Comparison with a magnetic keyboard

Passing from a Wooting 80HE, sold for approximately 220 euros, to a mechanical keyboard displayed at 89.99 euros provides an interesting point of comparison. One abandons magnetic switches and their trigger adjustments for a more classic formula, but one gains wireless connectivity, which was absent from the Wooting.

Keyz Elite 300 GRW features

With its Keyz Elite 300 GRW, The G-Lab proposes a Bluetooth connection, a 2.4 GHz connection, or a USB connection, linear switches pre-lubricated, and a multimedia scroll wheel. This white version also focuses on a 75% format, which keeps the arrow keys and a part of the navigation commands while allowing more space for the mouse than a full keyboard.

75% format and typing experience

This compromise pleased me, as did the pleasant typing feel and the less metallic sound of the keyboard. Be careful with nearly identical names: we are testing here the Keyz Elite 300 GRW, without the mention "HE". The Keyz Elite 300 HE GRW is another model, magnetic and only wired.

Design and layout

The 75% format is really appreciated. Three connections: USB, Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz dongle. Software from another time. Announced autonomy is significantly reduced with RGB. Characters are difficult to read without RGB (particularly on the last line of the keyboard). A 75% format that keeps the arrows and leaves space for the mouse.

Layout and usability

With its 75% layout, it removes the numeric keypad, but keeps the arrow keys, the row of keys F1 to F12, and several navigation keys. We thus keep useful commands within reach, without having a large keyboard that encroaches on the mouse space. For gaming, especially when making large movements, it is appreciated.

Aesthetic and key design

The format is one of the aspects that I liked most on this Keyz Elite 300 GRW. Visually, this GRW version is successful. The mix of white and gray will particularly find its place on a desk with light tones. The characters are engraved on the front of the keys, rather than on the top.

Multimedia scroll wheel and key details

The multimedia scroll wheel, placed in the upper right corner, complements the whole with a dedicated volume control easily accessible, which one quickly gets used to using. Discreetly marked keys and replaceable switches in the style of custom keyboards. The G-Lab uses PBT for its keys, a plastic that resists wear and becomes less shiny with use.

Switches and mounting

The characters are molded into the material rather than printed on the surface, to prevent them from fading over time. The interest here is limited, the characters being placed on the front of the keys. The switches are linear mechanical models and pre-lubricated.

Software and settings

The whole is based on a "gasket" mounting with five layers according to The G-Lab, which dampens the keystrokes through flexible elements between the case and the entire key support. A convincing keystroke, but a software to install for the settings. I moved from a magnetic keyboard to this G-Lab with a question: would returning to classic mechanical switches hinder me?

Software shortcomings

For the typing comfort, the answer is no. I quickly got used to it and especially appreciated the keyboard for writing my articles. Even when choosing a gaming model, it is pleasant to want to keep it for work. The sound also pleased me. The keyboard remains audible, but it does not have this overly metallic side that can quickly annoy the people who live with you.

Connection options and battery

As for the settings, we return here to basics. On the Wooting, I can choose at what depth a key triggers an action. The Rapid Trigger also allows resetting this action as soon as the key rises sufficiently, without waiting for a fixed return point. The G-Lab does not offer either of these, as it is a mechanical keyboard.

Software interface and ergonomics

The software is the big black spot of this keyboard. To personalize the lighting or macros, it is necessary to download a ZIP archive, decompress it and install a program whose interface has seriously aged. It is even more frustrating that The G-Lab does better on its magnetic Elite HE models: their settings are accessible directly from the browser, with a much more modern interface.

Battery life and RGB impact

We would have liked to find this simplicity on the Keyz Elite 300 GRW. The installation is finally only part of the problem, it is mainly the ergonomics of the software that disappoints and lowers the score of a keyboard that is otherwise pleasant to use. Wireless for gaming, Bluetooth for work, and a cable for charging. The Keyz Elite 300 GRW leaves the choice between three connections: USB, Bluetooth, wireless 2.4 GHz with the dongle provided.