Logitech ChillStream PC Game Controller

Introduction:

   Logitech is a world leader in input devices such as keyboards, mice, trackballs, game controllers, etc. There's a good chance most of you reading this review are using at least one Logitech product. They're as big a name as there is in the PC market.

   Logitech has made a name for itself over the years as delivering quality products that work without issue. They spend the extra time on drivers and compatibility before releasing products so that they operate at their fullest right out of the box. That's key for building brand loyalty and a name for quality. Logitech has both.

   Today I'll be looking at a brand new controller design from Logitech known as the 'ChillStream'. As the name implies, this product is made to cool. But how? It's just a gamepad. Looks can be deceiving and although this looks like just a quality gamepad, it's actually a quality gamepad with a fan built in to deliver a cool breeze (or a chilled stream of air) to the users palms allowing you to game for hours and hours and avoid C.G.P.S (clammy gaming palm syndrome). Let's take a closer look at this unique new product from Logitech.

Specifications:

Features:

ChillStream™  technology Helps keep your hands cool during intense gaming sessions.		Soft rubber grips Enjoy superior comfort and better gaming control.		High-performance analog sticks and triggers For enhanced speed and precision.

A Closer Look:

Retail	Retail	Rear
Active Cooling	What's Included	Air Intake on Rear

   The retail packaging is sealed tighter than a 'black box'. I had to break out the razor knife and perform a surgical extraction. Once the goods were removed it was clear sailing.

   There isn't much needed for included extras other than a mini-CD with some software on it and a driver.

   As you can see, the airflow channels on each side of the controller are perfectly located to direct cool air into your palm area. There is 3-speed fan controller but one of those 'speeds' is considered 'off'. The LOW speed is quiet and pleasant but also causes a mild vibration in your palms. Using the HIGH setting really moves some air and causes a more disturbing vibration, but nothing to really distract from game play. There is also a small green light to indicate if the ChillStream is engaged. It blinks slowly on LOW speed and stays lit on HIGH.

   There's a ton of buttons on this controller including two analog sticks, a Directional pad, and 8 programmable buttons.