CES 2013: Razer's Orbweaver Mechanical Gaming Keypad

Like many other PC and consumer electronics companies, Razer is getting ready for CES 2013, meaning that it is preparing its latest and greatest gadgets for the 2013 edition of the Consumer Electronics Show.

The product in the photos is called Razer Orbweaver and is a new gaming accessory for players of MMOs (massively multiplayer online games) and other games with many customizable commands.

Contrary to what some may be tempted to assume, Orbweaver is not a mouse with extra buttons. Instead, it is a USB-connected keypad with 20 fully programmable buttons.

Of course, prospective buyers will have to use the Synapse 2.0 software, which might not sit well with people after the recent fuss about spyware-like behavior (which Razer denies).

At any rate, the razer Orbweaver has full mechanical keys with 50g actuation force, plus instant switching between 8 key maps, unlimited macro lengths, unlimited gaming profile storage capability and a backlight.

"The Razer Orbweaver is the ultimate gauntlet of game control," said Min-Liang Tan, Razer co-founder, CEO and creative director.

"The feeling of having every command at hand to destroy the competition in so many different ways is just sublime, and the tactile feedback and fast key actuation from the mechanical key architecture gives you a feeling of satisfaction and an added edge in the games you play."

Razer's Orbweaver measures 154 x 214 x 55 mm, or 6.06 x 7.95 x 2.17 inches (width x length x depth). On that note, its weight is of 300 grams / 0.661 lbs.

Orders are already being accepted, for the rather unflattering price of $129.99 / 98-129.99 Euro, but shipments might not start right away. Deliveries will begin this quarter though.

Hardcore gamers will have to decide on their own if this game accessory is worth the price when it doesn't do anything that a mouse and/or keyboard can't do.