Number of USB 2.0 Ports | 1 |
---|
CM Storm QuickFire XT - Full Size Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with CHERRY MX Brown Switches
Brand | Cooler Master |
Compatible Devices | Gaming Console |
Connectivity Technology | USB |
Keyboard Description | Gaming |
Color | XT - CherryMX Brown |
Number of Keys | 104 |
Style | Brown CHERRY MX Switches |
Product Dimensions | 17.3"L x 5.2"W x 1.1"H |
Material | Steel |
Included Components | Quickfire XT Keyboard |
About this item
- Mechanical CHERRY MX Brown key switches - lifespan of up to 50 million keystrokes while providing medium resistance and "bumpy" feedback
- Super slim profile for more ergonomic and comfortable typing angles
- Embedded steel plate beneath keys for extreme stability and durability
- N-Key rollover for unlimited simultaneous key presses in PS/2 Mode
- Command rate adjustments via key combos in PS/2 Mode;Dimensions L x W x H:17.3 x 5.2 x 1.1 in
- Detachable high quality braided USB cable with Full Size USB connector
- Multimedia shortcut keys - easily play, pause, stop, skip tracks, and control volume
- Windows keys can be disabled in-game to prevent accidental interruptions
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This Item CM Storm QuickFire XT - Full Size Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with CHERRY MX Brown Switches | Recommendations | dummy | dummy | dummy | dummy | |
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Price | Currently unavailable. | $36.99$36.99 | -11% $61.99$61.99 List: $69.99 | -11% $79.99$79.99 List: $89.99 | -6% $159.99$159.99 List: $169.99 | $104.99$104.99 |
Delivery | — | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Apr 2 | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Apr 2 | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Apr 2 | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Apr 2 | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Apr 2 |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Quality of material | — | 4.6 | 4.5 | 4.7 | 4.5 | 5.0 |
For gaming | — | 4.5 | 4.4 | 4.3 | 4.4 | 4.6 |
Value for money | — | 4.7 | 4.5 | 4.3 | — | 4.4 |
Brightness | — | 4.5 | 4.4 | — | 4.4 | 4.5 |
Ergonomic | — | — | 4.5 | 4.7 | 4.2 | 4.3 |
Sold By | — | Keychron Basic | Amazon.com | CHERRY AMERICAS | Amazon.com | CHERRY AMERICAS |
connectivity tech | USB | USB-C | wired | USB 2.0 | USB-C, USB-A | USB-A |
number of keys | 104 | 87 | 104 | 87 | 104 | 109 |
compatible devices | Gaming Console | — | Gaming Console | PC | Gaming Console | PC |
keyboard description | Gaming | for Mac/Windows/Linux | Gaming | Mechanical | Gaming | Gaming |
operating system | Microsoft Windows, Apple OS X | Windows, Mac OS | Windows 10, Windows 11, Mac OS X 10.14, Mac OS X 10.14 Mojave | Windows 10 | Mac OS | Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10 |
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Product information
Technical Details
Brand | Cooler Master |
---|---|
Item model number | SGK-4030-GKCM1-US |
Hardware Platform | PC |
Operating System | Microsoft Windows, Apple OS X |
Item Weight | 2.4 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 17.3 x 5.2 x 1.1 inches |
Item Dimensions LxWxH | 17.3 x 5.2 x 1.1 inches |
Color | XT - CherryMX Brown |
Manufacturer | Cooler Master |
ASIN | B00EQV0W02 |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
Date First Available | August 23, 2013 |
Additional Information
Customer Reviews |
4.4 out of 5 stars |
---|
Warranty & Support
Feedback
Product Description
Product Description
Building off the success of the Quick-fire Rapid, gamers and working professionals are now able to have an all-encompassing CM Storm experience in a full size package. The CM Storm Quick-fire XT by Cooler Master is a high-grade mechanical keyboard that employs the best selection of Cherry MX key switches to provide ultra responsiveness and comfort. The Quick-fire XT also has the thinnest bezel on a mechanical keyboard and an embedded steel plate for added stability.
