Every now and then, a keyboard comes along claiming to fix all your typing woes. X-Bows has already nailed the whole inward slanted keys thing that Microsoft failed to do, but some companies decided that wasn’t quite enough for speed and ergonomics. So, they split the keyboard in two, messed with the layout a little, and now finally, we’ve arrived at the pinnacle of keyboard evolution: the high-tech wonder that doesn’t even bother with 104 keys anymore. Nope, it’s just 18 keys—for all your typing needs, because we are in the future!
Folks, meet the Master Forge from CharaChorder. At a glance, it looks like a prop straight out of sci-fi movies like Star Trek or A Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy but reassured it is not. The future is now because this sci-fi-ish keyboard is happening now. It’s designed to speed up typing by allowing both individual character input and chorded entry.
Instead of just pressing one key at a time, you can press multiple keys to type entire words or phrases at once—thanks to the 3D switches. One key offers multiple characters and functions—which logically speaking, once your muscle memory is set for it, it is faster than traditional typing, and a lot more efficient since now you can do more without breaking contact with the keys.
For gamers, the Master Forge offers faster reaction times, reduced finger travel, and more inputs than you’ll know what to do with. It combines the advantages of a keyboard, mouse, and game controller all in one. It’s like leveling up without the extra effort. Coders aren’t left out too.
Coders will appreciate how it integrates seamlessly with autocomplete, allowing them to type faster with less strain. The Master Forge’s compound chording and dynamic libraries adapt to any environment, making it easy to bend programming languages to your will.
For creators, it offers one-handed access to every key input, meaning you can keep one hand on your drawing tablet or mouse while the other works away on the keyboard. No need to constantly switch between devices, keeping your workflow smooth and uninterrupted.
The ergonomic design reduces strain by distributing the load between fingers, thumbs, and both hands. Snap action switch technology offers faster, more precise control than traditional or mechanical keyboards. Those are some serious keyboard science there.
Powered by the Platinum CharaChorder Engine Core, it’s packed with intelligent features you won’t find anywhere else. And with its aerospace-grade aluminum exoskeleton and picatinny-style dovetail railing, you can attach any number of electromechanical Bolt-Ons including an additional keypad or two, a trackball, and more to create a customizable command center suited to your needs.
If anyone is interested in giving it a go, CharaChorder is crowdfunding The Master Forge Keyboard on Kickstarter where you can secure it at a discounted price starting at US$359. Yes. It is not cheap. So is The Heart of Gold, the sleekest, most advanced, coolest spaceship in the galaxy. The good thing is that this keyboard is available to buy but that super cool spaceship from A Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy isn’t.
This CharaChorder’s third Kickstarter endeavor, btw. At the time of this post, CharaChorder The Master Forge Keyboard has attracted over 1,100 backers contributing almost US$500K in funding. So, yes, the campaign has met its funding goal and so, it is go. All there’s left to do is wait for the campaign to end in 15 days or so and for CharaChorder to fulfill its promise of December 2024 delivery. Meanwhile, here’s the campaign:
Images: CharaChorder.
