In this pilot video for my channel, I explain small, column-stagger, split keyboards. This video explains the reasoning behind the seemingly strange form-factor of split keyboards, and how we can take a full-size keyboard and fit it in a much smaller keyboard by using layers.
Let's break it down:
- Take a full-size keyboard.
- Remove the numpad (and get a TKL).
- Make everything more compact (and get a 75%).
- Put less used keys on a layer* (and get a 65%).
- Put keys away from home row on a layer (and get a 40%).
- Stop fingers from moving sideways (and get an Ortholinear keyboard).
- Allow typing with hands at shoulder width by splitting the keyboard.
- Account for different finger lengths by moving the columns around (and get a column-stagger keyboard).
Hopefully these strange-looking keyboards make more sense now!
*Layer: Hold a key to access a new set of keys. Shift is already a layer (hold it to access upper-case letters and symbols).
EDIT: Here's an F.A.Q based on the comments:
Q. What is the keyboard on your desk?
A. It's a Centromere Mini by Southpawenineer. I got it in a Group Buy, and it's no longer in stock. But SPE sells other awesome boards at southpawdesign...
Q. What layout do you use?
A. My layout can be found here: github.com/Gau... I also heavily use Combos: github.com/Gau...
- For ready-to-buy consumer keyboards with warranty and service, I recommend: ergodox-ez.com and shop.keyboard.io
- For ready-made keyboards or kits you can build (but with no warranty, and more DIY in spirit), I recommend Kyria, Corne, Lily58, Solfe, etc., available at boardsource.xyz, www.littlekeyb..., splitkb.com (UK), mkultra.click, gboards.ca (CA) to name a few.
- Check out other people covering split/ergo boards in my subscriptions.
22 ноя 2020
