According to my followers, cleaning is easy; doing a snap is okay but they hate the jerk, just like me, but with preparation and training you can get great results.
Hello, this is Oleksiy Torokhtiy. You may recognize me by having been in weightlifting sports for over twenty years. Ten years of that time I was an active member of the national team of Ukraine.
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Govee RGB Strip Light Test: Great features without the high cost
RRP $ 39.99
"Equipping your home with intelligent light strips does not cost a fortune with Govee's offer."
advantages
Affordable price point
Lots of functions
Impressive music effects
Bright and vivid lights
disadvantage
Bad setup experience
Disorganized app
Strip lights add an element to the decor that normal lights simply cannot compete with. Think how many home theater setups you've seen with ambient lighting on the back of the TV or a string of lights under a chair. Not many. The problem is that the best light strips like the Philips Hue Lightstrip or the LIFX Z LED are sometimes prohibitively expensive, reaching prices of up to $ 70 or more.
Govee's RGBIC Strip Lights offer largely the same functionality as higher-priced models, but at a fraction of the cost. A 16.4-foot section starts at $ 23 while a 32.8-foot section starts at $ 49.
Installing the Govee light strips is a simple task. All you have to do is plug the power adapter into the wall and hook up the lights to it yourself. A physical controller allows you to cycle through various color options and turn the device on and off, while 3M tape on the back of the strip makes it easy to mount on the underside of a counter, along the wall, or any other location around the lights place.
Setting up the strip light, on the other hand, is a bit strange. The Govee app isn't the best-designed application I've ever used, and when it came time to connect the lights to the Wi-Fi, it didn't auto-detect the Wi-Fi network and neither did I. not be able to choose from one of the available connections. I had to manually enter the network's SSID and password. Govee also has many different light strips to choose from, so you'll need to know the model number of your lights to find them in the app. The organization of the app leaves a lot to be desired.
However, after I completed this section of the setup process, everything else went smoothly. Note that unlike some RGB strips, the lights cannot be cut. RGBIC lights are controlled by a single IC chip, so cutting the strip on either side of the cut can cause malfunction, especially if you don't cut it in the right place. Also, the cut section cannot be reconnected to another power supply.
Another thing to be aware of is the heat generated by these LEDs. Most LED strips hardly get warm, but the Govee strips can get uncomfortably warm when rolled up. Make sure to unroll the strip before using it, even if you don't need the full length. Leaving it rolled will make the lights dangerously hot.
In the list of functions, the Govee RGBIC Strip Lights stand out. The lights are able to display up to 16 million different colors with their bright 5050 LEDs. The luminosity of these LEDs is impressive – they are significantly brighter than other LEDs in the same price range.
The lights can be controlled by a physical controller that provides access to a wide range of spot colors as well as multiple color changing effects. However, the best features are in the app. It gives users access to all of the top options for using the Govee strip light, including the timer function and the ability to manipulate the brightness or switch between the four different modes.
The luminosity of these LEDs is impressive.
the Music mode causes the lights to flash and change to the beat of the music. It will listen to music through the phone's microphone, but you can adjust the sensitivity if it picks up too much background noise. You can choose between the options Party, Dynamic and Quiet, as well as whether the music mode changes color automatically or you can select it manually. Party mode is the most hectic option and is the fastest to change the color option, while sleep mode offers the slowest transition. You can also choose from a number of other options, some of which don't make much sense because of their names: Shiny, Sprouting, Day and Night, etc.
Color mode is self explanatory and lets you change the colors of the light. However, there is more to it than just basic colors. You can set different segments of the strip to different colors, adjust the brightness, and much more. You can also save custom colors. With the “Recommended Color Schemes” function, you can choose between different styles, scenes and color adjustment methods to customize the appearance of your light strip. Some quick math shows that there are millions of different color combinations and setups just for spot colors, let alone the flashing light options.
the Scene mode offers more than 64 preset scenes for almost every occasion. The scenes are divided into Life, Emotion, Festival and Natural. I recommend either the Lightning or Deep Sea scene – both make impressive use of the lights and do a great job of imitating their namesakes.
The last mode available in the app is Home improvement. This mode allows you to create your own streak of light effects with a variety of adjustments. However, there are little to no instructions on how this mode works, so you can learn through a lot of experimentation and trial and error. I still haven't fully understood how it works, but the ability to create my own scenes and flickers was really impressive.
