CM Storm QuickFire TK

[Hyde]

LOL I went to the CM Storm site to look at the CM Storm Recon Mouse because I'm getting impatient waiting for the store release and I'm obsessed, then I'm like ok I'm here already might as well take a look at keyboard.  Then I was like omg what is this 

http://www.cmstorm.com/en/products/keyboards/Quick%20Fire%20TK/

It's basically you take the full backlight from Trigger (Add blue and white) + form factor from QuickFire Rapid + the design for QuickFire Pro.  Then you have this crazy looking keyboard that's kind of cool.

I wonder if you pick 1 color LED when you buy it or is it multi-color?  Does such technology exist yet?  (I've seen the Costar demo with 2 color but not sure if 3 is possible)

Though us being geekhackers are super anal about point of origin.  Carter once said "we'll never use iOne again" let's hope it's true with this keyboard

[sth]

too bad about the backlighting LEDs and the indicator light area design. i wish more companies would embrace the 96key formfactor instead of TKL.

[absyrd]

Yeah. I hope the same as you do about it.

I'm guessing you can't change the LED color.

[alaricljs]

  uneven mods. 

[Hyde]

too bad about the backlighting LEDs and the indicator light area design. i wish more companies would embrace the 96key formfactor instead of TKL.

Yeah I was gonna say, I guess you can see they already tried to implement the "less is more" design philosophy if you compare this to QuickFire Pro also the new case QuickFire Rapid.  But I still wish they design the indicator light area a bit simpler / streamlined and less "I am a gamer rawr" look to it.  They should just use the same shape as Filco and make a QuickFire Rapid 104 or something (In this case 96).

Though the rest of the keyboard seems to be pretty good.  Really feel like they took the customer feedback and put it into this board.  Red, Blue, White being the 3 most popular color, halfway between full size and tenkeyless, simpler design (they tried, though could made it simpler as I find case design is their weakest point), available in all switches... etc.

I'd say good job CM Storm!  Let's see if this sells lol 

[tjcaustin]

Ahh, this is the one Carter was talking about a couple days ago when he saw the mock ups in the miniphantom thread.

I wonder what price will be and who actually makes the bits and pieces.  Depending on the answers to that, I may be regretting getting a yotd...

[w4rtortle]

Wow very torn between waiting for this or just grabbing a CM tigger now, they seem very similar...

When is this one out?

[WhiteFireDragon]

Bottom row looks like razer's black widow. I'm wondering if it's the same OEM. Which OEM makes black widow again? This really looks like TheProfosist's modified phantom layout.

http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=34909.30

[FoxWolf1]

Definitely like the layout! Brings PgUp and PgDown closer to the arrows, which is good; plus you get the number pad when you want it.

A couple of things worry me about the keyboard, though...

First of all, weight is listed at a mere 544 g/1.2 lbs. That statistic gives me cause for concern about the toughness of this board.

Secondly, keycaps are described as "ABS, grip coated". I realize that I say the exact same thing about any backlit keyboard that isn't a Deck, but I worry about how well the coating will stand up under wear...and what the keycaps will look like once the coating starts to wear off.

[Hyde]

Mmmmm I wouldn't worry too much about the coating, because like you said it's the same for almost any backlit mechanical keyboard.  Haven't heard too many stories about key wearing off yet.

As for the weight, could it be that they use PCB mount to reduce weight?  (Easier to carry to LAN parties)

Though the only thing that really worries me is that judging by the window key size it's might be made by iOne 

[tjcaustin]

Bottom row looks like razer's black widow. I'm wondering if it's the same OEM. Which OEM makes black widow again? This really looks like TheProfosist's modified phantom layout.

http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=34909.30

iOne makes the BW, if that's the case I'm a little more meh about it.  I messaged carter just to see if I could get some info about it, hopefully he responds.

And I'm torn.  Do I wish this is an iOne so that I'm not sad that I just got a ducky yotd or do I wish it's costar like the rapid so I get one of these and get rid of the ducky (assuming led functionality is similar).

[WhiteFireDragon]

tjcaustin, I'm 95% sure this is just basic backlighting and not like the LED lightshow from the ducky YotD. This new quickfire most likely is not Costar either, because I don't think Costar makes LED boards.

[w4rtortle]

I thought the trigger was costar along with the QFR?

[alaricljs]

Costar started making LED boards, they demoed one at a trade show... Nothing complicated tho, and apparently they have a new rev of their stabilizers to support switches w/ LEDs.  Now to dig up those blasted pics.

[WhiteFireDragon]

Costar started making LED boards

Thanks for the info... I did not know this before.

[alaricljs]

Found vid on YT -

Note the bi-color LEDs are 3mm 2 lead LEDs where driving it in 1 direction you get RED and opposite direction you get GREEN.  No mixing, so you couldn't do red/blue/purple for instance (which would be awesome damnit).

[alaricljs]

Trigger is Costar

As for your question.  I'd recommend getting CM Storm QuickFire rapid with MX Red, since it's made by Costar.  While CM Storm Trigger and CM Strom QuickFire Pro are made by iOne.

Costar manufactures Filco, WASD Keyboards, Das Keyboards, ThermalTake Mekka G1... etc
iOne manufactures Razer Blackwidow, iOne, Max Keyboards, QPad, XAmor... etc

In short Costar > iOne build quality.

First of all, Trigger is made by Costar.

Second of all, both Reds and Blues are on the way but will be about 1.5-2 months before they hit the channels.

[WhiteFireDragon]

I wonder why there were so many words around that Trigger was made by iOne. Maybe it was confused with the Pro model.

[esoomenona]

.

