CM Storm QuickFire Pro First Impressions

After reading through Jamie’s review of Corsair’s Vengeance K60 mechanical keyboard, I knew that I had to finally upgrade from a standard model to one that made the clickity-clack noise. Soon after, Cooler Master shot us over a sample of its QuickFire Pro and upcoming Trigger keyboards, so I decided to tackle them and set aside the uber-simple Logitech keyboard I’ve been using for the longest while.

I have to admit, for various reasons, I was stoked to tear into one of these keyboards and give them a whirl. Across our own forums, Facebook and other social mediums, it be came clear to me that I was missing out by not having a mechanical keyboard. After spending less than 24 hours with the QuickFire Pro, I have to say I am beginning to understand the draw. I thought the keyboard I just upgraded from was smooth typing, but I stand corrected now.

You can expect a full review of the keyboard next week (quicker than normal due to needing to tackle the Trigger), but I just wanted to relay my initial thoughts here. Compared to the last keyboard I used, the Logitech K360, the QuickFire Pro is an absolute beast. It’s heavy, doesn’t remotely slide around on the desk, and feels like it wouldn’t break if I chucked it out the window to the street. This seems to be commonplace for mechanical keyboards.

If the name “QuickFire” sounds familiar, it’s because Ryan tackled the Rapid version this past January. I recommend checking out his review for his opinions on that keyboard. My review will likely be more of an add-on to his, as both models are very similar. The main difference? The Pro has a numpad, a feature I personally require (as would most MMO gamers). The Rapid also came in a much more compact size.

The QuickFire Pro features “CHERRY Brown” switches, which aim to give medium-level sensitivity and a “bump” that you can feel (albeit super subtle) when the key is pressed about half-way. This is opposed to blue which offers an audible click, and black which is stiff. Red is the highly coveted switch due to its very high sensitivity. To learn more about these switches, I recommend reading through Jamie’s review of the K60, linked to above.

Mechanics aside, the QF Pro offers other features that gamers will like, such as clear, bright backlighting on some keys. Two modes are included, to light up only the WASD and arrow keys, and to light both of those up and more, around the left-hand side of the keyboard. You also have the option to have the lighting pulse, for a bit of a cool effect.

One thing the keyboard does lack is macro support, but with that comes the lack of a need for software. That makes this keyboard super-easy to get to work with. Just plug it in, and use it. The Trigger, which I will take a look at after the QF Pro, does include macro support.

Stay tuned for our full review of the QuickFire Pro next week!