The Sequencer from OMEN by HP is by no means a world novelty, but we would still like to test the keyboard for you. Opto-mechanical keyboards basically want to combine the best of mechanical and classic keys. With the Sequencer, an unusual design with a unique selling point is added. If we had to roughly describe the keyboard right now, we would definitely do so with “eye-catching”.
Technical details
| Dimensions | 47.3cm (length) x 16.88cm (width) x 3.76cm (height) |
| Weight | 1.12kg |
| Case | Plastic |
| Connection | USB |
| Layout | QWERTY |
| Lighting | RGB |
| Colors | Black |
| Switches | Blue Switches |
| Price | € 122.07 * |
Packaging and Contents
The OMEN Sequencer arrives to you in a simple cardboard box. There is a window where you get a small view of the keyboard and can try out the switches even before unpacking. Otherwise, it remains unspectacular. The typical paperwork is in the box and of course the keyboard itself. Well packed with a plastic cover.
Design and material
We are immediately struck by the weight of the OMEN Sequencer. The opto-mechanical keyboard weighs over one kilogram. This is also due to the materials used. The upper side is made of aluminum, while plastic is used for the rest. The biggest conspicuous feature of the Sequencer is found on the top right. That’s where the volume control is located. It’s large, red and made of metal, a really unique feature, because otherwise the keyboard is kept completely black, with no other accents.
Sufficient keys can also be found with the keyboard. There are dedicated macro and multimedia keys, and the FN key can be used to quickly turn the backlight off/on or lock the Windows key. The sound can also be muted directly. We need the HP OMEN Gaming Hub to assign the macro keys, but more about that later.
Of course, an RGB illumination is a must for a good gaming keyboard nowadays. The illumination can also be adjusted via the manufacturer’s software. However, we can already say that the keycaps are well illuminated.
Since we have two connection cables on the keyboard, everything points to a USB port on the keyboard. This is also present, but certainly not in any place we would have directly suspected. On the wrapped side on the upper left we find the recessed USB port. Questionable positioning, but the passthrough works without problems.
For a better stand, the feet can be folded out to also change the keyboard’s angle. The Sequencer is also non-slip due to rubber on the underside, and the weight gives it even more support. A palm rest would be desirable, as the keyboard is quite high compared to other keyboards, especially when the feet are folded out.
Switches
A special feature of the sequencers are the opto-mechanical switches. Basically, they work like mechanical switches, but they do not trigger an electrical signal when the key reaches its switching point. With this type of the keys there is a light barrier. This is to enable faster triggering of the buttons.
Used “blue” switches without further specification of the manufacturer. As for the “classic” mechanical switches in the blue version, they have the “click”. We didn’t notice a real difference to mechanical keys in terms of response time, the typing feel is very similar in any case. With 50 grams of actuation force, the switches do require some force, but they also have a clear pressure point as a result. Perfect for gamers, and even frequent typists will get their money’s worth. The only drawback is probably the clicking noise, which won’t please everyone.
We hardly need to talk about the durability. According to the manufacturer, up to 70 million clicks are possible. However, the keys usually last even longer, if this high number is reached at all.
Software
HP OMEN Gaming Hub is the software of our choice. We already had to use the software in our test of the Spacer Wireless TKL. Yes, have to. Because when we start the software, we basically first see almost exclusively advertisements and also the notice that we should register to be able to use all the advantages.
When we select the OMEN Sequencer, we get two tabs to choose from – Lighting and Macros. We can divide the lighting into different zones. This way we can put different effects or colors on different keys. Basically, each key can be customized.
The next part is the macros. On the keyboard we have five dedicated keys, and only these we can set. Other manufacturers, for example, allow us to assign new functions or macros to each key. In addition, we can also only store macros and not system functions. Especially at this price, we honestly expected more.
We also have to chalk up another point to OMEN. We can create as many profiles as we want, but they are not saved on the keyboard – not a single one. Thus, it is necessary for us to create an account in order to use the profiles on other computers.
Conclusion
Evaluating the OMEN by HP Sequencer is a difficult subject. Basically, it is a good keyboard with opto-mechanical switches that is supposed to give you advantages. So by faster response time you should be better in games than others – theoretically.
The workmanship is good and the design is also something special. The keyboard stands out immediately without having a really blatant look, the red volume control takes care of that. The switches are also a plus point for the sequencer. Klicky switches with a pressure point and direct triggering will certainly find supporters.
However, the OMEN Sequencer also collects negative points. We already criticized the software in the Spacer Wireless TKL, but now it wasn’t possible to save a profile on the keyboard at all. Thus, we can’t avoid an account with HP. There is also the high price. The RRP is 190 euro, really high. Opto-mechanical switches can also be found on other keyboards, which don’t cost as much and offer similar workmanship and features.
So we can’t unreservedly recommend the OMEN by HP Sequencer to you, especially in relation to the high price and the features offered.
OMEN by HP Sequencer
Workmanship
Features
Ergonomics
Software
Value for money
81/100
Solid keyboard with weaknesses. Probably the biggest one is its price.
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