Cooler Master Introduces Another Mem-chanical Keyboard

Cooler Master is back in the news today with the launch of its MasterSet MS120 mem-chanical clicky keyboard and mouse combo. We know what you’re thinking: what in the world is a mem-chanical clicky switch? Allow us to explain.

In an attempt to appeal to consumers who enjoy the feel of a mechanical keyboard but abhor the price tag that comes with it, keyboard manufacturers such as Cooler Master have developed what they refer to as "hybrid" keyboards. The idea is to make a membrane style keyboard feel like a mechanical keyboard, which is easier said than done. In fact, our hands-on tests with Cooler Master’s first mem-chanical keyboard left us less than impressed. (And that’s putting it nicely.)

It would seem that the company took our criticism to heart. At Computex 2017, we were pleasantly surprised by the quality of the MasterKeys MS120 on display. The overall feel was good enough that we didn’t immediately detect that they weren’t mechanical switches. This is no doubt due to the newly redesigned mem-chanical switches that no longer employ the use of a membrane dome and have a more robust switch housing and spring mechanism.

For those of you who require RGB functionality, the MasterSet MS120 keyboard comes with full per-key RGB capability that allows end users to map individual colors to each key. The included mouse features a 3,500 DPI optical sensor and comes equipped with Omron switches with a 50-million-click life cycle and a customizable three-zone RGB backlighting system capable of displaying 16.8 million colors. The mouse cable is braided and utilizes a USB 2.0 connector.

The Cooler Master MasterSet MS120 is available now with an MSRP of $90.

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Keyboard
Switch TypeMem-chanical Clicky
Switch Lifespan50+ Million
Material Plastic
LightingRGB
ConnectorUSB 1.1
Dimensions (L x W x H)441 x 132.5 x 38mm
Weight1041.5 g
Mouse
Sensor TypeOptical
DPI4 levels (500, 750, 1500, 3500)
LightingRGB
Dimensions (L x W x H)118 x 78.5 x 39.5mm
Weight105g
  • Virtual_Singularity
    Pleasantly surprised at the last computex by this "memchanical" membrane, you say? I can only wonder how that happened. lol. I'm not surprised at all CM continues using their "Master moniker, slappin' it forevermore (was that a pun? Nope.) on all products & charge through the nose" strategy. Expecting anyone to pay $90+ for what might be acceptable at possibly $35ish, maybe $40, is very bold of them. CM, you must have barrz of a brass. I could find a real mechanical kb & comparable mouse for around $35-$40, or drop the mechanical & simply go for a RGB membrane KB & mouse (for less). It won' be CM, or from another company starting with a C, or from (no, I'll stop at the letter C)...

    But as I've said before, if it sells, more power to you CM! Master those image buyers with your boldness, always remember what PT Barnum said!
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