The Acer Predator Aethon 700 gaming keyboard roars onto the scene, aiming to conquer the desktops of dedicated warriors. Clad in sleek armor and boasting an arsenal of customizable features, it promises to dominate the virtual battlefield. But can it truly live up to its fearsome namesake, or is the Aethon 700 merely a flashy facade hiding mediocre mechanics? Let’s embark on a quest to uncover its true potential, dissecting its strengths and weaknesses to determine if it’s worthy of claiming a prime spot on your gaming altar.
A Feast for the Eyes and Fingers
From the moment you lay eyes on the Aethon 700, its premium aura is undeniable. Its anodized aluminum faceplate gleams with a metallic majesty, exuding a quality that surpasses most plastic-clad contenders. The detachable magnetic wrist rest, adorned with plush faux leather, offers a welcome haven for your weary wrists during extended gaming sessions. But the true spectacle lies beneath your fingertips – a canvas of 104 keys illuminated by a dazzling spectrum of 16.8 million colors. Each key can be bathed in your chosen hue, allowing you to craft mesmerizing lighting effects and personalize your keyboard like a digital Van Gogh.
Dual Personality: Clicky or Smooth, You Rule the Keys!
Unlike most keyboards that force you to choose between clicky or smooth keystrokes, the Aethon 700 throws down a unique gauntlet – a switchable key mechanism. With a simple twist of a dial, you can unleash the satisfying clatter of Blue switches, perfect for those who relish the tactile feedback and audible clicks of each keystroke. Or, for a stealthier approach, switch to the near-silent Red switches, gliding over the keys with a smooth, linear grace. This ingenious duality caters to a wider range of preferences, letting you tailor the keyboard’s feel to your specific gaming style, whether you’re a trigger-happy berserker or a calculating strategist.
Command and Conquer with Precision
The Aethon 700’s might extend beyond its captivating aesthetics. Beneath its stylish hood lies a potent arsenal of features designed to elevate your gaming prowess. N-key rollover ensures every keystroke registers, even during those frantic moments of button mashing, letting you unleash complex combos without fear of missed inputs. Dedicated media keys and a conveniently placed volume dial grant you instant control over your audio, keeping you immersed in the soundscape without breaking your focus. And for those who thrive on strategic maneuvers, five programmable macro keys stand ready, granting you lightning-fast access to intricate in-game actions with a single keypress.
Software Suite: The Predator Within Awakens
The Predator Aethon 700 isn’t just about impressive hardware; it comes equipped with the Predator Quartermaster software suite, your personal command center for in-depth customization. This intuitive software allows you to fine-tune your lighting effects to an almost dizzying degree, crafting intricate light shows that dance across your keyboard. Program macros with ease, assigning complex sequences of actions to single keystrokes for an unfair advantage on the battlefield. And if you truly crave granular control, you can even adjust the actuation force of each key, tailoring the keyboard’s responsiveness to your exact liking. It’s like having a personal tuning garage for your keyboard, letting you tweak it to become the perfect extension of your own digital persona.
The Verdict: Worthy Predator or Overhyped Prey?
The Acer Predator Aethon 700 is undeniably a premium gaming keyboard. Its stylish design, customizable features, and innovative switchable key mechanisms make it a standout option for gamers who demand the best. However, its hefty price tag might deter some budget-conscious warriors. Ultimately, the Aethon 700 is a keyboard for those who prioritize customization and crave a weapon to dominate the virtual battlefield. If you’re a hardcore gamer who relishes the thrill of personalization and seeks an edge over your opponents, the Aethon 700 is a worthy contender. But for casual players or those on a tight budget, there might be equally compelling options at a more accessible price point.
- Pros:
- Premium, stylish design with an anodised aluminium build
- Customizable 16.8 million color RGB backlighting with intricate lighting effects
- Switchable Blue or Red key mechanisms to cater to different preferences
- N-key rollover, dedicated media keys, and programmable macro keys for enhanced control
- Predator Quartermaster software for in-depth customization of lighting, macros, and even key actuation force
- Cons:
- Premium price tag might deter budget-conscious gamers
- Clicky Blue switches might be too loud for some users, especially in shared spaces
- Larger size and weight might not be ideal for some setups
- Predator Quartermaster software can feel somewhat clunky and resource-intensive compared to some competitors
- While the switchable keys are innovative, some users might miss the dedicated feel of a single switch type
Overall, the Acer Predator Aethon 700 is a powerful and highly customizable gaming keyboard with undeniable premium appeal. However, its hefty price tag, potentially loud clicky keys, and software quirks might make it less suitable for casual players or those on a tight budget. Ultimately, the decision boils down to personal preferences and priorities. If you’re a dedicated gamer who prioritizes cutting-edge features and in-depth customization, the Aethon 700 is a worthy contender. But if you value affordability, compact keyboards, or prefer a simpler user experience, there might be better options available.
Picture Credit: Acer