10+ Out-of-the-box Keyboards That May Blow Your Fingers!! 🤯

Written by saanvi-sen | Published 2024/03/14
Tech Story Tags: keyboards-for-fun | keyboards-for-productivity | key-copy-paste-stack-overflow | matias-ergo-pro-review | moonlander-mark-1-review | figma-micro-keyboard-review | freestyle-pro-keyboard-review | orbitouch-keyboard-review

TLDRThe most uncommon and weird keyboards may shock you, amaze you, and make you laugh a bit. 😀 Discover the unique and uncommonly designed keyboards. Try at your own risk!!via the TL;DR App

Well, keyboards are an essential part of daily routine nowadays, especially for programmers & designers. But…In this collection, we are NOT going to discuss any regular keyboards. Instead, you will see some of the strangest, weirdest, unbelievably interesting keyboards that you may hardly believe, can exist..!!

So, get ready and explore the collection of the Strangest, weirdest Keyboards.

NOTE: Our intention here is just to explore various types of keyboards. Understand that, this is not a review post for any of the mentioned keyboards nor do we encourage anyone to purchase these keyboards. One should do research before purchasing the products.

Key Copy Paste by Stack Overflow

Starting with the weird Keyboard that will interest lots of programmers due to its unique & weird design. Well, Stack overflow needs no introduction as it is a crucial part of developers’ lives. It is like oxygen for programmers.

Teased as an April Fool joke, Stack Overflow later revealed that it is a real keyboard for developers who actively use Stack Overflow..!!

Since its launch, it has become the talk of the town due to its interestingly weird look & function. Over 11.8k units have been sold to date..!!

So, if you are an avid stack overflow fan and want to speed up your workflow, then this is the one for you.

Where to purchase from?

  • You can get your unit from the Drop.

How To Configure?

Figma Creator Micro Keyboard

Another keyboard in the list of weirdest keyboards is Figma Creator, which is aimed at a specific community of Figma. It really makes you happy if you get exactly what you imagined. Isn't it?

Well, Figma has launched the Creator micro keyboard with their partner Worklouder. The idea took place in 2022 and gained so much praise from the whole Figma community as with the minimalist design this keyboard gives Figma designer a much-needed boost with the customized shortcode key functions. They have literally "cmd+g" ed most used shortcodes.

What makes it fantastic is, that you can command all your shortcuts, regardless of the software, via 4 discrete mappable layers. It comes with 30 uniquely Figma icons and 15 solid colors so you can create the perfect look and layout for your setup.

The Creator Micro is equipped with 12 keys, with each supporting up to four different functions depending on which "layer" you have the peripheral set to. In total, that gives you access to 48 different shortcuts from the macro pad.

Features:

  • 30 custom-designed Figma icons
  • 15 solid color
  • Works with Mac, iOS, Win, Linux, Android
  • Works with all software

Here are some of the things you can do with the Figma Creator Micro Keyboard:

  • Create custom shortcuts for your most frequently used Figma commands.
  • Build muscle memory faster by having all your shortcuts in one place.
  • Map functions to the dials for easy access to things like font size, shapes, send to back/front, zoom, and much more.
  • Command all your shortcuts, regardless of the software, via 4 discrete mappable layers.

Where to purchase from?

Who should use it?

  • If you're looking for a way to boost your productivity in Figma, the Figma Creator Micro Keyboard is a great option. It's a well-made, versatile keyboard that can help you save time and effort on your design projects.

Well, while working on the Figma project, you can consider using the best Materio Figma UI Kit & Dashboard Builder.

It is the best Figma UI Kit with features like Drag & Drop components, Atomic Design, Auto Layout & 500+ Components. You can build admin dashboards with ease.

Freestyle-pro-keyboard

Have you ever felt the urge to split the keyboard into two pieces so you can freely use both parts comfortably..!!?

Well, such keyboards do exist. It’s Kinesis Freestyle Pro which comes in two pieces that you will have to connect. Bad joke sorry..!! Actually, this keyboard is much more than the pieces, it’s an expandable keyboard that allows you to expand the keyboard at your comfort.

