CONCLUSION

   We are currently using 3 keyboards with our 3 testing rigs and one of them is the quite amazing S.T.R.I.K.E. 7 which offers a large array of features not seen with other keyboards which is also why we decided to use it ourselves. Well i can say for certain that if Mad Catz hadn't released the S.T.R.I.K.E. 5 and S.T.R.I.K.E. 7 models we would be using the S.T.R.I.K.E. 3 instead. The size is just right so although people with large hands can use it at the same time it doesn't take more space than needed and it's quite short thanks to the fact that it comes without any kind of screen. The keys are pretty much the same as its larger brothers so although not as hard as mechanical ones they do offer good tactile feedback and are not entire inaudible something that many will like and some will not. The illumination system is very good since it lights up both the interior of the keys and around them so it seems identical to that of the other two models while the control software is once again very easy to navigate and use. My only slight problem with the S.T.R.I.K.E. 3 is its removable hand rest since it doesn't really attach to it so it can come off with the slightest movement of the keyboard. I know this is not very important but we did find it slightly annoying so we thought everyone should be aware of that.

   At this exact moment in time the S.T.R.I.K.E.3 Gaming Keyboard by Mad Catz retails for around USD99 inside the USA (Amazon.com / price depends on the color combo) and 96Euros inside the EU (Amazon.co.uk). Now just like with the other two S.T.R.I.K.E models there will be many people who will judge Mad Catz for the price of the S.T.R.I.K.E. 3 but rest assured that it offers plenty of features and can easily go up against other similar offerings in the market. Of course Mad Catz neglected to add extra macro buttons like they did with the two higher end models something that would go a long way with gamers and it would also make the price tag a lot more tempting. That being said Mad Catz has once again introduced a high quality keyboard with a good number of features but the fact is that it could be better and that's why we give it our Golden Award.

PROS

- Build Quality
- Design
- 12 Programmable Keys
- Full Bottom Illumination System (16m Colors/3 modes)
- Windows Lock Switch
- Braided Cable With Gold Plated Connectors
- Color Availability (Red/Black - White/Black - All Black)
- Control Software 

CONS

- Price (For Some)
- Membrane Keys (For Some)