Genius Launches New Imperator MMO/RTS Gaming Keyboard

Genius has announced the launch of its latest product in the GX gaming line called the Imperator keyboard. The new product is a gaming keyboard aimed specifically at MMO and RTS gamers. I think the keyboard might appeal to gamers who are in into other types of games as well. Some of the features would be perfectly suited to FPS gamers.

The big feature is that the keyboard has six programmable macro keys on the left side that can be assigned up to 18 different macros. Macro keys combine multiple keystrokes into a single button allowing the gamer to perform complicated actions with a single press. The keyboard also supports gaming mode to prevent gamers from accidentally exiting the game by hitting the Windows key.

The keyboard supports three different game profiles and has integrated onboard memory for storing profiles macros. Other features include six different media keys for controlling media when you're not gaming. Imperator has a 1000 Hz report rate and a 1 ms response time. That high report rate and quick response time means no lag between key presses and actions taking place on the screen.

The keyboard connects to a computer using a 1.8 m long USB cable. The keyboard supports Windows 7, Vista, and XP. It requires at least 100 MB of space and naturally, an available USB port. The keyboard has some nice features when you consider the MSRP of only $49. Many gaming keyboards cost more than twice that amount.