[Hyde]

I wonder why there were so many words around that Trigger was made by iOne. Maybe it was confused with the Pro model.

I think people are just not used to Costar making backlit board, so people just jump to backlit = iOne.

Though now that I think about it Costar also makes Mionix Zibal 60 which is also another backlit keyboard.  If only they have different LED colour and different switches.  I guess at least Thermaltake is on their way of releasing backlit MEKA G1 with different switches so just be patient I guess

I like this set up. Is there any news on when it might be available?

lol no clue I just saw it on the site today.

[Carter]

Ok guys,

Will put a few rumors to rest..


Board is not made by iOne, but not Costar.... Build quality is awesome though.

LED + Backplate will match switch color. (Except for Brown switch: White + White)

Cannot give actual launch date but will be soon & first switch type to hit will be Blue (Blue backplate/Blue LED)

[Sifo]

Blue backplate... I might have to get one just for that.

[FoxWolf1]

So will the MX Black version have a black backlight?

[w4rtortle]

ok im going to grab a cm storm trigger for now and then wait for the red version of this guy if the reviews are decent. thanks for the info

[tjcaustin]

Hooray, can still get the duck for now

[Carter]

I will say, this is not the only backlit project of some very much wanted boards to come.

[shadewolf]

Wow, looks pretty interesting.

Thanks for the extra info Carter

[TheProfosist]

Nice looks close to my layout (you should hire me as a layout consultant ) i wonder how close couldnt really tell on my phone from the gallery pictures ill have to look on my pc in the morning. Any way i could get a review sample possibly?

[RickyJ]

There is no one single keyboard for everyone, and I'm very happy to see that Carter and his team are trying to give more people some solid choices. Keep it up!

[ferociousfingerings]

Almost there...

Now, just slap a volume roller-knob and some macro keys on the left side, and we're golden. 

Oh, and let me swap between purple and green backlighting. Red and/or Blue, i can do without. ^^

[TheProfosist]

Almost there...

Now, just slap a volume roller-knob and some macro keys on the left side, and we're golden. 

Oh, and let me swap between purple and green backlighting. Red and/or Blue, i can do without. ^^

that would kinda defeat the purpose of the formfactor.

[Zifle]

Looks interesting, although I'm saddened to see a "non-standard" spacebar (6.5 units).
I'd be much more drawn to it, were it not for that (which, as mentioned earlier, also affects the modifiers on the same row) =/

[WhiteFireDragon]

Now, just slap a volume roller-knob and some macro keys on the left side, and we're golden. 

Actually, don't do that. That's just more gimmick, and it would be better to keep this keyboard as simple as possible. Emphasis is on the hybrid form factor.

[ferociousfingerings]

Almost there...

Now, just slap a volume roller-knob and some macro keys on the left side, and we're golden. 

Oh, and let me swap between purple and green backlighting. Red and/or Blue, i can do without. ^^

that would kinda defeat the purpose of the formfactor.

Well... if the unused left side of your board is all that important, i suppose it might.

OTH: There's a whole lot of stuff between my right shift key and my mouse, that really doesn't need to be there.

I thought the "whole purpose" of shaving stuff from the right side of the board, was so you didn't have to reach left to type, or reach far right for the mouse, if you instead chose to "center" your board for typing.

And the only reason to keep the tenkey at all (or the "edit cluster"), IMO, is because of using it for something other than gaming, and wanting a familiar layout, and for not needing multiple-keys to find a typically single-key function (as one would need to do with any "mini" board).

Honestly... let's just take the whole arrow/edit/tenkey cluster, stick it all on the left, and make it "programmable" like "macro keys." Then we can keep our alpha-box centered, and have our mouse directly beside it... and, a cluster full of multifunctional "macro keys" on the left.

lol.

Or... anyone know if the g13 can be used as a "arrow/edit/tenkey" hybrid cluster? If so, maybe i should just grab one of those and a Pure (If only i could find one w/ the right switches and colors; too bad there's no cherry-g13).

Now, just slap a volume roller-knob and some macro keys on the left side, and we're golden. 

Actually, don't do that. That's just more gimmick, and it would be better to keep this keyboard as simple as possible. Emphasis is on the hybrid form factor.

I honestly thought "the whole purpose" of condensing the right side of the board, was because of how no one really likes having to reach to the left, to type... or centering the board for typing, and then having to reach far right for the mouse... or having to own a separate tenkey-device...

I guess it's about "desk space" for some... but for me it's more about centering, with as "least astonishment" as possible.

I got plenty of room to the left. Even more if i can move my board over, the width of the subtracted "arrow/edit" space. I don't see how 1-2 columns of macro keys (on the left!) would "defeat the purpose." In fact... getting stuff out of the way, and putting it on the other side, seems to me to fit the (*my) purpose, quite well. ^^


Ultimately, i feel this "hybrid cluster" layout, is based on a compromise, attempting to achieve an acceptable middle-ground.

I see it as a placement thing, rather than a space/size thing.


Either way... i think it's great this board is being made, even if it doesn't have macro keys... whether i end up with one or not.

[ferociousfingerings]

Something like this... would be pretty great, IMO.

[gameaholic]

Something like this... would be pretty great, IMO.

+1

That would be a great form factor.  Just enough macros on the left and a regular numpad for when you want it (although I am kinda used to not having it after two TKL keyboards).  I'd also like a detachable wrist rest.  I'm still not a fan of the font of the lettering on the keys.  For the backlighting it lists 5 levels and 3 modes.  The two modes I most liked from the Ducky YOTD are the reactive mode (where the keys light up when you press them) and the profile where you can pick which ones stay lit (I would just keep the WASD lit prob).

