Tag gaming

Introduction

I have been able to test a number of keyboards from Akko and sister company Monsgeek. This time I get to try out a model with a technique that is new for the company. Akko has introduced two keyboards with magnetic switches. They gave me the MOD007B HE PC Santorini version and I would like to share my experiences about it with you.

Santorini

In recent years, Akko has released several keyboards that were based on a special place in the world. For example, the London, Tokyo and Beijing keyboards have been released. These keyboards are distinguished by implementing various details and colors of the cities they are inspired by. This is of course wonderful if you have a special connection with such a city or are a keyboard collector. This time Akko has chosen an island in the Aegean Sea, in this case the picturesque Santorini, the southernmost island of the Cyclades that belongs to Greece. Santorini is a beautiful island that is mainly characterized by world-famous white churches and buildings with blue roofs and beautiful beaches.

Specifications

Structure: 
Gasket Mount 
Connection: 
Wireless/Bluetooth/USB Type C 
Backlight: 
South-facing RGB 
Hot Swappable: 
3-Pin 
N-Key Rollover: 
Support 
Rapid Trigger (RT): 
Yes 
Dynamic Keystrokes (DKS): 
Yes 
Macro: 
Akko Macro V1.0 
Battery: 
3600mAh 
Magnetic Switch: 
Akko Cream Yellow Magnetic Switch 
Kaih Sakura Pink Magnetic Switch 
Materials: 
PBT Keycaps + PC Case 
Legends Printing: 
Dye-Sublimation 
Keycap Profile: 
Cherry 
Product Weight: 
Approximately 1KG 
Dimensions: 
333*147*32mm 

Unboxing the MOD007 HE PC Santorini

The unboxing experience is quite similar to previous Akko Keyboards I have tested. The keyboard comes in a black cardboard box with the typical Akko branding. It is wrapped in a sleeve with some very nice looking box-art of the Santorini coastline on one side, on the other side the layout of the keyboard can be seen. By using the same packaging for most keyboards Akko can shave some costs which helps keep pricing affordable.

Inside we find the keyboard protected by a plastic cover. It comes with a keycap puller, switch puller, USB receiver for the wireless 2.4ghz mode, and a manual. While most keyboards I have had from Akko came with extra keycaps to mix things up, this time however there are no extra key caps.

Build

The case of the MOD007B HE PC Santorini is made of poly-carbonate. While I personally prefer an aluminum made keyboard, it is not to say this board isn’t sturdy. There are no cracks and the board feels solid all around. The layout is typical for a 75% keyboard we have come to expect. There is a knob included to easily adjust volume or brightness of the optional backlight. On top is a USB C output and a pair of adjustable feet can be find at the back of the board.

Autopsy of the MOD007B HE PC Santorini

Keycaps and switches included with the MOD007B Santorini

The included keycaps are in the so called Cherry layout. This is a classic layout which is preferred by the majority of keyboard enthusiasts. The font used isn’t typical for cherry style keyboards though. It’s a font with the Greek style complements the Santorini theme very well.

The feel nice to type on and are made with dye-sublimated legends. While not as resistant as Double-shot legends, these come pretty close in durability. The included RGB effects of the keyboard will not shine through them but will illuminate the south side of the keycaps. The switches that come with the keyboard are either the Akko Cream Yellow Magnetic or Kailh Sakura Pink Magnetic switch. My review unit came with the latter. These feel really smooth to type on and having less friction by design, I don’t think lubing them will make a real difference, hence I didn’t bother. The specs of both switches seem to be more or less identical. The keyboard is compatible with other magnetic switches however, you will need to make sure these have a horizontal magnet layout. Additionally the MOD007B Santorini is also compatible with 3 pin mechanical switches.

Magnetic switches

Here we come to the star of the show, the thing setting this keyboard apart from previous models. Mechanical keyboards have many fans, and rightfully so. A mechanical keyboard has many benefits compared to a membrane model. There is the feedback of the switches, the durability, the sound profile and of course the variety in switches. Since more and more keyboards offer the convenience of hot-swappable sockets it is very easy to customize your keyboard with switches that provide the feedback you want. Gamers might like faster switches that respond immediately, while people that work on their PC will want to have a bit less sensitivity to avoid making mistakes.

What are Magnetic switches?

Magnetic Hall Effect (HE) keyboard switches represent a cutting-edge innovation in the realm of mechanical keyboards, offering a unique and advanced typing experience. Unlike traditional mechanical switches that rely on physical contacts to register key presses, magnetic HE switches leverage the principles of the Hall Effect to detect key actuation.

At the heart of these switches is a tiny semiconductor known as a Hall Effect sensor. This sensor is sensitive to changes in the surrounding magnetic field. Pressing a key makes sure a magnet, embedded within the switch moves closer to the Hall Effect sensor, causing a change in the magnetic field. The sensor detects this change and sends a signal to register the key press.

Benefits of HE switches

One of the primary advantages of magnetic HE switches is their durability. Since there are no physical contacts that rub against each other during key presses, there is minimal wear and tear, resulting in a longer lifespan for the switches. This can be particularly appealing to users who demand a reliable and long-lasting keyboard for both gaming and professional use.

Furthermore, the lack of physical contact in magnetic HE switches translates to a smoother and more consistent keystroke feel. Users can enjoy a tactile response without the worry of switches degrading over time. The absence of mechanical friction also contributes to a quieter typing experience, making these switches an attractive option for those who prefer a more discreet keyboard in shared environments.