Amazon.com
QuickFire XT Mechanical Gaming Keyboard - CherryMX Brown Switch
Building off the success of the QuickFire Rapid, gamers and professionals are now able to have an all-encompassing CM Storm experience in a full package. The CM Storm QuickFire XT by Cooler Master is a high-grade mechanical keyboard that employs the best selection of Cherry MX switches to provide total responsiveness and comfort. The QuickFire XT also has the thinnest bezel on a mechanical keyboard with a steel plate embedded for added stability.
CHERRY BROWN SWITCH (TACTILE BUMP / MEDIUM RESISTANCE)Cherry MX Brown key switches deliver a quiet, fast response for each key. A popular choice for its soft bump response, 50 million key press lifecycle, and reduction of fatigue from long term typing or gaming. N-KEY ROLLOVER FUNCTION IN PS/2 MODE
The QuickFire XT can have multiple keys pressed at the same time in PS/2 mode without conflict, providing an incredible advantage for gamers. EXTRA KEY-CAPS BUNDLED WITH KEYCAP TOOL
The QuickFire XT comes with extra key-caps and keycap tool for added customization. GAME MODE
Disable your Windows keys to prevent accidental interruption of your gaming sessions. REMOVABLE BRAIDED USB CABLE WITH CABLE ROUTING
Prevents tangled wires and provides extra flexibility for your keyboard positioning. MULTIMEDIA SHORTCUTS
Take total control of your music and video playback.
Additional Information
- 1000Hz driverless polling/1ms response time
- 104 Keys
- Laser-etched keycaps
- PS/2 or USB Connection
What's Included
- QuickFire XT Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
- 6 replacement keycaps
- Keycap remover
- USB A Cable with gold plated connectors
- Quick Start Guide
Compatibility
- PC with available USB 2.0 port (500mA)
- Windows XP / Vista / 7 / 8
Choose Your Switch Type
Key Feel Tactile Bump Smooth (Linear) Tactile Click Smooth (Linear) Tactile Click Resistance Medium-Low Very Low Low Firm FirmItem Comparison
Model CM Storm QuickFire Rapid CM Storm QuickFire Pro CM Storm QuickFire TK CM Storm QuickFire XT Switch Type Key Roll Over NKRO/PS2 NKRO/USB NKRO/USB NKRO/PS2 Total Keys 87 (Ten Keyless) 104 (Numpad) 92 (Numpad) 104 (Numpad) Backlit Partial - Full - N/A Extra Feature Adjustable Repeat Rates, Thinner Bezel Best For FPS / RTS / LAN FPS / RTS FPS / RTS / LAN Minimalist design, office useCustomer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the tactile feedback, size and performance of the keyboard. For example, they mention it's a delight to type on, functionally perfect and works great for gaming. Customers are also impresseded with the appearance, value, and quality. Opinions are mixed on the sound quality.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers like the quality of the keyboard. They say the keys are nice and solid, and the steel backplate makes the keyboard feel very solid. They also say the overall quality of this keyboard is great, and it's well-made. Some customers mention that the finish feels great and holds up well. Overall, customers say this is a great choice for a keyboard and a perfect introduction to mechanical keyboards.
"...I still think CM makes very good keyboard, and quality is obvious there, but I feel my finger joints aching after a long day using mechanical..." Read more
"...bezel is coated with a "soft" finish that feels great and holds up well. I honestly expected to end up peeling off at some point but no...." Read more
"...I can highly recommend the CM QFR as a great all-around keyboard, as suitable for the office as for gaming...." Read more
"...thud sound that I don't mind (and may actually enjoy); also typing is a lot more fun and addictive and I feel like it may be slightly better '..." Read more
Customers like the tactile feedback of the keyboard. They say that the click and tactile response are enjoyable, and the Cherry Browns are a delight to type on. The keyboard is easy on the fingers, and aids with the tactile sensation. The heavy springs make typing for hours much easier than using a membrane keyboard. The green switches have both tactile and auditory feedback when actuated, which you can feel. Overall, customers are satisfied with the quality and performance of this product.
