The Corne is a very popular split keyboard that is very cheap. It requires some level of DIY, but the main board can be had for $33. It can also be made Bluetooth with the nice!nano. You will still need switches and caps, but depending on what you’re after, those can be cheap as well.
this post was submitted on 07 Jul 2023
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ErgoMechKeyboards
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Ergonomic, split and other weird keyboards
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Posts must be of/about keyboards that have a clear delineation between the left and right halves of the keyboard, column stagger, or both. This includes one-handed (one half doesn't exist, what clearer delineation is that!?)
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¹ split meaning a separation of the halves, whether fixed in place or entirely separate, both are fine.
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Some useful links
- EMK wiki
- Split keyboard compare tool
- Compare keycap profiles Looking for another set of keycaps - check this site to compare the different keycap profiles https://www.keycaps.info/
- Keymap database A database with all kinds of keymap layouts - some of them fits ergo keyboards - get inspired https://keymapdb.com/
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I'm obviously very new to the fancy shmancy keyboard world. Do I need to build this thing completely from scratch? Or do they sell ready made ones? The site is a bit intense haha
Hey, we all start somewhere! I ordered mine from keyhive and made the mistake of ordering the DIY version. I usually like to do things myself, but had a hell of a time soldering the SMD diodes on. I would recommend the partially assembled version. Keyhive also lists the other parts you will need. If you order the partially assembled version, you will only need a microcontroller, switches, and caps for a complete keyboard! Keyhive also lists the microcontrollers you can use. Personally, I love the nice!nano. It ads BLE and the battery lasts for quite a while. You will need to solder the microcontroller, but it’s easy to do assuming you have an iron. Let me know if you have more questions!
Ah I see all the Corne kits are sold out. But anyway, I was hoping for a more robust thumb cluster too. The Momoka looks like exactly what I'm looking for, only thing missing is tenting. Thanks for the help though!
keebio has some good options for affordable split keyboards
I'm a big fan of the Sofle RGB layout. The board kit is about 25 bucks from little keyboards (where I got my kits). Add a 20$ case, some cheap caps and switches, and a set of micros and a cable and you're there.
Same for any other DIY board really, this will get you where you want to go without the level of spending you want to stay away from. Corne is mentioned here as well, similar layout with less keys.
You could go with something even cheaper like a Helix kit but you'll still be around 20 bucks plus the rest of the parts, so that extra 5-10 bucks on the kit is worth it if you want something a bit more contemporary.
Those look great. But I would really like bigger thumb clusters and some form of tenting if possible. However, I guess as an in between these could be great! Thanks
With those requirements, I would really recommend the Kyria from Splitkb. (Or Hillside from Beekeeb) It's not the cheapest setup, though, especially if you're buying tenting pucks and tripods.
One of the cheapest options might be building a cheapino. It should be around 50-70$ all in all. Though it's completely DIY and not the best option for beginners.
You'd have to order the PCBs and all the other stuff yourself and build it.
If you don't want to or cannot do that, there are already a lot of good options in the other comments.
EDIT: spelling
If you're comfortable around a soldering iron, building a split can be pretty cheap.
What sorta features are you looking for? How many keys?
I'm comfortable enough. Wouldn't say I'm any good at it though lol.
I'm looking for a keyboard that has some tenting features to combat severe tendonitis in my forearms. I want a number row and a thumb cluster, would also like some additional programmable keys if possible, but not needed.
Check out the keyboards at Beekeeb. You can't go wrong with the Piantor. If 42 keys is too scary, try the hillside or one of the other big ones.
Don't forget you can cheap tent any split with some books, sand bags, cardboard, 3D printed parts...
Was worried about stability but yea beanbags would probably work great! Thanks!
I was debating all the options with myself having the same hesitation about a month ago. I decided to try a version of the redox that comes already assembled: https://ergomech.store/shop/neodox-52. The keyboard with all the options I wanted came to less than $200 USD before shipping. I am looking forward to trying a split keyboard with some column stagger and with lots of thumb-keys. I felt good about this design because it has full alpha and num row keys with plenty of keys left over but I can still experiment with QMK when I want to try adding functionality. I'll be posting a review when the keyboard arrives. I would recommend contacting this particular store ahead of time to ask about what you are hoping for before making your purchase. They were very helpful and responsive when I emailed them. Ask about current lead times since they are moving offices.
This is a highly prototype niche board, but maybe you'd find it interesting. At the moment some assembly is required. https://www.lynxware.org/
This is a bit wild for my tastes! Looks sick though
Where do you live? If you live in a major metropolitan area I would recommend checking Craigslist. I got a used Ergodox for around 120 there. When Mechmarket comes back there will be some good used options as well.
Unfortunately, I live in South Africa, so my options are extremely limited here. And by limited I mean there is not a single split keyboard listing lol