CM Storm Novatouch Pre-Launch Showcase & First Impressions & Typing test

[YuukiHaruto]

Cooler Master's gaming division CM STORM is preparing to launch a new keyboard.





"Oh no, not another keyboard again?!" Well this one is entirely radically new and different. That's why I'm here to give my First Impressions
I want to start of with why this keyboard is different.
Firstly, it will be the FIRST mass-manufactured and sold keyboard that can be found in every country and not just from elitekeyboards if you are in the states. (IIRC)
Secondly, it has compatibility with your Cherry MX-compatible keycaps

Lastly, it's ... well, just look at it. No-nonsense attitude to style and simplicity.
Key features? MX compatible topre capacitive switches, Right angled gold plated micro USB connector for the keyboard, Rubber case, media keys and it's NOT made in china that's for sure.

Performance : The experience for me on this keyboard can only be described as "heavenly" It feels MUCH better than a brown (which we all know to be reds with sand thrown on it) because of the far heavier bump (An actually useful bump) but it it as well an entirely different feel all together due to the fact that MX switches feel "empty" compared to the Topres.
Otherwise, it is a really good feeling switch the topres.

Build quality : As expected from CM it is built well. The chassis is solid and has NO flex at all in every direction

Problems : There are a couple of problems, either it is because MX keys have longer key travel than topre keys OR CM has issues with their key travel. The reason for that is that when you use a key remover to try and pry a key out the keycap is pushed to the very bottom making it highly impossible to remove keycaps if at all.
I see the above problem as spoiling the point of this keyboard because this keyboard is about being the FIRST customizable topre (in terms of keycaps) but it takes so much effort to remove them.

So do I like it? Oh yes I do. I can live with the above problem (swap all the keycaps for just one time) to use it. That's how much I like it.
What about the TKL format? I much prefer it over the TK format because I don't need numpad. TK format is just extra unnecessary clutter

So here you go, the typing test

[dante]

I don't see Microcenter or Fry's stocking this - but if they did they're probably relieved to know that they keycaps are very difficult to take off.  Many boards on display seem to "lose" their keycaps if you know what I mean; consequently they are very hesitant to put them out.

What is the typing height/profile compared to your other keyboards?  About the same as a QFR?

[CK Briefs]

Wow did they fix the font? And that looks like dyesub legends instead of laser etched infills. I might be wrong

Edit: I'm wrong Forgot you can't dyesub on darker base.

[YuukiHaruto]

I don't see Microcenter or Fry's stocking this - but if they did they're probably relieved to know that they keycaps are very difficult to take off.  Many boards on display seem to "lose" their keycaps if you know what I mean; consequently they are very hesitant to put them out.

What is the typing height/profile compared to your other keyboards?  About the same as a QFR?

That's right. It is the same typing profile as my CM Storm MECH and my (sold) RK9000RE

Wow did they fix the font? And that looks like dyesub legends instead of laser etched infills. I might be wrong

I think these are laser etched infills ... at the very least they don't look like dye sub underneath

[Zeal]

Problems : There are a couple of problems, either it is because MX keys have longer key travel than topre keys OR CM has issues with their key travel. The reason for that is that when you use a key remover to try and pry a key out the keycap is pushed to the very bottom making it highly impossible to remove keycaps if at all.

This won't be a problem if they opt to include Wire keycap pullers instead of the cheapo plastic ring pullers. Nice write up, I'm excited to try one out at my local computer shop.

Wow did they fix the font? And that looks like dyesub legends instead of laser etched infills. I might be wrong

Huh. You can't dyesub a lighter font on dark caps. It still looks like laser etched infills/pad printing. Only the LED caps (Caps, Scrl Lk) are laser etched backlit friendly caps.

[Latin00032]

That one problem is hardly anything major.

When will it be released? Where can I get one?

Also, do you know if existing CM covers will work with it in replacement of the existing cover??

[YuukiHaruto]

That one problem is hardly anything major.

When will it be released? Where can I get one?

Also, do you know if existing CM covers will work with it in replacement of the existing cover??

It might work but I'm not sure. When I send this keyboard back tomorrow i'll give my verdict because I can take a QF-I case and compare. The micro-usb port is what worries me, it might be offset but it will probably fit

Problems : There are a couple of problems, either it is because MX keys have longer key travel than topre keys OR CM has issues with their key travel. The reason for that is that when you use a key remover to try and pry a key out the keycap is pushed to the very bottom making it highly impossible to remove keycaps if at all.

This won't be a problem if they opt to include Wire keycap pullers instead of the cheapo plastic ring pullers. Nice write up, I'm excited to try one out at my local computer shop.

