
Features: 4 / 5
Asus ROG Delta II: Sound quality
(Image credit: Future / Mark LoProto)
Full-bodied audio that struggles with deeper bass
Binaural audio is immersive and crystal clear
Detachable microphone could use some work
After running a simple online bass test, I realized there were a few hiccups in the Delta II’s sound quality. While that should be a negative mark, it really indicated that the headset was specifically designed for gaming, especially since the worst offense was vibrating drivers at a low frequency I wouldn’t expect to hear in a video game. Some music with deeper bass may cause the drivers to vibrate, but the Delta II isn’t really made for music. Sure, you can connect to your iPhone and blast your favorite tunes, but ROG cares more about making sure you feel like you’re in the middle of Liberty City. Across most of the games I tested the Delta II with, I discovered the immersion I was missing by using TV speakers.
My favorite experience with the Delta II was Returnal. Having heard the game through the TV and the Audeze Maxwell, I was not prepared for how different it would sound with the titanium drivers. It engulfs you in the alien world in a way video games should, with every bit of audio, big or small, sounding like they were in the room with me. Even Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 sounded better, to the point where I could hear the faint flapping of Spidey’s wings while gliding.
On PC, I toyed with Armoury Crate’s settings but pretty much always returned it to the preset gaming mode. It provided the fullest audio of the lot, making games like Dead Space 2 infinitely more horrifying.
(Image credit: Future / Mark LoProto)
Playing on PC also highlighted Delta II’s weakest feature: its microphone. Though clear (and made clearer with Armoury Crate’s noise reduction setting) it had a tendency to stutter. It did seem to run fine on the PS5, though, and teammates could hear me clearly each round of Killer Klowns from Outer Space.
Sound quality: 4.5 / 5
ASUS ROG Delta II: Design
(Image credit: Future / Mark LoProto)
Interchangeable plush ear cushions
Flexible but durable headband
Flimsy microphone design
There’s little to complain about with the Delta II’s design. Both ear cushions are very cozy and create a good seal to minimize external noise without pressing too hard against my head. The fabric and PU leather cushions were equally as soft, though I did sweat slightly with the latter.
Adding to the overall comfort is the headband. I’m used to headsets that squeeze and feel tight around my head, but the Delta II’s band doesn't share that aggression. It does feel a little cheap, with very minimal padding at the top of the head, but it was comfortable enough to wear for several hours at a time without discomfort.
ROG kept things very simple with its button layout. The left earcup features controls for the volume and 2.4GHz dongle. Opposite that are the controls for Bluetooth connectivity and volume. Function buttons on both sides can control music based on how many times they’re pressed, making for a very user-friendly design.
Design: 4 / 5
Should you buy the Asus ROG Delta II?
Buy them if...
You own a PS5 and love immersion
A lower-quality, cheaper headset or TV speakers don’t do the PS5’s spatial audio any justice. ROG’s Delta II, on the other hand, thrusts you into the action with titanium drivers and a stable wireless connection that’s smooth and crystal clear.
Headsets tend to be uncomfortable for you
Both included ear cushions and the band design come together for a surprisingly comfortable wear. Though the band is nothing to write home about, it’s not tight and won’t squeeze even larger heads. The Delta II’s comfort also doesn’t hinder its ability to keep outside noises from polluting the audio, as the plush cushions create a strong, albeit cozy, seal.
Don't buy them if...
You only game on an Xbox
This is mostly Microsoft’s fault, as it’s difficult to justify spending so much for a 3.5mm connection that tethers you to the control and, shockingly, doesn’t provide the same audio quality as the Bluetooth or 2.4 GHz connection. On Xbox, you can’t take advantage of DualFlow audio.
Audio isn’t all that important to you
There’s no point in spending so much money if you’re not “Wow’d” by immersive, clear audio. You could easily spend less than $100 if all you care about is a simple wireless headset that gets the job done. Even a lower-cost ROG wireless headset could satisfy your needs for a wallet-friendly, feature-light audio experience.
Also Consider
Logitech Pro X 2 Lightspeed
50mm graphene drivers steer Logitech’s Pro X 2 Lightspeed in a good direction in this lightweight headset. Connectivity options, a sizable frequency range, surround sound, and good battery life lend to a positive user experience, particularly for competitive gamers.
Comfort and a long battery life ensure prolonged gaming sessions with the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Wireless. Ample customization and neutral sound quality help justify a higher price tag, which still comes in a little cheaper than the ROG Delta II.
A premium headset with audio amplified by 50mm drivers, active noise cancelation, and multiple connectivity options, the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro is both versatile and capable of delivering crystal-clear audio.
Used in an open-walled home office with varying degrees of noise
I put ROG’s lightweight headset through a rigorous process. More so than visuals, I value sound design in video games, so I focused on games with fantastic audio across the primary platforms. This included Returnal (PS5), Dead Space 2 (PC), and Alan Wake 2 (Xbox Series S). By using different platforms, I could test audio quality across the USB-C 2.4GHz dongle, the 3.5mm cable, and the Bluetooth connection. Using each game’s base audio settings, I swapped between the Delta II, my Audaze Maxwell, and the speakers built into my Samsung TV to pinpoint basic audio quality and how well individual audio cues and background noise came through across each device. I also performed an audio/microphone test via Phasmophobia (PC), Ghostbusters: Spirits Unleashed (PC), and Killer Klown’s from Outer Space: The Game (PS5) to test the clarity of the microphone and how well the headset mixed in-game audio and other players. Finally, I ran the headset through a bass test designed to gauge the quality of the drivers.
It’s not often you see an analog keyboard come to market, but Turtle Beach is offering a new one in the form of its Vulcan 2 TKL Pro. It promises ultra-smooth and fast operation, aided by the in-depth actuation settings in its accompanying software, Swarm 2.
Since the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro doesn't have a top cover, the bare keycaps and switches are immediately apparent. This design choice is both aesthetically pleasing and convenient, as it makes cleaning and swapping out the keycaps easier. The overall form is compact and slender, yet the materials and construction feel premium.
Swarm 2 doesn’t put its best foot forward, with a jagged interface and a severe lack of explanations for the numerous settings available. Navigating it can also be a chore, and I was frequently met with dialog boxes telling me I had to go somewhere else or activate a certain parameter to achieve what I wanted. It also crashed on one occasion during my time using it.
Beneath it all, though, there are some great customization options on offer, with a broad selection of hotkey functions – some quite advanced – and the actuation adjustments allow for a great deal of tinkering. Again, though, it can be hard to work out exactly what your tweaks are accomplishing, thanks to the lack of visual indicators and an impractical testing procedure.
(Image credit: Future)
In action, the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro performs competently, with the same satisfying keystrokes and comfortable feel as any of the best gaming keyboards, and the mixture of convex and concave keycaps pays dividends. However, typing isn’t the easiest, as the keys are quite narrow, and gliding around them isn’t as seamless as I’m used to.
The analog functionality is a mixed bag for gaming. There are plenty of adjustments in the actuation point, which let you dial in your preferred pressure. Rapid Trigger mode is also useful, allowing for fast yet controlled inputs, ideal for twitchy character movements. However, the multi-point actuation seems more like a gimmick than a useful tool, and Controller mode falls short of its emulation promises since the keys can’t match the precision of analog sticks and triggers. In practice, I doubt gamers will use it.
All this isn’t to say the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro isn’t a competent gaming performer. It’s satisfying and solid to use, and its compact design makes it suitable for virtually any setup.
If you want a premium gaming keyboard with similar analog switches, the Razer Huntsman line includes models with them. If you can do without, there are plenty of keyboards out there that offer similar, if not better, performance than the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro for the same price or less, such as the Asus Rog Strix Scope II RX and the Roccat Magma.
(Image credit: Future)
Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro review: price and availability
$149 (about £113 / AU$219)
Black and White colorways
Wired only
The Vulcan 2 TKL Pro is priced at $149 (about £113 / AU$219) and is available in two colorways: Black and White. It also comes with a wrist rest. UK and Australian markets are yet to receive it.
For a tenkeyless board with analog switches, the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro is good value. Similar analog offerings from the likes of Razer and Corsair can set you back over $200.
If you’re not bothered about analog switches, your options open up considerably, but even when considered within the broader gaming keyboard market, the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro is still competitively priced.
However, there are alternatives that undercut the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro: the Asus Rog Strix Scope II RX, for instance, is slightly cheaper, full-size, and has mechanical switches. There’s also the Roccat Magma, our current pick as the best gaming keyboard for those on a budget.
Value: 4 / 5
Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro review: specs
(Image credit: Future)
Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro review: design and features
Light but sturdy
Satisfying floating keys
Software is so-so
The Vulcan 2 TKL Pro has a sleek, lightweight body, made from anodized aluminum with a plastic underside, resulting in a keyboard that feels hard-wearing. The keycaps' floating design helps to minimize its real estate even further. I found the chassis thin enough to use the board comfortably without needing the included wrist rest. The folding feet didn’t provide as steep an angle as I would’ve liked, but it was still within the bounds of acceptability.
Some might not like this exposed design, but I’m quite partial to it. If nothing else, it makes the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro easier to clean, as dust and other debris have no place to hide (I dread to think how many crumbs are lurking beneath the crevices of my other keyboards). It also makes removing the keycaps easier when you want to swap them out for third-party ones.