The Effects Lab is another feature worth trying out. It's divided into a color gallery, an effects lab, a gaming lab, and the Harmony lab. The last one – the Harmony Lab – really stands out. Each of the selections plays sound through your phone and has a matching scene. Some of these effects, like Rain Drops or Stream, create almost meditative experiences. The effects are calming and well beyond what I would expect from a series of light strips. You can turn off the sound at any time and also keep the flicker effect.
At full brightness, the lights are almost too bright to be viewed directly and they work best as ambient lighting. However, you can adjust the brightness between 1 and 100, with the lower section providing more than enough light without dazzling you.
According to the specification, this light bar only works with Bluetooth. However, I found that even with the bluetooth turned off, I could only control it via Wi-Fi.
The Govee Strip Lights work with both Alexa and the Google Assistant. Alexa can easily create routines, change the color of the lights or even activate certain scenes if you know their names. However, the wizard cannot set the lights to one of the effects from the Effects Lab.
Within the Alexa app you can change the color, set up scenes and create certain routines. You can also turn the lights on and off at specific times. I placed the lights in my loft as part of a playroom setup and they go perfectly with the rest of the decor in the room. Unfortunately, they cannot function as ambient lighting. I haven't found a way to connect them to the scene on a TV to match the ambient color on the screen.
My first impression of the Govee RGBIC Strip Lights wasn't that great. The setup process left me frustrated and confused with the lack of features that apparently should be included by default, but after that I learned to enjoy those lights. The wide range of features and color options is really impressive, and I really appreciate the physical controller. Some lamps I've worked with in the past, like the LIFX Z LED, don't include physical controls. Sure, it takes up more space on the cord, but when the phone is out of range or the lights aren't connected to a smart assistant, having a real button to press is useful. All in all, the pros definitely outweigh the cons, especially at this price point.
Is there a better alternative?
There are alternatives, but few better options at this price point. Philips Hue and LIFX both have light strips that are packed with features and tremendous construction quality, but both are also way outside the price range of Govee RGBIC lights.
The Twinkly Line has a lot of features and presets, but costs $ 67. You can also use ultra-budget on lights with no smart features, but which are only $ 8 for a 16.4-foot strip. If you want lots of smart features and smart wizard integration, the Govee RGBIC Strip Light is your best bet at this price point.
How long it will take?
The plastic on the controller isn't of the highest quality, but it doesn't feel overly fragile either. With proper care, these lamps should last for many years. Note, however, that the glue is intended for single use only. After you've placed the lights and peeled them off, they'll need help staying attached elsewhere. Even if you accidentally place it incorrectly and pull the lights off to put them back on, you will find that the section sags and comes off.
Should you buy it?
Yes sir. At this price you will hardly find a lamp that comes close to this quality.
Editor's recommendations
Isometric resistance training (IRT) is readily available and can be a very useful, inexpensive measure for high blood pressure patients.
A new study examines the specific training method used to treat high blood pressure, isometric resistance training (IRT). So let's start with what is IRT? It's a kind of weight training.
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Psychonauts 2 Review: Empathy and Creativity Go Hand in Hand
RRP $ 60.00
"Sensitive storytelling and stunning level design make Psychonauts 2 a worthy successor to one of the great cult classics in the gaming industry."
advantages
Excellent level design
Creative graphics
Narrative motivated platforming
Having fun optimizing skills
disadvantage
Bloated story
Complicated skill juggling
Playing Psychonauts 2 feels like rediscovering a long-lost memory. For those who grew up in the era of mascot-controlled 3D platformer, it's a familiar return to a time when gaming was about collecting hundreds of items and Nickelodeon was king. It's a little emotional time travel for those who want to reconnect with their childhood.
There's a good reason why it feels so nostalgic: Psychonauts 2 has been in the works for a long time. The Double Fine team began developing ideas for sequels during the development of the first Psychonauts game, which was released back in 2005. Several publishers reportedly turned down the idea over the years, which eventually led Double Fine to launch a successful crowdfunding campaign in 2015 to bring it to life. While games have evolved quite a bit since the PlayStation 2 era, fans just weren't ready to let go of the past. This can be unhealthy behavior in some contexts, but it is positive here.
Psychonauts 2 cleverly comments on mental health issues through an inventive platformer who is always sincere and empathetic. It can feel bloated from 16 years of creative brainstorming, but it's hard not to be charmed by a game that acts as a cheerleader for players of all ages.
