Roccat Isku Keyboard Review

Playing with the Isku

Prior to playing, we first used the Isku to type. We needed some time to adjust to its size and key distribution. Because of the proximity of the M1-M5 keys to the traditional keys on the left side, we ended up mistyping a lot. We also had to reprogram the Caps Lock to its original position, now occupied by the EasyShift[+] . With so many extra keys, we don’t understand why Roccat didn’t include a separate key for the EasyShift[+] instead of replacing the Caps Lock.

As with games, the Isku is the ideal keyboard for complex titles with thousands of commands. The average gamer will probably be satisfied with the presets, and the software is just good enough to make some more hardcore configurations without getting a headache. For FPS games that require a lot fewer commands, it’s better to invest in a good mouse. Since these types of controls remain the same over several titles, the same keyboard preset can be of service in such games as Modern Warfare 3 and Battlefield 3.

Although the placement of the M1-M5 keys can lead to some accidental keystrokes, the inclusion of three buttons below the space bar is a touch of genius. The thumb usually rests over the space bar doing nothing until it has to press it for the virtual soldier to jump. Now the finger can execute three more functions like reloading a gun, changing weapons and drinking healing potions. In terms of positioning, they are the best keys on the Isku.

For those who own the Kone[+] mouse and the Isku keyboard, it’s possible to es
tablish a communication between them through the Roccat Talk feature. The user can control the Kone[+] resolution with a keystroke on the Isku and execute the EasyShift[+], also found on the mouse, through the keyboard. This actually leaves the same EasyShift[+] button on the mouse to be reconfigured to some other function. As we considered the Kone[+] a Hardware Secrets Golden Award recipient, it makes a nice tag-team with the Isku.

Figure 9: The Isku and Kone[+] tag-team