I’ve been singing the praises of Whirlwind FX and its unique version of game-integrated lighting effects for some time. Unlike other lighting engines like Corsair’s iCUE or Razer Chroma that offer a small collection of integrations that are baked into the game files, Whirlwind FX’s SignalRGB software utilizes screen reading technology that generates game-specific integrations. This means that developers don’t need access to game files to create unique integrations, and in fact, users have the ability to create their own. SignalRGB’s library of supported games has grown rapidly over the last couple of years, and now, the service has expanded to non-Whirlwind FX devices. With over 130 supported devices, PC players are now able to get all of the amazing game integrations from SignalRGB for dozens of games. Thanks to SignalRGB, the era of branded ecosystems is about to end.
Everyone knows that the immersive ecosystem is a marketing tactic that peripheral manufacturers use to get you to buy more of their products, but that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t work. I’ve been a sucker for Corsair products for years because iCUE is so easy to use and I can set everything up exactly the way I want. Most, but not all of my gaming accessories are from Corsair, which means that my whole system has one big integrated lighting plan...almost. My RGB mouse mat and laptop stand are both Razer products, meaning that I have to use Razer Chroma to control them. Before, the only solution to this problem was to replace the outliers with Corsair products. I’ve bought the devices I have for a reason, so I’ve never been willing to replace the mouse mat I like with a Corsair version just for better lighting integration. With SignalRGB however, all of my lighting can be controlled from one engine, meaning I finally have all of my RGB devices on one lighting plan.
It’s not a perfect solution yet, especially if, like me, you have a ton of RGB devices. For example, SignalRGB recognizes my Corsair lighting towers, but can’t control them, while it doesn’t even recognize my Corsair RGB fans. On the other hand, my Corsair mouse and keyboard and Razer mouse mat are recognized, and for the first time ever I’m able to sync them up to deliver one consistent lighting effect. I’m hoping Whirlwind FX will continue to add supported devices over time, but if you’re not working with an elaborate setup like mine, there’s a good chance your differently-branded mouse and keyboard are already supported.
Not only am I able to sync up RGB devices like never before, but SignalRGB also has the benefit of eliminating the need to run multiple lighting engines. This frees up memory and may help your PC run faster. The SignalRGB software is fairly lightweight too, especially compared to the entire suite of Razer Synapse add-ons. Both the free and subscription version of SignalRGB offers 70+ lighting effects to choose from, each with customization for things like speed and direction. It’s a fantastic way to get devices from different brands working on the same system, especially if you want to do something relatively simple like a rainbow effect.
SignalRGB’s signature screen reading effects require a subscription of $4.99/month, but I can tell you from my experience with Whirlwind FX keyboards that it’s well worth the price. There are already more than 70 game integrations available for everything from Stardew Valley to Apex Legends. Generally, I don’t find them to be quite as intricate as the iCUE game integrations, but the trade-off is that SignalRGB offers so many and, when there isn’t an integration for the game you’re playing, the ambient screen effect is a fantastic substitute. This mirrors the image on your screen to your devices, so that they match the color and the intensity of whatever you’re seeing in the game. A flash of bright light across your mouse and keyboard can add a lot of immersion to a game even if you’re not using a specific integration.
When you do have an integration on though, SingalRGB just adds that much more to the experience. While every game is a bit different, you’ll generally get things like flashing effects for low ammo, indicators for ability recharges and buffs, and damage indicators. There are all kinds of customization within each integration too, so you can adjust the hue, saturation, and luminance for each setting. It’s a really impressive amount of customization and control considering that it works with any device you already have.
I’m extremely bought into the Corsair ecosystem and have spent years adding devices to and customizing my setup, but I’m also aware that the buy-in for my setup would be a huge barrier to most, and I don’t necessarily recommend doing what I did, especially when SignalRGB is an option. This software allows you to use all of the devices you already have to enjoy dynamic lighting and cool game integrations like never before. I’ve had to rethink my whole setup now that I know I’m not locked into Corsair every time I buy a new peripheral, and it’s making me reconsider what I value most about my devices. It’s a pretty incredible piece of software, and even though there are some limitations with compatibility, I think anyone that appreciates RGB lighting will be blown away by all the things SignalRGB can do.
You can download the free version of SignalRGB now, which includes support for tons of different brands and more than 70 customizable idle effects. To try out the Pro version of SignalRGB, which gives you access to screen ambience effects, game integrations, and audio visualizers, use promo code THEGAMER for one free month. If you want to check out everything SignalRGB Pro has to offer without a subscription, you can use these features on both the Element and Atom keyboard from Whirlwind FX. Click the link to check out our reviews for those devices.