Week in Keyboards #20

03 Nov 2015

The Protean

This is probably the most interesting different keyboard that comes with something slightly different. It is like the Optimus Maximus in that the keys are relengedable through individual screens in the keycaps.
In theory this concept seems interesting. But I really don’t see this being interesting past the novelty. It’s not really something many people are looking for. The problem is this removes one of the main customisation options you get with keyboards, the keycaps. But of course it does come with an alternative that allows you to change the legends. But this is not the same and I don’t see it being particularly useful or exciting.

protean keyboard

The renders also make it look like the keycaps are inverse. I’m not sure if this is the idea or just how it looks but I can’t see this being too comfortable.

Obviously this is a unique keyboard, but I see no reason for it to be.

Read More on the Protean Website

Sentraq

More updates on the previously announced keyboards.

S60-X

S60-X I think this is a more interesting project as I like the goal behind it. It is a 60% kit that is aiming to be affordable and something to build with whoever you please during the holiday time. That just seems like a fun idea to me.

Just like when the KC60 came out people were quite excited about the prospect of a cheap 60%. This isn’t as cheap as the KC60 but it is still affordable at (probably) $99.

It comes with:

PCB with components pre-soldered (I’m assuming SMD)

Coming to massdrop hopefully soon.

TK78 PCB Prototypes

TK78 PCB Prototypes This is the other project by Sentraq which is a bit more specialist. It is a 60% with a numpad. While it may not have the same mass appeal as the 60% has I have definitely heard call for a keyboard like this before.

The news is that they now have prototypes. So nothing ground breaking but if you are interested in this, it is moving forward.

New Mechanical Keyboard Line By Monoprice

Full sized standard mechs in 3 configurations in either blue or reds.

Backlit $69.99
RGB $89.99
Standard $96.39

I’m not sure why the standard (Select Series) costs more. But in my opinion it is more aesthetically pleasing.

The other question is “What switches do these have?”. I was told “our made mechanical switches”. So I imagine these are on the level of kalih or greetech (pure speculation). These could in fact turn out nice.

Penclic MK1

A new mechanical keyboard aimed at the professional typist. It looks like a squashed TKL with edges. From a new company with a slightly strange looking keyboard, I am not feeling too hostile towards it.