Color Wave — Select this option to set the colors to change horizontally, vertically or from the center out. Use the slider to set the speed at which the color wave cycles. The G512 and G513 gaming keyboards feature onboard memory to store lighting effects. This comes in handy if you need to use a computer that does not have LGS installed. At the time of release, you can only store one Freestyle, Zones or Effects (except Star Effect and Key Press) Lighting Mode layout on the keyboard’s memory. For more information, read Access On-Board lighting effects on the G512 and G513 gaming keyboard s. The 512 SE’s function keys double as media and lighting controls, via the toggled FN key. These keys offer standard audio controls in addition to user-defined commands, which can be defined in the G-HUB suite. LIGHTSYNC RGB

Lighting: Lighting doesn't just make your keyboard look cool, it also helps you see the keys you're pressing when you're gaming or typing in the dark. And, lighting can be programmed with LIGHTSYNC RGB to color code your keys to stand out. This is great for games with special key commands. While Game Mode is on, the Windows, Menu, and FN keys are disabled to prevent unwanted interruptions. To toggle between Windows and Game Mode, press FN and F8 at the same time. You can use LGS to invert all the functions that are accessed by default when you use the FN key modifier with individual F keys. This way you don’t need to press FN in combination with the F keys to perform the special functions.

The Logitech’s G512 SE chassis is formed of a brushed aluminium alloy which provides the unit a mature and understated look, radiating a minimalistic aesthetic that is sure to impress. In addition to looking good, the alloy provides a firm and sturdy frame – there’s no bounce here. MECHANICAL KEYS The lighting customization options universally affect the G512 and G513 gaming keyboards by default. However, you can also configure lighting settings to be set on a per profile basis. We tested with the GX Blue switches (Logitech’s answer to the Cherry MX Blue) and were blown away by their quality and reliability. The key activation is flawless, even during flurries of MMO madness, and their firm and tactile feel is hugely pleasing.

Your Effects: create and manage your own animated lighting effects. Choose from one of the 16 presets or read Create and manage lighting effects with Logitech Gaming Software to learn how to create your own.

Lighting

Value is sometimes code for piece of junk, though that is not the case here. The frame on the G512 SE is made of an anodized, brushed aluminum-magnesium alloy. Logitech claims it is "aircraft grade," but we've never parted out a keyboard to build an airplane and don't suggest you try it either. There are default game-specific keyboard configurations available for popular titles which dim all but the game’s specifically used keys and reacts to in-game events. In Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, for example, the player’s death and time-out will be accompanied by pulsating red illumination, until respawn. User-defined profiles are a real gift, allowing gamers to get a handle on their in-game experience. We took advantage of the key-specific illumination and game mode key-deactivation to customise our Witcher 3 layout. These profiles operate across peripherals devices, allowing mouse-sensitivity and button-bindings to also synchronise. Size: First and foremost, you should make sure you're buying a keyboard that fits your desk and your hand size, whether it's a full-size keyboard or a TKL. To cycle between five preset brightness levels, press FN and F7 at the same time. You can also invert the F keys so you only need to press F7. See FN Key Inversion for more information.

Zones: Group keys together into color zones. You can only assign an individual key to one zone at a time. The wired (and non-braided) connection may be an issue for some, and because of the USB-passthrough, the keyboard will take up two USB-ports. Of course, there’s always the option to not link up the passthrough to save a precious port. Gamers: seriously consider the Logitech 512 SE as your next keyboard. It’s hard to beat.The keyboard itself feels bombproof, with the aluminium chassis and rigid moulded-plastic underside combining to create a durable and sturdy construction. Even the non-slip risers, which are often a weak point for any keyboard, are deep-set and wide, providing a stable and reliable footing. To add keys to a zone, select a zone in the Lighting Zones pane and then select a key. You can also use the + button to create additional zones.