With Kickstarter financing, a keyboard is being created that takes unusual paths in terms of layout, buttons, material and firmware. Anomalies range from eight-legged feet to two “palm buttons”. The aim of all measures is to optimize ergonomics for prolific writers.
Model 100 has 64 buttons in a housing made of walnut or maple, 23 × 37 × 4 cm (L × W × H). However, the keyboard strives for an ergonomic layout in which the keypad is divided into two halves. Both halves are connected with the help of a ten centimeter long data cable and can therefore also be set up separately. At the same time, the angle of the two key fields can be adapted to your own needs.
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Keyboardio Model 100 (Image: Keyboardio)
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Keyboardio Model 100 
Keyboardio Model 100 
Keyboardio Model 100 
Keyboardio Model 100 
Keyboardio Model 100 
In order to map the functionality of keyboards of normal size, the keys are assigned double functions. The FN keys are under the palms of the hands. This should allow the thumb joint to be operated without twisting it. The given key assignments and the QWERTY layout can also be changed using open source software called Keyboardio Chryalis. The programmable firmware of the keyboard opens up the same possibility.
To adjust the keyboard, the Model 100 has two eight-foot “Octo-Stands” that allow the inclination to be adjusted in two axes . Since they are attached with a tripod bracket, they can also be replaced by other actuators from the camera sector.
Keyboardio Model 100 (Image: Keyboardio) The buttons are also flexible. The offered Kailh switches with RGB lighting are hot-swappable, the corresponding sockets should allow 100 changes. The keycaps are also individual; its surface provides the fingers with more orientation when writing without looking, writes the manufacturer.
Direction 300
A price of 289 US dollars, around 244 euros. There is also $ 20 for shipping to Germany. In addition to the total of 260 euros, there are also customs duties. Keyboardio also offers a unique version of the keyboard for $ 3,000. With this model, buyers are free to choose the type of wood, buttons and button labeling. The unusual is not available cheaply here either.
Finished copies will be delivered from January 2022. The chances are good. The provider has already successfully completed two crowdfunding campaigns and has largely paid for the tooling for production, which is outsourced to proven partners, according to its own information. The project already has 1,428 supporters, which means that the funding target has been exceeded five times, although the campaign does not end until July 31st.