Customization is another area where magnetic HE switches shine. Manufacturers can fine-tune the actuation force and travel distance of each switch, catering to a wide range of user preferences. This level of customization allows for a personalized typing experience that enhances comfort and performance.

Gaming with magnetic HE switches

In terms of gaming, magnetic HE switches offer fast and precise actuation, making them well-suited for rapid key presses often required in gaming scenarios. The absence of de-bounce delay, a common issue in some mechanical switches, ensures that every key press is registered with accuracy, providing a competitive edge to gamers.

Important: Calibrating the switches on the MOD007B HE PC Santorini

One thing to keep in mind that it is important to calibrate the keyboard in the software before use. This is because the magnetic field of the keyboard can be influenced during shipment. Hall sensors are sensitive to temperature changes. Akko recommends updating their Akko Cloud software to its latest version and calibrate the keyboard in the software. Inside the software navigate to ‘About – Maximum Key Travel Calibration – Start Calibration’ by gently pressing every key. You can download the software here.

Software

Speaking of the software and the magnetic switches; lets dive a bit deeper. Previous Akko Keyboards came with the optional Akko Cloud software. With these keyboards the software’s primary goal was to set macro’s, change layouts, add layers and customize the RGB effect. With the MOD007B HE PC Santorini things are a bit different. While you can still use the software for the other stuff, there is a lot more to adjust with this keyboard.

Rapid Trigger (RT)

One of the benefits of Magnetic Switches is the ability to change actuation on the fly and even per switch. This can be really beneficial for FPS fanatics and give them that extra edge on the virtual battlefield. Casual gamers or people with general usage can disable the rapid trigger function of course and instead customize their own preference in actuation point or choose one of the presets; Comfort, sensitive or game.

Dynamic Keystrokes (DKS)

Dynamic Keystrokes or DKS let’s you bind different operations to keys depending on how you activate them. You can set different actions to be triggered by the amount of force you use, this can be both be set for pressing and releasing keys.

While magnetic HE keyboard switches are relatively new to the market, their potential for transforming the typing and gaming experience is evident. So as technology continues to evolve, we can expect further refinements and innovations in keyboard switch design, with magnetic Hall Effect switches poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of mechanical keyboards.

Using the keyboard and thoughts about it

Having used the keyboards over a week I can say the HALL effect is pretty cool. I tried some different settings. The Rapid Trigger option really is instant, I can see this being beneficial for gamers, but that’s not me. Still was happy to be able to adjust the actuation to my preference and even being able to differentiate this per key. In the past I used Akko Black switches alongside their Jelly Purple ones for example to get a heavier feeling on my F-keys for example.

It is cool to experience these kind of differences with one type of switch. The sound of the keyboard while typing was also very satisfactory, I felt no need for mods, but this can be different from person to person of course. I did encounter some issues with the software shutting down initially. However after resetting the board It didn’t occur anymore. Altogether the keyboard is great to type on and I personally can’t wait for more options within the magnetic switch line-up. Maybe something with a more tactile kind of style of silent switches?

Final thoughts

I think the Santorini is a very nice board from a technical standpoint. The magnetic switches feel very nice to type on. Users should take care to calibrate them first though. Overall being able to set actuation points on a per switch level is really cool and something that will definitely become more and more popular as the technique around it evolves. It is great the keyboard is backwards compatible with mechanical switches as well.

The layout is like we have seen a lot lately. It’s a bold move for Akko to bring their first magnetic boards with such a love it or hate it theme though. For such a standout feature I would have personally liked if Akko would have gone with a “safer” design with just a single color and a more common font on the keycaps. I think the Santorini style is a “love it or Hate it” thing. Unfortunately I will keep using my black Monsgeek M1 (review) for now with the MARRS keycaps. However I am really looking forward to an aluminum board with options like black with HE switches though. I think that would be on my desk permanently!

The Akko MOD007B HE PC Santorini can be bought directly on Akkogear.eu using this link or on Amazon. If you purchase on Akkogear.eu you can use the coupon HELLOAKKO to get 10% your first purchase. We might get a commission by doing so.

Monsgeek is a sub-brand of Akko that focuses on high quality for a low price. Monsgeek’s first keyboard was the M1, a 75% aluminum model. Now there is the M1W SP where the W stands for Wireless. I will share with you my experience, the similarities and the differences between these two Monsgeek keyboards.

Complete package

Unlike the regular M1, the M1W SP comes as a complete keyboard. The keyboard comes assembled with switches, keycaps and stabilizers. Of course you can replace or adjust these parts yourself if desired. This has been made as easy as possible. For example, 5-pin sockets are used and the keyboard is easy to open with the supplied Allen key.

Specifications

Structure:
Gasket Mount

Connection:
Bluetooth5.0 / 2.4GHz / USB Type-C

Backlight:
South-facing RGB

Hot Swappable:
3-Pin / 5-Pin Support

N-Key Rollover:
Support

Battery Capacity:
6000mAh

Polling Rate:
1000Hz In wired and 2.4G mode, 125Hz in Bluetooth mode.

