This is a weird review in more ways than one, with the biggest reason arguably being because the product in question still hasn't been officially released by Cooler Master. I received the review sample at the same time as Kickstarter backers, and the original plan was for the product to launch in March. The ~1–1.5 months before were to be used to get feedback on the software feature set, complete the missing features, and also finalize what additional accessories to release alongside the ControlPad. These were going to be keycap sets for different applications, such as a set with legends specific to Adobe Creative Suite. It is about six months later now, and Cooler Master does not officially have any comments on when the ControlPad will make it to retail channels, as well as what the final MSRP will be.

So it boiled down to either holding back this review until release or at least putting it out as a preview. Seeing as how I am unable to test it further for software updates since given it is halfway across the globe from me at the moment and there is no definite date of availability, consider this a detailed preview of what is to come. I also noticed some of these units being sold by individuals already, so it is only right that you have a better vision of the product before parting with your money. Also keep in mind that the software has been updated since my testing, which I can not speak for without any personal experience. According to the change log, some of my complaints have been addressed, however, so I am glad to see the company having made progress despite their initial challenges of having a software team locked down in Wuhan, China.

As it stands, a lot of what I said about the MK850 keyboard is valid here. The MK850 tried to throw everything but the kitchen sink onto a greater-than-full-size keyboard, with the biggest feature being the Aimpad analog control technology implemented on eight keys for gaming. My biggest complaint, and that of others at the time, was that eight keys are not enough. Wooting had already come out with the Wooting One at the time, with an entire TKL keyboard of analog control, and arguably better software, too. Cooler Master decided the solution was to go with a 24-key pad instead, and this would have been an extremely niche peripheral even with no global pandemic in place. I can only recommend they make this a limited launch and get it done with, and use the experience and updated software to release a flagship keyboard without the compromise of a lacking hardware and software experience.