5 unique keyboard concepts that deserve your attention

Any tech wizard will tell you – a good keyboard can make all the difference. Did you know that the early prototypes of typewriters were invented more than 200 years ago? Typing a text by pressing keys is an idea that has been around for quite a bit. 

Since then, much has changed, but keyboards are still an important communication tool, and today’s designers understand it well. Keep on reading to learn more about unusual concepts.

WFH Keyboard by Acollective

Ever since the pandemic, working from home has become the new normal. That is why it is so important to design a home office and workspace that serve us, not the other way around.

WFH by Acollective maximizes desk space by eliminating unnecessary devices such as headphones or bulky microphones and speakers. In fact, speaker and microphone functions are built into the on-screen panel. 

The removable display panel can be moved to suit your preferred workflows, such as sketching or note-taking. It can be locked back in place with internal magnets when you are done.

Another major advantage of the design studio’s keyboard: it’s not just functional (as most products on the market are), it is aesthetically pleasing too!

Air Type by Running Guy Studio

Running Guy Studio developed the Air Type keyboard as a peripheral for passionate typists to help them avoid fatigue during extended typing sessions.

This keyboard features inflated key caps to cushion the bumps and taps during typing. This absorbs shock and thus makes it more comfortable for users to use it for long periods.

The Air Type keyboard is a clever solution to ensure computer users’ comfort, given that more and more of our time is spent in front of the screen, especially nowadays when remote working is a standard for many.

Happy Hacking Keyboard

At first glance, there is nothing special about the Happy Hacking Keyboard from PFU Ltd., maybe except for the price.

So why is it so expensive? The high price is due to the handmade, rich finish. It is coated with natural Urushi lacquer, which is quite pricey and requires sophisticated application and drying technology.

K2 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard by Keychron

If you are looking for a tactile solution that doesn’t take up a lot of space, the creation of Keychron could be a great pick. Their product – K2 – is wireless, with the largest battery available for mechanical keyboards.

Another great aspect of it is its inclined bottom frame, which makes it more comfortable to write a novel on or deal with everyday emails.

Massdrop x MITo Canvas CTRL Mechanical Keyboard

When it comes to unique keyboard concepts, it would be a crime not to mention this project. Made with a powder-coated off-white aluminum case, this keyboard features Dieter Rams-inspired XDA Canvas keycaps. Furthermore, the product also has a built-in switch plate which helps with stability.

Another advantage of Massdrop is that it’s fully programmable, so you can assign macros or custom keybinds as you please.

End notes

The choice on the keyboard market is seemingly endless! Each brand has a different vision of how a it should look and feel, and this fierce competition creates some fascinating designs.

A functional keyboard is a key to productiveness, so ensure you choose yours carefully! Nowadays, you don’t have to compromise on looks either – most designs are great on the eyes too.

Oh, and did you know you can build your own too? If you’d like to customize it fully, this might be your best option. Check our article here to learn more about the process and gain insight into mechanical keyboards.