Like its predecessor, Psychonauts 2 stars Raz, a 10-year-old circus performer who has become a clairvoyant and can jump into any mind. The sequel picks up right where Psychonauts (and VR spin-off Rhombus of Ruin) left off, starting with a thorough “before” segment that runs through every plot beat that you might have forgotten since 2005 Has.
It's a helpful way to start the adventure because there's a lot to consider in Psychonauts 2. Raz is now an intern with a respected group of clairvoyants – the Psychonauts – and must help track down a mole in the organization that aims to revive the murderous clairvoyant Maligula. This spy movie setup fits the series perfectly, guiding players through mind-boggling levels where unreliable narrators twist the truth. It's a kid-friendly inception.
It's a bit weird that we get such a comprehensive story here because Psychonauts 2 really excels at telling smaller, more intimate stories.
A lot more happens, including a deep dive into the political inner workings of Grulovia, a fictional country in the game. In an interlude that slows the momentum of the main story for a few hours, we learn a lot about Raz & # 39; Family. There's also a whole cast of young interns who just disappear for most of the game and re-integrate into the narrative like they'd been there all along.
When you consider how long Double Fine has been buzzing around with ideas for the game, it feels like maybe too many went into the final project. It feels like three games full of history are crammed into one because who knows how long it will be until the third part?
It's a bit weird that we get such a comprehensive story here because Psychonauts 2 really excels at telling smaller, more intimate stories. Every time Raz comes to someone's mind, we get a little self-contained arc that carries emotional depth. One level contains a moving love story in which Raz has to help a character overcome the mental blocks holding him back in their relationship (all visualized by Raz finding seeds to help a farmer regrow a withered garden). These are the stories that ultimately help the game accomplish its true mission: to help us better understand each other's struggles and encourage each other to grow, no matter how hopeless we feel.
These little stories come to life thanks to imaginative level design that visualizes abstract concepts in a creative way. In an early sequence, Raz tries to convince his teacher Hollis to let him go on more dangerous missions by rewiring her brain. The level starts in a hospital and represents both Hollis & # 39; Past as a doctor as well as her fear of endangering her students. As Raz rewrites her thoughts, the level turns into a casino as Hollis is suddenly ready to take high risks. An area of the platform that was previously centered around X-rays suddenly changes when Raz hops onto playing cards instead.
Nothing in Psychonauts 2 feels like busy work or content for content's sake; everything is narrative motivated.
Each level is loaded with these kinds of ideas that narrative justify any new platform mechanic. One section sends Raz into the head of a germaphobe who runs a bowling alley. As a result, players will have to ride around on giant bowling balls, glide over piles of green slime, and use ball polishers to activate new paths (or lanes, so to speak). Another section turns the fear of gigs into a cooking game show in which Raz has to chop up sentient foods and place them on a platter for loud-mouthed judges. Even if a level doesn't quite match what it does, it's always surprising and fun to see how each spirit palace is set up.
Platforming is standard for the genre, which makes creative visual design even more important. Raz can drag rails, hop on ropes, swing from branch to branch and so on. Various PSI powers add some extra mechanics to the mix that make Raz freeze time or burn wooden objects, but the experience is largely unchanged from 2005. Instead, Double Fine is doubling the construction of more elaborate playgrounds for Raz. It's a series of therapeutic amusement park rides (literally, in one case).
Nothing in Psychonauts 2 feels like busy work or content for content's sake; everything is narrative motivated. Even collectibles serve a larger purpose. As in the first game, inventions instead of target markers indicate where to go next. Safes can be cracked to get a little slideshow of a character's backstory. And of course the players can track down emotional baggage again, which is still the best sight gag of the series.
The game doesn't reinvent the genre because it doesn't have to. It recognizes that even if the gathering-a-thon platformer is currently out of style, these ideas can help tell a meaningful story. Just as Psychonauts 2 tells players that anyone can grow, it believes that video games can always reach new heights without giving up their story.
The fighting side of Psychonauts 2 has its own clever twists and turns. Every enemy is a manifestation of psychological suffering. Panic attacks, for example, appear as unpredictable monsters that need to be slowed down to better deal with them. It's always fun to see a new state emerge and how it has been translated into a physical creature.
