Usage & Final Thoughts
I have been using the Armato for a few weeks now. Using the keyboard is a breeze, but there is one thing that you notice is missing, its software. In my opinion every gaming keyboard that offers macro keys should come with software. You could argue that not having software makes this keyboard more compatible as it is completely plug and play, but as a gamer I would like the ability to save different profiles for my games, record macros accurately in software, program shortcuts, and much more. Not having software is a big loss for this keyboard in my opinion.
So without software you’ll need to program your macros using the keyboard itself. To do this press the larger Record button on the top left of the keyboard, then press any of the A1-A5 macro keys. Now you’ll notice all four of the indication LEDs on the board flash. From here press any combination of key presses you want (up to 31) for your macro and then finally the Record button again to compete your macro. While recording macro’s is relatively easy, I still would prefer software that allows for advanced macro controls and the ability to see exactly what my macro is.
I know I am being hard on this board not having software, but it does have quite a lot going for it. First of all the build quality is superb. The brushed aluminum top plate and the red anodized aluminum mesh sides are just awesome. The keyboard is heavy and has absolutely no flex in it at all. AZIO has also gone with Cherry MX mechanical key switches on this board. The last gaming keyboard we took a look at from them had Kailh switches and if you’ve ever used those they just don’t compare to Cherry MX switches. I am also a very big fan of the volume control on this keyboard, it stands out and is very easy to use, especially when you are in game. The magnetic wrist rest is also better than others we’ve seen recently.
2017 is definitely the year of RGB and that is something that this keyboard lacks. The red backlighting is good, but these days when you are paying over $100 for a keyboard you expect RGB LEDs.
If you are ok without RGB LEDs and no software this keyboard is really great. It is very comfortable, has incredible quality, and some very unique features. Overall ThinkComputers gives the AZIO Armato Gaming Keyboard an 8 out of 10 score.
Pros:
– Incredible build quality
– Unique volume control
– Very comfortable
– Cherry MX mechanical key switches
– Magnetic wrist rest
Cons:
– No software
– Not RGB
