Logitech G19 Gaming Keyboard

Features & Specifications
The Logitech G19 supports both Windows and Mac computers. The most obvious feature of the keyboard is the large 320 x 240 resolution LCD that can be used to display many different types of content. The keys are backlit and 12 fully programmable keys are included for recording macros and more. The keyboard supports multiple key presses at once with up to five simultaneous presses being supported. Other features include a pair of USB ports on the top edge of the G19, instant multimedia keys, and cable routing on the underside of the keyboard.

In Use
The first thing you notice about the Logitech G19 is the large LCD screen. The G15 had an LCD screen in both of the iterations of the keyboard. The first G15 had an angle adjustable screen and the second version had a fixed screen that didn't move. The big difference between the G15 screen and the screen on the new G19 is that the G19 has a full color screen. The screen can be used to show game stats, computer information, VOIP data, video, images, and other things. If you set the screen up for showing image slideshows, it's very much like a digital photo frame.

One of the things that many gamers desire in a gaming keyboard is macro recording capability. Gamers who play MMORPG games like World of Warcraft have attacks that feature lots of key presses that take time to execute. Using the G keys on the Logitech G19 these players can bind up to 36 single key presses or macros to the twelve programmable keys to be executed from a single button press. The macros are easy to record during the game by pressing the MR key, the button you want to bind the macro to and performing your macro.

Another requirement on any gaming keyboard is that the Windows key can be disabled to prevent closing your game window at bad times, the G19 has this feature. The two USB ports on top of the keyboard are good for connecting flash drives and similar items. You can charge your iPhone from the ports as well. The keyboard also has a full feature of media controls including a spinning wheel that controls volume. An array of Vista keys are included offering access to gadgets and more.

Typing feel on the keyboard is exactly like the feel of the G15 I have used for a long time. Tactile feel is very good and the keys offer good typing feel. The typing feel isn’t as good as the Logitech illuminated keyboard that I use all the time, but the G19 is a good keyboard that can be used for gaming and general computer use as well. The backlighting color is user selectable and is uniformly lit.

The only downside to the sweet LCD on the G19 is that it needs its own power brick to operate. That means that the precious AC outlets near your gaming rig will have more devices vying for power. The little screen is good for all sorts of things from watching streaming video to viewing game stats on compatible titles. I was surprised at how smoothly the video played on the little LCD. The screen is a bit small, but anyone accustomed to watching video on an MP3 player or their iPhone will not feel uncomfortable watching on the screen.