Raz can do basic punches and dodge throws, both of which feel a little too ineffective, but PSI powers make battles more interesting. The game gives the players different powers that have a function both in and outside of combat. Through mental connections, players can reach small nodes of thought, but they can also attach themselves to an enemy and drag them into it. In many battles, I have made full use of my toolkit instead of sticking to a basic attack loop.
Psychonauts 2 might not be perfect, but it's always on the lookout for its players. Empathy isn't just a narrative topic; it is at the heart of game design.
The skills develop over the course of the game, which gives each individual new usefulness. Every time Raz ranks up by collecting various items, he'll earn a skill point that can unlock a handful of upgrades for each power. Players can also purchase and equip Pins that will further improve their skills. Each tool has surprisingly great potential, giving players a good reason to engage with the “Earn and Rank” loop.
Switching between powers, however, can be painful. Skills are assigned to the triggers and bumpers of a controller so that four can be active at the same time. They can be swapped and reassigned on the fly using a skill wheel, but it can be difficult to navigate in the middle of a battle. I often found that a swap didn't work, which forced me to go back to the menu to try again. Skill juggling can be a little confusing overall, and I wish a few powers, like a floating ball that is essential for navigation, stayed permanently assigned to a button.
Those who find these battles frustrating can activate "narrative battles" and reduce the enemy's health. This kind of considerate design shows up in the very first moments of the game, when a splash screen with links to helpful resources encourages players who might be struggling with the game's mental health issues to take a break. Psychonauts 2 might not be perfect, but it's always on the lookout for its players. Empathy isn't just a narrative topic; It's at the heart of game design.
Psychonauts 2 is a cute platform game that wants only the best for its characters and players alike. By visualizing mental health issues through creative level design, Double Fine is able to tell a range of clever stories where gameplay and narration go hand in hand. It has a few personal weaknesses in its fiddly fight and over-zeal story, but if Psychonauts 2 teaches us anything, it is that we are not defined by our problems.
It Takes Two takes a similar approach to merging narrative and gameplay, with a more streamlined gameplay. Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart offers a better fight that can be combined with its platform spectacle.
It will take around 10 to 15 hours, depending on how much you collect. A lot of time can be spent grabbing each collectible and reaching the maximum rank after the credit roll.
Yes sir. Psychonauts 2 is a friendly platformer for gamers of all ages and those familiar with the series. It's also available in Xbox Game Pass, which is a big plus.
Psychonauts 2 was verified using an Xbox Series X code provided by Microsoft.
Editor's recommendations
So this entire essay, as I'm going to call it because I'm incredibly popular, is going to be a discussion of what you need to set your framework and why you need it.
I am the laziest, hyperactive, lethargic, ambitious, lazy person you will meet. I can cope with breathing contradictions. I've learned to deal with myself by finally admitting how much leeway I need for my plans.
Continue reading
We can make our workouts more fun and useful by including elements that apply power in natural human situations.
If you're interested in strength training, you've heard of the basic patterns of movement – the natural human movements that most trainers believe that all human beings are ideally able to demonstrate and exercise.
Corresponding Dan John, there are five basic movements:
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Eufy Floodlight Cam 2 Pro in the test: precise subject tracking
RRP $ 299.00
"From the sharp graphics to the rich app, there's a lot to love about Eufy's Floodlight Cam 2 Pro."
advantages
Excellent video quality
Great motion tracking
A powerful companion app
No subscription required
disadvantage
Hardwired only
Only 8 GB of internal storage (no cloud option)
Over the years, the world of intelligent security has taken on an entirely new form. While we used to rely on the big names in home surveillance to install their hardware and provide remote surveillance services, the performance of the security system has gradually become more and more DIY – and that's how we like it. Nothing beats grabbing your phone, opening an app, and viewing an instant live feed from a specific camera.
For outdoor DIY gadgets, the installation itself may take a little longer, but the instant reassurance remains the same. And what's not to love about a powerful floodlight camera with a control app?
When you buy a floodlight system you come across hundreds of brands that claim to be the best, but one name that still blows us away is Eufy, the smart home division of parent company Anker Innovations. Amid the release of a brand new line of outdoor cameras, we were able to find the Eufy Floodlight Cam 2 Pro, the company's current flagship.
Does the Floodlight Cam 2 live up to its "premium" bill? Yes indeed. Read on to find out more.
