Razer Orbweaver Chroma Review (Mechanical Gaming Keypad)

[@aswells3]

I've been using the original orbweaver for years and I can see where you're coming from on your review. I didn't see any benefit until I learned to use the thumb stick for movement. Once I got used to that and was able to reach all 20 keys while keeping my avatar moving I really started to enjoy using this. For me its much more comfortable for my wrist to use this rather than a standard keyboard as well. I should note, however, that I am very bad at video games so my opinion doesn't mean a damn thing.

[@EffortlessEthan]

I'm very good at video games and I agree with you all the way. Use the thumbstick for movement and the orbweaver will get you to the top of the scoreboard just like a keyboard, but it's so ergonomic there's no joint pain.

[@paalosordoni7932]

I've been using the Razer Nostromo for years and now this,have always used the thumb pad for movement, in fact I can't use a normal keyboard now for movement in FPS titles.

[@phobia9358]

The only reason i was even thinking about getting this is ergonomics and comfort.

[@jamestoms2143]

do you have to go through keybindings in every game and remap to the thumb’s dpad or something?

[@yarghhargh9345]

i use my dick to press wasd and i'm a professional valorant player

[@RocketJumpNinja]

I probably should've treated this more like a keyboard review... just FYI, I can only hold down 6 keys at once on it.

[@shawnmonroe1745]

Rocket Jump Ninja No worries, and congrats on 50k man!

[@RocketJumpNinja]

Thanks!

[@onursolak5758]

Hey Zy, you can use the button at the top of the thumb pad for profile switching button in switch back on release mode, it would be faster to switch between profiles for quick button presses and its fairly comfortable to use too.

[@thonking2208]

Is that the game Quake Live, you're playing or is it another game? sidenote: It'd be nice if you included the games you are playing (in the videos you make) in the descrpition - in the future.

[@TheCreatorofGod]

can you review a james donkey 007

[@appv12]

Ok heres my advice on orbweaver. I've been using the nostromo for over 5 years now and now i have an orbweaver. The place where one of these devices gives you a HUGE advantage is when movement is not as important and in game abilities or other functions are. I use my orbweaver for mmos and other games where i can use my thumb for movement similar to an xbox controller, so my other four fingers are hovering the more important abilities buttons. For fps games thumb movement is not viable because movement affects your aim, however for an mmo, having your four fingers free can be a massive advantage.

[@RocketJumpNinja]

Yeah that makes more sense... they could still improve it in the ways I suggested though.

[@genparksnooze]

As someone who only recently got a full gaming PC rig, the orbweaver was a godsend to use when I was forced to game on my laptop for 5+ years. I could have used an external mechanical keyboard, but the small formfactor of the orbweaver, and the comfortable wrist wrest made it a perfect companion for LAN parties with friends. I play almost all genres, MMOs, FPS, MOBAs, RTS, and even do a little video editing here and there. Having a device where the keys can be fully mapped helped a huge deal with my productivity. At the end of the day though, just use what's more comfortable. It's no crime to use this if you think it's exactly what you need

[@donald.d3843]

What is this game name please answer :) "i don't mean overwatch"

[@christopherdu4566]

i was thinking of binding jump the the thumb scroll and becoming a speed demon in csgo

[@princetubby5698]

as an n52 te user this is very true.

[@Ficojepet]

you might want to look at japanese keyboard layouts, they have smaller space-bar and extra buttons

[@Ficojepet]

also why not use the spacebar for movement?

[@Mikey-zc4lk]

Ficojepet Well, jumping is movement =P

[@YoloMonstaaa]

Spacebars too heavy and clunky for that.

[@Ficojepet]

well you could put always put a standard key-cap there overkill, I know

[@donald.d3843]

What is this game name please answer :) "i don't mean overwatch"

[@MichaelAussie05]

Really liking this channel so far. Thanks for your time and efforts. This format is perfect for quick reviews.

[@RocketJumpNinja]

Good to hear, thanks!

[@donald.d3843]

What is this game name please answer :) "i don't mean overwatch"

[@donald.d3843]

Your friendly neighborhood loaf Ty but is it dead?

[@chief1516]

Thanks for quake reviews lul

[@CaptHotah]

I got used to mine after less than a week. I absolutely love it. I could never go back to a normal keyboard now. Been having it for 2 years now (not the chroma version)

[@EffortlessEthan]

Same, it's the bomb. I just wish the thumbstick was analog because I use it for movement and it's a little twitchy, but I've gotten used to it by now.