"...and the cushioning effect of the heavy springs which makes typing for hours much easier than using a membrane keyboard or even a tactile non click..." Read more
"...you do not care about 10 keys entry, I like the tactile feedback of the blue switch, and I also like the easiness of red switch, I decide I will..." Read more
"...The tactile bump they make is great and always feels crisp and satisfying...." Read more
"...keycaps have a noticeable texture which surprisingly makes it hard to feel the bumps on the F and J keys...." Read more
Customers like the comfort of the keyboard. They mention that it has a soft feel, and the typing experience is much improved. The keys feel nice to press, and after some adjustment, they feel that it really sped up. The feeling for their fingers is amazing, and they like the smoother keys. Typing, while clicky, has s firm feel to it.
"...There is a rhythm of sound and the cushioning effect of the heavy springs which makes typing for hours much easier than using a membrane keyboard or..." Read more
"...I think CM blue is better, CM red has this soft feel with less of a feedback than CM blue, when typing fast, I make more..." Read more
"...The bezel is coated with a "soft" finish that feels great and holds up well. I honestly expected to end up peeling off at some point but no...." Read more
"...keyboard, I find normal typing on the CM QFR with Cherry greens to be smooth, fast, accurate, and highly enjoyable...." Read more
Customers like the performance of the keyboard. They say it's functionally perfect, super effective, and works great for gaming. They also mention that the design is clean and the execution is good. Some customers also mention the media keys work flawlessly in Windows 7 out of the box with no driver install. Overall, most are satisfied with the performance and functionality of the product.
"...no bell and whistle- the keyboard has to be clean in design and good in execution, I do not want a keyboard that have many features I do not..." Read more
"...CONCLUSIONThis is an excellent and handsome TKL keyboard...." Read more
"...the keyboard preforms exactly how it should, quick, precise, and without fail. The typing experience is phenomenal...." Read more
"...The end result is an artisan crafted, near-perfect keyboard. Quiet. Magnificent. Truly a keyboardist's dream." Read more
Customers like the appearance of the keyboard. They say it has just the right amount of style, with a subtle appearance. Some like the minimal look, and the Cherry MX Browns sound nice. They also appreciate the tenkeyless design and the matte black case with textured rubber.
"...3. Small and no bell and whistle- the keyboard has to be clean in design and good in execution, I do not want a keyboard that have many features I..." Read more
"...It has a sleek design, and is very sturdy, not one of my keyboards of this model has had any issues in over two years." Read more
"...The font on the keytops is different. It's large and easy to read, but it is a little odd. But I'm fine with it...." Read more
"...This keyboard feels oh so solid. The case is a nice matte black with a rubberized texture. This worried me at first, I was concerned about scratches...." Read more
Customers like the value of the keyboard. They mention it's well worth the price, has good quality, and has no expensive bells and whistles. Some say that the keyboard is affordable and has the best price performance point of any other keyboards.
"...In my opinion, Cooler Master key board has the best price performance point of any other keyboards I compared with, especially, you do not care..." Read more
"...o-ring application takes about 45 minutes on a tenkeyless and is well worth it...." Read more
"...Well worth the price.I chose Cherry MX Browns to minimize hand stress...." Read more
"...-Tenkeyless (space saver) -Removable usb cable -Price point compared to Filco keyboards of similar quality..." Read more
Customers like the size of the keyboard. They mention that the smaller size is great, perfect for their setup, and saves room on their desk. Some say that the keyboard is compact and easy to read, while others say that it's large and odd. Overall, most are happy with the size and functionality of the product.
"...Good quality- keyboard material and workmanship must be good.3. Small and no bell and whistle- the keyboard has to be clean in design and good..." Read more
"...The font on the keytops is different. It's large and easy to read, but it is a little odd. But I'm fine with it...." Read more
"...-USB cable is pretty long. Which is something i was looking for. It is also holds it's shape slightly when you bend it.-Has F keys..." Read more
"...The smaller size is great, gives me more room for my mouse on my desk and i know when i got to LANs where space tends to be at a premium i will..." Read more
Customers are mixed about the sound quality of the keyboard. Some mention that it's slightly quieter than the DAS, while others say that it is loud. The cherry brown switches are quiet, until you bottom them out. However, some customers say that the keyboard lacks the enjoyable loud clicky sound of the blue switches. The spacebar and backspace keys squeak when tapping them repeatedly.
