WIRED review finds Corsair Galleon 100 SD’s integrated Stream Deck lacks flexibility
A recent assessment by WIRED highlights the trade-offs of Corsair’s latest peripheral, concluding that separate units offer better value than the unified Galleon 100 SD design.
Corsair has released the Galleon 100 SD, a gaming keyboard that integrates an Elgato Stream Deck module in place of the traditional number pad. This device represents a consolidation of Corsair’s acquired brands, combining Drop’s keyboard manufacturing expertise with Elgato’s streaming control technology. The keyboard features high-performance specifications, including an 8,000 Hz polling rate, a gasket mount assembly for improved typing feel, and hot-swappable mechanical switches.
The Galleon 100 SD is notably large, occupying 50% more width than standard 65% keyboards. This footprint sits between the user’s hands, potentially limiting mouse space or requiring significant desk real estate. While the typing experience is praised for its comfort and the gasket mount assembly providing a softer feel, the review highlights issues with the Stream Deck buttons, describing them as having inconsistent, mushy actuation due to a rubber ring design.
The integrated Stream Deck consists of four rows of three buttons, two knobs, and a customizable screen, allowing for extensive key remapping and macro programming. However, the reviewer notes input lag that can interfere with typing, particularly in rapid-fire games. The design also presents a viewing angle issue, where text on the outer edges of the buttons may be cut off when viewed from the keyboard’s horizontal position.
Repairability is limited, as the Stream Deck module is secured by metal tabs and screws, making disassembly difficult for average users. The internal packaging separates the PCB of the keyboard area from the Stream Deck area, which maintains rigidity for the alphabet keys but complicates maintenance. If the module fails, users may need to replace the entire unit rather than a single component.
The reviewer concludes that purchasing separate $150 keyboard and Stream Deck units offers greater flexibility for the same cost. While the Galleon 100 SD delivers on high polling rates and customization, the physical size and functional drawbacks make it a less versatile option compared to buying individual peripherals.
