Switchable Gaming Keyboard From Microsoft

SideWinder X6 is the first gaming keyboard with a switchable key pad that can be attached to the left or right side of the keyboard for ultimate flexibility, claims the manufacturer.

Click to enlarge

Also launched at the same time is the SideWinder X5 Mouse, a fast, powerful gaming mouse designed to give mainstream gamers a competitive edge.

The keyboard’s key pad is a standard number pad in normal keyboard mode, but becomes a programmable macro pad in game mode. The keyboard’s switchable key pad allows gamers to program up to 90 macros per game with the help of a set of dedicated macro keys as well as a fully programmable key pad.

Mode switching lets gamers manually toggle the keyboard from standard mode to either of two gaming modes. LEDs show the selected mode. Automatic profile switching detects the application that is running and applies the custom profile.


A new cruise control feature continues an action without having to hold down the key or keys assigned to the action. Gamers can use cruise control with up to four keys at a time.

In-game macro record button lets gamers record any sequence of keystrokes – even standard chat messages. Macros are stored on the PC hard drive and can be easily shared.

WASD gaming keys, the most commonly used keys for gamers, have front-face lighting for enhanced visibility. Quick-Launch key gives one-touch access to Windows Vista Games Explorer, allowing gamers to quickly see the games in their PC’s game library.

The SideWinder X5 nine-button gaming mouse is designed for handling with vertical side buttons, adjustable sensitivity switching up to 2,000 DPI, five customisable buttons, and a Quick-Launch button that instantly launches the Windows Vista Games Explorer.

RRP
SideWinder X6 Keyboard $149.95
SideWinder X5 Mouse $99.95