Macro:
MonsGeek Cloud Driver

Stabilizer:
1. Pre-installed Purple Plate Mount Stabilizer

2. Separate TPU Double-shot Stabilizers

Switches:
Akko V3 Piano Pro

Materials:
PBT Keycaps + Aluminum Case

Legends Printing:
Double-shot Side-printed Gradient Shine-through

Keycap Profile:
OEM

Product Weight:
Approx. 2.2kg

Dimensions:
33.3cm*14.6cm*3.26cm

Operating Systems:
Windows / macOS / iOS / Android

Package List:
Keyboard×1, Manual×1, Coiled Cable×1, Keycap Puller×1, Switch Puller×1, Teflon Pads (not pre-installed), Separate TPU Double-shot Stabilizers

Small changes from M1 to M1W SP

Compared to the regular M1, a number of improvements have been made. For example, the rotatable encoder has been slightly improved. It has an improved interior so that it gives even less friction and has become slightly higher. In addition, the poron case foam has become more elastic and the optional teflon stickers have recesses for the screw holes. These teflon stickers are intended for a so-called Force-break mod. As a result, there is less metal-to-metal contact, resulting in less ping. Furthermore, a dip switch has been added next to the caps lock switch. This allows you to choose Mac, Windows or wireless. Furthermore, unlike the regular M1, there are no screw-in stabilizers provided. However, plate mounted stabilizers (pre-lubed) are pre-installed and there is an extra set made with a different material to experiment with. The device still supports screw-in stabilizers however,

Opening the Monster like a Geek

Although the keyboard is basically ready for use, I still wanted to take a look at the inside of the M1W SP and immediately apply a force-break mod. The keyboard can be easily opened by means of 6 screws, which can be removed using the supplied Allen key. However, it is important to be careful when removing the mainboard because there are two cables attached to it that need to be unplugged.

The mainboard is very similar to that of the Monsgeek M1. Here too I notice that there seems to be room for RGB LEDs on the sides. I wonder if they want to release a variant with LEDs on the sides in the future. The sockets again come from Kailh.

Some small mods

I did a little bit of modding myself. For example, I used the supplied teflon stickers around the screw holes of the frame to eliminate the slight ping. I also placed the supplied tape mod on the back of the mainboard. I left out the bottom foam layer and put a layer of cotton wool in the bottom. This gives a slightly different sound.

It’s time for switches B……

The included switches are Akko’s recently released Piano Switches. These are linear switches that operate very smoothly. They have a slightly higher pitch or “clack”. They come well tuned from the factory and I have seen no need to lube them myself. This is also nice with a complete plate. I personally prefer to type with the cream yellows. these feel just a bit more smooth. So many people, so many wishes. Fortunately, there is a lot of choice when it comes to switches.

Ninja Keycaps

The keycaps that come with the M1W SP are of the so-called stealth type. The fonts are on the front instead of on top. Normally they are not visible, but if you turn on the RGB lighting, they come to life thanks to a small cut-out. There is no glow through the switches, which makes the whole look neat. The encoder does not transmit light. This feels sturdy and has a slightly different interior than the regular M1. It should be a bit more stable, although I’ve never had any problems with the regular M1. They are also interchangeable with each other. If you want to use some other keycaps you can take a look at the collection from Akko here.

Wireless connectivity

The big difference with the regular M1 is of course the wireless functionality. The past few days I have used the 2.4ghz connection through the supplied dongle. I experienced no problems and enjoyed the extra space on my desk. I was also curious if there wouldn’t be any problems with the signal between the keyboard and my wireless mouse (Logitech). I had seen a single user write about this online but I did not experience any problem with this. The connection with bluetooth also worked without problems. You connect the device by holding down the FN button in combination with the E R or T key. When it starts flashing you enter pairing mode. the next time you switch to the desired device by short pressing FN together with one of these buttons. The 2.4Ghz is the most stable connection after USB-C. Working with the wireless connection is excellent, just like casual gaming. However, if you want to play competitively in shooters, for example, the USB-C connection is of course recommended if you want the best possible connection.

Software

Unlike the regular M1, the M1W SP version does not come with QMK/VIA support. Instead, a proprietary suite is available called Monsgeek Driver. The interface is simply designed and offers various options to personalize the keyboard. For example, it is possible to move keys, create macros and FN layers and adjust the lighting. It is also possible to import custom profiles from other users. However, the encoder cannot be adjusted in terms of functionality. This controls volume or the intensity of the lighting.

Verdict of the Monsgeek M1W SP

The M1W ISO is an excellent variation on the standard M1. However, in addition to advantages, there are also potential disadvantages. This mainly depends on your own wishes / requirements. The wireless convenience is of course a big plus. The fact that both a 2.4Ghz and 3 different Bluetooth connections are possible is a big plus. In addition, the wired option will of course still be present.
Small quality of life improvements such as the improved Teflon stickers with cutouts for the screw holes, better material for the included optional sound-reducing mat and the improved encoder are welcome. The lack of VIA support can be a drawback for people who tweak their keyboard to their own liking. For many people, however, the included software will be sufficient. I do miss the integration of a key tester in the software.

The model I tested is the ISO version. I could easily get used to this layout. Although we in the Netherlands are mainly used to ANSI, this is not the case in other parts of Europe. Logitech also supplies mainly in the ISO layout in the Benelux, so there are quite a few people who prefer this layout. This kit is ideal for people who want to get started right away. The keyboard comes with good, smooth switches that don’t need work and high-quality keycaps in a stealthy look.

If all this appeals to you but you prefer an ANSI layout, this is also available and you can also choose from two other colors. They can all be viewed on the product page of the M1W series.

For this review I tested the M1W SP version which comes complete with switches and keycaps. For the DIY version you can check this link.

Coupon for first time orders

If this is your first order on Akkogear.eu and there is no current discount on the website you can use coupon HELLOAKKO to get 10% your first order!