[@EffortlessEthan]

@AN NGUYEN It looks good for the price. It's not any more ergonomic than a keyboard though, plus it doesn't have a thumbstick and I don't like the key layout. In my opinion the Orbweaver, Tartarus, and Logitech g13 are all superior options. The GameSir might be the best for some people but I don't think it stands up to the competition.

[@joaopedrotoscano7028]

I guess that he don't like it because his hand is so big that he can't reach some key's like the "control" and the "shift"

[@EffortlessEthan]

@@joaopedrotoscano7028 He might have not spent enough time with it to get used to the adjustable ergonomics. I use the smallest setting and my hands aren't tiny, you can adjust it like five sizes bigger, the thumb assembly and wrist rest both adjust out, while you can change the tilt of the palm rest to accommodate your hand. Personally I think this is an underrated device because the learning curve is high, especially on the first gen monochrome model.

[@EffortlessEthan]

It shouldn't matter what keys he can or can't reach, no hand can reach all the keys easily. What you do is you decide which region your hand naturally falls in with the best ergonomic settings, and you use those central keys as your main keys, then you use the surrounding keys for the rest of the buttons that hardly get used or aren't time sensitive. Since you make custom profiles for every game, if you can't reach a key it's your fault.

[@Blueon123]

3:21 start of the mechanical symphony

[@damado26]

I've had the non-chroma version for several years now and I can't play an MMO without it. I use the thumb D-pad thing for my WASD so that it frees up all the top buttons for stuff in MMOs. I also like it for FPS since I'm used to moving around with my thumb.

[@laythmimish8614]

Acurate review, stating facts then your opinion, suggesting which types of players could find this product useful.This is a straight forward simple review which I enjoyed very much you earned a sub and like keep up the good work man !

[@Baby_boodle]

I really appreciate this review, as I'm looking for something like this to make extended play sessions more comfortable. Thanks for the video!

[@justinz.4069]

It's funny how in my country, 1/4 of a keyboard costs more than a Blackwidow Ultimate....

[@necros1855]

:)

[@henryhuynha4818]

@Hunter It's a fake

[@namanhan7829]

Ummmm Justin z

[@namanhan7829]

Justin Z. Fake boi

[@Hojeans]

I have one of these and I use the thumb pad for movement. My main game is overwatch and I am low masters which should let you know that it isn't a hinderance at all once you get used to it. It is amazing being able to move and use all my abilities at the same time, I can crouch, shift, e and q without affecting my movement at all which most people can't do. I can touch 9 buttons instantly while still moving which is pretty damn huge

[@FlashManinSpace]

The Orbweaver is great if you're going to a lan party and don't want to pack an entire keyboard. It's also pretty easy to set it up to be a one hand keyboard too. Also what makes it really shine is its insane macros abilities. I wish Razer would give it a programming language like Python so I can really do some insane manipulation.

[@worldkat1393]

meh a nice 10 keyless seems better still.

[@jomialsipi]

What about AutoHotKey ?

[@housesg5981]

holy crap, your skills on OverWatch as junk is incredible

[@n3rdy11]

I don't get why they add the worst parts of a gamepad but leave out the best. Why not add a full blown, good quality, analog stick to that thing? Leave all the movement to the thump, put the thumb-pad below that, just like on a controller. The analog stick is superior for movement, it can replace like 4 movements key+modifiers for speed, free upl all the rest of the left-hand fingers for other abilities/leaning/whatever.

[@tf2koalafruit]

im so sorry for a year late reply but, YES! That was exactly what i was thinking! When i first saw the side i thought it was an analog stick or one of those little rubber circle things on old ass laptops. But when i put my thumb on it it felt nothing like an analog or one if those rubber circles.

[@LittleW00d]

I would use this as a macro keypad for applications like Photoshop than gaming. I currently use Auto-hotkey with an external numberpad for quick access to brushes and tools, the only problem is that it's glitchy and I can't use any numberpads for calculations. It's annoying that there is no gaming keypad that is designed for left-handed people, I could learn to draw / write with my opposite hand but it could take months if not years to reach the same level of penmanship!

[@doom5895]

LittleW00d keep looking dude doesn't your tablet have those buttons you can map things to?

[@EffortlessEthan]

The only plus side for leftys is that maybe you'll have room on your desk to put your drawing/writing tablet directly next to your orbweaver.

