Design 9.0
Features 9.0
Usability 9.0
Value 9.0
Distributor: Cooler Master
Review Date:
Nov 2012
Reviewer:
James Wright

9.0


CM STORM QUICKFIRE TK
GAMING KEYBOARD

The Quick Fire TK is the latest gaming keyboard from Cooler Master that offers gamers super fast response times thanks to the technical design of this mechanical keyboard. This is achieved thanks to the long-life mechanical cherry MX switches which offers a very impressive response time of 1 ms (1000 Hz). In other words... super fast and no lag!

Another highlight of the keyboard is the size. The CM Storm Quickfire TK is probably the smallest mechanical keyboard that I have used and is quite compact, measuring in at  377.5 (L) * 138 (W) *33 (H) mm. I also love the mechanical sound of the keys which gives you a powerful click when they are pressed. The keyboard also comes in three different illuminated colours that include Cherry Red, Cherry Blue and Cherry Brown. As it is a fully backlit keyboard, you can even game in the dark.

In terms of ergonomics, the CM Storm QuickFire TK gaming keyboard, although Spartan-like in its appearance, actually feels quite good to use with the keys being quite responsive. The only issue that some people may have is the clicking sound of pressing the keys which is due to the mechanical design of the keyboard. It is quite loud. Nonetheless, it is very comfortable to use and definitely maximises your desk space.

Another great feature is that you can disable the Windows key which can sometimes disrupt your gaming sessions. The keyboard is also quite heavy and weighs around 544 grams. Although it is a little weighty, it ensures that it won't move when you're in the middle of a gaming session and also has four rubber feet to prevent movement.

Installation, Windows & Gaming

Installation of the keyboard is a breeze. You simply connect the keyboard into a spare USB port and Windows 7 or 8 will automatically detect the keyboard, installing the correct drivers. In order to change the brightness of the keyboard, this is done through the four function keys at the top. The other function keys are used for multimedia access such as play, stop, volume etc. I also like how windows lock key (F12) is right up the top which makes turning this feature on quite easy.

Another highlight of the keyboard is the easy cable management feature. Not only is the braided USB cable detachable but it allows you to move the cable on the underside of the keyboard either in three directions to best suit your own personal setup. Whether that's left, right or top.

We tested the keyboard on a variety of different games that include Battlefield, Call of Duty, Need for Speed and Warcraft. Unlike my old Logitech G510, the CM QuickFire TK is a far superior keyboard when it comes to response times and definitely improved my kill rate.

Using it in Windows, whether through MS Office or just typing was also a treat. The only thing you need to get use to is the sound the keys make. However thankfully the keys are low resistance force feedback which means you don't have to SLAM the keys down.

Final Level

Not only is the CM Storm QuickFire TK gaming keyboard an extremely responsive keyboard that is perfect for all types of games such as first person shooters and MMO's but it also offers gamers a unique look thanks to the LED which illuminates the keyboard for night gaming.

With a recommended retail price of $115AUD (November 2012), the CM Storm QuickFire TK gaming keyboard is available at all good retailers and will definitely give you the gaming edge!