Corsair RGB Backlit Mechanical Keyboard - CES 2014

Corsair unveiled at CES 2014 what they billed as the world’s first fully RGB backlit mechanical keyboard with Cherry MX switches. The presenter explains that this is a departure from typical Corsair keyboards by embedding LEDs inside each key switch, rather than mounting LEDs on the PCB, a design choice meant to improve reliability against electrostatic discharge and uneven wear. They emphasize the use of a digital signage processor from Panasonic to drive what amounts to an LED display across the keyboard, allowing an extremely wide palette of lighting effects, patterns, and timing options. The software ecosystem is highlighted as highly capable and open, with plans for an easy beginner mode to get to orange lighting, plus advanced options that let users create complex animations or even code their own lighting behavior. The host also notes that every key is fully programmable, enabling remaps and macros, and mentions support for multiple switch types planned at launch. Throughout, the discussion touches on expectations for price, availability, and the potential impact on the market for LED backlit keyboards, suggesting a competitive entry that could push other brands to innovate further. The second segment zeroes in on practical considerations like LED reliability and long-term durability, explaining that Corsair uses a mounting method inside the key to reduce failure from electrostatic discharge. The host walks through the breadth of lighting patterns offered, including waves, breathing, zones, and even reactive effects with adjustable timing. He outlines that Corsair is aiming for a robust software-experience that can handle both simple presets and highly customized configurations, and he highlights the modding community as a focal point for sharing lighting schemes. The discussion then shifts toward product variations, noting support for red, brown, and blue switches at launch and hinting at a broader color-and-switch mix over time. Finally, pricing ambiguity is acknowledged, with a suggestion that the keyboard could be priced under 200 if rivals’ RGB backlit membrane keyboards are a guide, and the host teases that the final price might make this a knockout option for enthusiasts. The video closes with anticipation for CES coverage and thanks to sponsors and partners.

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