[@phobophobian7765]

You pretty much nailed it, Zy. Gaming keyboard manufacturers should put more thoughts into more keys for the thumb. Good examples of that is the Cougar 500K and 700K keyboards which have space bar keys that are split in half.

[@Mandadog]

I love how honest this review is.

[@himethpitigala6187]

I think this product would be better on MOBA games eg. DOTA or League of legends but in FPS games it really doesn't seem like the best option

[@ruiming]

aimbot>razer

[@EffortlessEthan]

To each their own. I've owned one for several years, and having gotten used to it and tailored my profiles until I have a couple templates that I work off of for different games, one for overwatch, one for normal fps like cs:go, battlefield and pubg, and another for battlefront 2, I play just as well if not better than I would with a standard keyboard, and it's way more ergonomic, plus it frees up my whole desk for mouse movement, I can even fit a coffee cup or a bowl of food to the right of my orbweaver. For me it is the best option for every game that doesn't require much typing.

[@TheFriendlyInvader]

I feel like this is a good device for people with Repetitive Strain Injury, or Carpal tunnel, since the pad fully supports the parts of the hand that are commonly damaged with those injuries...

[@triqvert9406]

Before I bought Orbweaver, I struggled with standard keyboard, since I couldn't keep my hand steady and always mixed they keys. Now I own non-chroma version for couple of years already, and not going back to standard keyboard. Also to note, I've found on the web a layout for the Orbweaver to use the directional pad under thumb for movement and it made the thing even more comfortable (for me ofc), but I had to get used to move on that for a week or so. As to elaborating on why make such a device - for people like me, when standard keyboard isn't comfortable to play on. And as a standard keyboard 8$ Logitech is perfectly fine by me =]

[@jonnolags]

thanks i was waiting for this!

[@pronubcentral]

I got the Tartarus a few years back and it was awful getting used to but now it's almost indispensible. I have to look at my keyboard but with the gamepad, I have a finger on every function as I need it. The Tartarus is starting to feel sluggish and worn so I considered stepping up to the Orbweaver but I can't imagine playing on something wobbly. What I have has a solid grip to the table and doesn't rock at all. Very solid.

[@DirtyiRacer]

Finally a successful Aussie KZbin gamer!

[@Leiesoldat]

I'll give my take on this. I've used my Orbweaver for going on 2 years now and before that I used the Logitech G19 for more than 5 years. The main reason I switched from the G19 to the Orbweaver was the switches. The G19 uses rubber domes and I cannot stand anything that is not mechanical anymore. Most of that comes down to the ergonomics of hitting the buttons. I like the switches on the Orbweaver, however, I've noted that on some occasions in GW2, the keys don't register straight away, almost like I'm sending information too quickly and overwhelming the transfer bus. Now most people will say why not use just a regular keyboard. Zy pointed out the thumb buttons which are the ideal feature, but its not just the thumb buttons themselves but how those buttons are positioned. If you look at your hand and how your thumb is placed relative to the rest, the plane of action is different from your other fingers. If your other fingers are in the X-Y plane, then your thumb occupies either the Y-Z plane or a rotated X-Y plane at something like 60 or 70 degrees from horizontal. Having the thumb cluster at that angled plane really helps with both ergonomics and the speed/ease at which you can press those buttons. That's one of the big advantages that the Orbweaver has over the G19. Using a keyboard like the ErgoDox (which I have) has thumb clusters, but they're not ideal for gaming because of how your thumb moves and interacts. Also I don't use a regular keyboard because I fear about getting carpal tunnel syndrome from how my wrist contorts on the QWERTY keyboard. Besides the thumb button arrangement and the mechanical switches, the G19 is superior in every other way to the Orbweaver. The main key layout is easier to reach (except the top corner buttons, those are hard to reach unless you have large hands), the integrated palm rest is far larger and more padded (the glue behind the Orbweaver pad is notorious for dissolving early and the pad itself is over-sized for the space it sits in; DON'T REMOVE THE PAD ON THE ORBWEAVER, YOU WON'T GET IT BACK ON), the joystick in the thumb cluster is much better at the cardinal directions, and the two buttons surrounding the joystick are not as damn sensitive as the flat keys on the Orbweaver. I would love to go back to the G19 because of the layout, but Logitech seemingly doesn't listen to the long forum threads about getting mechanical key switches on the G19. Logitech also hasn't updated that product in 5+ years. So in closing, if you don't mind rubber dome switches, get the G19. If you can't stand the rubber domes, the Orbweaver or the older Nostromo are going to be your only good choices.

