CM Storm NovaTouch TKL Keyboard Review

Final Thoughts and Conclusion

Weve never disliked the minimalistic approach Cooler Master has taken with many of its keyboards including the NovaTouch TKL and as such we have no complaints about how they look. NovaTouch TKL features like the media keys, detachable cable, included optional o-rings, and keypuller are solid and almost unexpected knowing that Topre keyboards are characteristically expensive. Can an exotic key mechanism amongst exotic key mechanisms justify the $199.99 price Cooler Master has given this board?

Yes and no, because not everyone can appreciate Topre switches. The typing experience is most comparable to a soft and mushy membrane keyboard with a 4mm keytravel and as such doesnt feel like a mechanical keyboard. Yet, the uncharacteristically fast reset comes from the metal spring. The most comparable Cherry MX switch by feel is Brown, but its only a convenient comparison at best. Seemingly, the non-linear tactile action of the dome component in the Topre switch doesnt allow for as quick double tapping of the keys as is possible with Cherry MX Brown and Red switches. However, Topre switch keyboards are great for typists who prefer the feel of membrane, but want the low actuation force characteristic of mechanical switches.

After hearing and reading anecdotes about how Topre switch keyboards are like typing on a cloud and expecting the Topre switch to be this amazing key switch, it was disappointing upon experiencing the feel of really fast elastic domes. Some of the better low-profile membrane keyboards which can be purchased for less than $40 have good tactile feedback, arent stupidly stiff, and have a short key travel great for games, even if they dont type as well and reset as quickly as Topre switch keyboards. Even then, the Topre switch experience is subtle, different from Cherry MX and buckling springs, longer lasting than de-facto membrane designs. At $199.99, the CM Storm NovaTouch TKL is affordable as far as Topre switch keyboards go, but like other expensive Topre switch keyboards, they’re symbols of PC keyboard gear sluts.

Legit Bottom Line: The CM Storm NovaTouch TKL is an accessible, but still expensive Topre switch keyboard that elevates the elastic dome mechanism.