You know what, scratch the macros on the side. CM need to just make a mechanical competitor to the Logitech G13 and Razer Nostromo.     

[absyrd]

I will say, this is not the only backlit project of some very much wanted boards to come.

Interesting.

Can you give us an approx MSRP on the TK?

[Soarer]

Not bad... near-TheProfosist quality layout and near-Soarer quality USB code... a decent effort

Just kidding! It's not quite my ideal 'board, but it's great to see a 96-key layout (albeit minus a couple of keys). I hope it's a success... big enough to pull a bandwagon of different takes on the theme from other makers. I'd rather have a more sober design, and no backlighting, but I wouldn't expect that to come from CM - they have their style, and I think commercially it's a good balance between sober and 'gamer-rawr'.

[Hyde]

LED + Backplate will match switch color. (Except for Brown switch: White + White)

What's wrong with brown light?  LOL jk but nooooo I like blue LED but I prefer brown or red switches 

Now, just slap a volume roller-knob and some macro keys on the left side, and we're golden. 

I actually avoid buying keyboard with macros, I have no use of it and I keep hitting it by accident when I try to do copy and paste shortcuts (left ctrl) so it's actually very annoying for me.

I'm still not a fan of the font of the lettering on the keys.

Am I the only one that thinks the font used in Blackwidow and this looks futuristic and stylish?  I mean if it's not backlit then yeah it looks kind of annoying, but with backlit version it looks amazing.

[esoomenona]

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[TheProfosist]

I actually avoid buying keyboard with macros, I have no use of it and I keep hitting it by accident when I try to do copy and paste shortcuts (left ctrl) so it's actually very annoying for me.

Set up macros for copy and paste

their on my G600

[ferociousfingerings]

the reactive mode (where the keys light up when you press them) and the profile where you can pick which ones stay lit (I would just keep the WASD lit prob).

I'd like to see a "negative" reactive mode... where all keys are lit (alternatively: those you chose to keep lit), and temporarily turn off, as you press them.
Also, more picking which keys are lit.

CM need to just make a mechanical competitor to the Logitech G13 and Razer Nostromo.     

This. And also, Both Logitech and Razer should go ahead and make mech versions of these. Or at least "mechanize" their successors.

[Hyde]

I actually avoid buying keyboard with macros, I have no use of it and I keep hitting it by accident when I try to do copy and paste shortcuts (left ctrl) so it's actually very annoying for me.

Set up macros for copy and paste

But I use Maya and Photoshop there's just way too many combinations of shortcuts that I need that involves the left ctrl, shift, and alt.  Also I don't want to mess up my muscle memory then when I go to work and can't use generic keyboard (Although I brought my keyboard to work lol).

In short I'd rather avoid the headache with macro keys.  Plus I like my esc key on the top left corner close to the edge of keyboard.  Esc key on keyboards with macro column has this annoying extra boarder.

[esoomenona]

.

[boredgunner]

Not iOne, not Costar, interesting... I would have guessed iOne since it looks like the QF Pro, has some of the same secondary functions, and likewise has NKRO in USB.  Can it do PS/2?  I would assume not, but I have to ask.  I will see about getting a review sample when the time comes.  Interesting TKL design. 

[Daniel Beaver]

rawr, want

Not available in the USA yet?

[TheQsanity]

CM is giving me the the biggest nerdgasim atm! Even bigger than what Razer would give me cause!
Razer's like the hot chick that you just want to play with then get bored with...She aint cheap either.
CM is like a girl that knows everything you want and more...at a great price!

[Hyde]

CM is giving me the the biggest nerdgasim atm! Even bigger than what Razer would give me cause!
Razer's like the hot chick that you just want to play with then get bored with...She aint cheap either.
CM is like a girl that knows everything you want and more...at a great price!

Well said lol

[IvanIvanovich]

Not sure if I like this or the Plum 96 more... guess will have to wait and see where the price falls on these. Only thing I;m not sure about is that bottom row. Seems to be the same as the new logitech too, wonder who this mystery oem is?

[TheQsanity]

Not sure if I like this or the Plum 96 more... guess will have to wait and see where the price falls on these. Only thing I;m not sure about is that bottom row. Seems to be the same as the new logitech too, wonder who this mystery oem is?

How much are the Plums?

[ferociousfingerings]

Not sure if I like this or the Plum 96 more... guess will have to wait and see where the price falls on these. Only thing I;m not sure about is that bottom row. Seems to be the same as the new logitech too, wonder who this mystery oem is?

How much are the Plums?

"AFAIK:" ~$99 shipped, through imsto.
And, the plum supposedly has holes ready for "DIY" backlighting, if you're into that.

[TheQsanity]

Not sure if I like this or the Plum 96 more... guess will have to wait and see where the price falls on these. Only thing I;m not sure about is that bottom row. Seems to be the same as the new logitech too, wonder who this mystery oem is?

How much are the Plums?

"AFAIK:" ~$99 shipped, through imsto.
And, the plum supposedly has holes ready for "DIY" backlighting, if you're into that.

Haven't done much research on them. Seems popular though.

[Binge]

They only have switch options in black.  That sort of limits my interest.

[AJCarrington]

Am very interested in this one...just when I thought I had kicked the habit...

[TheQsanity]

Don't they come in all four standard key-types if you are talking about the TK.

[ferociousfingerings]

CM is giving me the the biggest nerdgasim atm! Even bigger than what Razer would give me cause!
Razer's like the hot chick that you just want to play with then get bored with...She aint cheap either.
CM is like a girl that knows everything you want and more...at a great price!

Well... "she" is certainly no "Logitech." lol.

[Binge]

Don't they come in all four standard key-types if you are talking about the TK.