[@JesseArt]

I been using the original Orbweaver for 5+ years now, and although I did have many of the same issues mentioned here, I just can't give up those thumb buttons. I hate playing anything on a standard keyboard anymore. It's probably not an ideal device for competitive gameplay, but for MMOs like Arma 3, it works miracles. My gaming group utilizes an enormous modpack with seemingly unending functions and features. When I play, I have 2 fully maxed out keymaps I'm constantly switching between using the top thumb button as a modifier key. I mean, really, my absolute ideal keyboard would be to just have two of these suckers, one for each hand, joined by a center cable similar to that of the ErgoDox and Kinesis keyboards. I'd buy an Orbweaver [insert catchy marketable name] keyboard in a heartbeat. Keep the standard QWERTY layout on the boards and stick all the modifier keys on the thumbs. That'd be amazing! Oh, and more solid build construction too. They could save money by just making the palm area a single mold construction like the Tartarus v2 or even the old school Logitech G13. They should also include the scroll wheel or perhaps create a section with swappable modules such as track balls, touchpads (think Steam controller), ThinkPad style red nipples, joysticks, etc. Pleeeeease, Razer (or someone with unlimited R&D), build this product and pair it with competent software!!!

[@Demonoid1990]

I just ordered one of these. For me I thought it would be nice for on the go since it's small, and I'm a long haul truck driver. I'm going to be purchasing a laptop here in the near future too, and I didn't want to lug around a laptop plus a full size keyboard. Yes the laptop will obviously have a keyboard, but I prefer the full size keys and throw of a standard desktop keyboard. I think this will make a nice compromise. Unfortunately there aren't a lot of gaming keypads like the Orbweaver out there, so my choices were pretty limited. I kinda wish other companies like Logitech, Corsair, Steelseries, ect.. would either make something similar, or update preexisting ones in logitech's case. Hopefully I won't be disappointed, but so far I've been pretty happy with Razers newer products. Much better than they were in the past. I used to be a logitech fan, but the last 6 years or so have really tested that. Other brands have really stepped up their game.

[@jkdssismo2607]

You pulled out some quick ASMR at the end

[@Flaimbot]

there's 2 elephants in the room you've missed. 1) its formfactor let me explain. when you have a small desk you barely have room for a full sized KB and a low-dpi mouse. with this thing you get about 30 centimeters back that you can utilize for wider mouse movement. on top of that you can place it easier to fit your range between your arms, which enables a more relaxed gaming experience. 2) another thing is it lets you use one type of switches with it (e.g. the upcoming yellows) and still retain typing switches on your keyboard (e.g. green or mx blue).

[@Aphal]

Thanks for the review Zy. I agree with you, I'd like to see a traditional keyboard but with a new take on useful thumb buttons.

[@MetroplexBias]

True, in FPS I’ll always prefer the keyboard for movement, but for mobas this thing is unstoppable.

[@dexjec]

I've been using Orbweaver and other keypads for years and I think Mr Ninja is pretty much on point here. Orbweaver isn't the sturdiest and I've had mod mine to make it more stable. Other than the extra thumb buttons, huge reason for me for using keypads is that I can get my left hand closer to the mousemat and into much more comfortable position than with a wide keyboard.

[@unknownk8087]

Ah yes, I love notifications

[@protagonistcast3251]

I use the Logitech G13. I switched to this after using the Belkin N50, later N52. The Belkin product was bought by Razer and became the Orbweaver. The Belkin products were not adjustable and no mechanical keys. Once I got over the learning curve for the G13, I can't go back. The ability to configure any key on the G13 to any key on the keyboard (or create macros) means I don't have to rely on the game to allow me to rebind keys to fit my style. The thumb buttons on the G13 are a better layout in my opinion.

[@Snackolyte]

I'm surprised nobody (That i've seen) Has used your idea for a key board with thumb buttons. That is freakin genius man.

[@Orcification]

Google Mad Catz Strike 5. It's no longer available. I have one and the thumb button on the palm rest is always used. Also has a thumb rotary. Just checking out the Orbweaver as the keyboard is getting old now and bits like the launcher screen are not working and when it finally packs up I need a thumb button as I have got so used to it.