Despite their floating nature, the keycaps feel secure, firmly fixed in place with little play or wobble. They’re indented, save for those on the bottom row, which are convex instead – a smart design choice that makes them easier to press with your little finger and thumb.
There’s also a handy volume dial in the top-right corner, which has smooth notches and a solid button press for muting. However, neither the dial or the button can be remapped to perform other functions.
To get the most out of the analog switches in the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro, you’ll need to acquaint yourself with Swarm 2, Turtle Beach’s peripheral software. Unfortunately, it fails to make a great first impression. The typeface is rendered poorly and the layout isn’t exactly intuitive. I frequently encountered dialog boxes telling me certain functions and features weren’t available without navigating to another tab, and many settings just aren’t explained well – or even at all. There’s also no way to see a quick overview of the rebind choices you’ve made – you have to click on each individual key to reveal them.
(Image credit: Future)
I experienced one crash during my time with Swarm 2; a settings adjustment window failed to open and the app froze before shutting down altogether. A simple restart fixed the issue, though.
It contains many of the standard features you'd expect from peripheral software, including RGB adjustments, multiple profile slots (five), and a macro creator. It also offers different layers for customization, including a Game Mode (not to be confused with Windows’ own Game Mode), which is activated by pressing FN+Start (again: not made clear), and an Easy Shift mode that can be activated by holding caps lock. You can set it to toggle instead, but this option isn’t easy to find, buried in the hotkey rebind section.
Speaking of which, there are plenty of hotkey options in Swarm 2. The selection is both broad and useful, including some pretty advanced functions that can be activated with a single keypress, such as opening a Direct X diagnostics tool and the Windows Registry Editor.
The real meat of Swarm 2, though, lies in the detailed actuation adjustments available. The Vulcan 2 TKL Pro has Hall-effect magnetic switches, with the actuation point of each adjustable from 0.1-4mm. You can also increase or decrease actuation via two hotkeys on the plus and minus keys. The number key LEDs light up to indicate your adjustments, but they aren’t clear enough to tell what setting you’re on.
There are also Rapid Trigger and Multi-input modes. The former lets you adjust the point at which the key resets to accept further inputs, independently from the actuation point. This allows for quick, controlled movements and key spamming. You can select individual keys to apply Rapid Trigger to, but Swarm 2 fails to mention that you can click and drag to select multiple keys instead. More obscurities can be found in the test mode for Rapid Trigger, as it fails to provide visual feedback for the adjustments you make, which would be extremely useful in helping you see the direct effect of your tweaks.
Multi-input mode lets you create up to three different inputs for the same key, depending on how hard you press. With this setting, you can’t assign controller inputs, only keystrokes and mouse clicks are permitted.
One of the problems with both these modes is that you can’t adjust and test your settings in the same window, which would streamline the whole process. You can, however, do this in Controller mode.
This mode allows you to assign keys to gamepad inputs. To achieve this in-game, the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro emulates a controller (I suspect it utilizes XInput, Microsoft’s protocol for using gamepads on PC). This includes the emulation of analog sticks and trigger buttons, letting you modulate the amount of input based on how far down you press the keys. In theory, this is useful for games requiring careful movement – there’s even a handy WASD-to-analog-stick quick-bind setting for this very purpose – and vehicle control. There’s also an angle-snapping option in this mode, offering 0-90 degrees of ‘snapping’; useful if you want to adjust the separation between the x and y axis.
Design & features: 3.5 / 5
Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro review: performance
Good for gaming
Adjustable actuation points
Controller mode impractical
Thanks to those floating keys, the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro has a typewriter-like feel, which creates a greater sense of feedback. Despite this, it isn’t a board I would recommend for frequent typing.
The T-shaped ABS keycaps are narrower than those on most gaming keyboards, and I found they took some getting used to. Gliding over them isn’t seamless, due to the steep indentations on the keycaps, while the small enter key is hard to locate by feel. Having the ability to adjust the actuation point across a wide range certainly helps to prevent mispresses, but if you’re thinking of using your board for productivity as well as gaming, this likely won’t be for you.
If you’re only concerned with the latter, the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro acquits itself well. The switches are very clicky, with enough damping to feel pleasant to use, but if you really hammer down on them you’ll be met with a harsh thud. The aforementioned actuation adjustments make for quick responses, and those indented keycaps help secure your fingers in place.
The standard Actuation Point and Rapid Trigger modes generally live up to their promises. The former’s adjustment options result in meaningful changes to keystroke sensitivity, while the latter’s allow you to perform quick-twitch movements with greater speed and accuracy once set to your preferences.
(Image credit: Future)
However, the same can’t be said for Multi-input mode, as applying the exact amount of pressure to hit a certain actuation point for a certain input is difficult. I struggle to think of many gaming situations where this functionality would be useful. You also can’t assign controller functions in this mode, which seems like a missed opportunity; only keystrokes and mouse clicks are assignable.
And then there’s Controller mode. In theory, this is a nice idea, but, in practice, it fails to translate analog inputs from gamepads to keystrokes as smoothly as I would’ve liked. Changing the response curve to the precision setting did help to make movements somewhat more controlled, but still not enough. Maneuvering in-game vehicles was too jerky during my tests; the greater weight, size, and resistance of analog sticks and trigger buttons are much better suited to the task.
There’s also the issue of which games practically support Controller mode. In Grand Theft Auto 5, for instance, I found a clash between gamepad and keyboard control schemes. Naturally, moving a character forward and backward with a controller requires moving the analog stick. However, in vehicles, accelerate and brake/reverse are bound to R2 and L2, with no option in-game to alter this.
This means that binding WASD to analog stick controls will let you move a character in all directions, but with vehicles, you’ll only be able to steer left and right. You could keep W and A bound as they are and sacrifice some of that nuanced control, or use the easy shift function on the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro as a workaround, but this will require you to press caps lock every time you switch between pedestrian and vehicular travel. In other words, it’s simply too impractical to be worth using.
Performance: 3.5/ 5
Should I buy the Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro?
Buy it if…
You want analog-style controls It’s not every day you see a keyboard with pressure-sensitive switches. If you desperately want to emulate a controller, albeit not as precisely, this is for you.
You want floating keys Personally, I’m a fan of the uncovered layout, for both aesthetic and practical reasons. If you feel the same way, this is a great example.
You want to save space For a board so solidly made, it’s pleasantly surprising how light and compact the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro is, making it conducive to any desktop setup.
Don’t buy it if…
You want to go wireless Unfortunately, the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro doesn’t have a wireless option, despite having a detachable USB cable.
You want true analog precision Despite the promises, the analog keys don’t offer the same smoothness as gamepads, and they just aren’t as useful in certain games as you might expect.
You want the best software While it offers great functionality in some areas, Swarm 2 isn’t the easiest to navigate and several features aren’t explained clearly.
Also consider
How I tested the Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro
Tested for two weeks
Played multiple genres
10+ years PC gaming experience
I tested the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro for around two weeks, during which time I used it for gaming, productivity, and general use.
I played Counter-Strike 2, the acid test for peripherals, as well as games involving vehicle control, such as Art of Rally and Grand Theft Auto 5.
I have been PC gaming for over 10 years – and many more than that on numerous other platforms – and during that time, I have used many different types of keyboards from a wide range of brands.
The Turtle Beach Burst 2 Air is the brand’s new ultralight gaming mouse promising top-tier performance, which it hopes to achieve with its ergonomic design, quality hardware, and in-depth tweakability.
Considering the Burst 2 Air is a full-size gaming mouse, it’s remarkable that it only tips the scales at 47g, undercutting many gaming mice in the lightweight category. Rather than sporting an all-over honeycomb design to shed the weight, it has just two small cutouts underneath that expose the underside to the PCB within. Despite this absence of material, Turtle Beach has managed to include a handy slot to store the 2.4GHz USB receiver. As an exercise in cutting weight, it’s impressive.
With its understated appearance, the Burst 2 Air cuts a rather unremarkable figure, especially compared to the audacious looks of some of the best gaming mice. The white colorway I tested does look more vibrant than its black counterpart, and the light gray accents on the logo, side buttons, and scroll wheel are a nice touch. There are two small LEDs, one between the mouse buttons and another under the scroll wheel, but these are relatively subtle. The finish is smooth with a slight texture that I found suitable for my palm and fingers, although grip tape is included in the box for those who prefer something more substantial.
The Burst 2 Air fits nicely in the hand, with an even curve all around, although there’s slightly more bulk towards the back end. There isn’t much of a forward rake either, so it doesn’t feel like your fingers are falling away. Turtle Beach doesn’t recommend specific grip styles but it seems ideal for most, though it may be too bulky for those who prefer the claw type. My only real complaint about the shape of the Burst 2 Air is that the sides cinch inwards a little too much for my liking, making it harder to squeeze during those clutch moments.
The mouse wheel is softly notched but still provides enough security to prevent mis-scrolls. It’s tight and secure when pressed, while still being easy to actuate. The side buttons are very clicky, and their angle and protrusion make them easy to use. Rather than being situated on top or underneath, as is typical for many gaming mice, the DPI cycle button is located on the left front side. It’s small and pressing it can be awkward, given it’s quite close to the bottom, meaning your thumb ends up pressing into your desktop. This is a small grievance, though, and the button operates smoothly.