Wow did they fix the font? And that looks like dyesub legends instead of laser etched infills. I might be wrong

Huh. You can't dyesub a lighter font on dark caps. It still looks like laser etched infills/pad printing. Only the LED caps (Caps, Scrl Lk) are laser etched backlit friendly caps.

I'll tell them to include wire keycap pullers instead. Meanwhile I'll buy myself a wire keycap puller 

[intelli78]

That one problem is hardly anything major.

Indeed, anyone buying this for the keycaps is missing the point bigtime.

[Sniping]

Wow did they fix the font? And that looks like dyesub legends instead of laser etched infills. I might be wrong

I doubt these are dyesub keycaps, or even PBT for that matter.

[Latin00032]

The problem with pulling out the key caps might not be so bad as long as you don't use the key remover that it comes with.

The hard plastic one can damage keys. Since there is a minimal amount of flex in the plastic key remover, it pushes the key all the way down before it snaps over the key.

I'm thinking that using a wire type key remover can alleviate the key removing issue since it is flexible.

It is more likely to get around the key without pushing down as hard or having to bottom the key out.

I guess CM won't include a key like that.

[YuukiHaruto]

The problem with pulling out the key caps might not be so bad as long as you don't use the key remover that it comes with.

The hard plastic one can damage keys. Since there is a minimal amount of flex in the plastic key remover, it pushes the key all the way down before it snaps over the key.

I'm thinking that using a wire type key remover can alleviate the key removing issue since it is flexible.

It is more likely to get around the key without pushing down as hard or having to bottom the key out.

I guess CM won't include a key like that.

Most likely yeah, does filco include a wire puller? I'm not clear on the launch date but it should be soon.

[avtar]

Key features? MX compatible topre capacitive switches, Right angled gold plated micro USB connector for the keyboard, Rubber case, media keys and it's NOT made in china that's for sure.

Well that's different. Where is it manufactured?

[CK Briefs]

Problems : There are a couple of problems, either it is because MX keys have longer key travel than topre keys OR CM has issues with their key travel. The reason for that is that when you use a key remover to try and pry a key out the keycap is pushed to the very bottom making it highly impossible to remove keycaps if at all.

This won't be a problem if they opt to include Wire keycap pullers instead of the cheapo plastic ring pullers. Nice write up, I'm excited to try one out at my local computer shop.

Wow did they fix the font? And that looks like dyesub legends instead of laser etched infills. I might be wrong

Huh. You can't dyesub a lighter font on dark caps. It still looks like laser etched infills/pad printing. Only the LED caps (Caps, Scrl Lk) are laser etched backlit friendly caps.

Derp
I thought it looked different from usual CM caps cause they looked like a dirtier white

[YuukiHaruto]

Key features? MX compatible topre capacitive switches, Right angled gold plated micro USB connector for the keyboard, Rubber case, media keys and it's NOT made in china that's for sure.

Well that's different. Where is it manufactured?

Taiwan or maybe unlikely japan.

[jwaz]

Could we get some pictures of the guts? PCB details please!

[Latin00032]

The problem with pulling out the key caps might not be so bad as long as you don't use the key remover that it comes with.

The hard plastic one can damage keys. Since there is a minimal amount of flex in the plastic key remover, it pushes the key all the way down before it snaps over the key.

I'm thinking that using a wire type key remover can alleviate the key removing issue since it is flexible.

It is more likely to get around the key without pushing down as hard or having to bottom the key out.

I guess CM won't include a key like that.

Most likely yeah, does filco include a wire puller? I'm not clear on the launch date but it should be soon.

Filco usually comes with a wire puller.

You can also buy them separately at certain places.

[YuukiHaruto]

Could we get some pictures of the guts? PCB details please!

Matt3o had already posted it. since it's not mine I'm not taking it apart

[rowdy]

Available in all countries - that sounds promising

It will be interesting to see how the prices compare across regions.

[demik]

Wow did they fix the font? And that looks like dyesub legends instead of laser etched infills. I might be wrong

Dont even think that matters. Enthusiasts are waiting for this board and we all know theyll switch the caps asap

[CommonCurt]

Could we get some pictures of the guts? PCB details please!

Here's Matt3o's picture of the PCB.

[SSIPAK]

Show Image

Cooler Master's gaming division CM STORM is preparing to launch a new keyboard.

Show Image

Show Image

Show Image

Show Image

Show Image

"Oh no, not another keyboard again?!" Well this one is entirely radically new and different. That's why I'm here to give my First Impressions
I want to start of with why this keyboard is different.
Firstly, it will be the FIRST mass-manufactured and sold keyboard that can be found in every country and not just from elitekeyboards if you are in the states. (IIRC)
Secondly, it has compatibility with your Cherry MX-compatible keycaps

Show Image

Lastly, it's ... well, just look at it. No-nonsense attitude to style and simplicity.
Key features? MX compatible topre capacitive switches, Right angled gold plated micro USB connector for the keyboard, Rubber case, media keys and it's NOT made in china that's for sure.