[@ComicAdrian]

The Razer Anansi Keyboard has 7 Thumb Buttons, but they are not mechanical and not illuminated, which makes them kinda hard to distinguish

[@casedistorted]

I really wanted one of these for the thumb buttons but it just seems too awkward when you need a keyboard anyway. I agree with your review, thumbs up

[@Jenkyllllls]

I have been using this since it came out, i am still using the same one today. The learning curve is high it took me a few weeks to get used to but worth it. I use this exclusively for WOW for mythic raiding/dungeons. I could not imagine going back to a keyboard.

[@jrddoubleu514]

The palmrest is unintentionally useful; if you have this thing strapped to the arm of your gaming chair, the palmrest enables you to rest your arm over the keypad (although not particularly comfortable in all positions), without pressing the keys.

[@gregwx]

Keypads is a hard bet, in my case the orbweaver is PERFECT, I have a 19cm/6cm hand and my thumb rest in the right spot as the other fingers on they place, fits like a glove. Is amazing having multiple keys in your thumb for functions, my reaction time is increased. Highly recommended but if you can, give a test drive before buy it.

[@01sigh]

i really like your honest opinions on the products.

[@vishnuravi8910]

I think the reason that people use this is because if they have a crazy low sens then they will want this to not have to put their hands at a vertical angle

[@hilmarsson1]

thumb stick is for movement dude thats how the orbweawer works. btw awesome channel

[@bahamutkaiser]

I wish I could try something like this to transfer movement to the thumbstick, that would free up way more keys, though I admit it would feel odd to transfer jumping to a finger key.

[@jayarmstrong]

This can do that

[@dreadsire5086]

Thumb button is great as a Shift and control+key with the naga. Making those 12 mouse buttons into 36 buttons.

[@TheSilverWolf1998]

I've used the original orbweaver for years and the biggest complaint is the thumb section, which is 1) too flimsy from the rest of the base 2) the "dpad" shape is dumb and results in unreliable thumb clicks for diagonal bindings 3) while it's adjustable for thumb length, it sticks out too much forcing your thumb to also be stretched out which results in a lot of cramping especially when you're in games spamming the spacebar for jump like quake

[@exitium1825]

I like it when shoot buttons are on the right

[@TheRealUncleScar]

I know I'm a few years late on commenting, but I prefer movement binds on my mouse buttons, leaving ALL the buttons on the orbweaver available for binds I always put ctrl alt and shift on the joystick (and target toggle) so that my thumb can modify the other 20 buttons and give me 80 different binds just on the 4x5 keys alone.

[@ThiagoJaqueta]

Using more the thumb is one of the reasons of why I still have my A4Tech G800. I wish there were more keyboards with this layout. I've been struggling to find a mechanical like it.

[@lindsaytur496]

I use my dpad for Used Nostramu for years amazing for MMO's with Naga

[@perre6385]

I'm a console player either a custom Elite Controller, but keypads look so badass

[@flodusishigh6607]

your points are in many ways true but only if you use it like you did, with the key-moving. The Orbweaver is perfect for shooters and all the abilities, IF you manage to move with the thumbstick, wich is very accurate. i never pressed any wrong direction and its very well built in the device. If you‘re very much used to the keyboard-only playstyle then its maybe going to take longer getting used to thumbstick movement. But if you ever used any controller, I think that it shouldn‘t be much of a problem. the mechanical key are also great. but if you just move with them its actually pointless, in this case use the keyboard. i‘m glad that i bought it because now its so much more comfortable to play anything on pc.

[@HungerGamesAssassins]

*Can you use the thumb-pad as an actual movement joystick, because the click sounds it makes as you move it make it sound more like something that you'd simply use as extra macros...*

[@desoxy2093]

You should use it that way. Zy used it the wrong way.

[@mohammedrostom1802]

Your rocket jumping skills are amazing

[@robbies9130]

almost ninja-like in their precision

[@EffortlessEthan]

I've gotten really good at using the thumb knob as wasd, freeing up the main row for other actions like crouch, lie down, jump, knife, or use. My hand size is the same size but 1cm wider. I've found that it's hard to get used to, but you can adjust it to fit your hand better (I hit the left two columns with my pinky and the right column with my index finger the way I have it set up). I've found it to be my go to for fps games. My main gripe with the orbweaver is Razor Synapse, configuring it is harder than with Logitech, and I'd prefer just an analog stick for controlling directional movement, rather than the clicky button stick, but nonetheless I have really made full use of the orbweaver in Battlefield games, and source fps games like cs:go and insurgency. I'd use the logitech one, but I prefer the mechanical keys. I never noticed how wobbly they were until you pointed it out, but the switches serve me great and I'm fine with imperceptible wobble.