(Image credit: Future)
When it comes to the business of gaming, the Burst 2 Air is a joy to use. Maneuverability is exceptional, gliding effortlessly on almost any surface, thanks to the thick PTFE skates. The pre-tensioned optical switches can be activated with light clicks, and although they travel further than I expected, this only adds to their satisfaction. There is the slightest indentation on the buttons themselves, just enough to guide your fingers to the optimal position.
Coupled with the ultra-light total weight, this makes the Burst 2 Air very precise. Of course, what weight, shape, and size is best for a gaming mouse comes down to personal preference, but for me, I found the Burst 2 Air ideal for my hands and swipes. Using it with the included USB cable does add more resistance to movements, but I adapted to it quickly, and I wouldn’t go so far as to call it drag, with all the negative connotations that word brings. As with many braided cables, durability can be an issue, but during my time using it I didn’t notice any fraying.
For customizing and adjusting settings, you’ll need Swarm 2, Turtle Beach’s peripheral software. As soon as you open it, you’re greeted with jagged fonts that are hard to read and fail to inspire much confidence. I have previous experience using this software with a Turtle Beach keyboard, and in that case, I found it to be obtuse in places and not the most user-friendly. Some of my concerns remain in place in the case of the Burst 2 Air, although I do think mice settings are more clearly laid out.
The software allows for all the typical tweaks you'd expect, including adjustments for the DPI. However, this has a clunky implementation, requiring you to drag dots across the screen for each of the five predefined settings. In theory, this interface is a good idea, but it’s poorly executed here, with bugs and glitches occurring until I updated the mouse’s firmware. The update also fixed the battery level readout, which was previously stuck at 18%, even when charging.
There are also adjustments for the poll rate, with five settings ranging from 125Hz to 1000Hz, and a debounce time slider in a nondescript unit between 0 and 10 (a lot of other software I’ve tested measure this in milliseconds). There’s also DCU calibration, which is equivalent to lift-off distance. There are two predefined settings, very low and low, as well as a custom mode that automatically sets the distance based on a few test movements. Again, though, there is no indication in any setting as to what the exact distance you’ve set is.
(Image credit: Future)
Other settings include angle snapping, which smooths cursor movements by making them more linear, and motion sync, which aligns the mouse’s polling rate to that of your PC, so only the latest polling data is read. In theory, this improves accuracy as tracking becomes more seamless, but in reality, only hardcore pro players will likely notice or care about this. During my tests, I failed to notice much difference when activated.
It’s also compatible with Nvidia Reflex, which claims to reduce input latency even further when gaming. It requires an Nvidia GPU and a monitor compatible with Nvidia G-Sync (although my FreeSync monitor worked with this too). It’s only currently supported by a handful of games, and again it’s a feature that only pro players will likely notice in action.
Switching between the different connectivity modes worked fairly seamlessly in my experience, letting me switch between two devices on the fly with a flick of the switch underneath. Note, however, that when connected via USB cable, this overrides your other connectivity options, so device switching effectively becomes unavailable until you pull the plug.
The claimed battery life of the Burst 2 Air is 120 hours in Bluetooth mode, and 40 when using the 2.4GHz receiver. According to my tests, this seems accurate, as the battery barely dipped below 90% over several days of use, even when set to the maximum 1k poll rate.
The Burst 2 Air is a solid wireless gaming mouse for those who are after a comfortable yet speedy performer. The overall shape, low package weight, connectivity options, and smooth glides are its standout aspects. However, Swarm 2 isn’t the most intuitive peripheral software to use, and the fact is there are better value gaming mice that match the Burst 2 Air for performance, such as the Cooler Master MM311. It’s by no means a bad pointer to plump for, but there are plenty of other great options around for less money.
Turtle Beach Burst 2 Air: Price & availability
(Image credit: Future)
$99 / £99 (about AU$147)
Black and White colorways
The Burst 2 Air is priced at $99 / £99 (about AU$147) and is available now. It comes in either Black or White colorways.
For a gaming mouse of this spec, the Burst 2 Air represents pretty average value for money. It competes with other wireless mice such as the Razer DeathAdder V3 Hyperspeed, which offers similar features and functionality. It also supports an 8k poll rate, although this does require Razer’s HyperPolling Wireless Dongle, which costs an extra $29 / £29 / AU$54.
If you’re after a wireless gaming mouse with an 8k poll rate straight out of the box, then be prepared to part with more cash. Offerings in this category can set you back considerably more: the Razer Viper V3 Pro, for example, is over $100 / £150 / AU$275.
However, if you’re happy with 1k, there are more wireless budget picks than ever. For instance, there’s the Cooler Master MM311, which is our current pick as the best gaming mouse for those on a budget – it’s heavier than the Burst 2 Air and runs on AA batteries, though. If you want a rechargeable battery, then the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 could fit the bill; although it weighs 61g, it’s slightly cheaper than the Burst 2 Air. There’s also a wired variant with an 8k poll rate for even less.
Turtle Beach Burst 2 Air: Specs
Should you buy the Turtle Beach Burst 2 Air?
Buy it if...
You want a super-light mouse 49g is seriously light, making the Burst 2 Air ideal for rapid movements. It’s even more impressive considering the body is full-size.
You want a smooth glider The Burst 2 Air glides with incredible ease, thanks to the thick PTFE skates, working well on different surface types.
You want multiple connectivity options The Burst 2 Air can be connected using the included USB-C to USB-A PhatomFlex cable, or wirelessly via the 2.4GHz USB receiver or Bluetooth, which allows for quick-switching between devices.
Don't buy it if...
You want a high poll rate Gaming mice that are marketed for esports use usually offer poll rates up to 8k, but the Burst 2 Air tops out at 1k. If this matters to you, then look elsewhere.
You’re on a budget The Burst 2 Air is averagely priced for a gaming mouse of this spec. There are more budget-friendly wireless gaming mice available than ever, so you’ll likely be able to find cheaper alternatives with similar levels of performance.
Turtle Beach Burst 2 Air: Also consider
How I tested the Turtle Beach Burst 2 Air
Tested for two weeks
Played FPS and strategy games
10+ years PC gaming experience
I tested the Burst 2 Air for around two weeks. During that time, I used it with a variety of games, as well as for general use and productivity.
I played FPS titles including Counter-Strike 2, the evergreen peripheral tester, as well as strategy games that almost exclusively use mouse inputs, such as Tactical Breach Wizards.
I have been PC gaming for over a decade, and during that time I have tried a variety of gaming mice of all shapes and sizes from the likes of Razer, Logitech, Alienware, and HyperX, to name a few. I generally prefer full-size mice over miniature ones and prefer a light to medium weight.
The JBL 104-BT are great speakers if you get them for the right reason. If you’re looking for the best computer speakers for general use, you’ll be very happy with these, thanks to a warm-leaning yet full frequency range that lends itself well to music listening as well as gaming and streaming (as long as you don’t need any real sub-bass).
They’re not quite as immersive as the best gaming headsets, but they’re more than immersive enough. However, reference monitors they are not.
If you’re trying to put together a home studio, you want monitors that give you an accurate representation of what you’re working on. If you have speakers that have somewhat of a boost in the low-mids as these do, then when you go to listen to your music on other speakers or headphones, you’ll realize that you compensated for that boosted area and have a track that’s lacking in that same frequency range.
Keep that in mind when going through this review as these are very enjoyable to listen to, are relatively affordable, and come with the appropriate amount of features (minus one or two). That’s why you should consider them – not for music production.
JBL 104-BT: Price and availability
How much does it cost? $149.00 / £199.99 / AU$289.00
When is it available? Available now
Where can you get it? Available in the US, UK and Australia
The JBL 104-BT aren’t the cheapest computer speakers out there, but they’re pretty affordable at $149.00 / £199.99 / AU$289.00. Considering the sound quality, that’s pretty good value as well. Of course, for that price, the JBL 104-BT should include a sub out at the very least.
As far as alternatives go, the Edifier MR4 are worth a consideration. They go for slightly less at $129.99 / £109.99 / AU$179.99, and they actually work a bit better for reference speakers, but also miss out on that low-end.
If you’re looking for a pair of computer speakers for reference work, the Vigilant Audio SwitchOne I reviewed back in 2022 are still a fantastic option, since they use passive radiators on the side to fill out that low end. Of course, they retail for a bit more at $249 (£255 / AU$471).
If you want a subwoofer and are willing to spend a bit more, however, the Kanto Ora, with a price tag of $349.99 / AU$699.95 (about £287), are really, really good. They work fairly well as reference speakers as well, though they have a slightly scooped mid-range.
Value: 4.5 / 5
JBL 104-BT: Specs
JBL 104-BT: Design
(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
Before we dig in much more about why they’re good for certain things and not for others, let’s discuss the JBL 104-BT’s design. These speakers come in either a matte black or matte white colorway, with the one I received for testing coming in black.
They stand at a little under ten inches tall and six inches wide (they have a depth of almost five inches), which is fairly diminutive for a pair of speakers. Sure, you can find smaller, but they’re probably going to have a thinner or brighter sound.
They both contain a 4.5-inch driver and a 0.75-inch soft dome driver for the highs, though I can only see the larger one through the front grille. Both speaker boxes are ported on the back as well to improve bass response.
Since these are powered speakers, one of them is a little heavier at 4.54 lbs compared to the other’s weight of 3.81 lbs. While they connect to each other with basic red and black speaker wires, the one with the power amp also allows ⅛-inch aux, RCA, and TRS balanced inputs, not to mention Bluetooth connectivity.
