Driver

Installing the drivers for the Fnatic Gear Rush Keyboard isn't hard, and they are not required unless you want to set up macros or use Fnatic mode.


This is basically the only screen you use with the Fnatic software. It is very basic and its options are somewhat limited compared to those of competing brands, but you are able to set up multiple profiles, which makes changing the profile as you change the game you are playing possible. To activate the macros in game, press the Fnatic mode key. Do so and you will be able to use any macro. The key assigned to the macro will keep functioning normally outside of a game, though.


Creating macros is relatively easy. You can pick any key except for the FN key and a few F keys, and can program it to launch programs, perform Windows functions, such as copy or paste, or run a macro.


Recording a macro is very simple - simply click the 'macro' option in the drop-down box before clicking on the record button. Once you do, everything you type in will be recorded.


I created a macro with the "-" key on the num pad. Pressing it will type "www.techpowerup.com." The macro options are very limited, and the only real feature available in the settings is to repeat the key stroke. There are no options to add delays, insert extra keystrokes, or anything else of that nature.

The software is somewhat of a letdown for me, but it perfect for those who really want a basic keyboard with options that are usable on the fly rather than having to install programs to get them.

Performance

I used the Fnatic Gear Rush keyboard for quite some time. While I used it mostly for typing, I did manage to get a good few games of Overwatch and CS:GO and a little bit of GTA V and Farming Simulator 15 in. The Cherry MX Brown switches were a pleasure to type on and were attached to the midplate and PCB securely; there were no wobbly keys or loose switches.

The FN keys worked flawlessly the whole time I used them, allowing for some extra functionality over some competing keyboards. Fnatic mode ensures that the macro keys are only actually active when you need them. If you are in game and don't actually need to use the letters on the keyboard, you can set them to do other things by simply defining their function through the software and pressing the Fnatic mode key to activate them. This means that you can set any key as a macro and are still able to come straight out of a game and type normally by simply pressing the Fnatic mode key again. The wrist rest is comfortable and the red midplate adds some weight to the keyboard and is aesthetically pleasing - the feet also ensure that the keyboard doesn't move whilst in use, which is always a bonus.


Although I am not a huge fan of single mode LED effects, the Rush keyboard has a breathing option. To me, it is more of a gimmick than anything, but it can be turned off. It does work fine when used, and whether you like it or not is completely down to personal preference.