“Unprecedented Control in a Single Device: Why Did Corsair Wait So Long to Add This Feature to Its Keyboards?”

Corsair acquired Elgato eight years ago, and now it’s finally integrating one of its most popular devices into its lineup of gaming keyboards. The Stream Deck has been sitting on the sidelines, but that’s about to change.

Under Corsair’s stewardship, the Stream Deck has thrived, and now the brand is merging its features with its keyboard offerings. The Galleon 100 SD made its debut at CES this week, showcasing a TKL mechanical keyboard that incorporates a 12-button Stream Deck on the right side.

The Corsair Galleon 100 SD is priced at $349.99, which is a significant jump of $120 compared to the previous Vanguard keyboard. However, if you’re looking for an all-in-one control solution, this could be a compelling option. In the US, it’s set to ship starting January 29.

This setup provides the full functionality of a macropad right at your fingertips, complete with compatibility for a vast library of user-generated plugins. I’m eager to get this on my desk, especially since it comes from the creators of the best gaming keyboard I’ve tested to date.

In addition to the extra buttons, the Galleon 100 SD features a full-color display and two scroll dials for additional controls, making it reminiscent of the Elgato Stream Deck+. This setup offers ample space for media info, notifications, and system stats, all displayed in vibrant color (though this is based on press images).

While I appreciate a control panel, I’ve never quite warmed up to using one during gameplay. Reaching for a stack of buttons under my monitor always felt a bit clunky, even when I brought it closer to my main controls. I typically use my macropad for system info, launching apps, toggling settings, and switching hardware profiles.

With dedicated per-game controls right on the keyboard, the Corsair Galleon 100 SD has me excited in a way I haven’t felt about a keyboard in a while.

For the Galleon to truly shine, it needs to perform well as a keyboard. Corsair hasn’t been my top choice for keyboards in recent years, but I’m feeling optimistic this time around.

The Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 made it to the top of my recommendations last year, addressing one of my main concerns with the brand’s keyboards: they’ve often been quite echoey.

With a gasket-mounted design, six layers of sound dampening, and an aluminum chassis, the Corsair Galleon 100 SD is built to impress. For competitive gamers, the 8,000Hz polling rate is a notable feature, though it may not be necessary for everyone.

Those familiar with the latest gaming keyboard trends will recognize that this is a full mechanical keyboard. Given the $349.99 price tag, it seems like a strategic move. Magnetic switches have gained popularity recently, offering more control over keyboard responsiveness, but they come at a higher cost.

If Corsair had to compromise on the switches to fit the Stream Deck without going overboard on pricing (even $350 is a hefty ask), I can understand that—though the Vanguard did feature some of the best Hall effect switches I’ve tested. Currently, the Galleon 100 SD is equipped with MLX Pulse switches, which performed well in my Corsair MAKR 75 tests, and it offers full hot-swappability.

The Corsair Galleon 100 SD is available for backorder now, with shipping expected towards the end of the month.