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JBL 104-BT backside port selection (Image credit: Future / James Holland)
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Controls on the front of the JBL 104-BT (Image credit: Future / James Holland)
While most of the inputs are on the back, the aux input is on the front along with a headphone out and the controls, including a backlit volume knob and an input selector. There’s also an LED indicator when you have something connected via Bluetooth.
Unfortunately, there’s no sub out – a fateful omission as we’ll discuss later. And, though far from a deal breaker, there’s no physical digital connectivity like USB. Considering the digital-to-audio converters, or DACs, that come in computers and laptops vary quite a bit, it would have been a nice inclusion.
JBL 104-BT: Performance
(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
As far as the sound quality goes, it’s worth repeating that these are solid sounding speakers that are pleasing to listen to, but are not appropriate for music production work, podcasters possibly notwithstanding.
Since there’s no subwoofer or sub out, you’re limited on the low end. The JBL 104-BT only goes down to 60Hz (a low note on a standard bass is 41Hz for reference). This means that anything that needs that low end to really come alive – hip hop, EDM, or games and movies with massive amounts of explosions – are going to feel a bit truncated. That doesn’t mean you won’t feel some of the impact of those 808 drums or the rumble of whatever’s happening in the latest Nolan movie. You just won’t feel all of it.
That said, there’s a boost in the low-mids to compensate for that. This boost is probably the biggest deterrent for using these speakers as reference monitors. However, it adds a richness and fullness to any audio that also makes these speakers very pleasing to listen to. There’s also plenty of punch and immediacy to what you’re hearing, so that while you won’t feel your bones shaking from subwoofer-level rumble, there’s still a visceral element to the sound.
The rest of the mids sit nicely in the mix, while the high-end is present in a pleasing way. The high-end isn’t too sharp and it isn’t too muted either.
Where I’m actually most impressed with the JBL 104-BT is its sound imaging, and by extension, the soundstage. The soundstage with speakers are all about placement so you can affect how wide something sounds just by how far apart the speakers are. Still, these speakers did a good job of making you feel that separation of audio elements that are only on the left or right side, not to mention moving around.
However, what really jumped out at me was the center channel. The JBL 104-BT is a stereo speaker system with just two speaker boxes. But, with every stereo speaker system, you really have the left, the right, and the center, even if it’s not represented by its own physical speaker.
Good speakers, along with good speaker placement, are able to make that center audio – usually dialogue or vocals – sound like it’s floating right in front of you instead of sounding like part of it is coming from one speaker and part of it is coming from the other.
With the JBL 104-BT, that center channel felt like it was right in front of me to the point that I kept checking the speakers on the laptop to make sure they weren’t also getting in on the action (they weren’t).
Considering these retail for around $150, what you’re getting is pretty remarkable as long as you use them to elevate your everyday audio experience. If you’re using them for music production, you’ll probably like the way they sound, minus that low-end, but you’re going to have a hard time creating music that sounds good on other systems. If you keep that in mind, these are an easy pair of speakers to recommend.
Should I buy JBL 104-BT Compact Desktop Reference Monitors?
Buy it if...
You want great sound for general use
The sound quality will elevate whatever media you’re consuming at least a level, if not two, as long as you don’t care about a big low end. The low-mids, in particular, are very rich sounding.
You don’t have a lot of desk space
The JBL 104-BT are able to offer quite a bit without taking up too much space, so if you have a small or cramped desk, then these speakers might be for you.
You want immersion without breaking the bank
You don’t have to spend a lot to get a great soundstage and sound imaging with these speakers, particularly the way they’re able to recreate the center audio channel.
Don't buy it if...
You need reference level audio
Despite the name, the frequency range isn’t appropriate for music production work. Besides the fact that the low-end is weak, the rest of the frequency range isn’t flat the way it should be.
You need a subwoofer
There’s no subwoofer or way to connect one, so there’s no way to get any rumble, whether you want it for movies, games, or music.
Also Consider
Edifier MR4 studio monitors
While the Edifier MR4 don’t have any digital input including Bluetooth or the ability to connect a subwoofer, they still sound great, especially for the price.
The Kanto Ora Reference Desktop Speakers are a bit more expensive, but they come with a subwoofer and sound fantastic. They also come with USB-C connectivity. Just be aware the mid-range is a little scooped if you plan to use them for music production.
I used the JBL 104-BT Compact Desktop Reference Monitors regularly for a couple weeks. I used them to listen to all sorts of music as well as play a number of games including Cyberpunk 2077, Hogwarts Legacy, Hitman, and Battlefield 2042.
After using these speakers, it’s clear that they are great for general use, but not ideal for reference work, i.e. music production, despite the accessible price tag.
I’ve tested a lot of tech gear over the years from laptops to keyboards and speakers, and so have been able to use my expertise towards giving an honest and fair opinion, not to mention a critical eye, to any product I test.
The idea of using pixel doubling to turn a 4K monitor into a native 1080p panel isn't new. But it hasn't been very successful so far. Can the new dual-mode Alienware AW2725QF do anything to change that, or will it prove just another failed attempt at having both high-res visual sizzle and high-refresh speed in a single monitor?
Apart from the dual 4K and 1080p modes, this Alienware panel looks like it has a decent shot of qualifying as one of the best gaming monitors out there. It runs at up to 360Hz and boasts a claimed response time of just 0.5ms. That's seriously fast for an IPS-type LCD monitor.
It also sports HDR 600 certification and both G-Sync and FreeSync support. If there's one area where it's a little lacking, it's connectivity. You do get a USB hub, but there's no USB-C input for single-cable connectivity, which is a pity.
Alienware AW2725QF: Price and availability
(Image credit: Future / Jeremy Laird)
How much does it cost? $599 / £599 (estimated) / AU$899 (estimated)
When is it available? Available now
Where can you get it? Available in the US
At $599 in the US, the Alienware AW2725QF is fairly pricey for a 27-inch 4K gaming panel that lacks a mini-LED full array backlight. The larger 32-inch Gigabyte M32UC is actually cheaper. So you're really going to have to want that dual-mode functionality.
Whether it's worth the money is a tricky call. It certainly looks a little better at 1080p than the dual-mode LG UltraGear 32GS95UE. But it's ultimately a bit of a niche feature. The good news is that purely as a high-refresh 4K panel, the Alienware AW2725QF is an absolute zinger and nearly worth the asking price simply on those terms.
For now, pricing in the UK and Australia hasn't firmed up. But we expect the market positioning to be pretty similar. In other words, it'll be more expensive than a regular 4K panel of similar specs minus the dual-more functionality.
Alienware AW2725QF: Specs
Alienware AW2725QF: Design and features
(Image credit: Future / Jeremy Laird)
For a monitor from an out-and-out gaming brand like Alienware, the AW2725QF is pretty restrained. Yes, there are a few RGB flourishes including the power button and logos on the rear (all fully configurable) and hexagonal base design. But for the most part, it's pretty businesslike and sober suited, though the slim bezels do make for a suitably contemporary overall vibe.
Is that a disappointment? Might Alienware customers expect something a little more extroverted? Possibly. But fussier styling tends to date faster, so the restraint Alienware has shown here will probably be welcome for most users, as will the solid build quality and full range of adjustment, including tilt, height, swivel and pivot into portrait mode.
(Image credit: Future / Jeremy Laird)
The OSD menu is similarly comprehensive with settings for pretty much everything you need.
It's a fairly logical menu and makes it very easy to jump between the 4K and 1080p modes. You simply hit the main OSD menu selector button twice to toggle between the two modes. Less impressive is the display's connectivity.
The two HDMI and single DisplayPort inputs all support the full 4K at 180Hz resolution, which is good. There's also a USB hub that includes two USB-A ports at the rear, plus a USB-A and a USB-C on the lower bezel. But there's no USB-C input and thus no single-cable connectivity option for laptops.
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Alienware AW2725QF's hexagonal base (Image credit: Future / Jeremy Laird)
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Alienware AW2725QF 's on-screen display for swapping resolutions and other settings (Image credit: Future / Jeremy Laird)
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The port selection on the bottom of the Alienware AW2725QF (Image credit: Future / Jeremy Laird)
Some would argue that's fine for a gaming display. Given the limitations of USB-C power supply and the elevated power consumption of a proper gaming laptop, you can't really keep one fully juiced with a USB-C cable.
But it would still make this a more versatile display to offer USB-C upstream connectivity. With a USB-C input, you could share this panel between a gaming desktop and a laptop. And who knows what you might like to do with it in future. With USB-C, you simply have more options and with the price point Alienware has gone for, it's a thoroughly reasonable expectation.
The Alienware AW2725QF also lacks an audio line-out jack, which can be handy for headphones. Again, it's not exactly a deal breaker. But this isn't a cheap display and it's the kind of feature you'd have thought Alienware would throw in just to cover all the bases on a premium monitor.
Alienware AW2725QF: Performance
(Image credit: Future / Jeremy Laird)
The Alienware AW2725QF's IPS LCD panel makes a very strong first impression. It's extremely bright and punchy, with up to 450 nits in SDR mode and 600 nits peak for HDR. It's also beautifully calibrated in sRGB mode, with rich but accurate colors.
Of course, in default 4K resolution, the pixel density is super sharp and crispy, so fonts look fab. In-game, there's a crazy amount of detail to go with the visual sizzle. This is a very sweet looking panel.