"...There is a rhythm of sound and the cushioning effect of the heavy springs which makes typing for hours much easier than using a membrane keyboard or..." Read more
"...', not hard to depress at all, not clicky, but there is a little plastic thud sound that I don't mind (and may actually enjoy); also typing is a lot..." Read more
"...It seems to be slightly quieter than the DAS. I don't know why as they use the same key switches. The keyboard body has a mat rubber type finish...." Read more
"...-Cherry MX browns - Preference based, but they are much more quiet than the clicky switches, blues, razrs, etc. But are by no means a silent key...." Read more
Reviews with images
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Top reviews
Top reviews from the United States
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This is a review for the CM Storm QuickFire Rapid - Limited Edition Tenkeyless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with Cherry MX Green switches. For my typing needs I've been using a Das Keyboard S (old style) with Cherry MX blue keys for about a year and find it the best keyboard since the old IBM Selectric typewriter. But I find the CM Storm has some distinct advantages. It has a couple of minor disadvantages.
Advantages:
* Tenkeyless - for typing (fiction drafts - an endless chore) the ten key pad stuck on the side of a keyboard gets in the way of my coffee cup. This keyboard is shorter than the Das Keyboard and easier to manage on the desktop.
* The Cherry MX green keys available on the CM Storm have heavier springs. This allows heavy pounding, heavier than its closest rival the Cherry MX blue keys which are the best available on Das Keyboard as of the time of this writing. According to Wikipedia the Cherry MX blue springs are 60cN and the Cherry MX green springs are 80cN. For anyone who was raised on manual typewriters or who likes to pound keys this heavy feel is the most natural feel. The keys cushion the finger tips better than lighter keys, which bottom out with more of a jolt. Keys feel a bit like the old IBM Selectrics.
*This keyboard gives the best tactile and sound feedback for us old farts who grew up pounding a manual Remington or Underwood. Keyboards using Cherry MX blue are definitely good but are second best due to the less heavy springs.
* Bigger brighter laser etched letters on the keys than the Das Keyboard. Once you get started typing you ignore them, but it helps a lot if you're on the phone typing one handed or have to stop and look at the ~ or the } key. You can get a Das Keyboard Model S Ultimate Mechanical Keyboard with blank key caps, but I don't consider this a good option, due to my recurring need to type while on the phone. There is also another brand, Keycool, which can be bought with LED backlit keys. Keycool 84 Keys Portable Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Cherry Mx Switches (BLUE/RED/GREEN/YELLOW/WHITE LED Backlight Available) (RED switches + Black body + Green LED backlight) That it a bit much for me, since I normally do my heavy typing in dim light and ignore the key caps. Also I've only found the Keycool keyboard with red, black or brown switches.
*The power cord has a woven cover similar to high end guitar power cords, rather than the plastic standard cover. It is detachable and replaceable unlike the fixed Das Keyboard cord.
Disadvantages:
*Has no USB hub. That same woven-covered power cord I really like lacks the second USB plug that Das Keyboard uses to power two USB hub terminals on the right side of the keyboard.
*The Das Keyboard power cord comes out a fixed point in the back center, but the CM Storm cord connects through a Motorola style small USB plug. Then you can route it out from under the keyboard on the left, right or back - but the re-route is only by friction and has no tabs to keep the cord from popping out.
*The lack of the ten key pad. I used to do math programming using FORTRAN and found a ten key pad (freestanding, not on the keyboard) helpful. The Das Keyboard has a ten key pad, But you can also get one on another model of the CM Storm - so that really cancels out the disadvantage.
What about gaming? I respect gamers and I really appreciate their dedication to supporting the manufacture of excellent keyboards. But this is not just a gamer's keyboard. It is also a serious typist's keyboard, probably the best on the market. There is a rhythm of sound and the cushioning effect of the heavy springs which makes typing for hours much easier than using a membrane keyboard or even a tactile non click version or a version with softer springs.
1. Good touch and feel- I do not like the mushy feeling of the cheap keyboard came with every PC.
2. Good quality- keyboard material and workmanship must be good.
3. Small and no bell and whistle- the keyboard has to be clean in design and good in execution, I do not want a keyboard that have many features I do not use.
For the above selection criteria, I did check out some of the keyboards from different manufactures, I ended up with the basic requirements for a mechanical keyboard and preferably with Cherry blue or red switch, I ended up buying both from Cooler Master.