Performance : The experience for me on this keyboard can only be described as "heavenly" It feels MUCH better than a brown (which we all know to be reds with sand thrown on it) because of the far heavier bump (An actually useful bump) but it it as well an entirely different feel all together due to the fact that MX switches feel "empty" compared to the Topres.
Otherwise, it is a really good feeling switch the topres.

Build quality : As expected from CM it is built well. The chassis is solid and has NO flex at all in every direction

Problems : There are a couple of problems, either it is because MX keys have longer key travel than topre keys OR CM has issues with their key travel. The reason for that is that when you use a key remover to try and pry a key out the keycap is pushed to the very bottom making it highly impossible to remove keycaps if at all.
I see the above problem as spoiling the point of this keyboard because this keyboard is about being the FIRST customizable topre (in terms of keycaps) but it takes so much effort to remove them.

So do I like it? Oh yes I do. I can live with the above problem (swap all the keycaps for just one time) to use it. That's how much I like it.
What about the TKL format? I much prefer it over the TK format because I don't need numpad. TK format is just extra unnecessary clutter

So here you go, the typing test

is this your first topre keyboard? If not, I want to know what you think about novatouch compare to other topre keyboards. by the way thanks for your review  :thumb:

[YuukiHaruto]

is this your first topre keyboard? If not, I want to know what you think about novatouch compare to other topre keyboards. by the way thanks for your review 

It is indeed my first topre keyboard. But I had used a Type heaven (the cheapo made in china topre) and i didn't like it at all.

[demik]

Did the whole OP REALLY need to get quoted just to ask him/her if that was their first topre board?

[YuukiHaruto]

Did the whole OP REALLY need to get quoted just to ask him/her if that was their first topre board?

It's a he 

[luckynet]

Did the whole OP REALLY need to get quoted just to ask him/her if that was their first topre board?

It's a he 

most male asian hands looks like a girls hand. hihihi

[Latin00032]

Did the whole OP REALLY need to get quoted just to ask him/her if that was their first topre board?

It's a he 

most male asian hands looks like a girls hand. hihihi

You're just confused because his thumbs bend backwards.

[Novus]

Did the whole OP REALLY need to get quoted just to ask him/her if that was their first topre board?

It's a he 

most male asian hands looks like a girls hand. hihihi

You're just confused because his thumbs bend backwards.

[Mod Edit: Language; this is a family friendly forum, please refrain from vulgar comments especially if they're off topic]

[swill]

Build quality : As expected from CM it is built well.

Haha. You must not own very many CMs. At least with the QFR, when the solder joints fail you can just open it up and resolder it. When this thing fails it is probably going to be much harder to fix. Luckily you will probably be able to harvest the stems and get half the cost of the board back when it fails though.

[SSIPAK]

Build quality : As expected from CM it is built well.

Haha. You must not own very many CMs. At least with the QFR, when the solder joints fail you can just open it up and resolder it. When this thing fails it is probably going to be much harder to fix. Luckily you will probably be able to harvest the stems and get half the cost of the board back when it fails though.

I also thought it was funny when I read "As expected" but I guess to each his own.

[rowdy]

Did the whole OP REALLY need to get quoted just to ask him/her if that was their first topre board?

It's a he 

most male asian hands looks like a girls hand. hihihi

You're just confused because his thumbs bend backwards.

My thumbs bend backwards too!

Maybe I should get a Novatouch?

[YuukiHaruto]

Build quality : As expected from CM it is built well.

Haha. You must not own very many CMs. At least with the QFR, when the solder joints fail you can just open it up and resolder it. When this thing fails it is probably going to be much harder to fix. Luckily you will probably be able to harvest the stems and get half the cost of the board back when it fails though.

I do own a lot of CMs. The CM Storm QFR (which i sold just a few months back) I now have the Trigger Z and the Ultimate (which i also sold) and also the MECH
It's only the XT which is the real minger.

[YuukiHaruto]

Did the whole OP REALLY need to get quoted just to ask him/her if that was their first topre board?

It's a he 

most male asian hands looks like a girls hand. hihihi

You're just confused because his thumbs bend backwards.

My thumbs bend backwards too!

Maybe I should get a Novatouch?

You must 

[rowdy]

You're just confused because his thumbs bend backwards.

My thumbs bend backwards too!

Maybe I should get a Novatouch?

