The compact full-size keyboard "VANGUARD PRO 96" and the high-end mouse weighing just about 36g, "SABRE v2 PRO," are devices that attract victory 【PR】
Note: the original Japanese article can be found at:
https://www.4gamer.net/games/142/G014279/20250921004/
Writer: Yukiya Sato Photographer: Shuji Sasaki | 2025/10/10 03:00 (UTC)
Image Gallery No. 002 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
As previously reported, Corsair has unveiled a new wired keyboard for gamers: the VANGUARD PRO 96, and a wireless mouse, the SABRE v2 PRO.
VANGUARD PRO 96 (left), SABRE v2 PRO (right)
Manufacturer: Corsair
Direct retail price: 32,980 yen (tax included), 15,980 yen (tax included; as of October 10, 2025) Image Gallery No. 003 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
As Corsair promotes with the slogan “Designed by Pros. Built to Win,” both products are packed with notable features. Let’s explore their functions and performance.
● Table of Contents
10-keyless full keyboard VANGUARD PRO 96
The VANGUARD PRO 96 features Corsair’s proprietary magnetic Hall-effect switch, the MGX Hyperdrive. The standout characteristics of this keyboard lie in its size and key layout.
The VANGUARD PRO 96’s footprint measures approximately 388 (W) × 141 (D) mm. This is roughly the size of a typical 10-keyless keyboard, and according to Corsair, it has nearly the same width as their other 10-keyless models.
The keyboard’s width is 388mm—unusually narrow for a full-size keyboard Image Gallery No. 006 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
Despite this compact size, the VANGUARD PRO 96 includes a wide array of features: 10-key, color LCD panel, rotary dial, and G-keys. This is one of its major highlights. Compared to Corsair’s full-size keyboard K95 RGB PLATINUM, which measures about 465mm in width, the VANGUARD PRO 96 is a remarkable 77mm narrower.
Compared with the full-sized Corsair K95 RGB PLATINUM: nearly equivalent size to removing the 10-key section from the K95 Image Gallery No. 007 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
The “96” in the product name indicates it covers 96% of a full-size keyboard’s footprint. For gamers who want to preserve desk space for their mouse but find 10-keyless keyboards impractical, the VANGUARD PRO 96 is undoubtedly a long-awaited option.
The version tested here is the Japanese-layout model designed for the domestic market. Compared with standard full-sized keyboards, the [Print Screen] and [DEL] keys have been relocated to the function key row, while other keys like [PageUp/PageDown] and [Insert] are assigned to combinations of the [Fn] key and 10-key presses. The arrow keys, frequently used outside gaming, remain in their standard reverse-T layout—no forced adjustment of key pitch means users can adapt quickly.
On full-size keyboards, special keys located left of the 10-key section are reassigned to simultaneous presses with the [Fn] key and other keys Image Gallery No. 008 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
Additionally, as is now standard in recent Corsair Japanese-layout keyboards, the [Convert/No Convert] key uses the same 19mm pitch as other main keys. This allows the [Space] key to maintain a generous width of approximately 105mm—another positive point given how frequently it’s used during gameplay.
Customizable “G keys” and rotary dial
Another distinctive feature of the VANGUARD PRO 96 is the five “G keys” lined up along its left side, plus the Game Mode button.
Keys arranged on the left side. The one on the far left is the Game Mode button, followed by [G1] to [G5], which are G keys Image Gallery No. 009 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
These side-mounted keys use a switch with the tactile feel of mouse buttons. Though more like switches than traditional keys, their placement is particularly clever: when your left hand rests on [W/A/S/D] keys, the G-keys are positioned where your pinky finger can easily reach them.
With larger keyboards, G-keys often require significant finger movement to press—making them impractical during gameplay in some cases. However, thanks to this thoughtful layout, the VANGUARD PRO 96’s G-keys are very usable and encourage active use. Though it may seem like the design sacrifices space for these keys, careful planning has made this configuration highly effective. Moreover, despite their location on the left side, pressing against them with hands or objects didn’t accidentally trigger any key—another well-thought-out detail.
The most striking visual feature of the VANGUARD PRO 96 is its color LCD panel and rotary dial located behind the 10-key section.
