Das Division Zero X40 Pro Gaming Mechanical Keyboard Review
Division Zero X40 Pro Software and Performance
Mechanical Key Switches
Das Keyboard created two new mechanical key switch types for its Division Zero X40 Pro. One is the Alpha-Zulu Linear and the other is the Alpha-Zulu Tactile. These are comparable to the Cherry MX Red and Brown key switches, though Das Keyboard is quick to point out that its Alpha-Zulu switches boast a shorter pre-travel distance of 1.7mm versus 2mm for the Cherry MX switches. They're also rated to last longer at 60 million keystrokes versus 50 million, though the default warranty on the X40 Pro is only one year (you can increase the warranty to three years for a $43 fee).
Sadly, Das Keyboard chose not to offer a version of its Alpha-Zulu switches that are comparable to Cherry MX Blue switches, with offer both tactile and audible feedback. These are arguably more popular among productivity typists than gamers anyway, but if you're a fan of those loud "click" noises, you won't find them here.
Software
While it's possible to create macros without installing any software, you're limited to just basic keystroke input. By installing the optional software that Das Keyboard provides, you have access to more robust macro creation, such as mouse clicks and Browser assignments, plus you can remap individual keys and cycle through five profiles.
The software is easy to use and far more flexible than simply hitting the Macro Record key (Fn + F12), though not quite as advanced as some other keyboards. For example, you can't add time delays in between inputs, which can be handy for certain games. And outside of macro creation, you can't adjust the backlight so that only certain keys are illuminated.
The software is easy to use and far more flexible than simply hitting the Macro Record key (Fn + F12), though not quite as advanced as some other keyboards. For example, you can't add time delays in between inputs, which can be handy for certain games. And outside of macro creation, you can't adjust the backlight so that only certain keys are illuminated.
Productivity and Gaming
Typing on the Division Zero X40 Pro is comfortable. It's a standard 104-key layout that uses black thermoplastic key caps with white, laser-marked inscriptions. It's a different feel than the glossy key caps found on the Das Keyboard 4 Pro, though whether that's a good or bad thing will depend on the preference of the typist.
One thing to note about typing on the X40 Pro is that Das Keyboard uses arrows to label the Tab, Caps Lock, Shift, and Backspace keys. All of the other keys are labeled as you would expect.
For gaming, the X40 Pro is certainly a capable plank. Key presses feel very similar to Cherry MX Brown key switches, but with a slightly shorter pre-travel distance. Does it really make a difference when playing games? We can't say that we played any better on the X40 Pro than on Cherry MX Brown planks, but we certainly didn't fare any worse. In our testing, keystrokes were reliable and consistent, and of course having the five dedicated macro keys can make a difference.
One thing to note about typing on the X40 Pro is that Das Keyboard uses arrows to label the Tab, Caps Lock, Shift, and Backspace keys. All of the other keys are labeled as you would expect.
For gaming, the X40 Pro is certainly a capable plank. Key presses feel very similar to Cherry MX Brown key switches, but with a slightly shorter pre-travel distance. Does it really make a difference when playing games? We can't say that we played any better on the X40 Pro than on Cherry MX Brown planks, but we certainly didn't fare any worse. In our testing, keystrokes were reliable and consistent, and of course having the five dedicated macro keys can make a difference.