The Floodlight Cam 2 has the look and feel of a camera built for performance. Do you know when something just feels cheap? That thought never crossed my mind with the Cam 2, especially when I was holding it in my hands. About the weight of a brick, the Floodlight has an IP65 rated outer shell that feels sturdy and ready for the elements.
The Cam 2 comes with everything you need to get started. The scope of delivery includes the camera itself, assembly and wiring material, a USB power connection for the initial setup (you need a power module in standby mode) and the operating instructions.
Before installing the Cam 2 outdoors, you must first connect the device to your WLAN and the Eufy app (for iOS and Android platforms). After you've added the app to your mobile device, open it and tap Add Device. Select the Floodlight Cam 2 Pro from the list of available hardware. You will then be asked to scan the QR code on the camera body. The QR label is neatly hidden in the Floodlight's lower flap compartment, accessible by holding the release tab (watch out for your fingers) and pulling down on the white part of the camera body.
By tapping into the live feed, the daylight view presented a clear and colorful image with balanced contrast and little (if any) visual artifacts.
Next, connect your Floodlight using the included USB temporary power cable so you can go through the rest of the app setup. After you have connected the camera to your WLAN and run through the firmware update, you can start with the installation.
Similar to many other outdoor camera products (especially those with powerful lighting), the Floodlight Cam 2 requires a hard-wired power connection (110 to 240 volts). While certain homes may have pre-existing cables under house and garage awnings that you can use, you may need to add professional grade wiring and a compatible junction box to your to-do list if your home is not floodlit.
Yes, I was moaning to myself wishing the Cam 2 could run on batteries (I'm not a fan of wiring work) but there is no way I will lose the overall grade because of that. With its abundance of rich features, plus internal storage and powerful lighting (more on these two assets below), a hardwired connection is absolutely necessary. Without one, we'd recharge the batteries every two weeks.
If a wall or ceiling junction box is installed (either the setup is Floodlight approved) the rest of the installation is just a matter of screwing in the Cam 2's rectangular mounting plate, connecting the wiring, and attaching the camera. Conveniently, the camera comes with a sturdy strap that you can hang from the junction box while the cables are being connected.
the Floodlight camera 2 has a 2K sensor for live feeds and video recordings. That is twice the number of pixels compared to its predecessor, the Eufy Floodlight Camera. While the previous iteration only offered a fixed view, the Cam 2 has an adjustable 360-degree lens housing, a 130-degree vertical axis, and full pan and tilt controls. While a lack of 4K support can leave some users disappointed, based on the video quality I learned about during my testing period, I assume that most property owners will be more than satisfied.
The Cam 2 delivers extraordinary videos, day and night. By tapping into the live feed, the daylight view presented a clear and colorful image with balanced contrast and little (if any) visual artifacts. Night views use the three adjustable 3,000 lumen floodlights that illuminate the area in and around the camera well. Better still, the Cam 2's automatic night mode (you can toggle it on and off in the app) brings another level of nighttime detail.
One of my favorite out-of-the-box features of Cam 2 that is only surpassed by its optics is the camera's subject tracking. A very responsive AI. Module is built for human recognition. Whenever a passer-by crossed the Cam 2's 270 degree motion threshold, my Cam 2 would fly into action, catching the person and tracking them with ease. In addition to a motion notification on your phone, the Cam 2 also records a video clip in the Eufy app and logs it when a person is detected.
Yes, not having to use your credit card for an annual cloud service membership is a huge benefit, but those looking for expanded storage may be a little disappointed.
Best of all, you can create two custom activity zones in the Eufy app (more on app coverage below) to avoid unnecessary motion alerts that are outside your property line.
The Cam 2 basics are all pretty stellar, but what about the mobile app? Rest assured, you are in good hands. Eufy Security is your one-stop portal for all Anker security products, from indoor and outdoor cameras to motion sensors. All of your Eufy hardware that is currently online is listed on the Devices tab on the home page, along with a thumbnail of the last picture you took.
When a motion clip is recorded, it is saved in the Events tab. Here you can sort all of your recordings, with filters for people, pets, and more. You can also watch clips again and delete clips you no longer need. With 8GB of internal storage that's estimated to last up to 30 days (based on average motion detection settings), no subscription is required to store videos. Yes, not having to use your credit card for an annual cloud service membership is a huge benefit, but those looking for expanded storage may be a little disappointed.
On the "Security" tab, you can set your Cam 2 to "Home" and "Away" mode, each with their own settings and adjustments. You will also find geofencing and schedule selections to program your camera based on your zip code, sunrise / sunset, time of day, and more.