Color LCD panel (center) and rotary dial (right) Image Gallery No. 010 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
Rotary dial allows volume adjustment with real-time visual feedback on the screen Image Gallery No. 040 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
The color LCD panel measures 1.9 inches, with a resolution of 320×170 pixels and uses an IPS display for high visibility. Normally it displays Corsair’s logo animation or keyboard and PC status information. However, using the setup tool described later, users can transfer original GIF animations to the built-in flash memory and display them on-screen.
The rotary dial has a 12mm diameter—easy to operate. During gameplay, volume adjustments are swift; pressing down the dial mutes sound output, and any custom function can be assigned.
Virtual Stream Deck (top) and setup tool (bottom) Image Gallery No. 011 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
As of this article’s writing, the version was still in beta and not fully complete, but VANGUARD PRO 96 is planned to support Corsair’s “Virtual Stream Deck” application. Virtual Stream Deck allows users to access functionality from Elgato’s popular Stream Deck series on their mouse or keyboard. For the VANGUARD PRO 96, this means G-keys and the rotary dial can be programmed with Stream Deck operations—significantly expanding usability.
As previously mentioned, the VANGUARD PRO 96 features Corsair’s proprietary magnetic Hall-effect switch, MGX Hyperdrive. This enables key functions such as variable actuation point, “Rapid Trigger,” and SOCD (Simultaneous Opposing Cardinal Directions), which are essential features in modern gaming keyboards. Notably, Corsair refers to SOCD as “FlashTap.” This allows users to control how keys behave when pressed simultaneously via the setup tool.
Each key is equipped with a color LED behind its translucent housing Image Gallery No. 026 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】 Image Gallery No. 027 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
Additionally, it supports a maximum polling rate of 8000Hz (USB report rate), enabling extremely low-latency input. The ability to check the set polling rate directly on the keyboard’s LCD screen is another convenient feature.
Check out the appearance of VANGUARD PRO 96
Let’s now examine the VANGUARD PRO 96’s exterior design.
The bottom has grooves at five points—three on the back and one each on both sides—for routing cables Image Gallery No. 016 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
The top surface uses a floating design with switches arranged directly on the panel. The keyboard surface (excluding keycaps) is approximately 21mm high at the [Space] key row and about 27mm high at the function key row. The height from the desk to the top of the [Space] key is roughly 35mm, while the keycap heights range between 14–15mm depending on location—ideal for most users when paired with a palm rest.
The keyboard surface has a substantial height due to the switches being placed directly on the top panel Image Gallery No. 013 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
When raising the bottom stand, the rear function key row lifts about 5mm, creating a slight tilt angle.
The bottom’s tilt stand is single-stage. The left shows the unraised state; the right shows it raised Image Gallery No. 018 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】 Image Gallery No. 017 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】 Image Gallery No. 020 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】 Image Gallery No. 019 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
The VANGUARD PRO 96 comes with a palm rest. The surface is matte, covered in a cushion with moderate grip for comfortable handling. It matches the keyboard’s width (75mm depth, about 25mm height). Its height helps minimize the feeling of keycap height—making it an ideal accessory to use alongside.
Detachable palm rest: secured magnetically to the keyboard body Image Gallery No. 014 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
The VANGUARD PRO 96 weighs approximately 1.1kg including the cable—relatively heavy for its size, likely due to an internal four-layer sound dampening mechanism. Despite this, it remains exceptionally quiet during typing, giving it a high-end feel consistent with Corsair’s flagship models—a strong point.
Internal structure diagram of VANGUARD PRO 96 Image Gallery No. 021 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
Ultra-lightweight mouse packing high-end specs in just 36g
Next up is the SABRE v2 PRO, a wireless mouse with an approximate body weight of only 36g.
SABRE v2 PRO with included USB wireless adapter (left) and USB cable (right). A standard right-handed mouse design Image Gallery No. 003 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
When held in hand, the mouse feels incredibly light—so much so that it seems capable of effortless 50G acceleration. It’s ideal for quick, high-speed flicks and turns.
Measured on a household scale, the weight was 34g—around 2g lower than advertised, but still impressively lightweight Image Gallery No. 023 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
It features five standard buttons. The main buttons use Corsair’s proprietary tactile mechanical switches, tuned specifically by the company.
Simple design: left and right primary buttons with a center-click scroll wheel, two side buttons on the left Image Gallery No. 024 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】 Image Gallery No. 025 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
The SABRE v2 PRO also features Corsair’s latest optical sensor, the Marksman S 33K DPI Sensor. This is an in-house sensor with impressive specs: tracking speed of up to 750 IPS, maximum acceleration of 50G, and a maximum tracking resolution of 33,000DPI.