It's also seriously fast for an IPS display. Alienware claims 0.5ms GTG response for the Extreme setting in the display's Overdrive submenu. That does bring in a tiny bit of overshoot and inverse ghosting. But the two less aggressive options are still very fast and look just great. In fact, this panel is fast enough that pure speed is barely a concern. Or a reason to upgrade to an even more expensive OLED.
(Image credit: Future / Jeremy Laird)
The same can't be said for the HDR performance and more broadly contrast and black levels. This monitor is edge-lit and does not have full-array local dimming. So, there's plenty of light bleed and relatively poor contrast, which goes with the territory with any LCD panel without local dimming. SDR colors also aren't terribly well calibrated in HDR mode, so you'll want to switch between modes depending on content type, which is a bit of a pain.
But what about that secondary 1080p mode achieved via pixel doubling? The idea is that for some game types, such as online shooters, you want more speed not more pixels. So, the 1080p mode offers a boost up to 360Hz refresh and is easy to access.
As for how it looks, well, it doesn't quite look like 1080p on a native 1080p display. It's certainly better than the similar feature on LG's own dual-mode 4K OLED, the UltraGear 32GS95UE-B.
That might be thanks to the conventional RGB subpixel layout of this IPS display. The superior pixel density will help, too. Whatever, the results on the desktop are fairly good, though you wouldn't confuse it with true native. Everything looks just a little jagged and pixelated.
In-game, for the most part, the 1080p mode works better and is very playable to the extent that you forget it isn't true native 1080p much of the time. The exception is that just occasionally, certain details can look quite messy and pixelated. One example is fine foliage and grass. When it happens, it can be pretty ugly.
Pixelated in-game foliage on the AW2725QF's 1080p resolution setting (Image credit: Future / Jeremy Laird)
In the end, there will always be shortcomings with pixel doubling, but this display does it better than any yet, including that LG, which looks soft and blurry by comparison.
Should I buy the Alienware AW2725QF?
Buy it if...
You want two monitors in one
The Alienware AW2725Q's dual-mode functionality isn't perfect. But the 1080p mode ups the refresh rate to 360Hz and looks OK in-game most of the time.
You love crispy, speedy visuals
The 4K resolution on a punchy, well-calibrated 27-inch IPS panel looks fabulous, and this is also just about the fastest gaming monitor of its type we've yet tested.
Don't buy it if...
You're expecting a true 1080p native experience
The 1080p pixel doubling mode is the best we've yet seen. But it still doesn't look like a true 1080p panel and adds significant cost to this display...
You love HDR sizzle
The Alienware AW2725Q does have HDR 600 certification. But there's no full-array dimming and it doesn't come close to an OLED panel for HDR or contrast performance.
Also Consider
Gigabyte M32UC
This is a larger 32-inch display, which arguably makes better use of a 4K pixel grid. It's not as fast as the Alienware, but it is a fair bit cheaper and offers better contrast from a VA panel.
If you want 4K gaming on a very tight budget, you could do a lot worse than the Asus TUF Gaming VG289Q. It's only 60Hz, but has a quality IPS panel and basic HDR support.
I rigged up the Alienware AW2725QF as my primary display for a week. The aim was to use it across a wide range of applications to get a really good feel for how it delivers in both 4K and 1080p for everything from daily desktop duties to hardcore gaming sessions.
As a 4K IPS panel, it's actually well suited to precision productivity. But what the Alienware AW2725QF is really built for is gaming, and for the most part it's pretty stellar. I assed everything from color accuracy and response to latency and HDR performance.
It was particularly interesting to see how it stacked up against LG's dual-mode OLED display, not to mention all the other recent OLED monitors, numerous examples of which I've reviewed. Plenty of more conventional 4K gaming panels have passed under my beady gaze, too, so putting the Alienware AW2725QF into context was certainly intriguing.
I’ve been waiting a long time for a monitor like the LG 32-Inch UltraGear OLED. With a brilliant OLED display and a gorgeous 4K resolution, backed up by an ample 240Hz refresh rate and brilliant picture quality, this LG monitor makes OLED technology a must-have for anybody who plays PC games or bases their home life around their computer desk.
There’s a noticeable quality difference between OLED and IPS monitors when playing cinematic and competitive games alike on a computer, and with this thing sitting on your desk you’re bound to get bang for your buck on the picture quality front.
But while we can celebrate LG for bringing the cost of an OLED monitor down with the 32GS95UE-B, let’s be honest with ourselves – $1,199 / £1,199 / AU$2,399 is still expensive for a monitor no matter how impressive the tech is.
Those looking more greater image depth and HDR performance may also want to look elsewhere, as the LG's peak brightness doesn't reach the retina-searing heights of similarly priced Samsung and Alienware models. My biggest bugbear though? Surely we can give peripherals better names than difficult to understand numbers and letters.
LG 32-Inch UltraGear OLED: price and availability
(Image credit: Zachariah Kelly / Techradar)
How much does it cost? $1,199 / £1,199 / AU$2,399
When is it available? Available now
Where can you get it? LG directly and technology retailers in the US, UK and Australia
It’s tough to find a cheap 32-inch gaming monitor – especially one with an OLED panel (with prices often starting well above $800 / £800 / AU$1,000) – but the LG 32-Inch UltraGear OLED offers a sensible price-to-cost ratio for enthusiasts. It’s kind of a rarity, considering that it ditches an ultrawide profile and a curved screen for a more standard design, while most OLED monitors elect to have at least one of the aforementioned traits.
Similar monitors are available from Gigabyte and Alienware with significantly lower costs, with the closest competitor being the Samsung Odyssey G8 OLED G80SD (with a listed price of $1,299 / £1,099 / AU$1,999).
LG 32-Inch UltraGear OLED: Design
(Image credit: Techradar / Zachariah Kelly)
LG 32-Inch UltraGear OLED Key Specs
Screen size: 32-inch Resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 Brightness: 275 nits full screen, 1,300 nits max HDR Color coverage: 98.5% Response time: 0.03ms Refresh rate: 240Hz (4K) / 480Hz (1080p) HDR: DisplayHDR True Black400, HDR10 Features: FreeSync Premium Pro, NVIDIA G-Sync, Dual Mode, Pixel Sound, 1 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort, 1 x Headphone out, 1 x USB-A upstream, 1 x USB-A downstream
An achilles heel of many gaming displays is the design – thick bezels, beefy stands and a focus on big, obvious branding offen make a monitor look cheap and overdesigned. This is in no way a problem for the LG 32-Inch UltraGear OLED.
It’s tempting to head this section off with ‘it’s a big black rectangle with a pentagonal stand’ but we can entertain the monitor more than that. It’s a premium design language that LG and Samsung alike have been leaning into with their high end monitors.
It’s mature to the point of only having the ‘UltraGear’ and ‘LG’ brand signifier in the front of the pentagon stand, without any branding on the actual display bezels. There’s RGB lighting on the back, allowing you to shine numerous colors onto the wall behind. If you know this feature isn’t for you, it’s easily turned off through the monitor settings.
Cables can be fed through the back of the monitor easily thanks to a neat cable management system, and you’re able to raise the panel quite high up off the base.,It would be nice if it could go lower, but we’re being quite picky. The monitor can swivel, tilt and pivot as well if you want to adjust the pitch of the display.
The panel is extremely premium, too. It’s polished with an anti-glare coating that only shows a warped reflection at most in low-light or reflective light situations. This is quite remarkable for an OLED display, as the technology, inherently, can’t go particularly bright. This means it can occasionally suffer in bright rooms, but as I found during testing in my office-bedroom – which is filled with light at all times during the day – I was able to play games with little issue.
LG 32-Inch UltraGear OLED: Features
(Image credit: Zachariah Kelly / Techradar)
The big sales pitch of the LG 32-Inch UltraGear OLED is its ‘dual mode’ functionality. At the press of a hotkey (located conveniently under the monitor), this monitor can switch between 4K 240Hz to 1080p 480hz. The first is more ideal for those after more cinematic, graphically beautiful gameplay, albeit at a lower framerate, while the second is intended for high octane competitive gamers after smooth frames.
We can err on the critical side with this feature and note that 4K 240Hz gameplay, at its height, would be difficult for even the most expensive gaming computers to reach in gorgeous single player games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Star Wars Outlaws. I would even go as far as to say that 240Hz is not just difficult to attain but is also very much overkill – 144Hz will suffice for a story-rich game.
The flipside of the feature makes much more sense to me – 1080p gameplay at 480Hz for fast-paced games where you want to see more frames rendered in a second. I can see the benefit of this in a game like Counter Strike 2 and League of Legends – but those high frame rates may even be seen as unnecessary by a competitive gamer. Leveling with you, dear reader, that’s not me – I prefer a pretty picture to a consistently smooth one (though I do like my frames to be above 60FPS). The monitor has a smart cleaning process for when it doesn’t detect an input, refreshing the pixels to avoid burn-in – a common issue with OLED monitors.
The monitor also comes with FreeSync Premium Pro and Nvidia G-Sync. It has a Display Port, HDMI, headphone jack, USB (downstream) and USB (upstream) ports, with support for a 100 x 100 mm wall mount. Satisfying me as someone who likes to watch stuff on their computer in bed, the monitor also has built-in speakers and comes with a Displayport and HDMI cable in the box.
LG 32-Inch UltraGear OLED: performance
(Image credit: Zachariah Kelly / Techradar)
The LG 32-Inch UltraGear OLED’s display is matte – not glossy like you’d expect from most displays. The extreme blacks and darker shades that the OLED pulls off in use – and when turned off – are so deep that you’ll at most see a rough reflection of yourself, but not enough to ruin the experience.