It features a split-keyboard design that allows you to position the keyboard halves wherever feels most comfortable for your shoulders and forearms. The keyboard also has tenting and negative tilt adjustments, so you can further customize the typing angle to your liking.

Features:

  • Split-keyboard design for maximum comfort
  • Tenting and negative tilt adjustments
  • Cherry MX Brown mechanical key switches
  • Full on-board programmability
  • Up to 20 inches of separation between the keyboard halves
  • Compatible with Windows and Mac

Who should use it?

  • The Kinesis Freestyle Pro is a great option for anyone who is looking for an ergonomic mechanical keyboard that offers a high degree of comfort, performance, and adjustability. However, it is also one of the more expensive keyboards on the market, so it is important to weigh the cost against the benefits before making a decision.

Where to purchase?

How To Configure?

Matias Ergo Pro

The Matias Ergo Pro is another excellent option for an ergonomic mechanical keyboard, and it stands as a direct competitor to the Kinesis Freestyle Pro you mentioned earlier.

It features a split-keyboard design, which means that the keys are separated into two halves that are angled away from each other. This allows you to type with your hands and wrists in a more natural position, which can help prevent pain and discomfort.

If you are looking for an ergonomic, mechanical keyboard that is quiet, customizable, and comfortable to use, then the Ergo Pro is a great option to consider.

Features:

  • Ergonomic design can help to reduce strain on hands and wrists
  • Mechanical switches provide a satisfying typing experience
  • Quiet Click switches are quieter than traditional mechanical switches
  • Programmable keys can be customized to your needs
  • Palm supports and tilting/tenting legs allow for a comfortable typing position
  • 3 extra USB 2.0 ports for connecting additional devices

Where to purchase?

How To Configure?

Moonlander Mark 1

Another Out of the box split keyboard but with a unique design and functions. Moonlander is a Next-gen Ergonomic keyboard & more than 40k units have been sold..!! And why not? It gives a super funky look along with the rest pad, RGB lights, and a seamless experience.

The keyboard comes with integrated wrist rests, but you can fold them out of the way, where they cleverly attach magnetically to the underside of the keyboard. (Folding up the wrist rests also makes the keyboard fit nicely in the included carrying case.) And if you want, you can take the wrist rests off entirely.

You can even program the cluster keys for enter, space, back, forward, etc.

If you want to change the default setup, you can switch the keys as per your needs and requirements as well. Depending on how much you want to customize your layout, you might spend a long time fiddling with ideas in the configurator tool. It gives you a free hand when it comes to your comfort.

And apart from all of the above, if you are someone who likes to experiment with lights, then there is a big surprise for you. There are also programmable RGB LEDs under each key, meaning that in addition to trying to figure out what each key does, you might also delve into how each key looks, too..!! Isn’t it awesome?

Features:

  • Split ergonomic design
  • Customizable layout
  • Mechanical key switches
  • RGB backlighting
  • Tenting and tilt adjustment
  • Thumb cluster
  • Low-profile keycaps
  • Carrying case
  • Two-year warranty

Where to purchase?

  • You can get your unit from the Official Site. (*Unavailable at the time this blog was written)

How To Configure?

OrbiTouch Keyless Keyboard

Yes, you heard it right…!! It is a Keyless keyboard. Not only is the design a bit strange but the way it functions is also interesting.

It does not require any finger or wrist movement to operate, making it a valuable tool for people with conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, etc. It uses two domes that users glide their fingers over to select letters, numbers, and symbols. The domes are surrounded by color-coded rings that correspond to different groups of keys.

By moving their fingers in different directions and tapping the domes, users can type without having to press down on individual keys. It also includes a built-in mouse function that allows users to control the cursor and click on buttons, without using a separate mouse…!!

However, it wasn’t a successful product as it took too long to type due to its unusual functionality.

Features:

  • Built-in mouse function
  • Portable and compact
  • Works with Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices.

Where to purchase?

