Two keyboards in one: Logitech’s intriguing new solution for gamers

After reviewing the PRO X2 SUPERSTRIKE in April, Logitech’s advanced magnetic gaming mouse and the first of its kind, the company’s new G512 X 98 keyboard has now landed on my desk. It is the latest addition to Logitech’s G5 series, aimed at serious gamers but not necessarily the competitive professional market. The new G512 may not deliver the same technological breakthrough as the Pro X2, but it does bring several intriguing ideas to both gaming and work setups. Chief among them is Dual Swap, which allows users to alternate between magnetic and mechanical switches on the same keyboard. Design: Bolder than ever In contrast to the cleaner, more uniform design trend seen in gaming keyboards in recent years, Logitech’s new model is not afraid to be bolder than ever, bordering on gimmicky. The review unit I received was black with purple sides. The two rotary controls in the upper-right corner, the Esc key and the arrow keys were also purple. A white version with turquoise keys is also available. The black-and-purple combination is unusual and gives the keyboard a look that stands apart from most products on the market. A substantial lighting strip along the front completes the design and adds even more flair. In an original touch, the tools included for removing keycaps and switches can also serve as riser feet that attach beneath the keyboard. There is also a storage compartment on the back that can hold up to nine switches, along with five slots for SAPP Rings, which will be discussed later. It is undoubtedly a clever and original design. However, despite the high-quality PBT keycaps and the overall sturdiness of most components, there are some compromises in build quality. The top panel and the thin frame surrounding the switch base, particularly the especially narrow lower section, move too easily. This makes certain parts of the keyboard feel somewhat cheap. Magnetic switches, with a twist The keyboard comes with mechanical switches in one of two options: red linear switches or brown tactile switches. The brown switches provide a pleasant typing sound and a springy feel, while the red switches are better suited to gaming because of their smooth, consistent movement. But here is the twist: Both versions include nine Gateron K20 magnetic switches in the keyboard’s storage compartment. They are linear and excellent. Of the keyboard’s 98 keys, 39 are hybrid and support Dual Swap. That means users can freely switch between magnetic and mechanical switches in those positions without disconnecting the keyboard from power. The compatible area covers the left side of the keyboard, including the keys up to and below the number 7, the space bar and the arrow keys. In practice, 99% of the keys that matter for gaming support the feature. This opens the keyboard to the vast majority of switches available on the market, whether magnetic or mechanical. It is an excellent option that provides broader compatibility for both general consumers and more serious gamers. It took less than a day for me to use the feature. I swapped the red switches from another keyboard I use for work with the brown switches supplied with the G512 X, then fitted the W, A, S and D keys, along with Shift, Ctrl, Space and Alt, with the magnetic switches. Logitech’s G HUB configuration software is excellent as usual, smooth and easy to use. When new hardware is connected for the first time, a brief interactive tutorial opens and demonstrates all the functions and features of the device. It is convenient and effective. The application also includes Rapid Trigger and Rapid Tap, both fully supported by the magnetic switches, along with animations illustrating the different actuation-depth settings available. In other words, users can take full advantage of the magnetic switches, with no compromises stemming from the keyboard’s hybrid design. The elephant in the room Why do only 39 keys support the feature rather than the entire keyboard? Most likely, it was done to reduce costs. The 98-key version reviewed here already costs 849 shekels, while the matching wrist rest costs about 200 shekels more. A keyboard offering Dual Swap across every key is therefore clearly not financially viable at present. Even with Logitech’s compromise, however, some may argue that the keyboard is not competitively priced. Although Dual Swap is highly useful and effective, most gamers will probably prefer to spend the same amount, or perhaps even less, on a fully analog or mechanical keyboard, despite the G512 X’s smart design and flexibility.