It seems not so long ago when mechanical keyboards were closer tied to the most entrenched computer enthusiasts or typists. Nowadays with the popularity of Cherry MX mechanical switches, mechanical keyboards reach all kinds of audiences and are popping up from a variety of peripheral manufacturers. Unlike the buckling spring keyboards of the past, Cherry MX key switches are available in several options with regards to audible and tactile feedback. For example, linear switches on Cherry Reds and Blacks cater more to gamers, while those looking for a typist's switch may instead opt for Cherry Blues or Browns.

Today we are looking at the ROCCAT Ryos MK Glow, an illuminated mechanical gaming keyboard featuring Cherry MX Black switches. Based in Germany, ROCCAT focuses on producing gaming peripherals that emphasize style as well as performance though its track record varies depending on the type of product in question. Some have been outstanding and innovative, as we've seen with the ROCCAT Kone Pure laser mouse and more recently, the ROCCAT Tusko Monitor Bag. Others, such as the ROCCAT Isku FX, put too much of a emphasis on appearance and flash and not enough on the final build quality. The ROCCAT Ryos MK Glow looks to correct the wrongs of the non-mechanical Isku line while maintaining the innovations it sought after.

What we get here is a smudge-proof finish, proven Cherry MX Black mechanical key switches, dedicated macro and thumbster keys, N-Key Rollover, ROCCAT Talk, and a powerful 32-bit ARM Cortex processor. Back in traditional ROCCAT fashion is Easy-Shift[+], essentially a button that now enables secondary functions across every key on the Ryos MK Glow. This all comes together in a package that also features LED illumination under each of its 113 keys plus the same trademark integrated wrist rest from the original ROCCAT Isku and Isku FX.