You must 

If only they were 55g - my 45g HHKB always feels a bit too light.

[YuukiHaruto]

You're just confused because his thumbs bend backwards.

My thumbs bend backwards too!

Maybe I should get a Novatouch?

You must 

If only they were 55g - my 45g HHKB always feels a bit too light.

Coming from blues I don't mind the 45g at all. I love it over blues 

[rowdy]

You're just confused because his thumbs bend backwards.

My thumbs bend backwards too!

Maybe I should get a Novatouch?

You must 

If only they were 55g - my 45g HHKB always feels a bit too light.

Coming from blues I don't mind the 45g at all. I love it over blues 

Blues are too light, I prefer greens

Reds are way too light, I prefer blacks.

45g HHKB is a bit too light, I'd like to try 55g Topre and I have a feeling that I would really like it.

Have you heard anything about a possible future 55g Novatouch?

[atlas3686]

You're just confused because his thumbs bend backwards.

My thumbs bend backwards too!

Maybe I should get a Novatouch?

You must 

If only they were 55g - my 45g HHKB always feels a bit too light.

Coming from blues I don't mind the 45g at all. I love it over blues 

Blues are too light, I prefer greens

Reds are way too light, I prefer blacks.

45g HHKB is a bit too light, I'd like to try 55g Topre and I have a feeling that I would really like it.

Have you heard anything about a possible future 55g Novatouch?

You won't regret 55g Rowdy, I was also looking for something heavier and 55g did not disappoint, it's my favourite now.

[tjcaustin]

You're just confused because his thumbs bend backwards.

My thumbs bend backwards too!

Maybe I should get a Novatouch?

You must 

If only they were 55g - my 45g HHKB always feels a bit too light.

Coming from blues I don't mind the 45g at all. I love it over blues 

Blues are too light, I prefer greens

Reds are way too light, I prefer blacks.

45g HHKB is a bit too light, I'd like to try 55g Topre and I have a feeling that I would really like it.

Have you heard anything about a possible future 55g Novatouch?

Carter has mentioned the ideas of this being a larger line dependent on how well this performs for their bottom line.  Of course, if everything is to be believed as shown, I'd be shocked if the same 55g mod that's done to the hhkb can't be done to this.

[atlas3686]

Carter has mentioned the ideas of this being a larger line dependent on how well this performs for their bottom line.  Of course, if everything is to be believed as shown, I'd be shocked if the same 55g mod that's done to the hhkb can't be done to this.

I doubt that will happen though, surely most people would rather swap the sliders into the 55g.

[YuukiHaruto]

If you look on deskthority you will find that CM Bram said that if the 45g sells well, 30g and 55g might be in the pipeline

[rowdy]

If you look on deskthority you will find that CM Bram said that if the 45g sells well, 30g and 55g might be in the pipeline

Surprisingly many people seem to like lighter switches, including 30g Topre

Me, I think I'll wait for 55g.

I've kind of used up all my other half's patience with keyboards, so I can maybe only get one or two more.

At the moment those would be SSK and 55g Novatouch.

[blackbox]

Nice review! Too bad that it is clumsy to change the keycaps.

[dustinhxc]

Holy crap those sliders are sexy..

[YuukiHaruto]

Holy crap those sliders are sexy..

There's a certain appeal to them 

Nice review! Too bad that it is clumsy to change the keycaps.

With the plastic keycap removers that is. The CM ones don't snap easily but they really damage thin keycaps 

[blackbox]

Nice review! Too bad that it is clumsy to change the keycaps.

With the plastic keycap removers that is. The CM ones don't snap easily but they really damage thin keycaps 
[/quote]

Thanks for pointing that out. I have an CM keycap puller but I waiting to get my wire keycap puller.

[lunr]

I'll be all over it if it was 55g.

[YuukiHaruto]

I'll be all over it if it was 55g.

If 45g sells brilliantly, they will put 55g into production. If you guys do want the 55g please tell a CM rep 

[rowdy]

I'll be all over it if it was 55g.

If 45g sells brilliantly, they will put 55g into production. If you guys do want the 55g please tell a CM rep 

CM reps please hear: WE WANT 55G!!!

[Matt3o]

I'd be shocked if the same 55g mod that's done to the hhkb can't be done to this.

Novatouch domes are all on one big chunk of rubber (contrary to all other Topres I have). Meaning that you can put 55g into it, but it might be difficult to reuse the original novatouch domes on other keyboards. I haven't tried myself, but I could give a quick shot on a realforce.

Of course you can always cut it.

[mkawa]

i thought you had to cut the other realforce boards as well? odd.

[Matt3o]

i thought you had to cut the other realforce boards as well? odd.

mine is in 6-7 chunks