[@Valheru779]

great quality videos. I almost had to sell a body part when i went into the Mwave store in Lidcombe oh my goodness sooo many goodies.

[@KolkYT]

Why not just make an analog joystick device to connect to the magnet right under the space bar on some Razer keyboards? I think that would be an interesting way to free up fingers usually focused on WASD keys.

[@NightZ3r0]

Main benefit is the desktop space you save. You can place your keyboard above this pad and mouse and you have a ton of space for flicks. I'm a low sensitivity gamer and sometimes hit my keyboard with my mouse, with the orbweaver I'd have more room for my mouse movements. I do agree that this particular model/form makes it not worth it though.

[@ae86manny]

I have the complete opposite feeling than what you are getting. granted I play mmo's mostly, but since the move back onto a gaming pad its been better for me, never over reaching or pressing the wrong buttons by accident. played on a regular membrane keyboard -> black widow -> nostromo -> 87 keycool keyboard -> custom made ortholinear keyboard and back on to tartarus (nostromo). so I know a thing or 2 when it comes to adapting to your peripherals.

[@illastration1]

Totally agree that gaming keyboards should incorporate more thumb options.

[@omg432111]

Cool. Guys with small tables can buy this. Your review is as great as always.

[@StormyIV]

If you want a good Keypad I would recommend the Koolertron Single Handed Keypad. It's basically just half a keyboard with mechanical switches(Red,Blue Or Black). Really good for setups with not a whole lot of room.

[@datAero]

its a layout design from the nostromo from the early 2000s, razer bought the license from belkin. The ergonomics on the nostromo are still better tho.

[@ZR4319]

YESS!!! was expecting this for far too long!!!

[@zoppp621]

Could you review the Logitech G602 mouse? seems cheaper than the g403 but has more buttons.

[@emkplayboy6]

Excellent gaming keypad coming from the Razer Tartarus vrs.1 Love having more keys compared to the 1st gen tartarus. My only gripe is eventually the adhesive they put under the palm rest pads soon after a lot of use become loose. I solved this by taking off the palm rest pads and removing all of the adhesive from them and using a better glue. Solved the issue so far!

[@YoloMonstaaa]

You should try the Logitech version of this, the G13. It has a much better thumb stick and I think more buttons total. Looks like a more flat design, which might also be more comfortable.

[@EffortlessEthan]

I wish the orbweaver had the G13's thumbstick. Otherwise I don't feel the need for more buttons, and I prefer the orbweaver's customizable ergonomics, design and mechanical switches.

[@lgwhittaker1]

Yeah, Razer did make a keyboard with thumb buttons, the Anansi. I have one and it's still great.

[@RaptorJesus.]

i have an n52te nostromo, its VERY old now, but looks kinda similar to this, it is totally essential imho, the d-pad under the thumb is so useful, my thumb has access to 6 keys (i bind them to skills for RPGs) no more awkward contortions!

[@Arcadinhog]

I have a Nostromo and the only genre I use it for is MMOS. Keybinding every skill into a Nostromo or Orbweaver help you to activate each necessary skill super fast and moving your character with the thumb finger frees the rest of your fingers. I am considering to buy the Orbweaver but I found it to be too expensive.

[@Psoewish]

Yeah, this pretty much confirmed all of my concerns with the device. I really love the concept, but I wish someone would make a product like this without the gimmicks attached to it. Doesn't even need to be mechanical in all honesty. Logitech also has a keypad but I've also heard only bad things about that one. I guess it's just too niche a market for someone to properly invest in, but I'd love for roccat to give it a go, or for logitech to update their old model. Also you playing Pharah on Overwatch is a scary thought. I hope I never have the misfortune of experiencing it firsthand xD

[@JACGhost1982]

Have you checked out the old school zboard keyboard? It is exactly this - a keyboard with special functionality for gamers. Despite being a membrane keyboard, and missing all the bells and whistles of today's mechanical keyboards, i still use it. The button layout of the butterfly game keys makes standard keyboard layout feel like a handicap. I have thousands of hours with my zboard in bf3 and 4 and easily top the scoreboards in fps games with it. I wish so much that this keyboard would be updated.