Talkin bout the PLUM my friend, talkin bout the PLUM

[tp4tissue]

Guys seriously, How hard is this,, screwtkl,, this is all i need.  )

For the longest time, arguing layouts, I don't know why they don't just make this... we already have all the pieces are RIGHT THERE>  )

[TheQsanity]

CM is giving me the the biggest nerdgasim atm! Even bigger than what Razer would give me cause!
Razer's like the hot chick that you just want to play with then get bored with...She aint cheap either.
CM is like a girl that knows everything you want and more...at a great price!

Well... "she" is certainly no "Logitech." lol.

Logitech is like that girl that was hot but is still living in the early 00's so she has no idea what is hot right now.(kinda like Sony, falling behind in the race)

She has some nice Rubber-domes but get pretty worn out and needs to be replaced often(K100)

So she's the chick that will always be there for you even when you can't pay for CM or Razer.

She has many sisters that come various shapes and sizes for a low price!

Did I mention that she has cousins that sings, takes pictures, points and clicks, and various other things, also for a cheap yet reliable price!

[TheQsanity]

Guys seriously, How hard is this,, screwtkl,, this is all i need.  )

For the longest time, arguing layouts, I don't know why they don't just make this... we already have all the pieces are RIGHT THERE>  )

mmh... I do like the Microsoft Sidewinder...(but not the price, probably consider getting it if it was mechanical).

Been wondering why no one else likes the left hand number pad. Helps for lots of games!

[esoomenona]

.

[TheQsanity]

I'm so used to using my right hand on the numpad, but I think I could get used to it with my left. And having it next to the escape key would help a lot for one-handed calculating.

Same here I'm more left handed when it comes to keyboards.

[Skull_Angel]

Nice looking layout, but if it's not iOne or Costar... and the build quality is awesome, who is it? 

[RickyJ]

I started using my left hand for the numpad ages ago, let's me click through spreadsheets or other data entry stuff and enter numbers much faster.  Crossing my left hand to the right got quite annoying after a while, so I went tenkeyless and got a mechanical numpad that I put on the left when I have to enter lots of numbers.  I'm quicker with the num-row now than before, but I touch-type the numpad left-handed very easily.

DSI has an Alps keyboard with the numpad on the left (linky), but you'll get better options by going the separate numpad route.  Mine lives under my monitor when not in use, so it doesn't take up any unnecessary real-estate.

[sth]

after looking at this board again i am a little more into it, except for the keycaps (whats up with the 2, 0 and 00 being white on the numpad? not very consistent...) and the size of the modifiers on the bottom row (seriously, a nonstandard space bar? 1.25, 1.5 AND 1x modifiers why???).

i think this board would look great with some black cherry DS or dolch but that's not possible because of the layout. so instead of probably not buying one i definitely wont... CM will not cry over losing me as a potential customer though

[WhiteFireDragon]

The space bar size is 7.5x, which will be impossible to replace unless you get a custom one somewhere. You'll be a the mercy of a shiny space bar with no replacements, or when doing full keycap sets, the spacebar won't match.

[tjcaustin]

That is a really weird bottom row layout.  I mean, they put those ugly caps on, wouldn't they expect us ultranerds to want to make it pretty?

[dorkvader]

The space bar size is 7.5x, which will be impossible to replace unless you get a custom one somewhere. You'll be a the mercy of a shiny space bar with no replacements, or when doing full keycap sets, the spacebar won't match.

Are you sure? By measuring the modifiers, I get that it's only 0.25 longer.

On a normal keyboard, you have 7*1.25 = 8.75 taken up by the modifiers
On this it's 1.5+1+1.25+1.25+1+1+1.5 = 2*1.5+2*1.25+3*1= 8.50 taken up by the modifiers

So instead of 6.25 it's 6.5 or so, I think?

[alaricljs]

Just looking at the alpha row above the space it looks like 6.5

[Soarer]

So is it made by Logitech?!

Check the bottom row of the new G710... and the font... and the 'high' position of text on keys (ok, that's just for nice backlighting)...

[alaricljs]

The high position (of text) on both boards is to deal with backlighting...

I have my doubts that Logitech is actually manufacturing their own first mech board.

[tp4tissue]

Nice looking layout, but if it's not iOne or Costar... and the build quality is awesome, who is it? 

I just realized,  If you say  i-rock, really fast,  it sounds like IRAQ, you know the one with saddam... coincidence? I think not.

If we assume they put a little block of c4 in every keyboard,  we're actually getting a fantastic deal, that stuff is uber expensive. 

[mangostea]

From looking at the G710, I noticed that the volume scroll wheel looks really close to the ones found on the Corsair boards, and the bottom row matches the layout. Possibly the same OEM as corsair? The layouts are basically identical to the K90. If that is the case, then quality shouldn't be a huge issue since the Corsair boards are built quite well.

[WhiteFireDragon]

The space bar size is 7.5x, which will be impossible to replace unless you get a custom one somewhere. You'll be a the mercy of a shiny space bar with no replacements, or when doing full keycap sets, the spacebar won't match.

Are you sure? By measuring the modifiers, I get that it's only 0.25 longer.

On a normal keyboard, you have 7*1.25 = 8.75 taken up by the modifiers
On this it's 1.5+1+1.25+1.25+1+1+1.5 = 2*1.5+2*1.25+3*1= 8.50 taken up by the modifiers

So instead of 6.25 it's 6.5 or so, I think?

You're right, initially I only added (1.5 + 1 + 1.25)*2 for the modifiers. I forgot to account for the one extra 1x key on the right side, so yeah it's a 6.5x space bar. But that's still no a standard size we can replace.