  • You can get your unit from the Drop.

How To Configure?

CharaChorder

Fun Fact: This Keyboard Lets People Type So Fast It’s Banned From Typing Competitions

At first, you may get confused seeing its weird design and it’s natural. Because it doesn’t even look like a “Keyboard” at all..!!

CharaChorder is a unique keyboard designed to enable significantly faster typing speeds than are possible with traditional keyboards. It achieves this by using a chording technique, where you press multiple keys simultaneously to represent entire words or phrases.

As said above, looks quite different from a traditional keyboard. It has a layout of 22 keys, arranged in a grid. Each key can be pressed individually, or in combination with other keys. The CharaChorder software interprets these combinations and translates them into words and phrases.

What makes it a hit is the typing speed. Using this unique keyboard, you can write up to 200 words per minute….!!

However, CharaChorder is not for everyone. It has a steep learning curve, and it takes time and practice to become proficient. Additionally, the chording technique can be awkward for some people.

Features:

  • 3D Motion Detection
  • Uses a chording technique, where you press multiple keys simultaneously to represent entire words or phrases.
  • Two modes: character entry (like a traditional keyboard) and fluid chord/character entry
  • Utilize a drawing tablet, gaming mouse, CAD mouse, or pet a kitten while still retaining access to all hotkeys literally at your fingertips.

Where to purchase?

How To Configure?

DROP + OLKB PREONIC KEYBOARD MX KIT V3

The DROP + OLKB Preonic Keyboard MX Kit V3 is a compact, ortholinear mechanical keyboard that is designed for efficiency and portability. Unlike traditional staggered keyboards, the Preonic has keys arranged in straight columns and rows, resembling a grid.

It is a collaboration between Drop and OLKB, and it is based on the popular Planck keyboard design. The Preonic has an additional row of keys compared to the Planck, which gives you more flexibility in terms of programming and layout.

The Preonic features a hot-swappable PCB, which means that you can easily change the switches without soldering. It also has a USB-C port for connectivity and an anodized aluminum case for durability. It also uses advanced firmware like QMK that allows for extensive customization of key functions and layouts.

Features:

  • Compact ortholinear layout
  • Hot-swappable PCB
  • USB-C port
  • Anodized aluminum case
  • Programmable with QMK
  • Kailh hotswap sockets
  • MX compatible

Where to purchase?

  • You can get your unit from the Drop.

How To Configure?

QWERKYWRITER Typewriter Mechanical Keyboard

If you are someone who is bored with traditional keyboards and wants to try something unique, then this one is going to catch your eye. Here, the vintage blends with the latest tech, and it’s a damn interesting thing.

As the name suggests, they have pulled off the typewriter design in the Keyboard..!! Quiet interesting… Unmatched in its aesthetic design, the Qwerkywriter easily is one of the most stunning devices you will ever see but don’t let that distract you! The Qwerkywriter is jam-packed with industry-leading features and patented designs you won’t find anywhere else. They also offer a separate numkey pad which is cool.

Additionally, Qwerkywriter S can program up to 15 characters including combinations using modifier keys(i.e. CMD + C for COPY). The return bar factory setting is set to ‘ENTER’.

Features:

  • Multi-Device Wireless Connectivity
  • Wired USB mode with NKRO support
  • Dual Scroll Knob Encoders
  • Mechanical Switches
  • Integrated Tablet Stand
  • Macro Return Bar
  • New Scratch Resistant All Aluminum Chassis
  • Typewriter-Inspired® Keycaps
  • Compatible with IOS/Android/MacOS/Win 10 & higher*

*NOTE: WINDOWS Devices may require a separate Bluetooth Dongle if using it via Bluetooth on older or incompatible hardware.

Tech Spec:

  • Compatibility: Android, Chrome OS, Mac, Windows, iOS
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wireless
  • Features: Mechanical
  • Language / Layout: QWERTY, QWERTY UK, QWERTZ

Where to purchase?