This review was first post in Dutch on Tweakers.net link here

Akko send me this product for review, the links in this article may be affiliate links which help me maintain this website.

Just like with mechanical keyboards, the world of headphones can be quite the rabbit hole. Today we will be taking a look at a headphone that is regularly on sale on Amazon. Is it any good, should you grab one on sale, or is it even worth getting at its MSRP? Let’s take a look at the Sennheiser HD 599 SE.

The Sennheiser HD 599 was originally launched in 2016. It was introduced as a successor to the popular HD 598. The sound on the HD 599 SE has been tuned, improvements have been made to the build and there is a bit more bass.

First up

I am no audiofile, so don ‘t expect any professional measurements or things like that. I am just an audio lover, enthusiastic, or whatever you want to name it. I love listening to music on the headphones I own and want to share my personal experience. If you want professional measurements I can highly recommend Audiosciencereview. There are also a lot of different YouTube videos to be found about headphones, but my personal advice is to always listen to a headphone and see if YOU like the sound.

Sennheiser, what’s in a name?

Chances are small you have never heard of the name Sennheiser. But where does it come from? The name Sennheiser comes from its founders last name; Fritz Sennheiser. Fritz Sennheiser founded the company, then named Laboratory Wennebostel, or simply ‘Labor W’ in 1945. After making equipment for another well known German company: Siemens, Sennheiser soon started making their own products.

Decades after Fritz Sennheiser started the company in a farmhouse, Sennheiser is still in the hands of the family.

You read the entire history of Sennheiser at their website.

The HD 500 series of headphones

The HD 500 series of headphones are a mid-range series from Sennheiser. These headphones provide a healthy mix of great quality sound with affordable prices. They aren’t known for providing great bass though. The series consists of several models with each having slight differences in sound-profile, price and comfort. Most of the models are so-called open back headphones. Open back headphones generally give a wider soundstage but do tend to leak sound. Therefore they are better suited to private listening sessions and not meant for commuting for example.

What’s in the box

The Sennheiser HD 599 comes with two cables, a 1.2 meter cable that ends in 3,5mm and a 3 meter cable which ends in 3,5mm. Sennheiser also includes a 3,5mm to 2,5mm adapter. Both cables end in a 2,5mm plug which locks into the headphone.

Specifications of the Sennheiser HD 599 SE

Feel and comfort

The HD 599 SE is very comfortable to wear. There is nice padding and the velour ear cups feel very soft, they sit around the ears. There is very little pressure and the headphones can be worn for hours without feeling heavy or uncomfortable. When on a hot summer day though the headphone can become a bit uncomfortable to wear. But personally I find this to be true on most headphones. The cables aren’t my favorite; they do tend to make sound when moving them against my shirt for example.

The sound of the Sennheiser HD599 SE

The HD 599 is a very pleasant headphone for listening to almost any genre. Music sounds lively, voices are clear and natural and the soundstage is good. Being an open back headphone, bass isn’t its strongest card but it is still there.

Gaming is also very nice with the HD 599. The headphones give a good sense of the environment while playing online shooters and they are great at positioning all kinds of sounds.

Should you buy the Sennheiser HD599 SE?

The HD 599 SE can regularly be found for around €100,- on Amazon. If you are looking for a comfortable open back headphone to listen to your favorite music I think it is money well spend. These headphones are also very well suited for playing (online) games.

Being very easy to drive at 50 Ohm the headset is very versatile and doesn’t need a headphone amp. It is also great for listening to you favorite playlist on your smartphone.

If you want to analyze every song and hear every crack in a song, these aren’t your headphones. Take a look at the HD 560S instead.

Introduction

Not having used an air cooler for a few years now, I always remained curious about the performance of the Noctua air coolers. I used to have the famous Cooler master Evo 212 which did pretty good on my 4790K. After recently taking a look at their Chromax fans, I got a chance to review a Noctua cooler. Not just any cooler, but the NH-D15 Chromax Black Swap. This is the beefiest cooler Noctua has in its line-up at the moment. Not only did they send me this big boy, they also included their NT-H2 thermal paste and two boxes of Heatsink covers, which helps you match the cooler in style with the rest of your build.

Specifications

Images

Cooler Specification Noctua NH-D15 Chromax Black

Socket compatibility

Intel LGA1700 (included since Q4 2021, older coolers require NM-i17xx-MP83), LGA1200, LGA1156, LGA1155, LGA1151, LGA1150, LGA2066, LGA2011-0, LGA2011-3 (Square ILM) & AMD AM4, AM5

Height (without fan): 160 mm

Width (without fan): 150 mm

Depth (without fan): 135 mm

Weight (without fan): 980 g

Height (with fan): 165 mm

Width (with fan): 150 mm

Depth (with fan): 161 mm

Weight (with fan): 1320 g

Material: Copper (base and heat-pipes), aluminium (cooling fins), soldered joints & nickel plating

NSPR: 183

Max. TDP: see NSPR

Fan compatibility: 140x150x25 (with 120mm mounting holes), 140x140x25 (with 120mm mounting holes), 120x120x25

Scope of delivery

• Black NH-D15 heatsink
• 2x NF-A15 HS-PWM chromax.black premium fan
• 2x Low-Noise Adaptor (L.N.A.)
• 4-pin PWM Y-cable
• NT-H1 high-grade thermal compound
• Black SecuFirm2™ Mounting Kit
• Noctua Metal Case-Badge