That’s an OLED panel’s entire deal and it leads to better performance on every front – deeper blacks equals better contrast – the difference between the darkest and brightest parts of an image.
And at the 32-inch size, I’ve found this monitor to be the best way to experience a lot of cinematic games. Star Wars Outlaws and Warhammer 40K: Space Marine II both play exceptionally well on the monitor and look much more gorgeous on the OLED screen than my previous 32-inch Gigabyte M32Q monitor.
TV shows like The Acolyte and The Bear look equally impressive – particularly The Bear for its attractive use of color sharpness in central objects amid a bland palette. The LG 32GS95UE-B aces it on color clarity.
The speakers are pleasantly surprising, too. I was expecting sound that peaks too readily and sounds washed out, but the 32GS95UE-B performs just about as well as any TV without a separate speaker system. This can be chalked up to LG’s ‘Pixel Sound’ feature, which provides a directed sound experience without any external speaker system.
The monitor performs relatively well on brightness and HDR – though both could be better at this pricepoint. The maximum brightness (1300nits) and enhanced darkness clarity doesn’t fare much better for content than just using the display with HDR disabled (275nits standard luminosity).
And while it doesn’t fit into any other category in Techradar’s review format, I’ve just got to say it – this name, the LG 32GS95UE-B, is just letters and numbers. They have meanings obviously but it’s extremely difficult to communicate to a customer – so much so that LG just calls the display the ‘32" UltraGear OLED Dual Mode 4K UHD’ on its website, and hence why we’ve been naming it interchangeably throughout this review. Less letters and numbers please.
Should I buy an LG 32-Inch UltraGear OLED?
Buy it if...
Don't buy if...
Also Consider
LG 32-Inch UltraGear OLED: Report Card
How I tested the LG 32-Inch UltraGear OLED
As soon as I received this monitor, I got to work unpacking it and setting it up. Pulling it out of the box was easy, as was the process of putting the stand together (no tools were needed, as everything slots and screws into place by hand). As my main space in my home is my bedroom-office, this monitor was switched on at almost all hours whenever I was home. To avoid burn-in, the panel was often turned off for cleaning when not being used.
The main use of the monitor was for gaming using a separate headset. I played a variety of games, including Caravan SandWitch, Team Fortress 2, What The Car, Star Wars Outlaws, Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2, Forza Motorsport and Forza Horizon 5.
I also used the monitor for watching Twitch streams, YouTube videos and lots of TV shows, including The Bear and The Acolyte.
Wacom’s latest drawing tablet has arrived, focusing on the mobile market by offering an impressively lightweight form factor that makes hardly any compromises when it comes to performance. Hardware advances like its vibrant OLED screen, touch technology and singular USB-C to USB-C connectivity make it one of the best drawing tablets available right now, especially given its surprisingly low price.
The result is a near-perfect mid-range drawing tablet, albeit one that probably won’t cut it for serious pros. For me, the Movink is also an iPad killer, and even beat Apple to the punch for delivering the drawing-friendly portable OLED screen found in the iPad Pro 2024.
I’ve often used the iPad as my main sketchpad, preferring its portability so I don’t need to shuffle around my desk setup. However, the Movink offers the perfect balance, delivering the portability and accessibility of the iPad Pro and the artist-first features and drawing experience of purpose-made drawing tablets.
The Movink is 4mm at its thinnest and 6.6mm at its thickest, weighing just 420g. It can easily connect to one of the best laptops and tablets for drawing and artwork, so it can access more sophisticated programs for photo and video editing or the best digital art and drawing software compared to general-use tablets such as the iPad. As that would suggest, Movink isn’t a pen computer, meaning you’ll still need to lug around your laptop if you want to draw on the go; but given the advanced drawing specs of the Movink and its surprisingly approachable price point.
(Image credit: Future)
It’s specifically designed to work with some of the latest Wacom pen technology, too, coming with a tailor-made version of the Wacom Pro Pen 3. This stylus is fully customizable (although you’ll have to buy parts separately), meaning you can choose for yourself the thickness of the grip, adjust its balance, and add or remove the side switches. However, if that’s not your speed, the Movink is also Wacom’s first professional creative pen display to incorporate Dual Pen technology and will work with a variety of Wacom and third-party styluses.
However, it might not cut it as the sole tablet for professional use. Its max resolution is 1080p – and, as of right now, there’s only one size available: a 13.3-inch screen, which might not cut it if you’re used to larger displays. On-device, there are only two physical shortcut keys; but you can also use the top corners of the screen as shortcuts, plus the three on the included stylus.
There are some other niggling issues. There’s no pen case or loop holder on the stylus, so it’s easy to lose when you’re on the go, plus it doesn’t come with any case or cover to protect the screen – an essential addition if you’re releasing a product with portability as its unique selling point. There’s also no stand included, and nary a built-in kickstand in sight.
Still, I’m splitting hairs. The Movink is a fantastic option that breaks new ground for Wacom, and it will meet at least most of the needs of artists at all levels – especially if portability is key.
(Image credit: Future)
Price and availability
List price: $749 / £729 / AU$1,299
Available in the US, UK and Australia
Launched May 2024
Priced at $749 / £729 / AU$1,299, the Wacom Movink comes in at the higher end of the mid-range spectrum. However, given some of its specs toe the line of pro-grade devices, that’s a surprisingly affordable price for a typically expensive brand. It’s available directly from Wacom as well as through some third-party retailers.
Its approachable price also means I can forgive some of the omissions that other brands typically include with their tablets. In addition to the tablet, there’s just one 1m USB-C to C cable, the Wacom Pro Pen 3 with its built-in nib holder, three replacement nibs (one standard and two felt), and the paperwork to help get you started.
It’s disappointing that there’s no case included for this mobile powerhouse, no stand, and no pen holder or built-in means of attaching the stylus to the tablet. Wacom sells a carry case for $44 / £43 / AU$129 , as well as a foldable stand for $79 / £74 / AU$129.
Value: 4.5/5
Specs table
Design
Slim, lightweight and durable – thus perfect for travel
Four customizable shortcut keys, two physical and two touch
Requires just a singular USB-C connection
(Image credit: Future)
The clue for the key design ethos behind the Movink is in the name; in case you hadn’t picked up on it, it’s pronounced “Move-ink”.
Measuring in at 12.6 x 8.1 x 0.16~0.26 inches / 319.5 x 205.2 x 4~6.6mm (w x h x d), the Movink is wonderfully petite and sports a subtle wedge shape. In hand, it feels just like drawing on a pad of A4 paper. It weighs just 420g, making it a no-brainer for slipping into your laptop backpack or bag when you’re out and about – and just a whole lot easier to grab for a quick drawing session in front of the TV.
The Movink boasts Wacom’s slimmest bezel yet, allowing for an active drawing area of 11.6 x 6.5 inches / 294 x 165mm. However, that does mean there’s little-to-no wrist room. Given there’s no included or built-in stand, you’ll likely want to consider the ergonomics of your workstation. On its underside, a rubber footing runs along the top and bottom edges of the tablet to keep it stable when used on a tabletop. I really wish Wacom had included a kickstand or feet for the tablet, as your only option to improve the viewing angle is by buying a stand. Thankfully, its light weight meant I was able to comfortably cradle it while seated.
Both sides of the Wacom Movink feature a USB-C connector, as well as one of the two physical programmable keys. There are a further two touch-enabled shortcut keys on the screen itself as well, bringing the total to four. This won’t be enough for a fully established pro at their main workstation, but more than sufficient for drawing on-the-go or for amateurs.
Overall, the Moveink is wonderfully thought-through and purpose-built for its mobile application, but I’m still a little frustrated that Wacom didn’t at least include a pen loop to keep the tablet and stylus together, especially considering there’s no included case.
Design: 4.5/5
(Image credit: Future)
Performance
Bright and beautiful OLED screen
1080p maximum resolution is a slight let down
Lovely drawing experience
It’s rare to come across a Wacom tablet that doesn’t perform well in tests, and the Movink is no different. It’s loaded with the latest and greatest hardware from the esteemed brand, paired with easy-to-use Wacom drivers to make for a seamless and pain-free experience.
On test, the Movink proved to be a delight, with its 16:9 OLED screen offering 350 nits of max brightness and a 60Hz refresh rate. The Movink also boasts DCI-P3 100%, AdobeRGB 95%, with both Pantone Validated and Pantone SkinTone Validated certifications to round out its accomplished color gamut. It’s a little disappointing, then, that the resolution is just 1080p; I feel that a minimum of 2.5K is necessary for any device marketed at professionals. Plus, for navigating software such as Photoshop, I found I had to practically press my nose to the screen to read some of the extensive menus.
The OLED technology also means there’s no need for a backlight in the Movink, which means it stays cool even with extended use – and there’s no light leakage, which makes working on darker canvases much easier.
The drawing experience is wonderful, too, with the surface providing the perfect level of bite to replicate that satisfying pen-to-paper feeling. Its anti-glare and anti-fingerprint coatings effectively address some of the drawbacks of portability-first devices, especially given the Movink is a touch display.
On that point, the touch display is a real boon – and I’d say an almost essential one to get the most out of your Movink. You can disable the functionality, but if you’re used to extensive shortcut keys or using an iPad, then a touch display can be useful for navigating different software applications and moving around your canvas. So much so that I scarcely needed to reach for my mouse and keyboard while drawing.
