14 DAY TRIAL // It's not really that odd to learn about a keyboard with backlighting anymore, but the one that Cooler Master has just introduced goes a step above the norm.
By means of an ARM processor and a specially designed circuitry, the new Quick Fire Rapid-i keyboard has full key illumination with 5 levels of brightness that you can choose from.
More importantly, you can use ActiveLight technology, which brightly illuminates each key when you press it, then slowly fades the light after your finger moves on.
Even if you only keep your peripheral vision on your keyboard, the effect is still pretty stunning.
In fact, Cooler Master intends to add extra illumination modes to the Quick Fire Rapid-i in the future. The ARM processor will handle it easily.
Moreover, you should be able to individually program keys for unique game and app uses. The onboard memory will store up to four different presets.
Add to that the soft touch rubber coating, the laser-marked keycaps and a non-glossy matte finish, and there isn't much to complain about on the visual side of things. Sure, the numpad is absent, but it's supposed to make carrying easier, and the ability to remove the braided USB cable helps with that.
As for price, it is of €105 / $105, or will be once sales begin. It will vary according to region though.