Razer's Tartarus Pro refresh keeps the weird gaming keypad alive
The one-handed gaming keypad is still a very specific gadget. Razer's refresh is a reminder that niche PC gear survives when it gives power users controls they cannot get from a normal keyboard.
Original Geekish context based on the sources linked below.
The short version
Engadget reports that Razer refreshed the one-handed Tartarus Pro keyboard with improved switches. Razer's product page describes the Tartarus Pro as a PC gaming keypad with Razer Analog Optical Switches and 32 programmable keys.
Why this matters
Gaming keypads are not mainstream accessories, but they are sticky for MMO players, macro-heavy PC gamers, and anyone who wants a dedicated control surface next to the mouse.
The control pitch
Razer says the analog optical switches can register different input levels depending on how far a key is pressed. Its example: a half press can walk, while a full press can run, similar to an analog stick.
Geekish take
This is wonderfully specific hardware. Not everyone needs a one-handed keypad, but the people who do tend to really know why, and that is exactly why the category refuses to disappear.
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