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Razer Ornata Chroma gaming keyboard review
The Razer Ornata Chroma gaming keyboard makes a terrific case for the versatility of Razer's new Mecha-Membrane technology, delivering a soft and fluid typing experience that doesn't skimp on the satisfying tactility of mechanical feedback.
The Good
- Mecha-Membrane switches are pliable yet resilient
- Chroma customisation is as versatile as ever
- Magnetic wrist rest is comfortable and convenient
The Bad
- A little on the pricey side
- Switch feedback is not as punchy as Cherry MX Blue or Brown switches
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What's in this review?
The battle between mechanical keyboards and their traditional membrane counterparts has long been something of a one-sided affair, at least in the premium space. The sharp response and solid resistance of mechanical switches simply offer a superior typing experience, whether it be during high-stakes gaming sessions or day-to-day office work.
Nevertheless, the soft rubber domes used in membrane switches do have their advantages. They're far easier to depress, reducing the strain on your fingers during extended periods of fast and furious typing. Membrane keyboards also tend to support a wider range of customisation options, with more options for programmable lighting and custom macros.
This trade-off has meant buying a premium keyboard always involved sacrificing some measure of comfort or control, even if those sacrifices have become less significant in recent years. But what if you want the best of both worlds without any sacrifice at all? Well, Razer might just have the answer for you. The PC peripheral manufacturer has devised a new technology it's calling Mecha-Membrane, a hybrid switch construction that combines the soft feel of a membrane key with the firm activation of a mechanical one. The first keyboard to take advantage of this technology is the Razer Ornata Chroma, and if it's anything to go by, Mecha-Membrane could well mark a turning point for premium keyboards going forward.
Design
- Simple and subdued style
- The included wrist rest makes typing even more comfortable and ergonomic
Performance
- Mecha-Membrane switches are soft without feeling spongy
- Mecha-Membrane switches don't offer the same degree of force-feedback as Cherry MX Blue or Brown switches
Features
- Razer's comprehensive Chroma customisation suite remains unmatched
- Full macro support
Verdict
At $169.95, the Ornata Chroma isn't exactly the cheapest of keyboards around. Still, you definitely get what you pay for, with every element of the Ornata's construction as premium as its price tag.
Pricing and availability
You can purchase the Razer Ornata Chroma from Razer directly for an RRP of $169.95 as well as from online retailers like Kogan, Scorptec and mwave.
Razer Ornata Chroma Gaming Keyboard
Razer Ornata Chroma Gaming Keyboard
The Ornata Chroma gaming keyboard features Razer's new Mecha-Membrane switch technology, combining the soft actuation of membrane keys with the firm feedback of a mechanical trigger.
Specs
Build
Keyboard Type
Mecha-Membrane
Depth
169mm
Width
463mm
Height
33mm
Weight
0.95g
Colours
Black
Connectivity
Wired/Wireless
Wired
Features
RGB
Yes
N-key Rollover
No
USB Passthrough
No
Dedicated Media Controls
No
