Microsoft X6 gaming keyboard with detachable numeric pad

Microsoft is set to launch another in its Sidewinder range of gaming-oriented peripherals, according to the latest rumors.  The keyboard, believed to be called the Sidewinder X6, consists of a full-sized QWERTY body with a removable numeric keypad that can be attached at either end.

The design would allow both left- and right-handed gamers to use the numeric pad in the orientation most comfortable to them.  There is also a row of dedicated macro keys, presumably user-programmable, and two large knobs that are assumed to control volume and another, unknown function.

Backlighting seems to be used behind the keys, for low-light use, and the keyboard will accompany a new Sidewinder gaming mouse.  They're expected to launch in September, with an $80 tag predicted for the X6 keyboard.

[via Digit-Life]