August of last year, hardware manufacturer Rosewill unveiled its Cherry MX-based RK-9000 mechanical keyboard line. Offering four different Cherry MX switch configurations, the keyboards became a quick hit for both enthusiasts and gamers. Now, the company has launched its highly anticipated update to the line adding a few desirable features.
Unlike its predecessor, the new LED-backlit RK-9100 Series will only be offered in 2 variations: the Cherry MX Blue (RK-9100) and the Cherry MX Brown (RK-9100BR). The biggest feature from the update would be the individually backlit keys with three illumination options and four brightness levels. The new keyboards also come with a 2-port USB 2.0 hub, seven multimedia keys and 6-key rollover.
Initially demoed at Computex 2012, the keyboards can now be ordered directly from Newegg for $119.99.
Contact Us for News Tips, Corrections and Feedback
Stay On the Cutting Edge: Get the Tom's Hardware Newsletter
Get Tom's Hardware's best news and in-depth reviews, straight to your inbox.
-
Dantheman1129 I had their last series of Mechanical keyboards...they were plagued by issues with the mini-USB connector, and my "2" button stopped working after about a month...never buying anything Rosewill againReply -
internetlad engineer1238546gotta love how these kind of keyboards are marketed with "mechanical" as a featureReply
complaining about that is the most retarded thing i've ever heard. That's like if you went to a ford dealership and were like "Oh man I can't believe they market these trucks with 4WD as a feature"
Of course they should market it as a feature, because it's literally your entire typing experience. If you've ever used any mech keyboard you'd realize instantly the difference and easily come to appreciate the quality of mech boards.
Back on topic, I've owned a Rosewill mech with blacks for about 3-4 months now. Only real qualm I have is that the keycaps faded fast. Like really fast, like in 3 days there was noticeable wearing on the keys. By now the shine off the caps is incredibly noticeable. It's a shame because, other than that, I like the board. I still prefer Buckling Springs (I use a Unicomp at work, love it.) but Blacks are great for gaming. -
gsacks Isn't Rosewill basically like a 'house brand' for Newegg? I've always considered them to be cheaper knock-offs of other products. I have hard time using 'Rosewill' and "enthusiast" in the same sentence. (Except the one that I just wrote...)Reply -
samwelaye gsacksIsn't Rosewill basically like a 'house brand' for Newegg?Reply
Yep. Except some of their stuff is very good, such as the Rosewill Thor v2 case. amazing cooling for the money -
cesthree Old_Fogie_Late_BloomerIs it just me or are these Ducky Shine rebadges?Reply
I don't think it's a Ducky re-brand. I've had my Ducky Year of the Dragon w/ Cherry MX browns & yellow LED backlighting (first ever mechanical keyboard for me, and can't believe I haven't had one before) for just over a month.
My Ducky really looks nothing like what's in the image, even if mine is not a Ducky Shine (since Year of the Dragon is essentially a Shine but tenkeyless).
Anyways, I could be wrong, but I don't think Rosewill is a Ducky re-brand.
Also, I wish I could fit my Ducky keyboard into my laptop case. I freaking hate these "chiclet" keys now that I know what I have been missing. -
jasonpwns No, rosewill mechanical keyboards are based off Filco keyboards. Also I hardly consider this an upgrade. My current rosewill does Nkey rollover on PS2. Why would I want to trade that for 6 key? I don't need backlighting. Ill pass. Also being Filco OEM, these keyboards are solid.Reply