From PCMAG · Francisco Lahoz · · 2m
Logitech G512 X: the minivan of gaming keyboards
A 75% Logitech board that takes both magnetic and mechanical switches, and hides the spares inside itself.
In brief
A 75% Logitech board that takes both magnetic and mechanical switches, and hides the spares inside itself. The G512 X earns its price on flexibility: one hybrid PCB takes magnetic or mechanical switches, and the board stores the spares for you. Originally reported by PCMAG.
Storage on wheels
The Logitech G512 X is a wired gaming keyboard built around built-in storage for your spare switches and accessories. Think minivan, not sports car.
“If you like your gaming keyboards like you like your minivans, with lots of built-in storage, the Logitech G512 X is for you.”
Two sizes, one review
It comes in a tenkeyless 75% format and a larger version. The $179.99 75% model is the one under review here.
The standout trick
A hybrid printed circuit board accepts both magnetic and traditional key switches. Most boards make you pick a side at purchase.
“a hybrid printed circuit board (PCB) that supports both magnetic and traditional key switches”
Editors' Choice earned
Add an 8,000Hz polling rate, switch storage and good RGB lighting, and it lands an Editors' Choice award as a high-end compact board.
“you've got a high-end compact gaming keyboard that rates an Editors' Choice award”
Full-size isn't full-size
The $199.99 "full-size" G512 X is really a 98% layout. It keeps the number pad but drops Home, Page Up and Page Down.
“The "full-size" version of the G512 X ($199.99) isn't actually full-size.”
What the 75% drops
The 75% model reviewed here cuts the same navigation keys and the number pad on top of that. Smaller desk footprint, fewer keys.
“The 75% model reviewed here nixes those same keys and the number pad.”
Two colorways
Pick white-and-mint or black with purple accents. Both match Logitech's other gear like the G522 headphones and G502 X Plus mouse.
Size and weight
It measures 1.8 by 13 by 6.1 inches and weighs 1.87 pounds, roughly the same footprint as the pricier Lemokey L5 HE.
Light beats the rival
The comparable Lemokey L5 HE weighs 4.2 pounds, more than double the G512 X. If you move your board around, that gap matters.
“the weight is drastically lower, as the L5 HE weighs 4.2 pounds”
Plastic, but planted
The frame is mostly plastic where an aluminum one would feel steadier. Five wide rubber feet keep it from sliding on most surfaces.
“while we prefer the stability of an aluminum frame, the keyboard stays put on most surfaces”
Tools that clip on
Logitech includes keycap and switch puller tools that clip into two of the rubber feet. They store there and double as a tilt riser.
“they clip onto two of those rubber feet, both for storage and to angle the board toward you”
Here's the gist
The G512 X earns its price on flexibility: one hybrid PCB takes magnetic or mechanical switches, and the board stores the spares for you.
