Logitech Gaming Keyboard G510 Review

👤by Sahil Mannick Comments 📅05-07-11
Conclusion

It’s been 6 years since the release of the original G15 that introduced many of the features seen here on the G510. The question is whether Logitech have really innovated their keyboard since then. Having used both previous G15s and now the G510, it is actually hard to answer the question. The alternative view is that the original G15 was ahead of its time in terms of features like macro keys, the GamePanel LCD, media keys, Windows/Game toggle switch and backlighting. For the most part, the G510 is the real successor to the original G15 whereas I personally view the V2 as a streamlined version of the original with its reduced number of G-keys and lack of volume scroll wheel. So is the G510 worthy of the title and more importantly, its price? I’d say so.

The original G15 can be imagined as a prototype that has been perfected in the form of the G510. Like all prototypes, it was extravagant with a tilt screen that dominated the façade. It was certainly appealing to gamers who wanted just that. But the G510 is appealing in a slightly different way. It is more refined, less in your face, and more subtle in its demeanour. The in-built rather than tilted GamePanel LCD contributes a lot towards that, and it also makes the keyboard more practical and less prone to damage. The G510 certainly feels very robust. Typing is also improved on the G510; the soft but responsive key presses take little time to get used to and comfort is assured for prolonged periods. Feature-wise, both are largely the same. Where the G510 loses two USB ports, it gains the 3.5mm ports which I am in favour of. The USB 1.1 ports on the G15 were never adequate to power other devices and ended up useless whereas the 3.5mm ports work very well despite some caveats. The G510 also features customisable backlighting. It might appear gimmicky but the novelty never really dies and it adds a sense of uniqueness. The overall construction of the keyboard also feels sturdier and rather than the casings being clipped on, they are all screwed to each other meaning less chance of breaking the keyboard. Perhaps the most important improvement is the software. Previously, there were two separate applications needed, one for the game profiles and one for the LCD. Now only the Logitech Gaming Software brings all the functionality into a single package that is intuitive and allows a wealth of customisation. The software also supports the original G15 but some of the functionality such as customisable backlight and profile saving will be lost.


With a RRP of £99, the Logitech G510 is by no means a cheap keyboard. It retails for double what the original G15 was priced at. Most won’t be able to justify the price but those who do buy one won’t feel short changed either. Not a lot of keyboards can deliver the same feature set as the G510 and on top of that, you will be backed by Logitech’s highly revered customer service which is second to none in the peripheral market. Looking at current street pricing, the G510 can be purchased for under £70 at popular e-tailors.

Pros

+Excellent feature set
+Solid construction/build quality
+Responsive
+Comfortable
+Customisable
+Feels very nice to type on
+Volume scroll wheel
+Headphone and microphone jacks
+Informative GamePanel LCD
+Logitech Customer Support

Cons

-Backlighting could be slightly brighter
-Media key functionality when headset is plugged in
-Steep RRP (although street pricing is more favourable)

Logitech’s Gaming Keyboard G510 highly deserves our coveted Vortez Gold Award.





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