In my opinion, Cooler Master key board has the best price performance point of any other keyboards I compared with, especially, you do not care about 10 keys entry, I like the tactile feedback of the blue switch, and I also like the easiness of red switch, I decide I will use blue at my work and red for home. Both keyboards provide excellent value, and they are also very quality made, I do not think you will go wrong with any of them.
10-7-2012
After bought another CM red keyboard, and use both for a while (one at work, one at home), I think CM blue is better, CM red has this soft feel with less of a feedback than CM blue, when typing fast, I make more mistakes on CM red than CM blue. Also on my CM red, the PS2 connector seems to have connectivity problem, it will drop the letters for no apparent reason, after I switch to USB connector, all is well, I will not just fault CM keyboard yet, it may very well because of my motherboard problem than keyboard issue.
In general, both keyboards perform well, I like the quality of the build and they serve the intended purpose.
5-25-2013
Here is my personal observation, just overall feeling after using the mechanical keyboard for a while, I now have doubts of the mechanical keyboard, its overall effort in actuation of the keys, and the accuracy of the typing associated with it, I found mechanical keyboard exert more pressure to your finger joints than other type of keyboards, and it is really a personal preference issue. I still think CM makes very good keyboard, and quality is obvious there, but I feel my finger joints aching after a long day using mechanical keyboard. This is my personal opinion, take it with a grain of salt before you make decision on the mechanical keyboard.
3-2-2014
After almost 2 years continue use, no problem, the quality of the product is good and reliability is proven.
6-19-2016
Continue performs well,. no issue what so ever.
Reviewed in the United States on July 2, 2012
1. Good touch and feel- I do not like the mushy feeling of the cheap keyboard came with every PC.
2. Good quality- keyboard material and workmanship must be good.
3. Small and no bell and whistle- the keyboard has to be clean in design and good in execution, I do not want a keyboard that have many features I do not use.
For the above selection criteria, I did check out some of the keyboards from different manufactures, I ended up with the basic requirements for a mechanical keyboard and preferably with Cherry blue or red switch, I ended up buying both from Cooler Master.
In my opinion, Cooler Master key board has the best price performance point of any other keyboards I compared with, especially, you do not care about 10 keys entry, I like the tactile feedback of the blue switch, and I also like the easiness of red switch, I decide I will use blue at my work and red for home. Both keyboards provide excellent value, and they are also very quality made, I do not think you will go wrong with any of them.
10-7-2012
After bought another CM red keyboard, and use both for a while (one at work, one at home), I think CM blue is better, CM red has this soft feel with less of a feedback than CM blue, when typing fast, I make more mistakes on CM red than CM blue. Also on my CM red, the PS2 connector seems to have connectivity problem, it will drop the letters for no apparent reason, after I switch to USB connector, all is well, I will not just fault CM keyboard yet, it may very well because of my motherboard problem than keyboard issue.
In general, both keyboards perform well, I like the quality of the build and they serve the intended purpose.
5-25-2013
Here is my personal observation, just overall feeling after using the mechanical keyboard for a while, I now have doubts of the mechanical keyboard, its overall effort in actuation of the keys, and the accuracy of the typing associated with it, I found mechanical keyboard exert more pressure to your finger joints than other type of keyboards, and it is really a personal preference issue. I still think CM makes very good keyboard, and quality is obvious there, but I feel my finger joints aching after a long day using mechanical keyboard. This is my personal opinion, take it with a grain of salt before you make decision on the mechanical keyboard.
3-2-2014
After almost 2 years continue use, no problem, the quality of the product is good and reliability is proven.
6-19-2016
Continue performs well,. no issue what so ever.
Top reviews from other countries
En cuestión de uso, el tecleo es suave, la respuesta es muy buena y no se nota cansancio a pesar de estar horas escribiendo en él (más bien, empiezas a notar ese cansancio que antes omitías al usar otros dispositivos en tu día a día). Sonido: puede ser un tanto molesto para alguien (si es que eliges switches azules), no necesariamente tú sino alguien cercano a tu área de trabajo o algún familiar. Es algo que se puede solucionar comprando anillos de goma que fungen como silenciadores o bien eligiendo desde un inicio cuál switch se adapta a ti, no comprar por comprar.
