COOLER MASTER MASTERKEYS PRO L WHITE [INTRODUCTION]

12/2017 by  WILLIAM ZWINGENBERGER / HOLGER DASSLER - Back to overview

Most of Cooler Master’s mechanical keyboards are covered by the Masterkeys line-up. These models combine a unified design with space-saving construction and the use of Cherry MX switches for reliable, accurate input and a long lifespan. The main differences can be found in the lighting options and especially in the keyboard layouts. The largest of the keyboards in the series is the Cooler Master Masterkeys Pro L. In this article examine the ‘White’ version of this specific model and explain what features this keyboard has to offer.

Specifications at a glance:

  • Keyboard Layout: Full
  • Switch Type: CHERRY MX Red, Brown or Blue
  • LED Color: White
  • Macro Keys: Two function per key via hot-keys
  • Response Rate: 1ms
  • Matrix: 100% Anti-Ghosting with N-Key-Rollover
  • Integrated Memory: 512 KB
  • Media Keys: Six Multimedia hot-keys
  • Palm Rest: Not available
  • Dimensions: 439.2 mm x 130.6 mm x 41 mm
  • Weight: 1.09 kg

Cooler Master Masterkeys Pro L White in detail

Cooler Master has chosen a robust plastic housing for the Masterkeys Pro L White. Four large rubber feet on the bottom guarantee that the keyboard does not slip on the table and a secure stand is guaranteed even with the feet extended. The design of the keyboard is extremely minimalist, while the combination of the black housing and appealing white illumination of the individual keys guarantees that the Masterkeys Pro L White visually fits into virtually any set-up and leaves a high-quality impression.

Compact build despite extensive feature set

With dimensions of 439 x 131 x 41 millimeters, the Masterkeys Pro L White can be described as extremely compact for a keyboard with a full layout, yet it still offers all the features of a full-fledged high-end keyboard. In order to realize its space-saving design, the frame around the mechanical keys is kept exceptionally narrow. The four macro keys of this keyboard are located in the upper right corner, above the number pad, where other keyboards usually just place their status LEDs.

While the Masterkeys Pro L White already uses most of its footprint for keys, Cooler Master also largely relies on hot keys and double occupancy. Thus, the keyboard provides access to multimedia, macros and control of lighting effects without the need for additional buttons, which saves space on the desktop. The feature set is supplemented by a 1.5-meter-long USB cable that can be lead from the back or from the sides of the keyboard. This results in a tidy work area with minimal space required for the keyboard - despite the full standard layout.

Multiple profiles and smart macro-keys for gamers

The Cooler Master Masterkeys Pro L White is perfectly suited for gamers despite its unusually simple design for a product in this market segment. One of the main features of this keyboard is the option to assign a macro function to almost every key – only a few keys, such as CapsLock and NumLock, are not available.

To quickly get used to the controls of a new game, Cooler Master supports four different profiles. These are activated with the help of the additional keys mentioned and allow each of the keys relevant to a game to be lit. Every gamer can decide for himself which keys should be featured in the four profiles.

CHERRY MX Red for fast entry

Cooler Master relies on Cherry's mechanical switches for all keys on the Masterkeys Pro L White. The manufacturer does not even compromise with the four additional function keys, guaranteeing homogeneous and precise input for every key. The most popular switch type for the Masterkeys Pro L is the Cherry MX Red, which once again underscores how perfect this keyboard is for gaming.

Thanks to a linear switch characteristic and a relatively low spring resistance, these switches enable a very low response time. Action requires a force of only 45 centinewtons and a two-millimeter pre-travel.

No special software needed, and impressive lighting effects

There is no need to install a dedicated software tool on your computer to use the Masterkeys Pro L White. All keyboard settings are configured directly through key presses and will not interrupt a running game or other activity on the computer. As mentioned earlier, this includes defining macros and controlling lighting effects.

These lighting effects are implemented by a white led in the housing of each MX Red switch and reinforced by a reflective metal plate under the switch module. Since every key is controlled individually, the backlight can be adjusted with full flexibility. The user could not just opt for better visibility in dark surroundings but also highlight individual keys to easily learn the control scheme in new games, and it’s even possible to activate impressive lighting modes such as wave or breathing effects for maximum visual impact. A free SDK, available at Cooler Master, allows programmers to create their own lighting effects and use them with the keyboard.

Conclusion

The Cooler Master Masterkeys Pro L White is a space-saving, high-end keyboard with an extremely minimal and elegant design. Yet despite its comparatively compact design, a useful double-assignment feature guarantees that essential functionality is available to perfectly accommodate gamers during their gaming sessions. By implementing Cherry MX Red switches, the manufacturer ensures precise and fast input and also guarantees a long lifespan. Without the need for dedicated software, the Masterkeys Pro L White is very easy to use with a full range of functions on every PC, yet can still be customized to suit your preferences with different lighting effects, as well as user-specific macros and profiles.