Tapping the Floodlight Cam 2's play button on the device screen will take you to a live feed from the camera with capture options, screenshots, two-way communication and tracking / calibration functions. Tapping the settings icon in the top right corner will take you to various customizations for the Cam 2 itself, including motion detection / monitoring, lighting, recording and video quality. You can also arm / disarm the Cam 2, turn the automatic night vision on and off, and much more.
For smart home lovers, the Cam 2 offers support for Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can receive and view motion events and live feeds from your Cam 2 via a compatible smart display.
The Eufy Floodlight Cam 2 Pro is currently $ 299 and comes with a one-year, no-hassle warranty.
Outside of a slightly longer installation window than most smart security devices, the Floodlight Cam 2 Pro is top of the line. With outstanding video quality, intelligent subject tracking, numerous customization options, a solid mobile app and a fair price, the Cam 2 is a premium outdoor light that we warmly recommend for any residential or commercial property.
When it comes to wired floodlight cameras, the Floodlight Cam 2 is a perfect match with other top Floodlight options from Ring, Arlo, and other major security brands. If you're a quality connoisseur and insist on 4K, the Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight camera gives you UHD viewing, the option of wireless installation, and a lower price. However, you'll need to opt for an Arlo subscription if you want some type of video storage, which makes the Floodlight Cam 2's internal storage even more convenient.
A rugged design and hard-wired electrical connection to your home's power supply should keep the Floodlight Cam 2 running for some time. If you run into trouble, Eufy's one-year warranty covers you.
Absolutely. The Floodlight Cam 2 Pro offers exceptional setup-to-assembly performance and a companion app with an incredible number of customization options.
Editor's recommendations
We can make our workouts more fun and useful by including elements that apply power in natural human situations.
If you're interested in strength training, you've heard of the basic patterns of movement – the natural human movements that most trainers believe that all human beings are ideally able to demonstrate and exercise.
Corresponding Dan John, there are five basic movements:
Continue reading
So this entire essay, as I'm going to call it because I'm incredibly popular, is going to be a discussion of what you need to set your framework and why you need it.
I am the laziest, hyperactive, lethargic, ambitious, lazy person you will meet. I can cope with breathing contradictions. I've learned to deal with myself by finally admitting how much leeway I need for my plans.
Continue reading
Logitech G915 Lightspeed TKL long-term test: The Magic Keyboard for gaming
RRP $ 230.00
"The Logitech G915 TKL is an expensive gaming keyboard that easily deserves its price."
advantages
Excellent typing experience
Bright RGB lighting
Fast wireless technology
Long battery life
Error-free, useful software
disadvantage
Expensive
Incompatible with most mechanical keyboard accessories
Logitech's G915 is for gamers who want the aesthetics of Apple's Magic Keyboard with the feel of a mechanical switch (plus a good dose of RGB). I've searched far and wide for a keyboard that gets the look and feel to the point, and after browsing dozens of low-profile options, I turned to Logitech's latest G915 TKL.
It's not as sturdy as a full-size board and, like many Logitech peripherals, the price is too high. However, the combination of Lightspeed wireless technology, rather unique low-profile switches, and rock-solid build quality makes the G915 feel like it deserves its award.
It's a keyboard that manages games and typing well, and it's a show stopper in the visual department. Although it took me a while to get used to Logitech's flat keycaps and switches, I loved the balance the G915 offers – and after months of non-stop use, I never return to a full keyboard at any point Size back soon.
Jacob Roach / Digital Trends
The Logitech G915 is available in two versions: Either full-size or a Tenkeyless (TKL) design. I got my hands on the TKL version that omits the number pad that normally occupies the right side of the board. TKL boards have become increasingly popular in recent years – take the Corsair K70 RGB TKL for example – and that's a trend I can follow.
A little extra space on your desk goes a long way towards gaming, and the overall slim design of the G915 TKL makes it appear a lot smaller than it actually is. Logitech sells a version with a number pad, but if you don't need one for hotkeys in programs like Adobe Premiere or Pro Tools, stick with the TKL model.
The design of the G915 TKL is simple but beautiful. It's a brushed aluminum plate that some buttons stick to, but it still looks better than boards like the Razer BlackWidow V3 Mini.
