Low Profile,
High Precision

Players seeking a low-cost keyboard shouldn’t have to sacrifice performance or style. It was with this principle in mind that we set out to develop a game-changing keyboard that would stand out in an increasingly saturated market but also be compatible with Logitech G’s distinctive ecosystem.

When the call came for building a cost-effective keyboard with an unusually rapid production timeline, we devised a plan to create one that would deliver exceptional product experience by maximizing existing resources. The end result? The G515 Lightspeed TKL Gaming Keyboard–a highly versatile keyboard unparalleled in its ability to provide a unique, personalized gaming experience.

An Economical Build with Optimal User Experience

Full key remapping speaks to players craving increased flexibility when it comes to customizing gaming peripherals. With the help of G Hub, the G515 brings users ultimate control over their gameplay by offering a full range of functions in a tenkeyless, low-profile design.

The G515 inherits the PRO X 60 Keyboard’s full key customization capability and boasts the ability to have up to 15 assigned functions per key. All keys, with the exception of FN and F1 can be customized and modified for further capabilities. To safeguard user experience, I pushed for non-customizable keys, which prevent users from unintentionally locking themselves out. FN + F1 disables customizations and allows users to revert to default keyboard mechanics. Press again, and gamers can quickly return to their customization.

Moving beyond key remapping, I asked, what other features could enhance user experience while maintaining the price point? With a set profit margin of 35%, a low BOM (Bill of Material) cost would be necessary. One notable response was our decision to remove the volume wheel and encoder and instead map the media controls onto the FN prints to increase/decrease volume.

Some other features deserving honorable mentions? Tri-mode connectivity (bluetooth, Lightspeed, and hard-wired USB) that provides seamless switching between different devices for streamers, and keycaps with sound dampening construction for uninterrupted, smoother gameplay. A simple press of a button allows users to transition between two different modes: Lightspeed and bluetooth or USB and bluetooth.

The Evolution of a Long-Term Strategy

An innovative design solution was needed to allow gamers and streamers to achieve enhanced personalization capabilities. I worked closely with Logitech engineer Chris Hughes to create the Algorithmic effect, a more efficient lighting strategy that would keep the BOM cost low yet provide gamers increased customization for personal brand representation.

The G515 Lightspeed TKL Gaming Keyboard introduces an evolved G Signature Lighting integration using the Algorithmic effect, which replaces frame by frame programming used in previous Logitech products (e.g. G502 X PLUS) with a shorter script for a lighter resource strategy.

With the newly developed effect creation panel in the G Hub animation editor, algorithms are utilized to offer gamers the option of selecting primary and secondary color variables. Users now have the option to move beyond hard set color values with access to ~16.8 M colors with LIGHTSYNC RBG. G Hub gives gamers the opportunity to modify the default out of the box (OOB) setting of “Pulsar Point”--an effect that is part of the G Signature Lighting Strategy that I pioneered at Logitech–to modify the primary and secondary colors of the effect.

The G515 contributes to increased brand affinity by providing gamers with the capability to infuse personal color preferences into a fixed, hard set effect. Users can now unify their Logitech peripherals to envelop themselves within a completely immersive gaming environment.Thanks to the Algorithmic effect, a tailored gaming experience is a reality for users in search of a keyboard with an accessible price point but without compromised performance.