Warranty: 6 Years

FAN Specification

Model: 2x Noctua NF-A15 HS-PWM chromax.black

Bearing: SSO2

Max. rotational speed (+/- 10%): 1500 RPM

Max. rotational speed with L.N.A. (+/- 10%): 1200 RPM

Min. rotational speed @ 20% PWM (+/-20%): 300 RPM

Max. airflow: 140,2 m³/h

Max. airflow with L.N.A.: 115,5 m³/h

Max. acoustical noise: 24,6 dB(A)

Max. acoustical noise with L.N.A.: 19,2 dB(A)

Voltage range: 12 V

MTTF: > 150.000 h

Measurements & Clearance of Noctua NH-D15 Chromax Black Swap

Unboxing the Noctua NH-D15 Chromax Black

Opening up the large black box reveals a nicely organised set of separate packages. There is of course a large box which houses the cooler itself. One of the two included fans comes pre-mounted whereas another is packaged separately. Lastly there is a box containing all of the included accessories. Noctua delivers a very complete package here for both Intel and AMD systems. Not only do you get all the relevant parts to mount the cooler to modern AMD and Intel sockets, you als get extra’s like a case badge, low noise adapters, and a syringe of the high quality NT-H1 thermal paste.

Taking a closer look

The NH-D15 Chromax makes a solid impression. Everything feels sturdy, no flimsy feeling fins and everything is made in a solid black color. They didn’t forget the heatpipes either which I can appreciate. It’s this attention to detail that makes Noctua set itself apart from other brands. The one thing not being painted black is the nickel plated copper baseplate. The baseplate looks very smooth and almost like a matte mirror. Nice!

Installing the Noctua NH-D15 Chromax on a X570 board

The right tools

Noctua included all the tools I needed for my AMD system. If you happen to buy a new cpu in the future Noctua will almost certainly be able to provide you with any needed mounting system. Just contact them and they will be happy to send out the right bracket for you. This is a great service and gives the consumer the reasurrence they make a good investment with this cooler.

Cooling Paste

Noctua included a syringe of their well knows NT-H1 thermal paste. I did however used the newer NT-H2 paste which Noctua included in the package they send to me. This is an improved version which should keep temperatures even better in check while using it on high end processors. I wiped off almost all of the thermal paste on my cpu. Using the NA-SCW1 alcohol wipes Noctua provides with their thermal paste I was able to get every last bit of residue off my cpu. The Cooling paste itself was easy to apply.

Difficulty of installation

Installing the cooler was quite easy. The hardest part was keeping the backplate from the AMD motherboard in place. In the past I had horrible experiences with installing air coolers. I couldn’t reach the screws, the fan mounting system was terrible or I cut myself on sharp fins. Installing this cooler went pretty fast. It only needed two screws to mount down on the baseplate. There was a large screwdriver included in the package which came in handy here. The fans could be easily clipped in place and I used the included Y-splitter to mount the two fans to my CPU-header.

Heatsink Cover

The heatsink cover was pretty easy to add to the cooler. You just choose the colored strip you want put and put at the back of the unit that clips on the cooler. Then it’s just a matter of putting the metal cover on top. Everything sits secure and well thanks to the build in magnets.

Performance

In all honesty I didn’t think an air cooler could come anything near my Arctic Liquid Freezer II , which is considered as one of the best AIO’s at the moment. Well I was very pleasantly surprised. I didn’t get the same temperatures, But I got much closer than I expected. I set all the fans in my system at which gave me very good results without being too noisy. With these settings I wasn’t bothered by the sound of my system standing under my desk.

Temperatures and results

When running Cinebench R23 the maximum temperature of my CPU got to 72°C. When doing a Timespy run the results weren’t too far off from my run with the 280mm mounted on top. After removing one of the top exhaust fans, I got even better results. The difference was only 4°C compared to the AIO. Do note that an AIO comes with the potential risk of leakage!

Final Looks

Well looks are personal and beauty isn’t everything they say. But Personally I think this is one of the most aesthetically pleasing builds I have made so far! But don’t take my word for it, take a look for yourself at the picture below. I have added the Noctua NF-A14 Chromax Black Swap fans from my other review to make the build complete.

Conclusion of the Noctua NH-D15 Chromax

The Noctua Chromax NH-D15 is a true beast. Not only does it look like one, it also cools like one. Keeping the temperature of my 5900x in tests like Timespy just 4°C lower than one of the best selling 280mm AIO coolers is very respectable. The cooler, despite being big is quite easy to assemble thanks to the well made manual and choices made in the design.

The cooler comes with well packed and with everything you need to install it on your favorite processor. The included NT-H1 cooling paste is one of the best on the market. If you want even better results you can buy the new NT-H2 paste.

The price is higher then some of its competitors but buying this cooler is an investment which will be sure to cool not only your current CPU but also the ones in your future builds. This is thanks to Noctua’s commitment to its customers, providing mounting plates for future sockets when needed.

I can highly recommend this cooler and to anyone looking for a high quality, maintenance free cooling solution.

As we are halfway down 2022 we are nearing the new generation of GPU’s coming up. This time Intel will join the fight as well! The launch of the current generation of cards has been a strange one to say the least. Everyone was very excited, this generation promised massive gains from team red and green compared to the previous generation. AMD showing they were back in the ring and showing Intel it was serious on the CPU front forced NVIDIA to step up. Not only did both companies promise serious gains in graphical power, they also priced their initial products pretty competitively. We then experienced a time of scarcity and a very skewed relationship between supply and demand. We all know the reason why. Well I decided it was time to take a look back at the Radeon RX 6800xt.

