I spent a year designing a low profile, minimal mechanical keyboard (electronicmaterialsoffice.com)

Article summary

The article introduces the Altar II, a low-profile, minimal mechanical keyboard designed for a superior typing experience. The keyboard features a superlative typing experience, durable design, and a range of innovative technologies, including a magnetically detachable dial and haptic feedback. The Altar II is designed to be compact and ergonomic, with a 75% layout and a thin chassis. The keyboard is set to launch on Kickstarter, with a reservation-only price of $249.

Main themes

• Keyboard design and functionality
• Ergonomics and comfort
• Personal preference and use cases
• Innovative technologies and features
• Portability and compactness
• Numpad debate

What commenters say

• Some users prefer smaller keyboards for their daily driver, while others prefer full-size keyboards with a numpad for functionality.
• The need for a numpad is subjective and depends on individual use cases, such as data entry or programming.
• Ergonomics play a significant role in keyboard preference, with some users finding numpads to be a hindrance to comfortable typing and mouse placement.
• The design of the Altar II, particularly the rotary encoder, may not be suitable for all users, such as those who prioritize portability.
• There is a split between what people prefer for their daily driver and what they showcase in fancy desktop setups.
• Some users believe that smaller keyboards are more visually appealing, but may not be the most functional choice.
• The importance of a numpad is debated, with some users finding it essential for certain tasks, while others rarely use it.
• Modular or optional components, such as a removable rotary encoder, could cater to a wider range of user preferences.