[tp4tissue]

From looking at the G710, I noticed that the volume scroll wheel looks really close to the ones found on the Corsair boards, and the bottom row matches the layout. Possibly the same OEM as corsair? The layouts are basically identical to the K90. If that is the case, then quality shouldn't be a huge issue since the Corsair boards are built quite well.

Heck no, corsair boards should all be recalled... they still haven't fixed the key sticking issue which is evident in EVERY single board they've sold EVER.

The corsair boards based on layout is probably iONE, towards which Geekhack is confidently "not a fan."

[TheQsanity]

From looking at the G710, I noticed that the volume scroll wheel looks really close to the ones found on the Corsair boards, and the bottom row matches the layout. Possibly the same OEM as corsair? The layouts are basically identical to the K90. If that is the case, then quality shouldn't be a huge issue since the Corsair boards are built quite well.

Heck no, corsair boards should all be recalled... they still haven't fixed the key sticking issue which is evident in EVERY single board they've sold EVER.

The corsair boards based on layout is probably iONE, towards which Geekhack is confidently "not a fan."

I have tried out the k90 and k60 and I am not a fan of their space bars. Maybe it is better for gaming but I do prefer the normal space bar with the stabilizer bar.

[TheProfosist]

From looking at the G710, I noticed that the volume scroll wheel looks really close to the ones found on the Corsair boards, and the bottom row matches the layout. Possibly the same OEM as corsair? The layouts are basically identical to the K90. If that is the case, then quality shouldn't be a huge issue since the Corsair boards are built quite well.

Heck no, corsair boards should all be recalled... they still haven't fixed the key sticking issue which is evident in EVERY single board they've sold EVER.

The corsair boards based on layout is probably iONE, towards which Geekhack is confidently "not a fan."

I have tried out the k90 and k60 and I am not a fan of their space bars. Maybe it is better for gaming but I do prefer the normal space bar with the stabilizer bar.

it still has a stabilizer bar its just underneath the plate if i remember correctly.

[aznsilvrboy]

Product no longer on CM website?

[cosmonauti]

^ yeah that's strange, I was just getting excited about this too

[tjcaustin]

I can almost guarantee it wasn't supposed to be publicly visible yet and one of the codemonkeys that run the website didn't set it up to be internal eyes only.

[TheQsanity]

I can almost guarantee it wasn't supposed to be publicly visible yet and one of the codemonkeys that run the website didn't set it up to be internal eyes only.

Be honored we have witnessed something that will not be witnessed again for another...[suspense]... half year!

[cosmonauti]

I know that's what happened tj.

First will be Blue+Blue? Why not Red+Red?

[laffindude]

Ok guys,

Will put a few rumors to rest..


Board is not made by iOne, but not Costar.... Build quality is awesome though.

LED + Backplate will match switch color. (Except for Brown switch: White + White)

Ahh carter, thanks for being straight up. Care to give a rough range of pricing? I'll add one to the collection... eventhough I really shouldn't. I wasted 1.5k on boards this year already with a few more coming ;o

Datacomp board?

Guys seriously, How hard is this,, screwtkl,, this is all i need.  )

For the longest time, arguing layouts, I don't know why they don't just make this... we already have all the pieces are RIGHT THERE>  )

Something like that has been in planning for awhile. I'll go poke for some information.

[cosmonauti]

Still wondering about this...


WHERE OH WHERE

[cosmonauti]

all the colors here: http://www.gnd-tech.com/content/919-Cooler-Master-Storm-QuickFire-TK-Announced

[alaricljs]

Hmmmmm

 North America will be carrying 3 models.
Blue Switch / Blue Backplate / Blue LED
Red Switch / Red Backplate / Red LED
Brown Switch / White Backplate / White LED

[tp4tissue]

Hmmmmm

 North America will be carrying 3 models.
Blue Switch / Blue Backplate / Blue LED
Red Switch / Red Backplate / Red LED
Brown Switch / White Backplate / White LED

white backplate would get dirty and kinda disgusting. LOL

[TheQsanity]

Hmmmmm

 North America will be carrying 3 models.
Blue Switch / Blue Backplate / Blue LED
Red Switch / Red Backplate / Red LED
Brown Switch / White Backplate / White LED

white backplate would get dirty and kinda disgusting. LOL

They all look sexy. Hey at least white won't show lint

[esoomenona]

.

[TheQsanity]

As you can see, the QuickFire TK continues a Tenkeyless form factor like the QuickFire Rapid. This means that about ten keys are missing, compared to a normal keyboard.

O_o

Tenkeyless is normally missing more than 10 keys lol. 17+ to be exact.

[tjcaustin]

Hmmmmm

 North America will be carrying 3 models.
Blue Switch / Blue Backplate / Blue LED
Red Switch / Red Backplate / Red LED
Brown Switch / White Backplate / White LED

I see brown backplate on the website...

[rowdy]

It's the only one where the LED colour does not match everything else.

But there again do brown LEDs even exist?

[tjcaustin]

I wouldn't imagine it possible unless they used white LEDs with a brown translucent cover.

But I was more correcting that the plate is brown, not white.

[Carter]

I wouldn't imagine it possible unless they used white LEDs with a brown translucent cover.

But I was more correcting that the plate is brown, not white.

Printing mistake, Originally it was to be a brown plate, but has been changed to white for retail version.

[IvanIvanovich]

Closest led to brown is amber, but thats more orange. If it was up to me I would do that.
switch - led
brown - orange
red - red
blue - blue
black - purple
and if it was going to be offered
white - white
green - green
clear - infra red LOL

[mariusmssj]

Any ideas if it will have UK ISO layout?

[cosmonauti]

Carter any ETA?

