Logitech’s wild gaming keyboard, the G512

Logitech’s G512 It is the company’s first venture into analog magnetic tunnel resistance, or TMR Keyboard technology, and the first keyboard to offer the capability I’ve been waiting for: it lets you mix analog and mechanical switches instead of having to choose one or the other.

And while it’s priced at $180 to $200 (depending on whether you want the 75% G512

I like the idea of ​​hybrid techniques for several reasons, most notably that it allows you to customize the look and response of keys based on in-game associations and functions.

Analogue switches generally support variable actuation points – you can adjust the depth of the keystroke at which it registers and resets, and you can set two actuation points, the second being linked to another action. Logitech includes 5 rings for second actuation pressure points, which provide more feedback to the second point.

So it can accommodate settings where you might need a light touch for speed but perhaps a deeper tap where speed might put you overshoot, such as when cycling between arms. It can also help sense when you tend to press some keys harder than others.

Like optical switches, magnetic switches can be more durable than mechanical switches, because they don’t experience the friction of moving parts coming into contact with each other.

But the feel of the analog keys may take some getting used to, especially if you’re used to clicky or tactile mechanics, and linear mechanics may feel a little more precise.

While it sounds great in theory if you need (or just want) that level of customization, it’s also possible for the mix of emotions to be jarring or overly felt.

The G512

The volume at the top of the keyboard houses the SAPP loops and analogue keys, and the combo key pullers do double duty as feet. With an RGB light bar at the base – it illuminates the optional acrylic wrist rest – and a thick, retro shape, it’s all pretty wild.

It’s also worth noting that the keyboard supports polling, reporting, and processing rates of up to 8kHz (0.125ms depending on the math).