Tracking resolution ranges from 100–33,000DPI in 50DPI increments. Corsair claims this covers the full range of display resolutions—from Full HD to 4K with ease. With a maximum tracking speed of 750 IPS and acceleration up to 50G, the sensor promises precision that never loses track of enemies regardless of situation or speed.
A sensor hole is located in the center of the bottom. The design is simple: power switch, sensor, front and rear feet Image Gallery No. 028 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
Wireless connectivity uses only Corsair’s proprietary connection method. The included USB wireless adapter supports a maximum polling rate of 8000Hz (USB report rate), significantly reducing latency—especially important for wireless use.
USB wireless adapter supporting up to 8000Hz. Features a clip on the back Image Gallery No. 029 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
Battery life varies based on polling rate settings. At the standard 1000Hz setting, it lasts up to 70 hours; at 8000Hz, up to 16 hours. While not exceptionally long, it’s sufficient for practical use. To achieve lightweight design, battery capacity is only about 210mAh—evidence of careful balance between weight and runtime.
The SABRE v2 PRO lacks decorative LED lighting. The only LEDs are the indicator LEDs built into the scroll wheel.
When lit, light shines through gaps in the scroll wheel. Gaps around buttons also glow, though not very visible from above Image Gallery No. 030 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
The indicator LEDs flash in the corresponding color for 3 seconds when switching DPI profiles. By default, holding down right-click and “Back” button simultaneously for 3 seconds toggles between DPI settings.
The body size measures approximately 120 (L) × 63 (W) × 38 (H) mm—relatively small. Despite being on the smaller side, even someone with notably small hands (like this writer, a typical Japanese adult male) found it comfortable to grip and use using either palm or claw hold.
The product package includes both grip tape and replacement feet, allowing customization of grip feel and slip resistance based on preference.
Although lightweight and compact, the SABRE v2 PRO is by no means fragile. According to Corsair, its high durability comes from carefully selected body materials and unique button switches. With a two-year warranty, it’s an especially reassuring product for gamers who subject their gear to intense use.
New setup tool “Web Hub” requires no app installation
Web Hub accessed via web browser Image Gallery No. 032 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
Corsair is well known for its integrated software suite, iCUE, which enables extensive customization of gaming devices. The VANGUARD PRO 96 and SABRE v2 PRO are naturally compatible with iCUE—but their standout feature is also compatibility with Corsair’s new web-based setup tool, Web Hub, being progressively rolled out to newer products.
The main advantage of Web Hub: users can configure devices without installing the iCUE software on their PC.
Web Hub functions like a browser version of iCUE. Simply open the URL provided in the product package using any web browser. Upon accessing Web Hub, you’ll see a list of compatible devices and a connection request; connecting will then bring up the settings page.
VANGUARD PRO 96’s Web Hub homepage Image Gallery No. 033 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
SABRE v2 PRO’s Web Hub homepage Image Gallery No. 034 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
Web Hub’s interface closely resembles iCUE—essentially a web-based version. The layout is the same: select options from the left pane and configure them in the right pane.
Now let’s highlight some unique settings of the VANGUARD PRO 96.
The homepage lists familiar gaming keyboard features such as “Lighting Effects” for LED illumination, and “Key Assignments” to reassign keys. Additionally, you can set up G-keys and macros here.
Key assignment screen Image Gallery No. 035 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
“Multi-Action Key” is a unique feature of the MGX Hyperdrive switch. It allows two different actions based on how deeply you press the key—for example, lightly pressing [W] for forward movement and pressing deeper for dash-forward.
Multi-Action Key screen Image Gallery No. 036 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
“Key Actuation” allows setting the actuation point (depth at which a key registers) and configuring Rapid Trigger.
Key Actuation screen. Set actuation point, enable/disable Rapid Trigger function, adjust sensitivity Image Gallery No. 037 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
The VANGUARD PRO 96’s “FlashTap” (SOCD) setting is also available in Web Hub.
FlashTap has three modes: “Post-Preference” (the later-pressed key takes priority), “Pre-Preference” (maintains the earlier pressed input), and “Neutral” (releasing both keys when two are pressed simultaneously).
