Version: 2008
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Microsoft Sidewinder X6 - keyboard

  • Quick specs
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 20.2 in x 9.2 in x 1.8 in
  • Weight: 2.9 lbs
  • Form factor: External
  • See full specifications

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The good: Thirty programmable keys; profile switching; nice selection of vanity keys; automatically loads custom game configurations.

The bad: Not very comfortable for everyday typing; no adjustable height and angle; wrist pad isn't soft and can't detach from keyboard.

The bottom line: With its 30 programmable buttons, the Sidewinder X6 is solid choice for PC gamers who demand total customization. Its removable keypad is also sure to draw in the gamer who wants control over ergonomic preferences.

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CNET editors' review

  • Reviewed on: 11/26/2008
  • Released on: 09/15/2008

With the Sidewinder X6 gaming keyboard, Microsoft aims at the serious PC gamer who demands programmable keys and customized functionality for various situations in gaming. The keyboard's unique removable keypad is definitely a luxury that some may find useful in terms of ergonomics. That said, the X6, available for around $60 online, is sure to please even the most hard-core of gamers.

The X6 is a slick black keyboard that measures 20.2 inches wide and 9.22 inches deep. It does take up quite a bit of room, so be prepared to clear some space in order for it to rest comfortably. Its thick rubber feet are sure to keep it from slipping during gaming sessions.

One of the main features of the X6 boasts is a unique, removable number pad. Depending on your preference, you can connect the keypad to either side of the keyboard via a magnetic contact. Say you're a southpaw who's more comfortable with the keypad to the left; the X6 can adjust to suit you.

The keyboard also has an adjustable backlight display that illuminates every single key. Standard keys glow red while the keypad and programmable buttons have an amber hue to them. The intensity is adjustable via a large knob at the top of the keyboard, something like you'd find on a car dashboard.

The X6 has a number of hot-key features that enhance the overall gaming experience. Once you install the bundled software, you can customize the 30 "S" keys found on the detachable keypad along with a row parallel to the left-most side of the standard keyboard. You can also store these keys in one of three save states, which gives you a way to switch between a work mode and play mode, for example. A convenient button on the top row allows you to switch through these profiles at any time. Through the included software, you can also assign specific configurations to particular games. These custom layouts will automatically load along with the game they're bound to.

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Where to buy

Microsoft Sidewinder X6 - keyboard: $38.99 - $64.99
storepricein stock?rating
Amazon.com Marketplace
$38.99 Yes 5.0 star rating
Amazon.com
$43.89 Yes 5.0 star rating
TigerDirect.com
$49.99 Yes 5.0 star rating
CompUSA
$49.99 Yes 5.0 star rating
J&R Music and Computer World
$49.88 Yes 5.0 star rating

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Reviews from around the WebPowered by alaTest

  • alaTest.com

    Editors' rating: 95

    Summary: alaTest has collected and analyzed 57 reviews of Microsoft SideWinder X6 from international magazines and websites. Experts rate this product 84/100 and users 75/100. Comparing these reviews to 44449 other Keyboards reviews gives this product an overall alaScore™ 95/100 = Excellent.

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  • digitalversus.com

    Editors' rating: 80

    Summary: Whether or not you like this keyboard depends on how tolerant you are of noise. If you don't mind it, or listen to music while you're playing games anyway, this is a five star keyboard, but if you're a sensitive soul, keep this keyboard out of the ...

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  • news.com.au

    Editors' rating: 80

    Summary: A pretty impressive gaming keyboard; for macro freaks, the 90 programmable keys should prove very enticing and the host of controls combined with the detachable number pad make for a very flexible unit.

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  • techtree.com

    Editors' rating: 90

    Summary: If you're a fan of RTS and MMORPG's and have a hard time remembering key combinations, then this is the keyboard for you. It's a good move from Microsoft to exclude an LCD screen since it helps bring down the cost. What's sad is the missing USB ports ...

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  • pocket-lint.com

    Editors' rating: 90

    Summary: As far as gaming keyboards go, Microsoft's SideWinder X6 has claimed the top spot with unique customisability

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  • goodgearguide.com.au

    Editors' rating: 80

    Summary: A pretty impressive gaming keyboard; for macro freaks, the 90 programmable keys should prove very enticing and the host of controls combined with the detachable number pad make for a very flexible unit.

    Read full review

Microsoft Sidewinder X6 - keyboard