There are many companies that produce mechanical keyboards.
Relatively new to keyboard manufacturing is Cooler Master, a company known to
make computer chassis, power supplies and CPU coolers. Cooler Master has branded their keyboards
under the name "CMSTORM" and aimed them at gamers. When searching for a
keyboard, I was interested in these models right away due to the feature rich
design and low cost (relative to competitors). Cooler Master was kind enough to
send me three models to review, but this review will focus on the QuickFire
Rapid, the feature-rich keyboard that caught my eye. The
QuickFire Rapid can be found on Cooler Masters web store for $79.99 - $89.99
depending on which Cherry MX switch type it uses. Black, Blue and Brown all
sell for $79.99 while the Red switch type sells for $89.99 (apparently rarer).
If you'd like to learn the difference between switch types or just need a
refresher see this thread http://www.overclock.net/t/491752/mechanical-keyboard-guide.
My review unit came with Cherry MX Blue switches, which I
found a joy to use with
Das Keyboard that I had previously reviewed. The keyboard arrived safely in
simple, neat, frustration free packaging. The keyboard itself felt beefy and
sturdy. The QuickFire Rapid comes with a detachable thick braided cable of
impressive quality. It also comes with a PS/2 adapter, key puller, alternative
"Cooler Master" win key and pad-printed WASD keys.
When plugging in the braided cable I noticed Cooler Master
had taken the time to include cable management on the bottom of the keyboard.
Plastic had been molded so that the braided cable can be run straight back or
to either side. I really like this
feature since it helps keep cables out of the way. Another feature I really
loved on this keyboard is the media keys. Located on the F5-F12 keys are
alternate functions, such as 'play', 'stop', 'skip', 'mute', 'volume' and
Windows key lock. The Quickfire Rapid
has no number pad. Though not having a number pad took some getting used to, I
really enjoyed the compact size which freed up space on my desk so I was able
to better position my mouse pad.
The
QuickFire Rapid is just as much of a joy to type on as it is playing games. My
keystrokes and movement are accurate and comfortable. I did find myself reaching for the number pad
while working in the office on occasion. Some people who love macro buttons
will be disappointed as there are none on this keyboard. There is also no wrist-rest
included with this keyboard, but any aftermarket wrist-rest will match up fine.
Overall, I enjoyed using this keyboard. I really like the
minimalistic feel. I found that the barebones non-bloated layout was refreshing
and aesthetically pleasing. The weight, build quality, thick detachable USB
cable, and feel of the QuickFire Rapid are really impressive. Even more
impressive is that this keyboard is one of the cheapest mechanical keyboards on
the market. If you are someone who
thinks they can live with over branding and without a number pad this
mechanical keyboard offers incredible value.
Pros:
-Budget Price
-Impressive Build Quality
-Typing Feel
-Media Keys
-Compact Size
-Different Cherry-MX Switch Types Available
-N Key Rollover
-Cable Management
Cons (For Some Users)
-No Backlighting
-No Wrist Rest
-No Macro Keys
-Tons of Company Logos
DISCLOSURE: One or more of the products mentioned in this
review were sent to me by CMStorm for evaluation purposes. The
opinions in this review are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the
Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 guides concerning the use of
endorsements and testimonials in advertising.
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Re: CMStorm QuickFire Rapid Mechanical Keyboard Review