Lucky bastard

I was one of the lucky few to get my hands on a 6800xt for MSRP at launch.  Purely by accident, I was lucky enough to check the AMD website on launch-day to see if they even offer cards on their own website, just like NVIDIA does. Somewhat surprised I saw the card in stock and before I knew it I had ordered it. After an exciting period with regard to the delivery time, a shipping confirmation suddenly arrived after a week. The next day I was able to receive the card.

First impressions

My first reaction was; Wow! that’s a heavy box! When I opened the box, I immediately got the impression that AMD was proud of this product. Nicely finished box with a welcome message: “welcome to the red team”

The showpiece itself is located under the sturdy lid with an image of the card. They also included a small booklet with a keycap with an “R” in Radeon style underneath!

Installation of the RX 6800xt

The card takes up 2.5 slots and fits nicely in my Phanteks P600s with front mounted radiator. I use the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 280, which is great to keep any current chip nice and cool!

2x 8 pins, check, lets go! I did, however, first remove all previous drivers in safe mode via DDU and already downloaded the Radeon software. It took a while to get a screen at first, probably because Windows was trying to install some drivers in the background. After a few minutes I did get an image and I ran a short test of Timespy on standard settings.

RGB FTW!

After the most recent Adrenaline update and installation of the RGB tool, it is now possible to provide the logo with a different color as well as effects such as breathing but also morse code. In case you are the stealthy type it is also possible to turn off all the colors on the card.

Undervolting the Radeon RX 6800xt

I applied an undervolt of -100 which gave me these results.

This is with a -100 undervolt 2150 memory and power target at +15%

For a reference model I think the temperature is fine, as well as the sound. I can barely hear the card in my case. While running Timespy I opened the window of my case and I could hear a very light coil-whine very close to the GPU, nothing close to a screeching Banshee. Especially with the window closed again, it’s just enjoying my red light district again.

Games and Ray-tracing

I haven’t had any problems playing my games at the highest settings at 1440P. Ray-tracing was something different though. If ray-tracing is the thing you are after you are better off going with NVIDIA. For me personally this was a non-issue as I don’t care much for the technology. I never used it on my 2080ti. In pure rasterization this card is absolutely amazing.

Final thoughts

Am I satisfied? I am! I paid €668,- including shipping and for that money I have nothing to complain about! For the backward scalp prices being asked for 1000 or more, I wouldn’t have pulled my wallet. This also applies to the NVIDIA cards which have been overpriced as well.

As of this moment we are finally coming to cards being sold at around msrp prices. We are getting close to the launch of the new generation of cards and let us all hope this time cards will be more affordable and accessible for everyone. In the meantime if you decide to pick up a 6800xt for a discounted price or maybe on the cheap second hand, you won’t be disappointed. The 6800xt is a very capable GPU from team red!

Until now I have always had a wired mouse. I did not immediately see the need for a wireless variant because this would only give me the hassle of charging or changing batteries in time. I also had the delay that was noticeable in the past in the back of my mind. After reading all the positive stories from people around me and online, I decided to take the plunge to wireless. Read here whether the Logitech G Pro X Superlight has convinced me.

Making choices

In my quest finding a new mouse, there were a number of things that I had put on my list of requirements. I wanted a light mouse, no batteries, a good battery life, good switches, a good quality sensor and no permanent RGB. I also wanted to have a reputable brand so that I can easily purchase accessories later on, such as glides or switches, if necessary. After a long search I ended up with an old friend of mine: Logitech.

Deciding on the Logitech G Pro X Superlight

Almost everyone has worked with a keyboard, mouse or one of the many other computer accessories from Logitech. The company has been making high-quality equipment for years and is constantly innovating. Mechanical keyboards, trackball mice, pc speakers, headphones but also webcams. Logitech has it all. I have used many Logitech products over the years. Examples include the C920 webcam, a wireless desktop set for my smart TV, and the G502 wired mouse.

The Logitech G Pro X Superlight kept coming up on various forums and in various reviews. The mouse seemed to meet almost all my requirements so decided to order it. It is an improved version of the normal G Pro X mouse. The mouse has now been made even lighter, has run out of RGB fuel and has surrendered two side buttons on the right.

Unpacking the mouse

The box of the G Pro X Superlight

The G-Pro X Superlight comes in a compact black box with a picture of the mouse on the front. The make and model number are printed in a blue color typical of Logitech “G” products. On the sides you will find the specifications on one side and some sponsor logos of well-known pro gamers on the other. On the back some highlights of the mouse in a sensitive black light with the text “Keep playing in the well-known blue and white in the middle. Tight!

Inside the box

With the mouse, sits in a plastic recess. At the top of the lid, you will find a soft piece of foam to protect the mouse against damage during transport.

Furthermore, the USB dongle for a 2.4 GHz connection and a flat box with accessories are included. These accessories include a USB A to micro-usb (yes, no USB-C) to charge the mouse, and to click the dongle on. You will also find an optional cover with ptfe for the bottom of the mouse and optional black grip covers. You can buy a USB C to USB A adaptor from Logitech on their website if you need one.

Specs

The G Pro X Superlight up close

weight

Until now I had used the Sharkoon Light² 200 and I liked it, especially considering it falls in the budget segment. This mouse convinced me of the advantages of a light mouse. This gave me less pain in my wrist with prolonged use. Unfortunately I am sensitive to Carpal Tunnel. I was using a Logitech G502 Hero before switching to the Sharkoon. While this was a great mouse in form and function, it was too heavy for my wrists.