[Glockateer]

Although I don't care if it has backlighting or not... this form factor is what I've personally wanted for a while. Excellent. (:

[kwang2009]

http://www.cmstore-usa.com/quickfire-tk-mechanical-gaming-keyboard/ LOL

[Bry]

Why do all these companies feel the need to use such retarded fonts..

[nullstring]

http://www.cmstore-usa.com/quickfire-tk-mechanical-gaming-keyboard/ LOL

No browns. I feel as though I as was expecting this.

[absyrd]

http://www.cmstore-usa.com/quickfire-tk-mechanical-gaming-keyboard/ LOL

No browns. I feel as though I as was expecting this.

Carter said in one of these threads that there would be a delay on the mx brown version.

[TheQsanity]

Why do all these companies feel the need to use such retarded fonts..

To better interest the retard crowd. Duh.

[Hyde]

Why do all these companies feel the need to use such retarded fonts..

To better interest the retard crowd. Duh.

Am I the only one think those font look very cool an sci fi ish?  Keep in mind I own a beige filco ninja so yes I do like simple keyboards.

Though I think those font only look nice when backlit, when it's pad printed / lasered it look a bit too big.

[cosmonauti]

I too enjoy those fonts. Dated a typography major for quite some time meaning I now always judge fonts.

[nullstring]

I too enjoy those fonts. Dated a typography major for quite some time meaning I now always judge fonts.

I appall these fonts.

Cosmonauti: What is that duck in your avatar?
I've seen it various places, but I have no idea what it is

[dreamingftw]

I too enjoy those fonts. Dated a typography major for quite some time meaning I now always judge fonts.

I appall these fonts.

Cosmonauti: What is that duck in your avatar?
I've seen it various places, but I have no idea what it is

http://lmgtfy.com/?q=who+is+dolan+duck%3F

[rowdy]

The font does look kinda sci-fi, but imho not appropriate for a keyboard.

Plus, the media symbols, is it?, on the Fn keys reminds me of keyboards from the 80s where you had chunky graphics characters on them.

Plus, on the keyboard linked above, did you notice that ctrl, alt and win keys are all different sizes?

[TheQsanity]

I like the font too. It is mu ch better than razer. I just hope you can't feel the lettering.

[Binge]

I like the font too. It is mu ch better than razer. I just hope you can't feel the lettering.

You won't feel the lettering.  They are normally translucent keys dye-subbed black where light should not shine through.

[Hyde]

I too enjoy those fonts. Dated a typography major for quite some time meaning I now always judge fonts.

lol my g/f studies illustration and had to learn typography, she hated the font.  Now if only Filco is willing to make a backlit keyboard >___>

[cosmonauti]

The function keys are a bit strange, I admit to that. I'll also admit that I like razer's font styling too..

Cosmonauti: What is that duck in your avatar?
I've seen it various places, but I have no idea what it is

I put dolan in a space cage (ಠ益ಠ)

[AJCarrington]

Just ordered one of the reds...quite looking forward to trying it out.

[discomatt]

Where is the best place to check on updates for the release of the MX Brown version in North America? Looking to move over to my first mechanical, and the Ducky 9008S2 seems to be out of stock everywhere (at least in white LED with brown switches).

[Carter]

Where is the best place to check on updates for the release of the MX Brown version in North America? Looking to move over to my first mechanical, and the Ducky 9008S2 seems to be out of stock everywhere (at least in white LED with brown switches).

You have found the right place, I would have your answer....

At this point in time is comes down to one thing. We are waiting to sell out of a certain QTY in other regions before I can bring in the browns. Despite what many think, its not the shortage in brown switches that are causing TK delay.

The current TK Brown edition shipping globally has a "Brown Backplate" & when the initial material forecast is used up, it will switch to a "White Backplate" @ that point in time, I will bring it in to the US market.

Time frame is looking like Jan

[Niomosy]

Almost there...

Now, just slap a volume roller-knob and some macro keys on the left side, and we're golden. 

Oh, and let me swap between purple and green backlighting. Red and/or Blue, i can do without. ^^

that would kinda defeat the purpose of the formfactor.

Not necessarily.  It still allows the shorter reach to the mouse on the right arm.  Personally, I would love dedicated media keys on the left-hand side somewhere as well since it's easier than taking my hand off the mouse to hit the Fn key plus an F# key or whatever the next/back media buttons are.

[ficklampa]

 Linus has done an unboxing of the TK model. Looks pretty nice. Might pick one up for work. Don't like the red switches in the MK-50 I have here.

[tp4tissue]

 Linus has done an unboxing of the TK model. Looks pretty nice. Might pick one up for work. Don't like the red switches in the MK-50 I have here.

Durability of the backlit keys are always the problem.

[ficklampa]

 Linus has done an unboxing of the TK model. Looks pretty nice. Might pick one up for work. Don't like the red switches in the MK-50 I have here.

Durability of the backlit keys are always the problem.

Yes, indeed. I don't really care about the backlight though...

[Carter]

Guys I do apologize for me not being on here much. Super slammed with CES and trying to get everything back. I will double confirm arrival for brown switch as I have not been able to look at the forecast in a couple weeks. Will let everyone know tomorrow.

[Hyde]

Guys I do apologize for me not being on here much. Super slammed with CES and trying to get everything back. I will double confirm arrival for brown switch as I have not been able to look at the forecast in a couple weeks. Will let everyone know tomorrow.

Sorry not trying to hijack the thread but if you can let us know when QuickFire XT is coming that would be great too 

[Carter]

Guys I do apologize for me not being on here much. Super slammed with CES and trying to get everything back. I will double confirm arrival for brown switch as I have not been able to look at the forecast in a couple weeks. Will let everyone know tomorrow.

