If you’ve been gaming or streaming videos for a while, you’ve likely encountered both wired and wireless keyboards. Many gamers would concur that wired keyboards are more reliable and faster. However, the question remains: is it possible to have a lag-free wireless keyboard?
Logitech G is a leading global manufacturer of gaming equipment. The Logitech brand is committed to creating innovative designs that cater to their customers’ needs.
This article will review the Logitech G613 wireless keyboard, which may have successfully addressed this issue.
Here is a comprehensive review of the Logitech G613, covering everything from aesthetics to performance!
The Logitech G613 is an innovative wireless mechanical gaming keyboard designed for anyone who prefers to avoid cables. Logitech has enabled multiple device connectivity through Wireless, USB adapter, and Bluetooth technology. Lightspeed wireless technology positions it as a strong competitor to wired gaming keyboards.
The matte black plastic board is quite elegant and looks appealing on the office desk. Romer-G keys are highly responsive to light pressure, producing a more subdued sound while typing. Media keys are positioned above the number pad, and six programmable keys can be customized for each profile.
While it is larger than many other keyboards, the 8.5-inch wrist rest is beneficial for extended use over multiple hours.
The Logitech G613 wireless mechanical keyboard operates on two AA batteries and weighs 1460g. Many individuals have questioned Logitech’s choice to power this keyboard with batteries.
At first glance, it may appear to be an additional expense, but the batteries can last up to 18 months. This is actually a benefit, as you won’t need to worry about charging or managing wires for a year and a half. Plus, you never have to turn it off to conserve battery life!
AA batteries are quite simple to replace if you wish to do so before 18 months have elapsed. It’s a good idea to keep a spare pair available!
In the box, alongside your G613 mechanical gaming keyboard and batteries, you will find a Lightspeed USB receiver, an extender USB cable, a phone stand, and user documentation.
You might be wondering why you need a phone stand in addition to the keyboard. The phone stand may come as a surprise, but it is quite useful. You can pair your mobile phone and keyboard via Bluetooth and switch between devices at any time. The phone stand is simply an extra accessory that Logitech included to enhance convenience and organization.
Supported operating system versions for the Lightspeed wireless connection include Windows 7 or later, Mac OS X 10.10 or later, Chrome OS, and Android 3.2 or later.
You can pair it via Bluetooth with Windows 8 or later, Mac OS X 10.12 or later, Chrome OS, Android 3.2 or later, and iOS 10 or later.
While the G613 model is the first wireless keyboard to offer strong gaming performance and speed that exceeds that of wired gaming keyboards, it lacks lighting. This feature receives both positive and negative reviews, ultimately depending on personal preference.
The bottom line is that the Logitech G613 wireless mechanical keyboard is both durable and convenient. We will certainly give it a high rating!
Logitech G613 Design
The ergonomic keyboard design distinguishes this model from others. What does this mean? The keyboard is crafted to ensure that the keys are harmonious, maintaining the same height without sharp edges or awkward angles that enhance the overall appearance rather than functionality.
The keyboard features a clean and tidy design with a matte black-gray plastic base. The software lacks lighting, and the keys are a straightforward black with white lettering.
The height of the keyboard is 18.8 inches (478 mm), and the width is 8.5 inches (216 mm). It is relatively large, measuring 2 to 3 inches more than its competitors.
Logitech G613 is a slightly heavier keyboard, weighing 49.7 oz (1410 g) without the batteries and 51.4 oz (1460 g) with two batteries.
The G613 features a spacious wrist rest and an additional row of macro keys. The depth of the wrist rest is 8.5 inches (21.6 cm). The keyboard can be tilted to a very comfortable angle.
Logitech has designed the G613 to be both comfortable and practical for extended use while maintaining a modern aesthetic. It would look stunning on any office or living room desk, as numerous design reviews unanimously indicate!
RGB Backlighting
Many RGB lighting fans were disappointed to find out that the G613 lacks any lighting. Although this model is marketed as a gaming keyboard, Logitech has chosen to maintain a simple black design without colorful, variable lights.
If we compare the Corsair K63 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with the Logitech G613, you’ll notice they are quite similar; however, some people prefer the Corsair K63 due to its blue backlighting.
However, many reviews indicate that there is a group of people who prefer keyboards without RGB lighting, suggesting that opinions are divided. While we cannot label this as a flaw, it is unusual for a gaming keyboard to lack lighting, as the keys may be difficult to see at night, complicating professional gaming. We all know that gamers tend to be night owls!
On the other hand, Logitech has successfully used this move with RGB lights to bridge two distinct worlds within its target audience of professional gamers and office workers.
From a technical perspective, it is understandable that RGB lighting was excluded to prolong battery life to a year and a half; otherwise, a built-in battery would be required. AA batteries would only last a few hours.
Mechanical Switches
Logitech’s G613 features Romer G Switches. These switches are linear and comfortable to the touch, but they provide only a solid “clicky” feel, unlike Cherry MX keys. Romer G keys are more durable than the widely used Cherry MX keys found on the Corsair K63. It is worth noting that some individuals prefer the Corsair K63 due to its Cherry MX switches.