Shape and looks of the Logitech G Pro X Superlight

The Sharkoon mouse I used before has an ergonomic shape which ensured that I immediately found it comfortable. I didn’t think the hole pattern that made the mouse had a lower weight was ideal though. I kept in mind that things like dust or other microparticles could easily get into the mouse because of this. I would have preferred the same low weight but without the perforations in the housing. The G Pro X Superlight delivers on this. It is lightweight, sturdy and doesn’t need holes to accomplish the low weight.

Batteries not included

Ok, so I wanted to go wireless. But with wireless mice, you have these with both removable batteries and rechargeable mice. Both have advantages and disadvantages. For example, a rechargeable mouse can degrade over time and it is not immediately full. Batteries are easily exchangeable, so you can continue wirelessly right away. The major disadvantage of this is that extra weight is added and there is a (minimal, but still present) risk of leakage.

Sensor and switches

The sensor and switches are very important in the daily use of a mouse. A good sensor ensures a smooth and accurate transfer to your screen. This is not only great for daily tasks, but especially for things like gaming where sometimes every second can mean the difference between game over and the next stage. There’s nothing more annoying than switches that don’t feel right, falter or feel inconsistent. This is also a distinguishing factor between a good and bad mouse experience.

Lack of RGB

Rainbows; nice things to see in the wild. I don’t care much for them on my desk though. So I wanted a mouse without it, or at the very least being able to switch it off entirely. If you do like rainbows on your desk, that’s just fine! You won’t get any in this mouse though! Fortunately Logitech offers lots of choice for both gamers and office people.

Using the G Pro X Superlight

The G Pro X Superlight was at first a little odd to me. It felt almost like a toy, so light that it was. It is very solidly built though, nothings squeaks when holding this mouse. I also had to adjust a bit coming from an ergonomic shaped mouse switching to a more symmetrical one. I got used to it after a day and I really started to like the design. It’s so simple yet elegant. No funny stuff. It reacts perfectly to my every movement, the clicks are nice and smooth and the scroll wheel is fantastic. There were two things I did miss though. The infinite scroll wheel from my G502 Hero and a dpi switch button. But adding these two things will add weight of course. But in reality I soon realized I could live with this just fine.

I played a bit of ANNO1800, some Doom and Hitman 3 with the mouse. All worked perfectly fine and I had a great and smooth experience. I like to play games like Anno 1800 on a higher DPI setting and here is where I missed my DPI switch. 

Fortunately Logitech has a software solution for this.

Software

I installed the Logitech G-hub software and adjusted my DPI to 900. Everyone has their own preference for things like DPI and polling rate. You can set a setting as permanently active to the mouse if you want. But the software also lets you store up to 5 profiles and you can let the settings switch automatically depending on what’s on your screen. You can for example set the DPI to 1200 while on your desktop and let the mouse switch to 800 when you start up CS-GO.

Final thoughts

Overall I really like the G Pro X Superlight. It feels incredibly light but still very solid. The mouse is super smooth while gliding on my desk mat and the battery lasts about 2 weeks for me. Charging is fast, but I wished It had a more universal and modern USB C connection. I missed the DPI button and Infinite scroll wheel at first but found out I can live with mostly one setting. When needed Logitech’s G-hub software can let you switch your DPI settings automatically which works really well. The mouse isn’t cheap though and there are cheaper mice out there. But if you want the best lightweight mouse at the moment, look no further!

You can buy the mouse directly from Logitech or check it out at Amazon!

Keychron is on a roll with their Q series of high quality boards for competitive prices. After their recent success with the Q1, Q2, Q3 and Q4 they now launched the Q5. The Keychron Q5 is a 96% or a 1800- style layout board. This layout is perfect for those who want to have a numpad without the bulk of a full-size keyboard on their desk.

The Keychron Q5 has, like all the other Q series so far, full VIA and QMK support. This is great for those who wish to be able to program their boards to their liking.

Build

Just like the other members of the Q series the Keychron Q5 is made out of a full metal CNC machined body. The Q5 comes with a double gasket design which not only uses gaskets on the plate but also between the top and bottom cases. According to Keychron this reduces the sound resonance between the metals. The board has hot-swappable sockets so its easy to change switches. Both 3 pin and 5 pin MX switches are supported. So you can use Cherry, Gateron or maybe some of those lovely Jelly Purples or Jelly Blacks from Akko! The Keychron Q5 comes with Screw-in stabilizers which is great for stability. Afterparty stabilizers from Cherry and Durock are supported as well. Enthousiasts will be happy to hear the board has a south-facing RGB layout. This makes the board compatible with Cherry-style keycaps.

Perfect size for numpad-lovers

The 96% or 1800 layout is perfect for those who love their numpad but don’t want the bulk of full-size. Basically the layout is very close to a full size. Some keys right of the spacebar are shrunken down like alt, shift and control. This and a smaller zero on the numpad make the left and right side of the board crawl closer to the arrow-island. The INS, Page UP and Page down buttons have been sacrificed on the knob version but these are still accessible through shortcuts. The version without knob only lacks an INS key. Of course with the Keychron q5 running with QMK and VIA you can re-program this to your liking. After owning both full size and TKL boards I currently use an Akko 3098B with the 96% and I find it to be the perfect middle ground.

Choices, Choices everywhere!

One of the hardest part buying the Keychron Q5 will be choosing version. There are three colors to choose from; Carbon Black, Silver Grey and Navy Blue. All three come in a fully assembled version or as a bare-bones option. When choosing the barebone version it is possible to get a ISO-layout as well, which is great for European customers! All models are Windows and Mac compatible!