How To Configure?

iClever BK08 Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard With Touchpad


Some people like everything foldable. Be it mobile, table, or be it a keyboard. At some point it is valid, you can utilize the space in your comfort. And this uncommon keyboard is the same.

The iClever BK08 Folding Keyboard with Touchpad is a portable keyboard that folds up into a pocket-sized square. It has a built-in touchpad, so you can use it with your phone, tablet, or laptop without needing a separate mouse. The keyboard is made of aluminum and has a backlit keyboard, so you can use it in low-light conditions.

You no longer need to worry about the table space once you finish the work. Simply fold the keyboard and put it in a drawer…!! It is as simple as that.

Features:

  • Folds up into a pocket-sized square
  • Built-in touchpad
  • Backlit keyboard
  • Aluminum construction
  • Long battery life

Where to purchase?

  • You can purchase it on Amazon

Maltron Dual-Hand Fully Ergonomic Keyboard

A quite unusual keyboard you may ever see. The design is unbelievable and weird. They even have left-hand only & right hand only keyboards which are still acceptable as they can serve people with disability to work with specific hands

But, they have a Head/Mouth stick keyboard which you can use with the stick/finger or with a pencil in your mouth….!! Again, may be designed keeping specially-abled people in mind.

The makers claim that the two-handed Maltron fully ergonomic keyboard fits the shape of hands and the different lengths of fingers to reduce movement and tension. In this way, it can not only prevent the onset of RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury) symptoms but is an aid to RSI relief and even recovery from RSI pain.

Where to purchase?

Wolf King Gaming keyboard

This one is next level as the keyboard is specifically manufactured for the Wolf King game..!! Like, how far you can go for the gaming?

The Wolf King Warrior Black Gaming Keyboard is a 55-key, red, and black colored keyboard designed specifically for FPS gamers. It has a compact, palm-sized design that makes it easy to take with you to LAN parties, and it features a 3-layer silicon membrane that makes it quiet and durable. The keyboard also has anti-splash protection, so you don’t have to worry about spilling drinks on it.

It is the best choice for FPS gamers who are looking for a compact, affordable, and durable keyboard. Not suitable for Regular Work Though..!!

Features:

  • 55 keys, including 15 additional keys for commonly used FPS game controls
  • Red and black color scheme
  • Compact, palm-sized design
  • 3-layer silicon membrane for quiet typing
  • Anti-splash protection
  • USB interface

TiPY One Hand Keyboard Black

The TiPY One Hand Keyboard Black is a one-handed keyboard that integrates mouse functionality. It is designed to be used with one hand, which can be helpful for people with limited hand mobility or for those who want to save space on their desks.

The keyboard has a split layout, with the keys for the left and right hands on separate sides. The mouse function is controlled by a trackpad located on the right side of the keyboard.

Despite it being designed for disabled people, normal people can use it as well in regular use.

Features:

  • One-handed design: Split layout with keys for left and right hand on separate sides.
  • Integrated mouse function: Trackpad on the right side for cursor control.
  • 12 language support: Danish, German, English, Finnish, French, Icelandic, Italian, Dutch, Norwegian, Portuguese, Swedish, Spanish.
  • Backlight: Adjustable brightness for better visibility in low light.
  • Adjustable tilt: Find the perfect angle for comfort and ergonomics.
  • USB-C connection: Easy and modern connection standard.
  • Other features:
  • Macro keys for shortcuts and custom commands.
  • Media control keys.
  • Programmable function keys.

Where to purchase?

  • You can purchase this here

Conclusion:

Well, here we have collected some of the most weird & uncommon keyboards that may shock you..!! Hope you find this collection entertaining as well as unique.

Keyboards are indeed an essential part of the routine and especially for the IT people it is more than a friend. In many cases, using different types of keyboards and experimenting with them is a hobby.

So, if you are someone who likes to try various keyboards, then this collection will help you.

In case you are using any of them or any other weird Keyboards then do share it with us. We will include it in our collection.


Written by saanvi-sen | I am A front-end developer
Published by HackerNoon on 2024/03/14