[@ch3m1c]

It's priceless device for on the go gamers with laptops.. really, nothing competes it, as laptop keyboards are all PITA for gaming, and most gaming laptops tend to get pretty warm as well. I'm still running the original Orbweaver Stealth (with MX-brown switches) I also find the same issues than you RocketJumpNinja.

[@EndoBaggins]

I just picked up one of these on the cheap. At first I really didn't like it because of how flat the keys were. I'd find myself accidentally holding down W & S, making my character stop. I decided to try switching out the default "W" key with one of the bottom row key caps that are angled like a normal key cap. Now, I no longer press both W & S together on accident.

[@1kot4u]

I own the first orbweaver with blue CHERRY switches and solid green backlight, it is built poorly with some wobly parts and the glue is pressed inside out the rubberised surface of the palmrest but the keys are really great! It is comfy to bind space to the top thumb button in the games. I have useg logitech g13 keyboard, but all of its buttons are made cheap and feel cheap like the $5 noname keyboard.

[@profosist]

ill agree with you on the G13

[@eXSPLY]

With my thumb I use space, x, c, v, b and n so I don't think extra buttons are needed when you have five easily reachable.

[@spazmagoog]

It seems that a lot of the reason you didn't much like it is because of the unusual button mapping that you use. One of my favourite things about it is the nice sensitive spacebar right under my thumb, which wouldn't seem nearly as helpful to someone used to jumping with their pinky.

[@crazykidjumps]

I got the Orbweaver mainly for Rainbow 6 Siege, I can't quickly move my hands to the number keys for gadgets and utilities. It took me a 20-60hrs of playing to get comfortable with it, I tried not to stray too much from the original left side layout to confuse myself and slowly tweak it. I don't think now I can live without it with most games, I almost broke down when the thumb pads stopped working (due to the wire connecting the parts maybe loose.

[@vkrito]

I personally enjoy the layout of the keys on any keypad like that

[@MustSeto]

I got the orbweaver because I wanted to try using its 8-way switch for movement. I remember it being annoying at first, but I decided to try to stick with it for a while and got pretty good with it. But a true analog stick would have been better. IMO the analog stick for movement is probably the only thing controllers are better at than m+kb. This only goes half-way. There are some "analog keyboards" in development, which address the other half, but are missing the half the orbweaver gets.

[@AdrianoCampinho]

Aweasome review as always. Have you ever considered reviewing cheap-brand mouses like the motospeed series (especialy the v30) and James Donkey 007 etc. ?

[@ninorpronin]

Or something like the gaming mice from amazon, that get marketed under a dozen names.

[@smoloms]

I dont use my orbweaver for games. I use it mostly for video editing since i have macros setup. When i do use my orbweaver for games its usually games that have shortcuts that are normally scattered around on a keyboard. It help keep keys where you can remeber them and keeps the. Together

[@Drunken_Hamster]

Part of this idea is key alignment. I find WASD quite offset after coming back to gaming post 5-year hiatus. Still haven't FULLY launched back into it, though...

[@goldenagegamer7081]

I agree totally with you as far as being used to a traditional KB, my Drevo Calibur MECH KB can basically do the same thing and I don't have to spend an extra 100+ dollars for it. For a matter of fact a good MECH KB is IMO better than that thing...if you're going to spend over 100 dollars then just get a really nice MECH KB, it does the same thing and you'll have more uses for it.

[@craigcox1309]

I just got one, taking it back. Palm rest is the problem. It’s too high with no way to lower it. That’s why it’s hard to reach the keys for us small handed people. The palm rest is supposed to be for base of the palm, not the middle of your hand. It’s more a hand rest than a palm rest.

[@exile55]

You're using it all wrong. Seriously missing the point on all fronts. I love it personally. If you're not customizing it, you are missing out completely. I have at least 10 games with different custom buttons on mine and once you make them, it's easy to remember the custom buttons for each game. The directional stick is a godsend for movement. and the icing on the cake is the lighting.

[@user-cd6pq7yx7k]

Ero Jasper he wanted to do a review not to customize it to the fullest ...

[@ramenlyyold2383]

wait wait wait, so basically, can i make a different profile for osu, cs go and photoshop?

[@exile55]

@@ramenlyyold2383 Yes, I've done done it for my games and my Clip Studio Paint program. So it would work for Photoshop too. 😉

[@ramenlyyold2383]

@@exile55thanks!