Sorry not trying to hijack the thread but if you can let us know when QuickFire XT is coming that would be great too 

Doing my best to push schedule but looking like late april.

Stealth will be out in about a month.

[XTF]

When will brown switches be available in the Netherlands?
And when will keyboards with menu key become available?

[neuraxis]

Hey Carter, can you comment on the TK's unorthodox bottom row and why CM have taken this approach? Just wondering, because even though many backlit keyboards I've seen have uneven spacing on that row, their key caps are still standard size—this is not the case with the TK's spacebar and CTRL keys.

[wetto]

Just got my hands on a ISO-ABNT2 Layout - Cooler Master Quick Fire TK with Cherry MX Brown.





Thing looks quite nice...

[missalaire]

Doing my best to push schedule but looking like late april.

Stealth will be out in about a month.

Any idea when we can see this white keyboard with backlighting available?

[Carter]

Doing my best to push schedule but looking like late april.

Stealth will be out in about a month.

Any idea when we can see this white keyboard with backlighting available?

Show Image

Never, I am in the process of EOL'ing the quickfire pro, as it was made by iOne which is a vendor we are discontinuing business with. We looked at bringing the white in way back when, but ultimately decided not too. We displayed it at CES becuase it matches a White/Blue theme HAF xB mod.

I am considering bringing in White TK's tho.

[rowdy]

Never, I am in the process of EOL'ing the quickfire pro, as it was made by iOne which is a vendor we are discontinuing business with. We looked at bringing the white in way back when, but ultimately decided not too. We displayed it at CES becuase it matches a White/Blue theme HAF xB mod.

I am considering bringing in White TK's tho.

That's teasing

Anyway, do you know if any of this applies to Australia?

[Hyde]

Never, I am in the process of EOL'ing the quickfire pro, as it was made by iOne which is a vendor we are discontinuing business with. We looked at bringing the white in way back when, but ultimately decided not too. We displayed it at CES becuase it matches a White/Blue theme HAF xB mod.

I am considering bringing in White TK's tho.

I'm guessing QuickFire Pro is getting replaced by QuickFire XT?  Well played CM Storm 

Also white TK would look awesome too !

[jooks1184]

So there's a chance we'll get the quickfire tk in white??   (Pls say yes......then take my money  .

[MCXL]

White keys+green illumination, winner.

Though any color really would look spectacular.

[imadeanaccounttoseepics]

Guys I do apologize for me not being on here much. Super slammed with CES and trying to get everything back. I will double confirm arrival for brown switch as I have not been able to look at the forecast in a couple weeks. Will let everyone know tomorrow.

Sorry not trying to hijack the thread but if you can let us know when QuickFire XT is coming that would be great too 

Doing my best to push schedule but looking like late april.

Stealth will be out in about a month.

Sorry but stupid question, April ETA is for the TK Browns right?

[missalaire]

Guys I do apologize for me not being on here much. Super slammed with CES and trying to get everything back. I will double confirm arrival for brown switch as I have not been able to look at the forecast in a couple weeks. Will let everyone know tomorrow.

Sorry not trying to hijack the thread but if you can let us know when QuickFire XT is coming that would be great too 

Doing my best to push schedule but looking like late april.

Stealth will be out in about a month.

Sorry but stupid question, April ETA is for the TK Browns right?

Pretty sure the April ETA is for the QuickFire XT. The TK Browns should be out now.

[imadeanaccounttoseepics]

Guys I do apologize for me not being on here much. Super slammed with CES and trying to get everything back. I will double confirm arrival for brown switch as I have not been able to look at the forecast in a couple weeks. Will let everyone know tomorrow.

Sorry not trying to hijack the thread but if you can let us know when QuickFire XT is coming that would be great too 

Doing my best to push schedule but looking like late april.

Stealth will be out in about a month.

Sorry but stupid question, April ETA is for the TK Browns right?

Pretty sure the April ETA is for the QuickFire XT. The TK Browns should be out now.

Says unavailable still on the site.

[MCXL]

I asked Carter about the availability a little while back:

Sorry, its tough to keep track of which forums i have updated and which I havent.

TK brown US version was slightly delayed further and is looking to be about mid Feb for the black bezel.

White tk w/ brown switch will most likely be late Feb.

In before "WHITE TK!!!!!!!!!!!!!?!?!!?!?!!!!!?!!?!!?!1!!!!ONE"

Just thought peeps in this here thread would like to know.

[imadeanaccounttoseepics]

I asked Carter about the availability a little while back:

Sorry, its tough to keep track of which forums i have updated and which I havent.

TK brown US version was slightly delayed further and is looking to be about mid Feb for the black bezel.

White tk w/ brown switch will most likely be late Feb.

In before "WHITE TK!!!!!!!!!!!!!?!?!!?!?!!!!!?!!?!!?!1!!!!ONE"

Just thought peeps in this here thread would like to know.

Huh?

[laffindude]

http://iqmore.tw/cm-storm-quick-fire-tk-mechanical-gaming-keyboard-review/3
Interior pix. More on page 2.

[imadeanaccounttoseepics]

http://iqmore.tw/cm-storm-quick-fire-tk-mechanical-gaming-keyboard-review/3
Interior pix. More on page 2.

Does it tell you who the manufacturer is when you open up the keyboard? Lol.

[MCXL]

Just ordered my TK with Browns off the Cooler Master store. (yea, it's on there now)

So excited to finally be replacing my Logitech K750.

[imadeanaccounttoseepics]

Just ordered my TK with Browns off the Cooler Master store. (yea, it's on there now)

So excited to finally be replacing my Logitech K750.