Las teclas multimedia no tienen la mejor ubicación que se puede encontrar en el mercado pero hacen su trabajo de manera correcta, es cuestión de acostumbrarse o bien permitirse buscar la combinación de teclas necesarias al ver el teclado (pierdes algunos segundos pero nada que sea malo). Siguiendo con distribución de teclado, ésta se encuentra en inglés, algo que para un latino puede ser complicado al inicio por el uso de caracteres tales como ñ y acentos. El sistema operativo te permite elegir la distribución que deseas para el teclado, independientemente de cuál tengas físicamente en el dispositivo, para mí basta esa solución (quizá me llego a confundir al teclear si veo la distribución del teclado en lugar de simplemente teclear pero nada grave). Solución alterna: con un set de teclas personalizadas podrías darle al teclado la distribución física que necesitas (si así lo consideras).
Tiene un tamaño apropiado, se siente cómodo al uso, no tienes problema por presionar teclas que hagan funciones raras queriendo simplemente poner un número, cubre con casi todas las necesidades, funciona para casi todas las personas.
Nota: no es un teclado retroiluminado, quizá eso cambie tu decisión de último momento (por aquello de que en las noches necesitas tener las teclas con cierta iluminación o simplemente te gusta que se vea bonito y cambie de color).
Incluye reemplazo para las teclas WASD y teclas Windows o Esc, según lo consideres prudente, y el anillo para hacer el cambio de teclas.
A mí me convenció en gran medida este teclado, cubre con todas mis necesidades (lo utilizo para trabajo, chat, escritos y juegos) y las satisface de sobra. No es el mejor en el mercado pero me funciona, aparte de que el precio es bueno. No me arrepiento; buena decisión la que hice al comprar este teclado. Totalmente recomendado.
Reviewed in Mexico on February 7, 2016
En cuestión de uso, el tecleo es suave, la respuesta es muy buena y no se nota cansancio a pesar de estar horas escribiendo en él (más bien, empiezas a notar ese cansancio que antes omitías al usar otros dispositivos en tu día a día). Sonido: puede ser un tanto molesto para alguien (si es que eliges switches azules), no necesariamente tú sino alguien cercano a tu área de trabajo o algún familiar. Es algo que se puede solucionar comprando anillos de goma que fungen como silenciadores o bien eligiendo desde un inicio cuál switch se adapta a ti, no comprar por comprar.
Las teclas multimedia no tienen la mejor ubicación que se puede encontrar en el mercado pero hacen su trabajo de manera correcta, es cuestión de acostumbrarse o bien permitirse buscar la combinación de teclas necesarias al ver el teclado (pierdes algunos segundos pero nada que sea malo). Siguiendo con distribución de teclado, ésta se encuentra en inglés, algo que para un latino puede ser complicado al inicio por el uso de caracteres tales como ñ y acentos. El sistema operativo te permite elegir la distribución que deseas para el teclado, independientemente de cuál tengas físicamente en el dispositivo, para mí basta esa solución (quizá me llego a confundir al teclear si veo la distribución del teclado en lugar de simplemente teclear pero nada grave). Solución alterna: con un set de teclas personalizadas podrías darle al teclado la distribución física que necesitas (si así lo consideras).
Tiene un tamaño apropiado, se siente cómodo al uso, no tienes problema por presionar teclas que hagan funciones raras queriendo simplemente poner un número, cubre con casi todas las necesidades, funciona para casi todas las personas.
Nota: no es un teclado retroiluminado, quizá eso cambie tu decisión de último momento (por aquello de que en las noches necesitas tener las teclas con cierta iluminación o simplemente te gusta que se vea bonito y cambie de color).
Incluye reemplazo para las teclas WASD y teclas Windows o Esc, según lo consideres prudente, y el anillo para hacer el cambio de teclas.
A mí me convenció en gran medida este teclado, cubre con todas mis necesidades (lo utilizo para trabajo, chat, escritos y juegos) y las satisface de sobra. No es el mejor en el mercado pero me funciona, aparte de que el precio es bueno. No me arrepiento; buena decisión la que hice al comprar este teclado. Totalmente recomendado.
