The SideWinder X6 Keyboard is claimed to be no less than "the most versatile gaming keyboard on the market with the first-ever switchable key pad that can be attached to the left or right side of the keyboard for ultimate flexibility".

The key pad functions as a standard num pad in normal keyboard mode, but becomes a programmable macro pad (up to 90 macros programmable per game) in game mode, adds Microsoft.

Sticking with gaming - the keyboard has a new Cruise Control feature, which means you can continues an action without having to hold down the key or keys assigned to that action.

And you can use Cruise Control with up to four keys at a time.

Also worth a mention is the Quick-Launch key, which gives you one-touch access to Windows Vista Games Explorer.

There is automatic profile switching, which detects the application that is running and applies the custom profile.

Microsoft also launched the SideWinder X5 Mouse, which has nine buttons including vertical side buttons, adjustable sensitivity switching up to 2000dpi, five customisable buttons, and a Quick-Launch button again for Windows Vista Games Explorer.

The SideWinder X6 Keyboard and SideWinder X5 Mouse will be widely available in September 2008 for $79.95 and $59.95 respectively.

They are both available now for pre-order on Amazon.com.