To Knob or not to knob the Keychron Q5

Both the barebone kits and fully assembled options can be had with or without a knob. The knob by default controls volume but just like the rest of the board, this can be reprogrammed. Choosing a model with a knob sacrifices some dedicated keys on the board, so pick your poison here.

Keycaps and switches

Colors come in Carbon Black, Silver Grey and Navy Blue. All three have matching keycaps while choosing a fully assembled board. The keycaps are double shot PBT, OSA profile. The OSA profile are sculpted keycaps with a OEM hight with the curvature of the SA profile. For more on different profiles, read this article on mechlounge.com

When going for the complete package you get to choose from a selection of 3 switches. These are the linear Gateron Red, clicky Gateron Blue or tactile Gateron Brown. All three are the of the G Pro line-up. These switches come pre-lubed (except the Blue) and should produce less wobble then standard Gateron switches.

Pricing and availability

The Keychron Q5 is available now. Check for all models and pricing on Keychron.com

Or check out some great alternatives from Akko at the Akkogear.de store and use code RIEZ1984 to get 10% off!

Attack of the clones?

MSI recently introduced a microphone aimed at streamers; the MSI Immerse GV60. At first I was not immediately enthusiastic when I saw the microphone, as it strongly reminded me of the Blue Yeti. But is it just a clone or does MSI know how to add value in this category?

Packaging

The if we look at the box of the MSI Immerse GV60, it looks quite sober. The box only consists of white, black and grey colors. In my opinion, this is not a wrong choice. MSI clearly shows that it does not only puts focus on a young gaming audience with this product. On the frontside is a large image of the microphone with the model number listed. You will also find an MSI logo on this side. The main specifications are listed on the side. It is striking that both the sample rate and the bit rate are higher than with the major competitor; the Blue Yeti. Instead this is more in line with the more expensive Blue Yeti X.

Inside the box

After the outer box has been pulled off, the inner box can be opened. First you see the manual, which is thicker than your wife’s average romantic pocketbook. The microphone can be found in a thick foam bunker, wrapped in a plastic jacket. The foot is already in place. On the side is a flap containing the USB-C to USB-A cable, an included pop filter and two caps to cover up the screw holes, more about this later.

The Immerse GV60 unpacked

The microphone gives a good first impression. It is sturdy, quite heavy even compared to an already hefty Blue Yeti. The design is slightly less rounded, but still very sleek. The MSI Immerse GV60 has a sleek, uniform dark gray finish in matte aluminum. On the front there are 3 buttons of equal size for the various recording modes, headset volume and microphone volume. Below that is a small button that mutes the microphone. The microphone comes on a stand that feels sturdy. The Immerse GV60 can be screwed in on both sides and does not fall down when positioned, for example, at an angle. At the bottom you will find a USB-C connection, a screw connection for a boom arm and a 3.5 inch microphone connection.

Specifications

Noticeable specifications include an USB C port and a higher then average sample- and bit rate.

In practice

I bought the microphone mainly because of its clean look and lack of software. I have experience with a Blue Yeti Nano and a HyperX Quadcast microphone. These are my personal frames of reference.

Appearance of the Immerse GV60

The microphone has a matte finish and no eye-catching logos. MSI has subtly put its name on the front in a dark color. On the back if the mic you will find an MSI brand logo. A small light indicates the status of the microphone; green for active, red for mute. As mentioned, the buttons have a uniform look with a white text and logo to indicate the function. In my opinion, the buttons could have had some ridges for just that little bit of extra grip. The MSI Immerse GV60 looks sleek and will not distract during a teams meeting. Speaking of which, check out this article about monitor arms for a cleaner desk.

Ease of use

The microphone can be used immediately, no separate software is required. My windows 11 system recognized the microphone immediately after connecting it. In windows itself you can indicate if the MSI should or should not do all the recording work instead of any other microphone present, such as that of a webcam. MSI has not developed any software for the microphone. If you want to use certain filters or adjust other sound effects, you will have to do this with your streaming software. The advantage is that no unnecessary resources are used by software that not everybody will be using. The stand is easy to remove if you want to place the microphone on a boom arm. the screw holes are then neatly covered with the supplied caps.

Recording quality of the Immerse GV60

I have used the Immerse GV60 from MSI for online gaming, a video call through teams and for communication during a phone call. In all cases, according to the person on the other end, I was very easy to understand. Voices came across true-to-live, with no noise or distortion. I have largely made use of the cardioid setting. If you want to make a podcast interview, the stereo mode is ideal. For people who like to play with ASMR, there is the stereo mode. I notice I find it very convenient to be able to adjust these settings without having to reach to the back of the mic. This was one issue I had with the Yeti Nano I used before.

Conclusion

MSI has released a very nice microphone with the Immerse GV60. The appearance is initially reminiscent of the Blue Yeti. However, to put the MSI away as a simple clone would do the product injustice. For about the same price as the Blue Yeti you get a higher sample and bit rate with the MSI. If you want the same level of recording quality with a Blue Yeti you will need to step up to the Blue Yeti X. I haven’t used that before, but it seems to be a nice mic as well. The appearance is not disturbing when it comes into the picture and the operation is simple. A pop filter is included, although any threaded adapter will have to be purchased separately. All in all, a very solid entry from MSI. For the price I paid, which was around €110,- I can highly recommend this microphone. For more info visit the official product page.