[@Merjia]

I have a Razer Tartarus (The updated one with chroma and more keys) and I think it's a lot better than the Orbweaver. The mecha membrane keys feel great and are really responsive, and it doesn't seem to suffer from the same negatives as the orbweaver does in your review. I actually find that I play Quake a lot better with it, I bound the top thumb button to jump since it fits my hand a lot better.

[@maxd11111]

C, V and Space (maybe also X) are my thumb buttons for keyboards...

[@Lycanite]

I use the thumbstick thing for movement, have done so since the Nostromo for years and it's much more efficient, you have access to so many keys while your thumb goes from a jump presser to movement freeing 3 new keys (used it heavily for WoW). I just wish a better keypad would come out with an actual full sized decent analog stick. I use the low space-like trigger for profile switching and the top button for menus, etc.

[@tartarusgaming8222]

In modern warfare I use the razed Tartarus v1 and I use S to jump A to prone D to stim X to crouch CAPS to use dead silence

[@Sando_Brown]

great review, I have a orbweaver 2014 edition and I personally love it. but we have a very different feature i have extra large hands (Iam also left handed) the fact that my hands feel giant on the black widow but perfect for this is the key point here. when i rest my hands on the orbweaver they sit at the top row of keys making them very easy to use and the curve on the buttons works in my favor. my experience with both the orbweaver and the black widow are the opposite of yours. but the same issue with both. i feel cramped on the black widow but feel the orb weaver is the perfect size. so for people thinking about purchasing the orbweaver should take a look at their hands first that makes a big difference

[@8transformers]

Hi Zy, greetings from Portugal. First of i'm a big fan and i need to thank you for the incredible reviews that you do(mice,keyboards,monitors, chairs & even sports sleeves), they are very informative. :D Right now i'm playing Doom Eternal with a rubber keyborad that a friend gifted me when we were in 9th grade, (because mine at the time broke)........................yes i know, its stupid......i've had this thing for ages because i'm a cheap bastard. So now that this game is kicking my ass more than real life! i think its time for me to do an upgrade, and i'm very interested in these gaming keypads, especially the logitec G13 & azeron gaming keypad. If it isn't asking too much, could you possibly do a review of the two, that i mentioned above? it would really help me a lot to decide on witch one to buy. Ps: the rubber keyboard did fine for gaming all these years,........... but doom eternal happend :P

[@Lagahan]

Recently got one myself, I use the thumbstick for movement to free up the rest of my fingers. Thumbstick is much better than the nostromo but still far too sensitive alright. I find myself accidentally moving a bit too much when shooting in CS:GO, but I've gotten too used to this now to go back. Hope they release an improved version. I have a similar hand size too and find it very hard to reach the top row of keys even with the palm rest fully retracted.

[@jeremyjonathanerb7872]

Im using the Orbweaver to play MOBAS and RTS games but switch to a conventional Keyboard to play FPS. It really improved my gameplay in League of Legends, there are not that many skills in LOL afterall and with the Orbweaver im able to press any Skill without adjusting my Handposition, while i would have to adjust my hand-angle on a conventional Keyboard to press anything else with my thumb.

[@HomiePandaLOOKatMYcustomURL]

i like the over watch game play, and nice review

[@krosspath3549]

keyboards that are like the Orbweaver is probably suited towards the travelling gamer and video editors for extra macros(?) But if keyboard manufacturers wanna be at the top, add micro sd and sd slot and/or a type-c pass through :P

[@johnanderson9242]

Helpful review. I'd love to see what you think of the Logitech G13, which has more buttons to the sides, different thumb controls, and is (probably?) more stable.

[@lucianodebenedictis6014]

Yes, thumb is underused. That's why I use space for jump, alt for crouch, v for melee and b m n for voice commands!

[@LeNimph]

I wish he would actually review it using the thumb movement buttons for movement which is the whole reason that thing actually exists.

[@TheFinalMaelstrom]

True. It really shines when it comes to MMORPG's like WoW

[@MrPeterGoldman]

I would personally use that device for games with a lot of keybinds like management games (i.e. Rimworld) or simulators (i.e. Arma/Elite Dangerous). Not for simple shooters.

[@IndrasilDesignStudio]

I have a Stealth variation of this, meaning it has Razer Orange switches. Currently using it only in League of Legends and it's still not so familiar in use. I'd like to see more competition in the keypad market. Right now it's only Razer Orbweaver, Logitech G13 and some less known stuff.

[@profosist]

even the G13 is going away. Its a small market with small sales but the people that like them and get used to it generally stick with them. I know some who still use the old nostromos from Belkin.