There are mutliple reasons for this. First the RGB lighting. Even at full brightness, the lighting barely shines out of the sides of the keys, with most of the light being directed towards the top of the keycap. Second is the limited number of extra buttons that help keep it functional without leaving the deep end.
The design of the G915 TKL is simple but beautiful.
Outside the buttons, you have access to four media buttons, four function buttons and a volume wheel. The four function keys do different things. There's a brightness button that lets you toggle through five levels of brightness (including Off), as well as a game mode switch that turns off the Windows key. You can use the supplied G-Hub software to deactivate all the buttons you want in game mode.
The other two buttons are for inputs, either Logitech's own Lightspeed wireless technology or Bluetooth. You can switch seamlessly between Lightspeed and Bluetooth at the touch of a button, which is a big win for the G915. It's small enough to use on the couch with something like the Nvidia Shield, and I appreciated being able to jump back and forth without reconnecting dongles or messing around with pairing.
Jacob Roach / Digital Trends
Logitech sells a wired version of the G915 (called the G815), but it's only slightly cheaper than the wireless version. Wireless peripherals have gotten a lot better over the past few years, and Lightspeed is an example of that. It's impossible to tell the difference between wired and wireless, even in troubled shooters like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive.
The volume wheel feels great. It's made of metal and offers a smooth adjustment over the edge of the board, making quick volume changes a breeze. I just wish that the quality is transferred to the media and function keys. They are made of a soft rubber material and feel squishy. I didn't miss any input while using them, but they still don't feel good.
In addition to the keyboard, the scope of delivery also includes a Logitech micro-USB cable, the Lightspeed USB receiver and a USB range extender. Crucially, the G915 TKL lacks a palm rest, which is hard to swallow for $ 230. However, when using the G915, I didn't miss a palm rest.
I use a desk pad for my keyboard and mouse. Given the G915's slim shape – it's only 0.9 inches tall – my wrists rest comfortably on my desk pad without having to bend up. This is great in my situation, but not ideal if you don't have a desk pad. Slim palm rests only cost about $ 15, so it would have been nice to see one in the box.
Jacob Roach / Digital Trends
I prefer a traditional brown switch for typing because it offers the tactile feedback of a blue switch without the annoying click. The G915 TKL does not use a mechanical Cherry MX switch or one of its derivatives, but one of Logitech's GL switches, which approximates the feel of a full-size Cherry switch.
There are three options available: Clicky, Tactile or Linear, which correspond to a Cherry MX Blue, Brown or Red switch. I chose the Tactile Switch to find a balance between my daily typing and gaming. Cherry makes some low-profile switches, but not a Brown variant, which makes the Tactile switch perfect for my purposes.
I've always struggled between writing and playing, and the tactile switch compromises that I can live with. It's not as pleasant to tap as a full-sized brown switch, and the gaming experience doesn't come close to a red switch. But the balance between the two is excellent. Gaming feels better thanks to the shorter travel distance and writing still feels tactile.
The thinner profile, however, took some getting used to. The G915 itself is angled, but the keys live on a flat plane. That increases the chance of accidentally sliding up or down in a row while typing or gaming, which I did a lot when I first picked up the G915 TKL. Fortunately, after a few weeks with the keyboard, I got used to the slightly different typing experience.
Jacob Roach / Digital Trends
Although the Tactile Switch comes close to a Cherry MX Brown, it is not an exact copy. Logitech's switch is 1.5mm actuation distance, while a full size switch is 2mm apart. When you poke the key, the Logitech switch can travel up to 2.7mm while a full size switch can travel 4mm.
The greater difference takes effect. The Logitech Tactile Switch requires 60 grams of force to reach the tactile point, while a Cherry MX Brown is slightly lighter at 55 grams. It's a small change, but the added pressure makes all the difference in a low-profile design. The added power makes the tactile switch feel closer to a full size switch despite having a much smaller stroke.
The switches from Logitech hold up well against the Cherry competition.
Although the switch bears Logitech's GL branding, it actually comes from Kailh's Choc range. There are few keyboards that come with these switches and no options that I could find from big brands. However, there are more boutique boards like the Morgrie RKB 68 that they use, and this board is cheaper than the G915 TKL.
Nevertheless, the switches in the G915 have a compromise. They're not perfect for gaming or perfect for typing, but both are good enough to make a living. As long as you're ready to adjust to a slightly different typing experience, Logitech's switches hold up well against the Cherry competition.