Logitech G613 switches can endure approximately 70 million characters, with some instances reaching up to 90 million keypresses. Cherry MX Keys provide a durability of 50 million characters. The actuation distance measures 0.059 inches (1.5 mm), while the total travel distance is 0.125 inches (3.2 mm). The actuation force required for the key switches is 1.58 oz (45g).
Regarding latency, the G613 mechanical keyboard boasts impressively low figures. Latency is N/A for wired connections, with a 3.4 ms latency for the receiver and a 7.7 ms latency for Bluetooth. The highly responsive keys enhance your experience, particularly during gaming.
The switches are linear and comfortable to the touch. Mechanical switches typically produce a distinct ‘clicky’ sound, similar to Cherry MX keys. However, due to its short-range activation, the G613 operates fairly quietly. While switches are often a matter of personal preference, if you have not used these switches before, you will be able to assess their suitability for you after trying them. There is no consensus on whether one type is superior to another. One clear advantage of this keyboard is its response time.
The G613 features standard media keys, including mute, play/pause, rewind, fast-forward, and a command key that toggles between game modes. The media controls are located above the number pad in the top right corner and have slightly different surface textures, allowing for easy identification in low light. In addition to these standard keys, you can effortlessly switch from a wireless to a Bluetooth connection using just the two buttons on the keyboard!
Unlike other models that feature a roller button for volume control, the G613 is equipped with two separate buttons. On the left side of the keyboard, arranged vertically, are six macro programmable keys. Some keyboards, such as those from Corsair, do not include macro keys. A slide switch is provided to enable the Meta Windows key. The only lights present on the keyboard are the battery warning lights and the Caps Lock notification.
The keyboard is fully compatible with Windows and partially compatible with macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and iPadOS. All keys function on all platforms, except for the Apple operating system, where several keys do not respond. Additionally, on Linux and Android, keyboard customization is not available.
Logitech Gaming Software
The Logitech G613 wireless gaming keyboard utilizes the Logitech G HUB software. Logitech Gaming Software allows you to configure macro programmable G-keys. You can create six or more accounts and save your personalized settings.
This is particularly convenient if you are playing various games that require custom settings or if you are sharing the keyboard with a friend who wants to use it with his own settings. Additionally, you can save your settings in the onboard memory in case you do not have your software installed.
Of course, it enables you to sync your settings to the cloud, allowing you to quickly synchronize your custom settings across multiple devices or when changing the operating system.
G HUB software is available for Windows and macOS. However, you must connect the keyboard using a wireless USB receiver for the software to recognize it.
Performance
The G613 keyboard offers multiple pairing options, and connecting via Bluetooth is just as easy as connecting wirelessly.
The biggest issue most gamers face is the latency of wireless keyboards. The question is whether Lightspeed wireless can deliver lag-free performance. Absolutely!
Its impressive one-millisecond response time has significantly enhanced this model’s performance. Some reviews suggest that this feature makes it the best wireless keyboard available!
Although many believe that wired gaming keyboards are faster and more reliable, Logitech has developed wireless technology that matches the overall performance of a wired keyboard.
The 2.4 GHz lightspeed receiver offers remarkably low latency. The number of wireless devices in your home can impact the overall speed of your Logitech G613 wireless keyboard.
Logitech claims that their wireless solution can be even faster than traditional wired options. Regardless, the G613 performs just as quickly as any other wired gaming keyboard, with no connectivity issues. This is a strong selling point for the Logitech G613 and contributes to a positive review!
Logitech’s G613 wireless gaming keyboard is compatible with PlayStation 4, allowing you to connect it via Bluetooth or a wireless dongle.
Did you know that you can connect a keyboard to multiple devices? If you own a PC and a laptop, this means you can use a PC and a laptop, a PC and a mobile phone, or two computers simultaneously. Just connect one device wirelessly and the other via Bluetooth. Switching from one device to another is as simple as pressing the key for the chosen connection method.
It is important to note that similar keyboards share this feature, but it was bold to implement it in a wireless keyboard as well. Logitech is a genuinely committed brand that has excelled with this wireless mechanical gaming keyboard!
Main Features
1. Bluetooth Connection
In some reviews, users mentioned that they were unaware of their need for Bluetooth on a keyboard until they tried the G613, which implemented this feature exceptionally well. While there may be a slight delay when switching the keyboard from wireless to Bluetooth, both options still performed remarkably. The system requirements for Bluetooth are Windows® 8 or later, Mac OS X 10.12 or later, Chrome OS, and Android 5.0 or later.
2. Lightspeed Wireless
This connectivity mode has greatly enhanced the value of the G613 keyboard. A one millisecond report rate is provided by the 2.4 GHz Lightspeed receiver. When this keyboard was released, it represented a significant advancement for Logitech’s wireless keyboards. The Lightspeed wireless system requires Windows 7 or later, Mac OS X 10.10 or later, Chrome OS, and Android 3.2 or later.
3. Romer G Tactile Switches
Romer G-keys actuate at a distance of 1.5mm, providing up to 25 percent faster response times compared to major competitors. The keys require minimal activation force, allowing you to spend more hours on your computer typing lightly without fatigue. Typing on Romer G switches is significantly more subtle than on Cherry MX keys, for example.
