When comparing Microsoft SideWinder X4 Keyboard vs Corsair Vengeance K70 RGB, the Slant community recommends Corsair Vengeance K70 RGB for most people. In the question“What are the best gaming keyboards without "gamer" aesthetics?” Corsair Vengeance K70 RGB is ranked 2nd while Microsoft SideWinder X4 Keyboard is ranked 8th. The most important reason people chose Corsair Vengeance K70 RGB is:
The K70 uses Cherry MX Red key switches, which deliver a smooth, linear key response with a wide actuation zone. They have the responsiveness you need for perfectly executing double and triple taps, and there’s no audible click or tactile “bump.”
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Pros
Pro Worthwhile anti-ghosting software
The SidWinder has software implemented into the keyboard that allows for ant-ghosting, which helps with playing games when multiple keys are pressed at the same time. For what is a mid range gaming keyboard from Microsoft this is a pretty key feature that they have implemented for the price point.
Pro Analog backlight and volume knobs
There are two analog knobs on the device with one controlling the backlighting brightness and the other the volume control. The analog sensors allow for more fine grained tuning of each and is not only more precise but more tactile. This makes for better control over normal keyboard keys for these controls.
Pro First-class mechanical switches
The K70 uses Cherry MX Red key switches, which deliver a smooth, linear key response with a wide actuation zone. They have the responsiveness you need for perfectly executing double and triple taps, and there’s no audible click or tactile “bump.”
Pro 16.8 million color backlighting
The Vengeances K70 RGB has a 16.8 color backlighting system that allows for so many color customization options that the possibilities are most likely endless.
Pro Special keys are textured
Special keys are of textured, red colors, which facilitates access to common functions without looking at the keyboard (for example, numbers 1 through 6, and WASD keys).
Pro Easy to clean and replace keys
Thanks to an included small wrench, that can be used to remove and replace the keys, the K70 is easy to partially disassemble and clean.
Pro Real hand scale
The size of the keys is ideal for standard to bigger sized hands.
Cons
Con Cheap wrist rest
The wrist rest is just a cheap piece of plastic with no form of soft coating, which makes for an uncomfortable area quickly.
Con Software is difficult to figure out
The CUE software the is needed to program the backlighting and keys is difficult to understand, making customizing the keyboard a cumbersome chore.