Of course, behavior during simultaneous key presses varies by game—so users can select one of these three options depending on their preferred game.
Three possible behaviors for FlashTap: choose based on your game Image Gallery No. 038 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
Additionally, Key Actuation and FlashTap can be set to activate only when Game Mode is enabled. This allows users to keep them disabled during normal use and enable them with a single press of the left-side Game Mode button before playing specific games.
In Game Mode, you can also change polling rate to 8000Hz or enable features like Windows Lock—perfect for game sessions only. Setting these in Game Mode makes it convenient and efficient.
Settings enabled when Game Mode is on: Key Actuation and FlashTap are set separately from the above Image Gallery No. 039 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
Another unique VANGUARD PRO 96 setting is the “Screen” option, which lets you display custom images on its built-in LCD screen at the keyboard’s rear. You can upload animated GIF files up to 500KB in size directly into the device’s flash memory. Once uploaded, use [Fn] + [←/→] keys to switch between them—great for adding a personal touch.
Uploaded 4Gamer logo (left). Displayed on VANGUARD PRO 96’s LCD screen (right) Image Gallery No. 042 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】 Image Gallery No. 041 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
The Web Hub for SABRE v2 PRO is simpler. At the time of this article’s writing (beta version), only four customizations (excluding left-click) and DPI settings were available.
Functions assignable to buttons: 10 options from the menu. Only two tested in this review Image Gallery No. 043 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
There are 10 assignable functions for buttons—including macros and disabling buttons. Macros can be registered via the “Macro Manager.”
Using Macro Manager, you can turn mouse clicks or key presses into macros Image Gallery No. 044 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
A particularly interesting feature in DPI settings is the “sniper key”—a function that lowers DPI only while a specific button is held down.
For example, assign this to the mouse’s “forward” button (button 5), set DPI to 200, and during gameplay—when holding forward—the tracking resolution drops to 200DPI, improving aim precision. It takes some practice but proves highly effective.
Additionally, up to five DPI stages can be registered on the mouse. Switch between them by pressing right-click + “Back” button for three seconds. This is also quite practical and useful.
Up to five DPI settings can be registered on the mouse and switched during use Image Gallery No. 045 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
Polling rate, battery level, and firmware status can all be checked in “Device Settings.”
However, increasing the polling rate shortens battery life. While VANGUARD PRO 96 allows boosting polling rate only during Game Mode, SABRE v2 PRO currently lacks this feature. For optimal performance, we recommend adjusting polling rate based on gameplay needs.
Polling rate can be changed in “Device Settings” Image Gallery No. 046 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
FlashTap and sniper key effects are definitely effective
Now, let’s assess how the VANGUARD PRO 96 and SABRE v2 PRO perform in actual gameplay. We tested using “VALORANT Training” from Aim Lab.
First, testing character movement on the VANGUARD PRO 96 revealed the significant impact of FlashTap. Previously, simultaneously pressing [A] and [D] keys would cause an instant pause. By setting FlashTap to “Post-Preference,” users can switch between left and right movements seamlessly—no lag. This enables swift lateral motion impossible on standard keyboards; once accustomed, it becomes hard to return to a keyboard without FlashTap.
On the SABRE v2 PRO, we experienced precise tracking allowing for reliable 180-degree turns with fast mouse flicks, along with the effectiveness of the sniper key. Using default DPI of 1200 and assigning the sniper key to 400DPI, pressing it during aiming improved hit accuracy and headshot rate by about 10%.
Aim Lab training results: using the sniper key improved movement accuracy from around 60% to nearly 70%, with increased successful headshots Image Gallery No. 047 thumbnail / Compact full-size keyboard “VANGUARD PRO 96” and high-end mouse weighing approximately 36g, the SABRE v2 PRO, are devices that attract victory 【PR】
The sniper key requires slight adjustment but is highly effective for improving aim precision. With more practice, users can achieve even greater accuracy—making it a feature worth exploring if you own the SABRE v2 PRO.
VANGUARD PRO 96 and SABRE v2 PRO: devices that attract victory
The VANGUARD PRO 96 and SABRE v2 PRO are high-performance, fully featured products true to Corsair’s latest gaming line. As advertised—“designed by pros, built to win”—they deliver a level of polish that lives up to the claim. Gamers aiming to elevate their gameplay quality should definitely consider these devices.