Vanguard K08 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Review

Final Thoughts

Price

The Creative Sound BlasterX Vanguard K08 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is available on pre-order directly from the Creative website. It’s currently priced at $99.99, and compared to other equally equipped mechanical keyboards on the market, we think that’s a freaking bargain.

Overview

Creative may be new to the keyboard market, but that doesn’t mean they don’t know what they’re doing. They’ve been one of the leading brands in the peripherals market for many years, with a wide range of award-winning headsets that have been loved by gamers around the world. They’ve also been a strong supporter of the eSports scene, with sponsored gaming teams of their own, who are perfectly positioned to give them all the feedback they need to make great peripherals.

The Vanguard K08 hits the market with its arms swinging, and the competition better watch out! The performance on this keyboard is absolutely perfect, and while I was a little sceptical of what Omron switches would be like compared to something like Cherry MX, I’m completely sold on their capabilities and have no doubt that gamers will love them.

Equipped with all the high-end features you would expect for a flagship keyboard, the Vanguard is rocking full RGB per-key lighting, anti-ghosting, N-Key, dedicated macro keys, dedicated multimedia controls, USB pass-through, a detachable wrist rest, and high-quality mechanical switches. We couldn’t ask for much more from a keyboard, and that’s even more true when you consider the very competitive price.

Build quality is rock solid throughout too, and that shows in the aesthetics, as the K08 looks stunning from every angle. If you’re looking for something new, a little bit different, and without a doubt cool, then the latest from Creative is the way to go.

Pros

• Excellent build quality
• Fantastic Omron mechanical switches
• Dedicated macro keys
• Dedicated multimedia keys
• USB pass-through
• Low switch actuation
• Full RGB lighting
• Competitive price
• Trusted brand name

Cons

• None

“The Vanguard K08 may be the first gaming keyboard from Creative, but they’re already able to stand tall, as this is easily one of the best keyboards we’ve seen in a long time. Great build quality, flawless design, and excellent performance throughout.”