Creating digital art or editing multimedia content can be a tedious and physically demanding process. From constantly switching tools to adjusting brush sizes and zooming in and out, even the simplest tasks can strain your hands and wrists over time.
However, the Orbital2 Creative Console promises to alleviate these issues, offering a revolutionary solution that streamlines your workflow and reduces strain.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll examine the features and capabilities of the Orbital2 Creative Console and explore how it can transform your creative experience.
Overview of the Specs :
Here’s an overview of the specifications for the Orbital2 Creative Console:
Size and Weight
- Total Height: Approximately 68 mm
- Bottom to Flat Ring Height: Approximately 33 mm
- Flat Ring Diameter: Approximately 60 mm
- Dial Diameter: Approximately 30 mm
- Weight: Approximately 136g
Connection Method
- Wired connection via detachable USB cable
Required System Configuration
- Applicable PC: USB port (Transfer rate: USB 2.0 or higher recommended)
- RAM: At least 8GB (16GB or more recommended)
- Monitor: SXGA (1280 x 1024) or higher
- Supported Operating Systems:
- Windows: Windows 10 64-bit, Windows 11 64-bit
- Mac: macOS 10.13 High Sierra, macOS 10.14 Mojave, macOS 10.15 Catalina, macOS 11.1 and later Big Sur, macOS 12.0 Monterey, macOS 13.0 Ventura
Design and Ergonomics
The Orbital2 Console boasts an ergonomic design that fits comfortably in your palm, making it a joy to use for extended periods. Its compact size and symmetrical shape ensure that both right and left-handed users can easily operate it.
The device features a joystick, dial, and eight switches, allowing you to perform a wide range of functions with just your fingertips. This reduces the need for constant mouse and keyboard usage, minimizing the risk of repetitive strain injuries and joint pain.
Intuitive Operation with the Orbital Engine
One of the standout features of the Orbital2 Console is the Orbital Engine. This innovative system allows you to execute various commands by tilting the joystick and rotating the dial. For instance, you can easily zoom in and out or adjust brush sizes with intuitive hand movements, just like playing a video game.
The Orbital Engine seamlessly integrates with popular photo editing software, enabling you to control parameters in applications like Lightroom Classic with a natural, fluid motion.
Customizable Functionality with Flat Ring
The Flat Ring interface on the Orbital2 Console offers a high degree of customization. With a simple switch press, you can recall frequently used functions or even execute long key combinations.
When registering multiple functions to a single switch, you can access various tools and commands instantly, without having to navigate through menus or move the cursor across the screen. This feature is particularly useful when working with pen tablets, as it simplifies the process of switching between tools.
Productivity-Boosting Features
The Orbital2 Console is packed with features designed to enhance your productivity and streamline your creative workflow. Here are some standout capabilities:
Program Macro: Execute multiple commands with a single push by recording and playing back a series of actions.
Key Rotation: Quickly switch between tools by rotating the dial, executing up to 10 shortcut keys in sequence.
Text Blocks: Input frequently used text with a single action, perfect for naming layers or adding captions.
Mouse Function: Scroll, double-click, and middle-click without reaching for the mouse, reducing unnecessary hand movements.
Customization and Software Integration
With over 300 key assignments and adjustable joystick sensitivity, the Orbital2 Console offers unparalleled customization options. You can tailor the device to suit your preferences and optimize your creative environment.
The console supports multiple configuration files, allowing you to create dedicated profiles for different software applications. This seamless integration ensures a consistent and efficient experience across your entire creative suite.
Furthermore, the RGB LED light can be set to different colors for each software profile, providing a visual cue for your current settings at a glance.
Ready for Action
Setting up the Orbital2 Console is a breeze. Simply connect the included USB cable to your computer, and the dedicated application will establish a stable wired connection. The Glow Ring will light up, indicating that you’re ready to dive into your creative projects.
The console comes with recommended profiles that include pre-configured settings for popular creative software, allowing you to start using the device right out of the box, without the hassle of extensive customization.
Compatibility and Support
The Orbital2 Creative Console is compatible with a wide range of software, including Lightroom Classic, CaptureOne, Luminar, and many more. While some keyboard shortcuts may require customization depending on the software, most applications that support shortcut keys can be seamlessly integrated with the console.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a graphic designer, illustrator, photographer, or video editor seeking to enhance your productivity and alleviate physical strain, the Orbital2 Creative Console is a game-changer. With its intuitive controls, ergonomic design, and extensive customization options, this device promises to revolutionize your creative workflow.
Say goodbye to repetitive motions and constant menu navigation, and embrace a comfortable and efficient creative experience with the Orbital2 Console.