Wtf!? CM customer support said first week of March..
This was like a day ago, lol.

I just got the reds, oh well..

$21 to ship to Canada, .

[rootwyrm]

Hell with that, LOOK WHAT'S BACK IN STOCK.

[missalaire]

Just ordered my TK with Browns off the Cooler Master store. (yea, it's on there now)

So excited to finally be replacing my Logitech K750.

Wtf!? CM customer support said first week of March..
This was like a day ago, lol.

I just got the reds, oh well..

$21 to ship to Canada, .

You ordered directly from CM Store? Wouldn't it be cheaper from Ncix.ca?

[fexhung]

Looks like we only have the blue and red switches available from NCIX Canada.

[missalaire]

Looks like we only have the blue and red switches available from NCIX Canada.

Looks like Memory Express carries the TK w/ browns, but is currently out of stock. Canada Computers seems to have it as well, but only as an in store purchase.

[MCXL]

I bought direct from CM because they get more money that way. More money means more support for products up my alley, and more love for Carter.

Sure I can save 20 bux going elsewhere, but I like to think of it as a tip.

Also,

Hell with that, LOOK WHAT'S BACK IN STOCK.

GREEENZ!!!!

[fexhung]

Looks like we only have the blue and red switches available from NCIX Canada.

Looks like Memory Express carries the TK w/ browns, but is currently out of stock. Canada Computers seems to have it as well, but only as an in store purchase.

Ah, didn't check there since NCIX usually has the largest selection of keyboards here. 

There's a notice on Canada Computers that the browns will be in March/April.  My friend will be pleased to know that they're at least coming, thanks.

[imadeanaccounttoseepics]

I did buy my board from NCIX!

[rhes]

I recently bought this keyboard and overall it's pretty nice. But the whole numpad thing is somewhat tricky. Especially because the 2nd enter key (as well as "+") get deactivated when you turn num lock off, even though they have no secondary function.
Is there any way around that? Maybe reprogramming the function or something? Not sure if that's possible. Any input would be appreciated.

[MCXL]

Ok, so just got a call from CM. Board wont be available till the end of March. Wasn't supposed to make it onto the site :<.

EDIT: Let me reiterate, :<

[Binge]

Ok, so just got a call from CM. Board wont be available till the end of March. Wasn't supposed to make it onto the site :<.

EDIT: Let me reiterate, :<

Dat sucks... you want a TK board in browns right?  Is it the backlighting that does it for ya?

[BucklingSpring]

Yet another F-beep-G QFR with many "no click" key just arrived today.

Waiting to RMA  a QFR with MX Green. 6 Keys not clicking.

Big disappointment!

[AndyCapets]

Maybe I am the only french in this thread but... Does anyone know if the TK is going to be coming in MX Blue here in France ?

[Arktik]

My story how I came to my QF TK:
I was in need for a replace of my MS ergonomic keyboard 4000. It was too big, and i hated the keys. My  Kinesis needs a companion, geekhack has a really bad influence on it/me. So i searched the internet, geekhack and two other boards.

My priorities were: mechanical keys, mx red or brown, function row and number row with no gap or at least easy to reach (in contrary to the ms ergonomic 4000); letter layout not important, best would be blank keycaps; small, either tenkeyless or mid-key-block-less. Price around 100€/130$ including taxes and shipping(30$-50$) to germany. I can tell you, finding the right product is quite a time consuming task.
So my favorites were the Vortex KBT Race ( http://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=121), the Noppoo choc mini (http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=13825.0), Keycool 84(http://kc-keycool.com/product.php?mod=detail&id=20). It was not possible to find a Race to the price above with red or brown switches, even discarding the backlight. Mostely the board was out of stock. About the choco i read bad reviews regarding its qualitiy in othjer boards. I was happy to read the new news about a mini keyboard of Filco but i was quickly disappointed about the arrangement of the bottom row and the missing function key row. For gaming you need the F-keys quite often even for shortcuts or macros.
Then the tenkeyless of Filco came to my mind, but the price distracted me.

Searching for a comparison of the Race and Keycool 84 I found the Coolmaster Rapid and after realiszing that the Quickfire TK (red mx, red backlight) is nearly the same size but more usefull* the tk became my favorite. And one BIG point: it is available in germany for 75€  incl. shipping and german layout (ok i don't really need that).
So I ordered it and I was going to take a closer look at the keycool 84 too. But Hong Kong (ebay reseller location) celebrates new year, so i postponed it. Now typing on the Quickfire TK I don't really need the keycool 84 anymore. Only my curiosity bothers me... to try to even take a look, yeah you can sell it afterwards... ;-)

*[Why Quickfire TK] it is very likely that you do not need numpad and arrow keys at the same time. At least for me. I use Del and Backspace, Pos1 and End quite often with arrow keys to navigate in text files, numbers come to use, when typing codes, pins and so on, it is easier for one hand to type a lot of numbers, and it is easier to remember -> motoric memory

Well I also will o-ring-mod my quickfire tk. Qualitiy is quite good. Keyboard is heavy enough to stay where it was put. I am not sure about the durability of the key painting, because  the caps are clear for back light and painted/coated black. We'll see.

[Arktik]

Honestly... let's just take the whole arrow/edit/tenkey cluster, stick it all on the left, and make it "programmable" like "macro keys." Then we can keep our alpha-box centered, and have our mouse directly beside it... and, a cluster full of multifunctional "macro keys" on the left.

You are right! And then at its best using a non staggered matrix layout or make the staggering symmetrical for the left and right hand.
At the moment it is best the take a mini keyboard as the Keycool 84 or Race and an additional Number-keypad which is put on the left side of the keyboard.