Unfortunately, these are still Logitech switches and, like previous designs, are not compatible with other keycaps. There aren't many low profile keycaps out there right now, but it would have been nice to see additional universal support as more sets inevitably pop up.
That makes mechanical keyboards like the Roccat Vulcan TKL and Cooler Master SK630 a little more attractive – especially compared to the G915. Both keyboards use the standard cross for Cherry switches, which makes replacing the keycaps a breeze.
I don't mess around with bundled keyboard software much. In most cases, I set the lighting I want and let the software quietly eat up system resources in the background. Logitech's G-Hub is different. It's functional, easy to use, and – critically – free of errors. How to make peripheral software.
The lighting is divided into three categories: presets, freestyle and animations. Presets give you access to standard RGB effects like breathing and a color wave, Freestyle lets you paint colors on any key you want, and animations allow you to create a chain of unique color changes.
Although there are other software out there with more options – Corsair iCUE in particular – G-Hub still offers a good level of customization. It's easy to use for someone who wants to set and forget about RGB while still offering various effects and animations. You can even set the lighting to match what is displayed on your screen or how an audio visualizer works.
You can also automatically synchronize the G915 with other Lightsync products from Logitech, as well as use special lighting effects in supported games. For example, you can see your ammo bar in Borderlands 3, as well as instantly see your critical keys in Final Fantasy XIV. Only a small number of games are supported, but ramping up a supported title was a nice treat.
The lights will take you to G-Hub, but that won't keep you there. You can reassign each key, set up macros and assign system functions such as copy and paste. This isn't unusual for a gaming keyboard, but G-Hub makes mapping macros feel effortless. You can quickly drag functions such as Alt + Tab from a pool onto a function key and switch between commands and macros with an optional G-Shift key.
When you've set everything up to your liking, you can save three macro and two lighting profiles on board and cycle through them with a key of your choice (the first four function keys by default).
Finally, you can view your battery level in G-Hub as well as your remaining battery life. Logitech rates the G915 TKL for 40 hours of use at 100% brightness (30 hours for the full version), but you get a lot more than that. The keyboard automatically goes into sleep mode after a while to save battery life when not on Your desk.
I've used the G915 TKL at 50% brightness for months, and with semi-continuous use of 10 to 12 hours a day, I usually have to charge the battery every couple of weeks. This time is significantly reduced at full brightness, but the buttons emit a lot of light even at lower brightness levels and save you a lot of battery life.
The G915 uses a micro USB cable for charging and you can continue to use the keyboard while it is charging. Although Logitech includes a micro-USB cable in the box, I would have preferred USB-C for charging. At least in my case, USB-C has become the standard on all of my devices, so I can quickly swap out a new cable if I inevitably lose the one that came with the package. With the G915 TKL, I have to dig through a stack of three-foot micro-USB cables to find one that actually extends to the connector.
However, that's proof of the G915 – I charge it so infrequently that I don't have a dedicated cable on my desk. Still, USB-C isn't all that much of a demand for a $ 230 keyboard, especially one that's still fairly new.
The Logitech G915 TKL is overpriced when compared to other keyboards that offer the same or a similar low-profile experience. The combination of wireless connectivity, useful media and function keys, a robust construction and error-free software makes the G915 TKL deserve its price.
It creates a balance between typing and gaming that I enjoy, and it looks amazing when it's on my desk. It takes some time to adapt to the low profile switches, but in my many months of using the G915 TKL, I've never felt the need to go back to a full-size switch.
The downside is, like other Logitech peripherals, you don't have options for third-party accessories. As someone who likes to swap out keycaps and experiment with different switches, I know that the G915 TKL will lie dormant in my keyboard graveyard at some point. It hasn't got there yet, however, and that's a good sign.
Yes, but not much. The Roccat Vulcan TKL and Cooler Master Cooler Master SK630 are both cheaper low-profile alternatives, although they don't have WiFi and use different switches. The G915 is quite unique in its combination of switches and wireless technology, but there are boutique options that use the same switches with a cord.
Logitech's GL switches are designed for 50 million actuations. The number of keystrokes depends, of course, on how often you use your keyboard. With general use, the G915 will last for several decades and even then it could still have a little life.
Yes, but look for it on offer. The G915 has some obvious flaws and is incompatible with most mechanical keyboard accessories. It's a fantastic low-profile option, but Logitech can charge a steep price considering how few real competitors there are in this category.
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