The keyboard itself is very sweet. The standard QWERTY keys are a little click-ier than some of Logitech’s other offerings, which I actually prefer. I like a little tactile feedback to let me know when the key is fully depressed. The three level (off, low, high) full keyboard illumination is undeniably cool, especially with the lights off, and even though most gamers don’t need to look at the keys to play, it helps get repositioned if you move your hand over to hit one of the 18 “G” keys. It also indicates which “mode” the “G” keys are in (there are three possible modes allowing for an impressive 54 possible macros per game) by backlighting the active mode in orange. Even the Logitech logo in the upper right hand corner glows cool blue. BOOYAH!

Speaking of the “G” keys…. The 18 “G” keys that run vertically, in groups of six, along the left side of the keyboard are another of the G15’s high points. These programmable keys (with Logitech’s robust support software) can be set to perform any combination of keystrokes that you could possibly want, including pauses.



MMORPGers rejoice! Assuming that you can not launch the keyboard software (while you are in-game for instance) a “MR” button can be easily activated, allowing you to record a macro and assign it to a “G” key ON THE FLY! BOOYAHKIZZLE! This feature is super-useful for the previously mentioned MMORPGers, although those of us who play mostly FPSs may find them unnecessary and a little inconvenient to reach when speedy reflexes are of the essence. The only drawback to the “G” keys is their effect on the G11s much larger than average footprint. (A full 21.5 inches across)

Another couple of features that bear mentioning are the two integrated USB ports (1.0) on the top of the G11, and the “Game Mode” switch, which deactivates the windows key when flipped. It really isn’t all that necessary, since most people rarely hit that key by mistake, but isn’t it nice to know that of you did, it wouldn’t work? Yeah, I know it is.

Unfortunately, the G11 is not without its flaws. First off, if you are not planning on taking advantage of the macro keys or the additional USB ports, the Saitek Eclipse II is a cheaper and less intrusive option. Additionally the keys on the G11 are painted rather than etched (like on the Eclipse II), so over time the black surrounding the letters will wear off. I experienced this with my G15 after about a year of use. If, however, you enjoy the MMORPG genre of games, you will most definitely find the macro keys extremely useful. Also, I personally find the two USB ports atop the G11 quite handy when I have taken up all of the ports on my hub.