Introduction
EVGA has been a reputable brand in the gaming industry for quite some time now. Their product lineup includes high-quality components, peripherals, and accessories. In this article, we will delve into the EVGA Z15 mechanical gaming keyboard, exploring its design, build quality, key features, performance, software, pros and cons, and comparisons with other mechanical gaming keyboards.
Background on EVGA and its product lineup
EVGA is a well-known brand in the gaming industry that has been around since 1999. The company is based in California and primarily focuses on producing high-quality PC gaming components, including graphics cards, power supplies, motherboards, and mechanical gaming keyboards.
Introduction to the EVGA Z15 mechanical gaming keyboard
The EVGA Z15 is a mechanical gaming keyboard designed to cater to the needs of serious PC gamers. It boasts a wide range of features, including customizable hotkeys, macros, RGB lighting, and dedicated multimedia and volume controls.
Importance of gaming peripherals for PC gamers
Gaming peripherals are essential for serious PC gamers as they provide better accuracy, comfort, and speed. Having a high-quality keyboard can make a significant difference in the gaming experience, allowing gamers to react faster, type more accurately, and increase their overall performance.
Design and Build Quality
The design and build quality of the EVGA Z15 are top-notch, making it a durable and aesthetically pleasing mechanical gaming keyboard.
Overview of the Z15’s design
The design of the EVGA Z15 is sleek and minimalist, with a black anodized aluminum frame that gives it a premium look and feel.
Dimensions and materials
The EVGA Z15 measures 18.35 x 6.54 x 1.46 inches and weighs 3.13 pounds, making it a relatively large and heavy keyboard. It is made of high-quality materials, including an anodized aluminum frame and PBT double-shot keycaps, which provide a satisfying typing experience.
Keycap design and font
The keycaps of the EVGA Z15 are double-shot PBT keycaps, which are more durable and resistant to wear and tear than standard ABS keycaps. The font on the keycaps is clear and easy to read, making it suitable for long gaming sessions.
Build quality and durability
The build quality of the EVGA Z15 is exceptional, with a sturdy aluminum frame that ensures durability and longevity. The keyboard is also water-resistant, which protects it from accidental spills and splashes.
Aesthetic appeal and customizability
The EVGA Z15 has an aesthetically pleasing design with customizable RGB lighting that can be configured through the EVGA Unleash RGB software. The keyboard also comes with a removable magnetic wristrest, which provides added comfort during extended gaming sessions.
RGB lighting
The EVGA Z15 features per-key RGB lighting, which can be customized to suit individual preferences using the EVGA Unleash RGB software. The software also includes several pre-set lighting effects, including static, breathing, and reactive.
Removable magnetic wrist rest
The EVGA Z15 comes with a removable magnetic wrist rest that provides added comfort and support during long gaming sessions. The wrist rest is made of soft-touch materials, which feel great to the touch and are easy to clean.
Key Features and Performance
The EVGA Z15 comes equipped with a wide range of features that make it an excellent mechanical gaming keyboard for serious PC gamers.
Mechanical switches
The EVGA Z15 features mechanical switches, which provide a tactile and responsive typing experience. It is available in two variants – Kailh Speed Silver and Kailh Speed Bronze.
Kailh Speed Silver and Kailh Speed Bronze options
The Kailh Speed Silver switches are linear switches that have a low actuation force of 40g and an actuation point of 1.1mm, making them excellent for fast-paced gaming. The Kailh Speed Bronze switches, on the other hand, are tactile switches that have a higher actuation force of 50g and an actuation point of 1.4mm, making them ideal for typing and gaming.
Comparison with other mechanical switches
The Kailh Speed Silver and Bronze switches are comparable to other popular mechanical switches such as Cherry MX and Gateron switches. However, they offer a higher actuation point and a lower actuation force, making them more responsive and suitable for fast-paced gaming.
N-key rollover and anti-ghosting
The EVGA Z15 features N-key rollover and anti-ghosting technology, which ensures that every keypress is registered accurately, even when multiple keys are pressed simultaneously. This feature is essential for fast-paced games that require multiple inputs.
Customizable hotkeys and macro support
The EVGA Z15 comes with customizable hotkeys and macro support, allowing gamers to program their preferred key combinations and shortcuts. This feature is useful for gamers who need to execute complex commands quickly.
Dedicated multimedia and volume controls
The EVGA Z15 features dedicated multimedia and volume controls, which make it easy to adjust audio settings without leaving the game. The controls are conveniently located on the top right of the keyboard for easy access.
USB passthrough and cable routing
The EVGA Z15 comes with a USB passthrough, which provides easy access to an additional USB port. The keyboard also features cable routing channels, which keep the cables tidy and prevent clutter on the desk.
Software and Customization
The EVGA Unleash RGB software is user-friendly and allows for a wide range of customization options.
Overview of the EVGA Unleash RGB software
The EVGA Unleash RGB software is easy to use and allows users to customize the RGB lighting, create and edit macros, and set profiles.
Customizing RGB lighting
The EVGA Unleash RGB software allows users to customize the RGB lighting with a wide range of colors and effects. Users can also synchronize the lighting with other EVGA products.
Programming macros and setting profiles
The EVGA Unleash RGB software allows users to create and edit macros, assign hotkeys, and set profiles. This feature is useful for gamers who need to execute complex commands quickly.
Compatibility with other gaming software
The EVGA Unleash RGB software is compatible with other popular gaming software, including OBS, Discord, and CS: GO. This allows users to control and customize their gaming experience from one centralized location.
Pros and Cons
Comparisons and Alternatives
Comparison with other mechanical gaming keyboards
The EVGA Z15 is a high-quality mechanical gaming keyboard that competes with other popular brands such as Corsair, Logitech, and Razer. While it is relatively expensive compared to some of its competitors, it offers excellent build quality, performance, and customization options.
Suggested alternatives for different preferences and budgets
For users looking for a more affordable alternative, the Redragon K552 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is an excellent choice. It is compact, and durable, and features Outemu Blue switches, which provide a satisfying typing experience. It also comes with customizable RGB lighting and dedicated multimedia controls.
For users looking for a wireless mechanical gaming keyboard, the Logitech G915 TKL is an excellent choice. It features Lightspeed wireless technology, low-profile mechanical switches, and customizable RGB lighting. It is also exceptionally thin and lightweight, making it easy to carry around.
Conclusion
The EVGA Z15 is an exceptional mechanical gaming keyboard that offers excellent build quality, performance, and customization options. While it is relatively expensive compared to some of its competitors, it is well worth the investment for serious PC gamers who demand the best.
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FAQs
What is the warranty period for the EVGA Z15 mechanical gaming keyboard?
The EVGA Z15 comes with a three-year warranty.
Does the EVGA Z15 support USB 3.0?
No, the EVGA Z15 supports USB 2.0 only.
Can the RGB lighting be customized on the EVGA Z15?
Yes, the RGB lighting can be customized using the EVGA Unleash RGB software.
Can the wrist rest on the EVGA Z15 be removed?
Yes, the wrist rest on the EVGA Z15 is removable.
What are the dimensions of the EVGA Z15?
The EVGA Z15 measures 18.35 x 6.54 x 1.46 inches.