- The layout is perfect, the keys are well placed and stable. Minimalist form while keeping all the keys. They have replaced the useless (to me) menu key by a function key for media controls.
- The build quality is solid. There are no creaks or wobbles and the rubber feet keep the board where I want it.
- The full sized USB connection is well placed near the front right end of the board. I tend to place my keyboard against the base of a monitor stand or laptop so this is perfect for me.
- The rubberised texture of the bezel was unexpected. The matte black finish is appealing to sight and touch.
Cons
If I had to pick out my least favourite things about this keyboard, they would be the font used on the keycaps and the Num/Caps/Scroll lock LEDs. The font on the keycaps is odd looking, large print, and sometimes confusing. I would prefer smaller, more standard printing in the top left corner of the key or no printing at all. The Num/Caps/Scroll LEDs are very close to the number pad so I must lean forward to check, same as Filco, very minor.
Other thoughts
I have tried Rosewill RK-9000, Razer BlackWidow, Filco Majestouch 2, Unicomp, and Ducky One keyboards. Compared to a Rosewill, the CM Storm Quick Fire XT is quieter, deeper sounding. Perhaps the sound is dampened by the rubberised bezel. I disliked the Razer because of its cheap feeling/sounding plastic construction. The Filco was just as nice as CM's keyboard but the cable entrance was inconveniently located in the centre of the back and the premium price seems unnecessary. I did not have a chance to use the noisy Unicomp at work because my colleagues threatened to bludgeon me after typing my username and password. Ducky One taught me to avoid backlit keyboards because of the inferior Cherry stabilisers which are sloppy and annoying. Gladly the XT uses Costar. Once the cheap ABS keycaps are replaced by a set of PBT off Aliexpress, the XT is the pinnacle of typing pleasure.
First off, the build of this keyboard is fantastic, with the exception of the keycaps (I'll talk about this later). The backplate is made of metal, and the keyboard's overall quality is top notch. The use of a Full-size USB Type-A connector on the keyboard is wonderful for longevity. Many keyboard makers use Mini USB Type-B, which has a much shorter lifespan.
The MX Brown switches are a great buy for anyone wanting this keyboard for typing. If your primary use will be gaming, you would be better served with the MX Red switches. The Brown switches have a slight bump feel immediately at the engagement point of the key-switch. This benefits you in typing accuracy (you will make less errors, and also you will not accidentally backspace a keystroke that you thought you made, but really didn't make). These keyswitches have minimal noise, for a tactile keyswitch. If you don't care about noise, you should get the MX Blue switches, they have more tactile feedback, at the expense of an audible "click-clack" noise.
The included braided USB cord is great (seems to be nylon braiding, not fabric. fabric frays alot). The keyboard also comes with a few extra keycaps, and a keycap puller. All great touches.
The only negative thing I have observed is that the keycaps are trash. Nothing wrong with the feel, or the actual function of them, just their manufacturing quality. If you are a mechanical keyboard enthusiast, you will probably toss these keycaps instantly. If you are not an enthusiast, you will probably not care at all. To specify my complaint, they are really cheap plastic, and most of them still have a small nub of plastic hanging onto the injection-molding site, on the north-side of the keycap. And worst of all, the keycaps have their lettering painted on. They are not double-shot molded, not even laser-etched. They are painted. The lettering on these keycaps will probably last several months. One of the spare keycaps that came in a sealed bag already has part of the lettering worn off.
Aside from the keycap quality, overall I am satisfied with this keyboard, and I don't think I would choose any other 104-key keyboard for the reason I bought this keyboard. I have owned several other mechanical keyboards. My usual go-to recommendation for friends that need a 104-key keyboard is the Rosewill RK-9000v2, but too many people report broken USB-ports on them. I will probably recommend this keyboard to anyone looking for something like this.
Final thoughts: This keyboard is overall fantastic, if you don't get why I complain about the keycaps, you can probably safely ignore that complaint. If you understand that kind of complaint, you should be prepared to buy your own keycaps.
Update: Another issue with the Keycaps I have observed is that some of the larger keys that have stabilizer bars, make a squeeky noise when you press the key. This keyboard is starting to seem like a bit of a chore.