Usage & Final Thoughts
I have been using the AZIO Retro Classic Elwood for the past couple of weeks and the first thing that I have to say is that it does take a little bit to get used to. The shape and feel of the keyboard is very different from gaming keyboards and pretty much all other keyboards out there. It did take me a couple of days to really become comfortable with the keyboard, so do not immediately dismiss this keyboard after your first use.
The keyboard is pretty comfortable and I love that AZIO has gone with blue switches. These switches have nice tactile feedback and have that clicky sound that really makes you feel like you are using a typewriter. AZIO did work with Kailh on these switches to get the LED directly in the center of the switch, which makes for great backlighting. While the backlighting is just white, I think it looks great on this keyboard.
Now there is no software with this keyboard. So you can not reprogram any of the keys, setup macros, set lighting effects, etc. So you are limited there.
The new Elwood version of this keyboard might be my favorite yet. It is gorgeous and really gives you that vintage feel. I was walking with this keyboard into my office and three people actually stopped me and asked what the keyboard was. It is going to look great on your desk and definitely will draw some attention. I also like that AZIO finally incorporated Bluetooth into this model. Many people using this keyboard don’t want to deal with cables, so that solves that program. Also the keyboard is now Mac and PC compatible, with included keycaps for each.
With the Retro Classic you are not just buying a keyboard, but a piece of art. It is not made of plastic or cheap materials like most keyboards. Here you have quality materials that give you that vintage look and feel. AZIO also made sure to make the typing experience great by adding in real mechanical switches.
Being that you have these high-quality materials and craftsmanship you are going to pay for it. Right now this keyboard is selling for $219.99 at our favorite online retailer. If you don’t need Bluetooth you can get the USB version of the keyboard for $189.99. Overall ThinkComputers gives the AZIO Retro Classic Elwood a 9 out of 10 score.
Pros:
– Made with quality materials
– Awesome vintage look
– AZIO added Bluetooth and made it Mac compatiable
– Great feel with the keycaps and mechanical key switches
Cons:
– Price
– No software and cannot reprogram any keys
