With the GXT863 Mazz, Trust launches another, third gaming keyboard with mechanical switches alongside the GXT 877 Scarr and the GXT 865 Asta. This one relies on Red switches from Outemu, which have similar specifications to the comparable models from Cherry and require a slightly higher release force.
Furthermore, Trust advertises the keyboard with typical gaming features: A colorful illumination, an N-key rollover and a Winlock function are promised. At launch, the GXT863 Mazz is supposed to cost 50 Euros, which would currently make it one of the cheapest mechanical keyboards. Currently, the model is offered for € 35.99 *.
We’ll clarify how the GXT 863 Mazz fares at its starting price and whether it’s a keyboard worth recommending below.
Technical details
| Dimensions | 437 x 136 x 35 mm |
| Weight | 730 g |
| Connection | USB, cable fixed, 1.8 m |
| Other connections | None |
| Hand rest | None |
| Rollover | N-Key |
| Lighting | Six color (white, red, orange, green, blue, purple) |
| Switches | Outemu Red |
| Price | Trust GXT 863 Mazz* |
Scope of delivery
When it comes to the scope of delivery, Trust limits itself to the bare essentials with the GXT 863 Mazz. The keyboard is delivered in a colorfully printed cardboard box; in addition to the device itself, only a note sheet with legal information and a manual explaining the most important functions are included.
Design & Workmanship
The layout of the GXT 863 Mazz follows the common standard. As was to be expected in view of the low price, Trust does without additional keys or further connections on the keyboard – and the cable is also permanently installed. Multimedia and lighting functions are realized via a double assignment using the FN key.
The entire case of the keyboard is made of light-grey plastic. Apart from a GXT emblem above the number pad, there are no special features on the outer skin: The two usual folding feet on the bottom of the device are present, but extras such as a holder for an optional palm rest are not.
In terms of build quality, the keyboard does well considering the price. The case isn’t particularly torsion-resistant, but it’s visually and haptically flawless. With regard to the materials used, we would like to mention the keycaps, which seem a bit rougher than usual. In addition, the space bar on the sides seems to be roughened compared to the other keys. Neither of these things bothered us; subjective perception is likely to be the deciding factor here.
Practice, illumination & configuration
We find the typing feel on the installed Outemu Red switches pleasant. We can confirm the advertised, linear trigger travel, and quite in contrast to the inexpensive Rubberdome keyboards, the switches are also not spongy. Compared to Cherry Red switches, the typing feel is of course slightly different, but this should be a matter of getting used to it.
The only disadvantage we find in the typing feel is the pronounced spring noise of the switches, which makes the keyboard sound a bit less good and is also louder than average. With regard to ergonomics, some could also wish for a slightly higher grip: Due to its light weight in combination with the small rubber feet, the GXT 863 Mazz slips quite easily. However, this did not bother us in practical use.
The configuration of the entire keyboard is done via the FN key. The usual multimedia functions can be executed via it, the Windows key can be locked and the illumination can be adjusted. However, a separate configuration software and a macro function are not provided.
You can select different light effects for the illumination and configure their speed and brightness. Trust provides a good and varied selection of the usual effects, which can be scrolled through by pressing the scroll button. The actual scroll function is realized by pressing the FN key at the same time.
If you haven’t looked into the keyboard beforehand, you might be surprised at the lighting color, as the GXT 863 Mazz doesn’t offer “true” RGB lighting. As is common for mechanical keyboards, each switch is lit individually, but there are no RGB LEDs installed. Instead, each row gets its own color. From top to bottom: White, Red, Orange, Green, Blue and Purple.
So, while the keyboard offers (fixed) multi-color illumination, its flexibility only matches that of single-color LEDs. However, more would really not have been expected in the keyboard’s price range. With regard to the other properties of the illumination, everything is also right: The control electronics are noise-free and the brightness as well as the illumination are within the usual range.
Conclusion
If Trust’s price recommendation proves true, then the GXT 863 Mazz should become one of the most affordable mechanical keyboards with a numeric keypad. Despite the low price of probably 50 euros [current: € 35.99 * ], the device doesn’t allow itself any major weaknesses in this regard.
The exclusive use of plastic for the case is to be expected in this price range, and the build quality is okay. The choice and implementation of the buttons is also successful: The GXT 863 Mazz is pleasant to type on. We only found the audible spring pinging to be a disadvantage, and of course you can’t expect miracles for the price.
All in all, the GXT 863 offers a lot for the money, and thus it is a successful entry-level solution into the world of mechanical keyboards. However, some prospective buyers might wish for a bit more choice – i.e. other switches or illumination colors.
Trust GXT 863 Mazz
Workmanship
Features
Ergonomics
Value for money
80/100
An inexpensive keyboard with mechanical switches and conditionally-multicolored illumination
No replies yet
Neue Antworten laden...
Neues Mitglied
Beteilige dich an der Diskussion in der Basic Tutorials Community →