Microsoft SideWinder X6 Unboxing [HD]

Unboxing the SideWinder X6 from Microsoft.

I apologize for the jerky and Fraps-damaged video. My video editing software refused to import my video so I recorded it with Fraps instead.

Specs:
Adjustable red/amber backlight
30 Programmable macro keys
Removable & switchable key pad
Multiple customizable profiles
Cruise Control mode
Volume and lighting dials
On-the-fly macro recording button
Media keys

I bought it for two main reasons: Removable key pad (I needed extra space), and backlighting, because I find it frustrating to find a specific key in the dark when I'm tired.

There are two things a buyer should be aware of: Some people get stiff keys after a few months of use. Also it has some ghosting problems; the most notorious being ctrl + w + r, which doesn't work (that is, ducking while walking forward and reloading).

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• ms
• microsoft
• side
• winder
• sidewinder
• x6
• keyboard
• backlighting
• light
• gaming
• key
• board
• hd
• high
• defintion

[Mrster]

Looks nice. I could personally do without the large section beneath the lowest keys, they only give my wrists unnecessary strain after longer sittings. The removal of the key pad is very nice, although I personally lose track of where to type, it has kind of become a frame of reference for me.

Of course, backlit keys will help to an extent.

Added bonus are those cool retro dials.

[vibyjocke]

@Mrster

Yeah, the frame of reference was the biggest issue, both right (missing key pad) and left (macro keys), but you quickly get used to it. The non-detachable wrist support wasn't as big of an issue as I first suspected. As a programmer however, the extra wide spacebar and removed win-button makes alt gr extra far to the right, so doing "{" (altgr + 7) becomes harder than it has to.

[Mrster]

@vibyjocke

Ah, I didn't notice those placements other than a wider shift key. Yeah that could be inconvenient, can't say I fully understand the necessity of making the space key wider other than making the entire layout (sans home, delete... And arrow keys) a nice rectangle. Can't see any real benefit, but maybe the shifted alt gr isn't that much of a problem in the long run though.

[vibyjocke]

@Mrster

Yeah, I don't understand either why it should be longer. But the problem is easily circumvented by using profiles which are cycled through with a press of a button. I have a gaming profile, where the macro buttons do various stuff related to gaming (recording with Fraps, buying weapons etc), then I have a windows profile where I use the buttons for quick copy/paste, bringing up certain folders etc. Finally I have a programming profile where the { } and stuff like compiling are macroed.

[Rrrrrrrriot]

horrible horrid keyboard, this keyboard ghosts like crazy and feels plastic and cheap. IF you want a good budget keyboard get its predecessor x4 which is better, or if you want to spend the money get a good mechanical keybaord. this keyboard is a piece of junk, dont get it.

[mustafaatakanyilmaz]

Can I get the name of the song? Or a place to download?

[Mrster]

@vibyjocke

Ah ok. That's a good solution.