CONCLUSION
In and around, the Lobera Supreme feels like a premium keyboard and even though we’re not seeing any Cherry MX RGB keys in this model (or for any other brands other than Corsair for that matter), the Kailh keys prove they are not to be trifled with providing an experience that mech keyboard fanatics should be accustomed to.
Time to break everything down and lay down our score:
Performance. As a fanatic of mechanical keyboards, I have had the pleasure of using keys from both Cherry MX and Kailh. Certainly one of the most favorable aspects of Kailh is that they are indeed more affordable than Cherry MX models but in terms of performance, Kailh is on even playing field when it comes to feel and performance. The keys are responsive, tactile and just feels great. The same extends to the Lobera Supreme.
Build Quality. Mechanical keyboards are built tough and the Lobera Supreme is no exception. Tesoro has a lot to prove if it wants to compete with Razer, Filco and Ducky in this space and the Lobera Supreme is a great step ahead. The Durandal itself was a great keyboard with a solid feel but the Lobera Supreme ups it up a notch by providing a multi-color option.
Functionality. The Lobera Supreme is every bit as good as all the mechanical keyboards we’ve tested and with the addition of a full RGB illumination it is a centerpiece material that would light up any theme build or desk.
Bundle. Nothing much really, although we would’ve appreciated a carrying bag like that included with the Meka G-Unit and the software configuration feels like someone made it out of MS Paint albeit in a functional way but still lacks what I have come to love from Roccat and Logitech’s software.
Value. Quick summary: the Lobera Supreme is cheap. At 139$, its priced competitively against Cherry MX variants from Razer, CM Storm, Roccat and Tt eSports but another ace up its sleeve is that it packs RGB keys. As we’ve mentioned, we’re convinced with the performance, feel and quality of Kailh keys and with Corsair making sure its got a monopoly on Cherry MX RGB keys, we’re pretty sure that that equates to a huge bump in pricing on their RGB variants making the Lobera Supreme a definite choice in the coming future.
Wrapping things up, mechanical keyboards are all about their keys and in the world of mechanical gaming ones, Cherry MX is the poster boy brand. This is so true that a company like Corsair has went to such lengths as to get exclusive rights to a simple lighting option. An obvious money trap but not every company falls prey to such corporate machinations, and Tesoro responded accordingly delivering the first salvo in the impending war between RGB-illuminated keyboards.
The Tesoro Lobera Supreme is quality through and through and if you can give Kailh keys a chance, you’ll see its an obviously good choice. Once you get over that fact then there’s no denying Tesoro has made a mark with the Lobera Supreme. There’s some room for improvement most specially the software and customization options but as a straight-up keyboard, its not missing any marks.
The Tesoro Lobera Supreme feels premium and looks premium, with the crowning glory its RGB illumination feature for a rich variety of color that will complement any desktop or theme build. If you are looking for a mechanical keyboard with wide color-options, no need to wait for those Cherry MX ones, the Tesoro Lobera Supreme is now available.
Tesoro backs the Lobera Supreme with a 1-year warranty. We award the Lobera Supreme with our B2G Silver Award (for having the balls to go up against Cherry and Corsair) and my Editor’s Choice Award.
PROS
- Superb quality.
- USB hub and Audio/Mic ports.
- Mechanical key switches.
- RGB backlighting — Choose any color you want.
- 3 adjustable keyboard angles.
- 6 levels of backlighting — 2 levels for gaming.
- Available in Blue, Red, Black and Brown key switches.
- Lovable FN keycap.
- Tightly held and fully protected inside the box — uses two fluffy foams for support.
- 3 easy to reach thumb macro launch keys — switch profiles on the go.
- Switchable USB 6 N-Key / Full N-Key Rollover.
- Full keys programmable.
- 2000 macro key presses per profile available.
- High Quality Thick Braided Cable.
CONS
- Kailh Keys — Not Cherry MX keys.
- USB hub only supplies 100mA of power — needs the DC to USB cable to feed it more power for smartphones.
- Software design.
- No wrist rest guard — if that’s what you want.
- Availability.
16 Comments
What is the availability for this keyboard. After much searching I cannot find a retailer with them or able to get one, also their website does not have the option to buy direct.
What region are you from? Yes, availability is quite the limiting factor for Tesoro’s port folio and shops that carry them are far between. Good point though that they should have a virtual storefront for interested people.
I live in Saskatchewan Canada. I thought since they are an american based company it would not be overly difficult for some for of shipment to Canada.
Speaking from a purely personal perspective, I think its just marketing that they claim they are US-based, seeing as all our concurrence with them have been from Taiwan.
Newegg and Amazon both stock Tesoro products, as for this specific keyboard (Lobera, Lobera Supreme) I don’t think it’s hit any outlet yet as we’re the only one with a review currently out (as far as I know).
I’ll relay your concerns to Tesoro in hopes of getting some info.
That would be very much appreciated, they have the keyboard on newegg.com but not newegg.ca I have a friend who is willing to let me ship it there and then mail it to me from the states if I cannot find another option.
Yeah, tried checking earlier and seems to me that only the newegg USA carries them. Must be a territorial thing. As of this moment, Tesoro is also scouting distributors here in the APAC region so that’s one of the limiting factor in their market expansion and it seems that goes for the western part of the globe.
I’ll work my contact and see if we can get answers.
Thank you. All your help is very much appreciated.
Already sent your concern to Tesoro. Chinese New Year is still in the air over there but will relay you their reply once it comes through or they’ll respond here directly.
Hi Goforth
I’ve forwarded your concern to Tesoro and they’ve responded to me. They have forwarded your concern to Tesoro US. I’ll get back to you once I receive a reply from them.
Hi Goforth,
I have forwarded your concern to Tesoro and they’ve forwarded it to their Tesoro US part. I will get back to you once they’ve responded to me again.
Its been a while with not contact so I thought I would check and see if tesoro us had abything to say. I do appreciate all the time you guys put in to help me.
I just found a way to get it. Mailing it to an american buddy who is the bringing it up to canada. Thanks again though
Yeah, they’ve been pretty quiet. Glad to know you’re still pushing through in getting one. We’ve also had questions for their other products’ availability so know that you’re not alone.
My credit card is invalid in the us. so back to searching it is…
Will try our best to get some feedback from Tesoro. Good luck in your search 😉
Hi Goforth,
Tesoro Lobera is now available in many shops, and we have opened new shop here: http://www.tesorogamingusa.com – good luck!
If any problem, feel free to contact our support to direct you to the shop nearest you.