Target Audience
The Logitech G613 wireless mechanical keyboard is not your typical gaming keyboard. The G613 is specifically designed and optimized for both corporate and gaming environments.
In fact, it has a distinctly corporate appearance due to its clean charcoal black chassis, crafted from textured plastic, along with black gaming keycaps and a wrist rest. The absence of RGB lights enhances the sleek design, allowing you to place the keyboard on your living room table or even an office desk.
The performance of this wireless gaming keyboard, along with its mechanical keys and rapid responsiveness, is excellent for gaming.
Do you have any idea who the Target Audience is? Logitech aimed to appeal to two specific groups of people with its G613 model.
One group comprises passionate gamers who will appreciate the lightspeed wireless performance of this keyboard, while the other group consists of modern companies seeking to enhance typing comfort with the keyboard’s ergonomic wrist rest!
The $149.99 price tag will appeal to individuals willing to invest a bit more in a keyboard with durable build quality.
Price
The G613 Lightspeed Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard was introduced in August 2017 with a retail price of $149.99 and £129.99. This keyboard is somewhat more expensive than other comparable products.
In comparison to other wireless keyboards within the same price range, the G613 is suitable for competitive gaming and tournaments, as it offers reliable speed and a lag-free wireless operation.
If you are seeking a keyboard that meets all the traditional needs of gamers, the G613 supports basic functions, though you can find other more affordable keyboards with RGB lighting. However, if you desire a versatile, highly functional, and comfortable keyboard for wireless gaming, you will not go wrong with the G613.
G613 is an impressive keyboard designed to function as either a Bluetooth or wireless keyboard with just a simple toggle button. It is a worthwhile investment if you are looking for a durable and fast wireless keyboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Logitech G613 worth it?
The Logitech G613 is a keyboard with outstanding performance and a simple design. LightSpeed wireless mode gives it an advantage over other models as well as multiple paring options. The keyboard is really worth $ 150 because of that, but if it weren’t a wireless model it would be a bit overrated. Especially because the backlight is omitted and there is no built-in battery.
Does the Logitech G613 have a backlight?
The downside of the G613 wireless gaming keyboard is that it doesn’t have a backlight. Logitech has opted to exclude the backlight on this model to ensure that the batteries last longer. The only lights on the keyboard are the battery indicator lights and the Caps Lock. However, this is not a significant omission when it comes to keyboard performance, but an unlit keyboard is often unattractive to gamers.
How long does G613 last?
Logitech’s G613 doesn’t have a built-in rechargeable battery, it runs on two AA batteries instead. Battery life is estimated at 1.5 years. The weight of this product with external batteries is 51.4 oz / 1460 g. The LED on the keyboard will activate when the battery life is at 15% to alert you. The battery life depends on how often you use the keyboard and PC requirements.
Does Logitech G613 have Bluetooth?
The G613 has several pairing options. It is a Bluetooth-compatible keyboard on iOS, iPad, and Android devices. In fact, Bluetooth is enabled with Windows® 8 or later, Mac OS X 10.12 or later, Chrome OS, Android 3.2 or later, iOS 10 or later. Another way to connect to your devices is with a wireless dongle.
What switches does the Logitech G613 use?
This keyboard is using the Romer G Tactile switches which are even more durable than the popular Cherry MX keys. Romer g keys last around 70 million characters, but in some cases, they lasted for 90 million keypresses. Cherry MX Keys offers the durability of 50 million characters. The actuation distance is 0.059 inches/1.5 mm while the total travel distance is 0.125 inches/3.2 mm. The actuation force of the key switches is 1.58 oz/45g.
Can you remove the G613 wrist rest?
G613 wrist rest has a great clean design and is quite comfortable for several hours of gaming. However, it is an integral part of the keyboard and cannot be detached. Many models at this price have provided the possibility to separate the wrist rest, so this feature of G613 is not supported by its audience. The depth with Wrist Rest is 8.5 inches/21.6 cm.
Does the Logitech G613 work with Xbox One?
Logitech’s G613 is the best wired-free keyboard compatible with Xbox, including the X|S Series. Xbox supports the G613 keyboard but only via USB or Wireless connection. It can’t connect to the Xbox via Bluetooth. You will need a wireless key that connects to a USB port or a USB cable provided by Logitech as one of the connection options. The keyboard cannot be used to control games but only to insert text.
Conclusion
While some gamers may be disappointed by the absence of RGB lighting on this wireless mechanical keyboard, its other features more than compensate for it. Although the keyboard is recommended for gaming, its soft keys and wide wrist rest ensure that typing is easy and comfortable, regardless of the intended use.
In this Logitech G613 Review, we have thoroughly outlined all the strengths and weaknesses of this mechanical keyboard. Ultimately, it is up to you to determine if it meets your needs. However, you will not regret your purchase; although it requires a slightly larger investment, it is also more durable.
The bottom line is that the G613 is a multifunctional, comfortable, and high-quality keyboard that you can enjoy from the comfort of your office or living room!
