Choosing the correct model of ortho split keyboard
Choosing the correct model of ortho split keyboard
Hi,
I use an Ergodox and I’d like to get a keyboard that would best fit my use case :
- alpha keys without numbers nor side column modifier (3x5 matrix for each hand)
- 3 keys for each thumb
- the inner thumb key should be compatible with a larger keycap
- compatible with choc profile
- pinky staggering more pronounced than the Ergodox (or the Corne)
I found the Chocofi that matches all of those criteria but I’m not expert, do you think there is something more suited ? Maybe a variation of the Piantor ?
Made me think of the MiniDox, but that takes standard switches. Someone seems to have made their own Choc version, but even then idk if the columnar stagger is pronounced enough…
I would also consider 3w6. It ticks all the boxes, and the halves connect via USB-C instead of TRRS. I know Beekeebs.com and Keycapsss.com sell them.
If you’re also interested in trying splayed columns the rae-dux is an excellent option. This keyboard does not offer a bigger keycap for the innermost thumb though.
It's funny to me how everybody on the 40% ergo (maybe split) train wants/likes exactly the corne, but with more pinky stagger
It’s exactly what I want : a Corne with a lower pinky column relative to the ring finger. It’s so weird that this design is not yet popularized !
yea, corne stagger is basically no stagger
Have a look at Piantor or Cantor keyboards. Have built a Piantor myself some months ago and I love it. But - it all comes down to personal taste so keep looking!
There are also keyboard databases for you to scroll through and get inspirations from.
Yes the staggering of the Cantor is perfect but all the thumb keys are 1u and I’d really want a larger key for the inner one.
That's fair. From my experience I probably wouldn't notice a difference if the thumb keycap would be larger as the point of contact is quite small and not a flat area so the keycap doesn't have to provide a large area.
For reference my keyb: Piantor, Kailh Choc V1, Red Pro switches (35g) with MBK caps. Actually, I consider going even lighter on the switches (blue/pink: 20g), at least for the pinkes
What about the Ferris sweep or the Kyria? Both have significantly more stagger than the Ergodox.
Rather than pinky stagger, consider the pinky mod. I’ve done this on a Lily58 and Sofle (by removing switches), and eventually the PicaChoc came along: https://kbd.news/PicaChoc36-1853.html