BenQ Zowie, one of the most recognisable names in the esports scene, has released its first mechanical keyboard in three years. Dubbed the Zowie Celeritas II, this follow-up to the first Celeritas packs some rather interesting features, including optical switches instead of conventional mechanical ones.
That’s right: instead of using mechanical switches from companies like Cherry or Kailh, BenQ Zowie opted to use optical switches for the Celeritas II. Although the company did not specify the type of optical switch the new gaming keyboard has, a quick look at its product images show that the Celeritas II comes with Flaretech switches.
In essence, Flaretech switches use infrared to determine whether or not a specific key is actuating. This, in turn, avoid any instances of double key presses; at least, that’s what BenQ Zowie is promising with the Celeritas II.
If the Celeritas II’s Flaretech switches are anything like the ones we tested from Ducky at last year’s Computex, it should feel like Cherry MX Blue switches, only lighter. Of course, that’s assuming the Celeritas II comes with Flaretech Blue switches; there are also Flaretech Red switches, which are linear switches without any tactile or audible feedback.
The Zowie Celeritas II is said to be available now, but as usual, it remains to be seen if it will be launched here in Malaysia; the retail price of the mechanical keyboard has not been announced either.
(Source: BenQ Zowie)