Performance: 4.5/5
(Image credit: Future)
Stylus
8,192 pressure levels
Built-in nib holder and remover
Customizable, but basic in its given configuration
Included with the Wacom Movink is the Wacom Pro Pen 3, and it comes with a twist. It’s an almost entirely customizable stylus, allowing you to change the grip thickness, adjust its balance, and add or remove the side switches. The flipside of this is that the model included with the Movink is very basic and pencil-like, with no provided grip. It’s lightweight, and the lack of grip didn’t bother me too much. However, if you’re drawing all day, have bigger hands or are used to a grippier pen, you might want to invest in those stylus accessories – or make use of the dual-pen technology in the Movink, which allows you to seamlessly use a variety of Wacom and third-party styluses.
Clad in all-black, the Pro Pen 3 is cylindrical and slim. The top can be unscrewed to reveal storage for three nibs (pre-loaded with two felt and one standard nib) in a rubberized holder, which can be removed to reveal the built-in nib remover. Further down the stem are the three shortcut keys on a removable panel, allowing you to customize the number of buttons from zero to three.
(Image credit: Future)
I also noticed the nib was slightly more proud from the tip than I’ve seen on other styluses such as the LP-190K included with the One by Wacom, an intentional choice for the specific Pro Pen 3 model paired with the Movink. It’s only by just over a millimeter, but that can really make a difference when it comes to honing in on fine detail.
In terms of specs, it offers 8,192 pressure levels with a 60-degree tilt, meaning it matches industry standards. Its sensitivity and accuracy proved impressive and consistent through my brushstroke testing, and I didn’t notice any parallax.
Stylus: 4.5 / 5
Should I buy?
Buy it if...
You need something portable
The Movink offers near-unparalleled portability thanks to its thin and light frame and the minimal cables needed to use it.
You don’t want to compromise on performance
Paired with the Wacom Pro Pen 3, the Movink is a powerhouse as far as mobile drawing tablets go – especially with its new OLED screen.
Don't buy it if...
You’re a pro who wants a new main workstation
The Movink is absolutely good enough for pros – but not as their main slate for creative work. The lack of shortcut keys, low resolution and medium-size active drawing area likely won’t cut it for everyday professional use.
Also consider
How I tested the Wacom Movink
I used the Wacom Movink as my main drawing tablet for one month
I used it for editing images as well as drawing on software such as Photoshop and Krita
I tested the stylus responsiveness
To test the Wacom Movink, I used it as the main drawing tablet in my amateur digital art setup for one month, using it to fulfil all of my drawing and editing needs.
I used the supplied Wacom Pro Pen 3 stylus and cables exclusively, completing a variety of tests to assess how accurate, powerful and comfortable the Movink was in a variety of settings. I drew in a cafe, at my desk, on the sofa – everywhere I could think of – to see how easy it was both to move around with and use in different environments.
While I’m no professional artist, I’ve been drawing and painting regularly for over a decade, and have been using graphics tablets and general-use tablets for years as part of my digital art journey. I referenced my previous experiences with tablets such as the Wacom One, XPPen Artist Pro 16 and Huion Kamvas 16, in order to compare the screen quality and drawing experience.
The Flow Lite is Lofree’s follow-up to its superb Flow keyboard, which combined a low-profile design with delightfully top-quality touches to make it a marvel of premium keyboard engineering, and (in my humble opinion) one of the best mechanical keyboards you can buy. Perhaps the only drawback of the Flow was its fairly costly $159 asking price, and it’s that that has prompted the creation of the Lofree Flow Lite.
This keyboard takes the best parts of the Flow – its quiet, comfortable typing and compact design – and fits it into a more affordable form, cutting a few features here and there to bring the price down to $99 for the 84-key version (which I reviewed) and $109 for the 100-key edition. The key question is whether Lofree has been able to do all that without losing what makes its devices so appealing.
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Typing on the Flow Lite feels good – for the most part. While the Flow offered both tactile and linear switches, you only get the linear option with the Flow Lite. That’s not a massive problem since the linears are very fast and comfortable to use – this coming from a man who normally steers well clear of any switch that’s not loud and clicky – and if you like smooth key switches, the Flow Lite’s custom Kailhs will be very pleasing to use. That said, my fingers did start to feel a little sore after a few hours of usage due to a fair amount of bottoming out (I find this is common whenever I use linear switches), so that’s something to be aware of if you find yourself pressing a little too hard when you type.
Everything is tied together in the Lofree Key Mapper app, which is used to create macros, change lighting effects, remap keys, and more. It’s admittedly a bit less intuitive than some rival keyboards’ apps, but it gets the job done.
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Lofree has cut a few corners in order to lower the price, but they don’t feel like a massive step down. The aluminum chassis is gone, replaced by an ABS plastic one instead, while the PBT keycaps are now a combination of PBT and polycarbonate plastic. The USB-C to USB-A cable is also now of the standard plastic, non-braided variety. Finally, Lofree has cut the number of lighting effects from 16 to 8 compared to the Flow.
Interestingly, Lofree has actually added a few features to the Flow Lite that the regular Flow lacks. The most noticeable example is the copper-toned volume roller in the top-right corner. This is tactile and metallic, and you can press it in to mute your audio completely. It is a little stiff, but it’s a useful extra regardless.
Other new additions include 2.4GHz connectivity in addition to the wired and Bluetooth modes (the latter of which can connect to three devices); feet to adjust the angle of the keyboard; and a doubled polling rate, going from the Flow’s 500Hz to 1,000Hz in the Flow Lite. I’m particularly happy about the keyboard feet, as it was always a shame you couldn’t change the Flow’s angle. The rubber on the Flow Lite’s feet is a little thin and bendy in places, but I can forgive that if it means I can raise the keyboard to a (slightly) higher angle.
(Image credit: Future)
That makes choosing between the Flow Lite and the Flow more complex than simply wanting to save money. While on the one hand the Flow Lite feels like a step below the Flow, on the other it also represents an evolution of sorts. Hopefully, Lofree will work these advancements into a successor to the Flow, if or when that arrives.
I’m left feeling fairly impressed that Lofree has managed to make the Flow Lite still feel like a premium offering, even without many of the things that made me love the original Flow. It’s a more affordable way into the world of mechanical keyboards without feeling like you’re rummaging through the bargain bin. I still prefer the Flow overall – it’s just so good – and I really wish Lofree offered tactile or clicky switches for the Flow Lite. But there’s still a lot to like about this keyboard, especially if you’re in the market for a quality low-profile device that’s still enjoyable to use.
Lofree Flow Lite: Price & availability
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The Lofree Flow Lite costs $99 or $109 (depending on the size you get), knocking $50 to $60 off the price of the $159 Lofree Flow. Whether you decide the trade-offs are worth it for the price cut will come down to your personal taste. Right now, it’s available on Kickstarter, and will be sold on Lofree’s website and on the company’s Amazon store.
Should you buy the Lofree Flow Lite?
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Buy the Lofree Flow Lite if…
You want quality at a lower price
Lofree has cut the price with the Flow Lite, but it still packs in a good overall typing experience, especially if you like linear switches.
You like having lots of connectivity options
The Flow Lite lets you connect via USB-C cable, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz, and it also works with up to three different devices.
You use both Windows and macOS
The Flow Lite comes with keycaps showing both Windows and macOS symbols. It also lets you switch between the two systems’ respective keyboard layouts with a quick key combination.
Don't buy it if...
You prefer tactile switches
You’ll only get linear switches here, which in my experience can lead to tired fingers if you bottom out too much. Lofree sells a different switch option that you can swap in, but it’s also linear.
You want the most premium experience
There’s no doubt that the regular Flow feels more premium than the Flow Lite. The latter ditches the metal body, braided cable, and more in order to bring the price down.
You don’t like compact layouts
Not only does the Flow Lite use low-profile keycaps, but its layout is also very compact, with the arrow keys squeezed in close to the main body of buttons. That doesn’t work for everyone.
Lofree Flow Lite: Also consider
Logitech G515 Lightspeed TKL
A compact keyboard that we rated just as highly as the Lofree Flow Lite in our review, the G151 Lightspeed TKL from Logitech is a keyboard that can easily pull double duty for both work and gaming, with a clean design and quiet, comfortable keystrokes perfect for an office environment as much as a home gaming setup.
Although it's a bit on the pricey side, there are few compact keyboards that offer the same build quality and functionality as the Corsair K65 Plus Wireless. With swappable switches, a media control dial, and strong customizability thanks to Corsair's software, this is a great choice of 75% keyboard - perfect for anyone who wants an even smaller board than the Flow Lite.
I spent time using the Lofree Flow Lite day-to-day at my desk. That included writing articles, gaming, and generally using my computer throughout the day. I tried it on both Windows and macOS, and also put its Lofree Key Mapper companion app through its paces.
The Logitech G515 sits on the cheaper end of the brand’s wireless keyboard range, but it is no cheap device. And why would it be? It’s a brilliant gaming keyboard with great-feeling keystrokes and a lovely layout, underpinned by Logitech’s brilliant wireless technology and class-leading software for programming and rebinding keys.
The most impressive thing about the Logitech G515 isn’t what it can do; it’s what it isn’t. While Logitech tends to stick to a less aggressive aesthetic with its gaming range of peripherals, the G515 takes things a step further… to the point where it looks more like a workplace keyboard than one fit for gaming.
