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Absolem

The Absolem Keyboard

Overview

The Absolem is an innovative mechanical ergonomic keyboard designed for users who prioritize both comfort and performance. With a total of 36 keys arranged in a columnar layout, this keyboard caters to a blend of efficiency and style, making it a standout choice in the realm of ergonomic keyboards. Additionally, it boasts a fully open-source design, allowing enthusiasts and developers alike the freedom to customize and tinker with its architecture.

Design and Layout

At the heart of the Absolem’s design is its columnar layout, which ensures that finger movements are as natural and efficient as possible. This layout minimizes movement and strain compared to traditional staggered keyboards. With pronounced staggering, the keys are positioned to further enhance comfort during prolonged use. The keyboard’s compact size, featuring only 36 keys, means it takes up less desk space while still providing all the essential functions a typist or gamer might require. The design is also wireless, permitting more flexible placement and reducing the clutter of cables.

Features

The Absolem keyboard is equipped with several notable features that enhance its usability:

  • Mechanical Switch Compatibility: It supports both Cherry MX and Kailh Choc switches, giving users the option to choose their preferred tactile feedback style.
  • Wireless Capability: The keyboard can connect wirelessly, offering a clean and cable-free working environment.
  • Open Source: With an MIT license, the Absolem is completely open-sourced, making all design files, firmware, and documentation available for modification and improvement.
  • Ergonomic Design: Its columnar layout and pronounced staggering reduce wrist strain, making it ideal for long hours of typing or gaming.

For further insights into its features and specifications, you can visit the GitHub repository at Absolem GitHub Repository.

Buy or Build

Whether to buy or build your own Absolem keyboard depends on your comfort level with DIY electronics. The keyboard’s open-source nature means users can opt to purchase pre-assembled versions or build their own from provided resources. A comprehensive build guide can be found at Absolem Build Guide, making it easy for enthusiasts to create a custom unit tailored to their needs. If you prefer a ready-to-use keyboard, consider checking various online mechanical keyboard retailers or communities for availability.

Similar Keyboards

Keyboards similar to the Absolem keyboard include:

  • Keyberon-f4: The Keyberon-f4 is a handwired, unsplit ergonomic keyboard that utilizes the Keyberon firmware. Its fully parametric case allows for customization of the number of rows, columns, and thumb keys, enabling you to tailor it to your specific needs.

  • Reviung39: The Reviung39 is a 41-key column-staggered keyboard, with variations available that feature fewer keys (33 / 34 / 39) as well as split configurations in an ortholinear layout.

  • Atreus: The Atreus is a compact keyboard with 42 keys, designed in a column-staggered layout that promotes ergonomic typing.

More information on the Absolem keyboard can be found at its GitHub repository. For those interested in building their own version, a comprehensive build guide is also available.