Closer look

Of all the mechanical keyboards that I have come across and all the ones I have read about have all been of the same typical plain Jane design. Even the CM QuickFire models filled into this group except for a few minor appearance additions. This is where the Trigger sets itself apart from them. Because of the macros keys and the rugged lines built into the casing make it look more like a gaming keyboard.

The Trigger is had plastic body with a small plastic frame border that feels as if there is some type of rubber coating that surround it. a combination of the black and gray is used to make the keyboard stand out from the usually all black mechanical board. The overall look of the board flows very well with the HAF series of case especially the new HAF XM as well as the new Sentinel II gaming mouse.

The Trigger is slightly longer than most of the other mechanical keyboards on the market. Its overall length is a hair shorter than 19” and stands just 1” high. Weighing just 2.78 pounds makes it light enough to be transported from LAN to LAN.

The keys of the Trigger are con-caved to better comfort the user. As noted underneath the caps are brown MX switches. We have written some differences in the switches in the Rapid and Pro reviews, so check them out for more details. One thing to remember is that the brown switches are the ones that do not make much noise unless you bottom out during the pressing.

To be true to the gaming stereotype the Trigger has a series of five keys that are designated for macros. The macros assignments can task using the software made for keyboard.

And like the QuickFire Pro, the Trigger features a full numeral keypad for those that require a lot number inputting like myself.

The typical Windows key has been replaced by a CM which serves the same function but can also be disabled to eliminate accidentally pressing it during gaming sessions.

The Fn keys have two assignments, the first is their typical functions and the second would be to adjust the backlighting, media controls and volume controls.

The backside of the keyboard doesn’t have too much going on except for a couple of levers for adjusting the keyboard’s height. When lying flat the keyboard rest on six rubber feet.  And there is a large CM Storm trademark also.

The Trigger does come with a dual USB 2.0 hub. The braided USB cable used to affix the keyboard to the PC is fully detachable.

Here is a quick shot with the plastic wrist-rest attached.