That’s a fairly defining trait of many low-profile keyboards (that and the smaller keycaps), but it bleeds through to the rest of the G515 – the keys aren’t very loud and there’s no space for any spare buttons, such as Logitech’s G-Keys (unless you program them in yourself with the G Hub app). There’s not even any dedicated media controls apart from doubled-up keys accessible with the function keys.
(Image credit: Techradar / Zachariah Kelly)
Available in black and white colorways (with ‘tactile’ and ‘linear’ key types available depending on the market), the Logitech G515 only weighs 880 grams (just under 2 lb). It comes with an included USB-A to USB-C cable for charging and wired use, with a rated battery life of up to 36 hours. It’s quite small, at 368mm long, 150mm wide and 22mm high (14.49 x 5.91 x 0.87 inches) – a size far below many of its counterparts in the Logitech G range.
It comes with Bluetooth support (though it doesn’t list what version), but you’ll likely be using the integrated USB-A wireless dongle more as it’s faster and much more reliable.
Ergonomically the G515 commits no sins. Each key is easy to access, with the CTRL key easily pressed with a pinky or a nimble thumb and the space bar producing as satisfying a press as any other key on the board – no inconsistencies here.
If I could change any one thing about this keyboard, it’s that I’d like a volume wheel fitted to it somewhere here. Logitech’s much smaller TKL 60 keyboard had one off to the side, so I’m not sure why it’s absent here. Considering this keyboard’s bigger size in comparison to the TKL 60, there’s also room for dedicated pause, mute, back and forward buttons, which are also conspicuously missing. The absence of a wrist wrest – integrated or detachable – may also get on some people’s nerves.
Logitech G515 Lightspeed TKL review: price and availability
List price of $139.99 / £139.99 / AU$269.95
Tactile/linear keypress options available in some markets
Black and white colorways available
At $139.99 / £139.99 / AU$269.95 apiece, the Logitech G515 is priced well above most other low-profile keyboards, with its closest competitor being the Corsair K70 RGB MK2. The ‘low-profile’ category, which represents keyboards that don’t raise high off of the desk and are made up of thin and short keys. These still aren’t very common for gaming, but obviously the G515 is seeking to change that.
Unfortunately for some buyers, the keyboard doesn’t come with a wrist rest in the box. In some markets, buyers will be limited to the ‘tactile’ key switch option, while in the UK and the US, linear keys are also available at no extra charge (this review is based on the tactile switches, which is the only version available in Australia where I am located).
(Image credit: Techradar / Zachariah Kelly)
Again, unfortunately, there’s no cheaper option. I personally like having the choice of a wired option as it means you don’t have to worry about charging, but Logitech hasn’t provided such an option in any market. You can, however, keep it constantly plugged in using the included USB-A to USB-C cable.
Value: 3 / 5
Logitech G515 Lightspeed TKL review: specs
(Image credit: Techradar / Zachariah Kelly)
Logitech G515 Lightspeed TKL review: design and features
Neutral aesthetic
Default lighting profile may annoy users
No wrist support or dedicated media controls
Just because a keyboard is meant for gaming doesn’t mean it needs to look like the quintessential gaming keyboard, and the Logitech G515 epitomizes that ethos. The way this board feels, it seems more intended for somebody who likes tactile, responsive feedback when playing games, but also wants a sensible keyboard for typing away at their job. It feels like the perfect ‘working from home’ gadget – a nice compromise between a gaming accessory and something that might boost your productivity.
The thinner design of the G515 gives it an unassuming feel, more akin to a laptop keyboard than anything else. It’s lightweight but robust, with the keys easily removable for cleaning. Its design is so neutral that Logitech could sell this keyboard alongside its standard range of peripherals without the gaming badge attached – though the signature Gaming Mode button in the top left reminds the user that this is for play as much as it is for work. It sits right beside a button that switches to the dongle and another to switch to Bluetooth.
More on the ‘play’ side of things, every key on this board is backed by a fully customizable RGB light, with the default lighting profile being a breathing blue color, where the keys pulse in brightness on a loop (the WASD keys maintain a solid candy pink). The lights can be turned off by pressing FN + F8 and can be fully customized in the Logitech G app. The default lighting profile can also be changed through the app, so that when you plug this keyboard in, it starts with a different color profile to the usual blue and pink scheme. Changing the color profile would be a good idea if you want to maintain a less gamer-y aesthetic, but I personally found the default color profile to be inoffensive.
(Image credit: Techradar / Zachariah Kelly)
It’s a shame, however, that this keyboard doesn’t come with included wrist support. Logitech sells such wrist supports separately if you really want one, but considering how expensive this keyboard is on its own, it could become a hefty investment if you’re kitting out your gaming setup anew.
Even the lack of dedicated media controls feels like a missed opportunity. Instead, the usual pause/play, stop, back, forward, mute, volume down and volume up actions are bound to FN + F9, F10, F11, F12, PRNT, LOCK and P/B respectively. Dedicated media controls are one of the things that I love the most about the brand’s staple G Pro keyboard and it’s a shame that they’re not on this more palatable option.
The keyboard feels brilliant in use, though. The model I was sent for this review features tactile keys, which press just as smoothly as any other Logitech G board of the same style. That’s underselling it from me actually – Logitech’s GX Brown tactile keys (which is what is used here) are by far my favorite from any peripheral manufacturer. They’re perfectly weighted to give you an affirmative response while not requiring too much effort from your fingertips to press in, all the while ensuring each keypress is deliberate. Unfortunately I can’t speak for Logitech’s linear key style, which is also available on this keyboard, but not in Australia (where I am).
(Image credit: Techradar / Zachariah Kelly)
There’s not really much to say about the layout of the keyboard apart from that it’s mastercrafted. There’s a formula that Logitech’s G division follows that doesn’t need to be broken and this is as good an example as ever. The Numpad often gets disregarded in favor of having a smaller board, which I personally prefer and so can’t complain that it’s not available here. Keys feel close enough together to avoid reaching for some, and yet accidental presses of surrounding keys is minimal. Moreover the function row is easily accessible by stationary hands even if you have small mitts.
The shorter key caps that come with the low-profile design may irk some gamers however. It caught me off guard at first just how short these keys were when playing games, but I quickly got used to them and, after a short while, didn’t mind them at all. Some gamers like their keyboards to feel big and robust like props on a sci-fi spaceship, but this keyboard is going for a broader design than that.
Finally on the software, the Logitech G peripheral app is brilliant for allowing you to customize both the lighting of the keyboard’s RGB and keybindings across the board. As already mentioned, RGB profiles can be saved to the board’s memory, however keybindings cannot. There’s nothing out of the ordinary here from Logitech, though the Logitech G app can be a bit daunting for a first-time user. I’d recommend having a good play with it at your leisure.
(Image credit: Techradar / Zachariah Kelly)
Design & Features: 4 / 5
Logitech G515 Lightspeed TKL review: performance
Fast, affirmative keys
Brilliant layout
Keys may not be large enough for some gamers
The Logitech G515 is made up of plastic keys covered in a gentle coarse paint that keeps fingertips well positioned for affirmative presses while not being abrasive at all. The tactile Logitech Brown GX keys click in without making too much noise for an office setting, while being firm enough to avoid a mispress.
Pressing the keys feels satisfying and guaranteed – you know you just clicked the button and a light press from a fat thumb or hanging finger won’t be enough. This goes for every key on the board and it feels brilliant.
(Image credit: Techradar / Zachariah Kelly)
The Game Mode button definitely offers a subtle boost in performance in that you won’t fat-finger the Windows key with it's pressed. Switching between the dongle and the Bluetooth module is also quick and is perfect for if you want to use this keyboard with two devices.
The level of programming that you can do with the G515 through G Hub is also pretty great, allowing the user to create whatever keybinds they want (and remove them at any time).
Performance: 5 / 5
Should I buy the Logitech G515 Lightspeed TKL?
Buy it if…
You want a good keyboard for work and games
As far as premium gaming keyboards go, the G515 is best suited as something that can go from writing documents to playing online games quickly.
You want brilliant-feeling keys
Logitech’s Brown GX switches are brilliant – they’re not too firm and they feel satisfying to press without too much effort.
You want a slimline keyboard
The main draw of the G515 is that it’s a low-profile keyboard, which means it has much thinner keys and a much thinner body.
Don’t buy it if…
Money is tight
The G515 is not a cheap keyboard and you may find a better, more affordable option that suits your needs.
You suffer from wrist pain
Logitech doesn’t include a wrist support with the G515, which means you’d have to buy one separately.
You desire dedicated media controls
The G515 doesn’t have a dedicated media control row of buttons or volume slider, instead putting them as function keys in the corner.
Also consider
How I tested the Logitech G515
Used daily for 1 week
Used for gaming and productivity, both in office and at home
From the moment I received the Logitech G515, I started using it in the office, with my testing period lasting about a week. To test in different environments, I even took it home, where I used it to play games such as Alan Wake II, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III (2023), Team Fortress II, Dress To Impress and Concord. For work, I used it for several productivity apps, including typing out this entire review. I also used the Logitech G Hub app to fiddle around with the customizations, changing the colors and setting up my own lighting profiles.
I’ve been a PC gamer for almost my entire life, and have reviewed quite a few peripherals, including different types of keyboards and mice, over the last few years. Several of these have been Logitech products, which has allowed me to compare the G515 to other keyboards from the brand and its competitors as objectively as possible.
