Sandberg FireStorm Mechanical Keyboard – Hardware Review
Not that long ago we were able to take a look at Sandberg’s new membrane keyboard, the IronStorm, which proved to be a decent gaming companion for gamers with a lower budget. The IronStorm is a very decent membrane keyboard, with a minimum of whistles and bells, with a very sturdy frame. That being said, it was noticeable that this was an entry-level device, compared to mechanical keyboards in a somewhat saturated market. That being said, mechanical keyboards are often pricey, depending on the brand behind the device and the switches used to actually drive the keyboard. Now we have the chance to try out Sandberg’s newest mechanical keyboard, that comes at a very affordable price. We have to state though that this device does not come with Cherry MX switches, but with Outemu Blue switches, which for many people will not immediately ring a bell.
Design
We already had the chance to try out one of Sandberg’s mechanical keyboards in the past, namely the Hailstorm, which was a very decent device. Nonetheless, the Hailstorm had a fairly abstract design you either loved or hated. The FireStorm keeps things on the simple side with its elevated keys, a small frame, and a soft palm rest. The palm rest is made out of plastic with a rubber-like coating, while the keyboard’s exterior has a metallic plate on top, and a plastic frame. This device does include risers, which the IronStorm did not have.
The keyboard itself doesn’t have that many whistles and bells, but it has a lot of LED lighting options and double functions for several keys, which are properly marked. It’s easy to say that this device is just as classy as many competitors’ more expensive devices. A job well done in the design department.
Comfort
The comfort levels are what you’d expect from a flagship device such as this one as it has a proper palm rest, normal risers and elevated keys. The latter make it easier to keep the device clean, as dust and other clutter are easier to clean out. Even if you don’t have a can of compressed air, you can probably blow away most of the dirt that falls in-between the keys. The FireStorm also comes with a proper key puller, which is certainly a plus in terms of upkeep.
Specs
- USB interface
- Cable length: 1.8 m
- 104 standard keys
- Outemu Blue mechanical switches
- RGB color for all keys
- Weight: 1000 g
- Detachable wrist rest
Overview
Sandberg’s FireStorm Mechanical Keyboard is a plug and play device that is powered by one USB plug, rather than two, the latter being common practice for a lot of mechanical keyboards. This is certainly a plus.
You will not need any additional software to fully utilize the capabilities of the FireStorm. You’ll notice that the device comes with a Fn key, which can be used in combination with other keys, to either access media functions, regulate certain basic settings and of course, mess with the LED lighting settings allowing you to switch colors, set patterns, and so on. The overall functions may lack macros which certain gamers crave for, but from a quality point of view, this device does not lack any functions many other top tier devices have.
The Cherry MX switches are often considered to be the best on the market, but lately more and more competitors are trying to flood the market. The FireStorm has Outemu switches, which are still relatively unknown in terms of longevity and perhaps even quality, but we can say that the tactile feedback is certainly crisp and fun to work with. As this device has blue Outemu switches, you’ll hear a loud and distinct click for every action you perform with the keyboard. Of course, this is often a case of personal preference, as Cherry MX keyboards come with or without the heavy clicks depending on the key type. We can say that the keys are very responsive and they do feel very qualitative, rather than being a cheap knockoff.
Conclusion
It’s quite simple to properly conclude on how decent Sandberg’s FireStorm Mechanical Keyboard actually is, as it offers a lot of quality for its asking price. There aren’t many mechanical keyboards out there that offer proper comfort, elevated keys, decent LED functions and responsive switches at such a low cost. If you’re looking to spice up your gaming setup, but you’re somewhat on a budget, then this device is certainly worth checking out. We can say that Sandberg is becoming a very decent gaming brand, even though they try to be a jack-of-all-trades when it comes to the hardware market. We are looking forward to see what other new eSports items they have in store for us, and if they are going to expand on devices such as this with upgraded high tier models.
Sandberg FireStorm Mechanical Keyboard - Hardware Review,
No Comments