Finally, we have a brief video that demos a handful of the lighting effects available on the keyboard. The key difference between the Excalibur Spectrum and V2 is that you can pick these effects in the Spectrum's software, while you need to use the Fn key and arrow keys to pick them on the V2. No big deal, but I do like the Spectrum approach better.
Overall, there are just about the same effects available on both keyboards, but instead of a full rainbow of colors, here we have blue. It looks great, makes seeing the keys easy, and overall is very easy / relaxing on the eyes. Beyond the lighting effects, I really like the Tesoro Excalibur V2 mechanical gaming keyboard...... First and foremost, it feels very well built and I believe it could last for many years without issue. Just as you would expect with any legitimate gaming keyboard, it offers plenty of customization options, and I have finally taken advantage of the Sync Program feature and I am kicking myself for not having something like this previously.
On the downside, the unit sells for about $90 (US) at places like Newegg Business, which is not a sky high price for an illuminated gaming keyboard, but it is definitely more pricey than plenty of others on the market. You definitely won't choose this one because of a low price, but the features and quality may lead you to it anyway. And from a personal preference perspective, I am not a very big fan of the very clicky blue keys found on this Spectrum V2. As mentioned, you may be able to get this keyboard with red switches, but that version seems to be harder to find. I think using a blue switched keyboard full time might make me a little batty.
The Tesoro Excalibur V2 is a very well made keyboard that delivers plenty of gamer friendly features in a fairly traditional package. In the end, it earns the Bigbruin.com awards of "Gaming Approved" and "Recommended".
Pros:
» Well built
» Traditional appearance, but with the flair of customizable lighting effects
» Lighting intensity is adjustable, and can be turned off
» Plenty of customization options makes it a good choice for work and play
Cons:
» My personal preference is to not have the very clicky, blue switches (red is an option, though)
» Somewhat pricey at about $90
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