Would You Use a Magnetic, Modular Mechanical Keyboard? Looking for Feedback!

[alex123]

Oops, I misunderstood! Thanks for pointing that out.

Yes, the layout is unique—I wanted to try something different. I really appreciate your feedback and that you like my keyboard!

I haven’t chosen real-world parts yet since these are just Blender renders

[wjrii]

A few thoughts spring to mind.

1. As @pixelpusher mentions, the knob seems small. I’d recommend looking at the EC12 rotary encoder, and then seeing how that affects your design. Right now, you’d probably be looking at sourcing something smaller or adjusting your dimensions.
2. I notice that this is basically a 60% with F-row. That sort of lands you in a slightly awkward spot where you don’t quite get the the minimalism of a 60% (though you still have the width), but you don’t have the functionality of a 75%. Are you considering a nav module in the base package you want to market?
3. I know you’ve said the render doesn’t include any modules, but does the design so far account for them? The rounded bezel is a classic of course, but those corners are going to result in a specific look that will accentuate that your modules are separate pieces. Be sure that’s the choice you want to make.
4. Pushing the ESC over a bit might result in some grumbling. A more classic approach would be to have the screen to the right of your compressed F-row, but it’s not a huge thing and you’re certainly entitled to make your choice.
5. I think overall, for you the PCB design and the pogo/magnets implementation are going to be the most critical parts. This is a lovely render, but it doesn’t quite tell us how your distinctive features are going to come together.

[alex123]

I’ll check out the EC12 rotary encoder and see how it fits into the design.

Yes, I’m considering a navigation module and a numpad in the base package.

This render is more of a first model to get general feedback on the base design before adding all the details. I wanted to see initial impressions on the shape and layout first. Later, I’ll make a more complete render with the modules and all the key features to give a clearer picture of how everything comes together

Yeah, moving the ESC might get some complaints.
I just went with this placement for now, but I’ll definitely try out some different layouts later and see what works best.

The PCB design and pogo/magnet implementation are the biggest challenges. This render is more of an early concept to get feedback on the overall shape and layout. Once I refine the internal design, I’ll make a more detailed render that better showcases how everything will connect and function.

[alex123]

Hey, I’ve made a few keyboard layout mockups with the knob and screen in different spots. Which one do you think looks and works the best? Part 1:

1. 
2. 
3. 
4. 
5. 

[alex123]

Part 2:

6. 
7. 
8. 
9. 
10. 

[alex123]

Final Part:

11. 
12. 

[Deadeye]

A tossup between 4, 8, and 9 for me; my brain is wired for top-left ESC placement, and I’d rather have more forehead than side bezel to accommodate a knob.

[alex123]

Good. I’ve noted all of that and will keep it in mind.

[HokuraChan]

wheres my 60 with the numpad

[alex123]

the numpad is a module

[alex123]

Final Keyboard layout:

[Deadeye]

I think that’s the best one so far. What do you think about putting the screen next to the knob on the forehead, allowing for a more traditionally-spaced function row?

[alex123]

Yeah, maybe something like that could work too.

[alex123]

wich one is the best?

[exen904]

I like the first one, the spacing for the F-Row is much nicer. Not a big fan of the condensed look with the closed F-Row.

[wjrii]

I agree. While I don’t mind a compressed F row, you might as well take advantage of all the available real estate. Still plenty of room for a pen-well, some lights, or just a nice place to cram a battery or some of the PCB components.

[Deadeye]

+1 to the pen-well; they can be a nice bit of subtle visual flair in addition to their functionality

[alex123]

Thanks, y’all, for the feedback! I agree, I like the first one too.

[alex123]

Final final keyboard layout:

[alex123]

what is the best mountig style