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Fortitude60

Fortitude60 Keyboard: A Detailed Look

Overview

The Fortitude60 is an innovative 60% split keyboard designed for comfort and efficiency. Featuring a staggered column layout, this keyboard provides a unique typing experience that aims to reduce strain and improve ergonomics for users. Fully open-sourced under the MIT license, the Fortitude60 invites enthusiasts to explore its design and potentially contribute to its development.

With a total of 60 keys, the keyboard caters to both people trying to do more with fewer keys, but still lets users e.g. keep their trusted num-row before they go full-minimalist with something like a Corne or  Sweep.

Design and Layout

The Fortitude60 stands out due to its split design, which is both symmetrical and user-friendly. Each half of the keyboard has a key configuration that resembles a matrix of 4 rows by 6 columns. This design helps facilitate a natural hand position while typing, greatly benefiting those who may experience discomfort with traditional keyboard setups. Each half also accommodates three keys per thumb, enhancing accessibility for frequently-used commands and improving overall workflow. The keyboard’s columnar layout supports a more ergonomic approach to typing, allowing for efficient finger movements.

Features

The Fortitude60 is equipped with various features that cater to both casual users and keyboard enthusiasts.

Key highlights include:

  • Mechanical Switch Support: The keyboard supports Cherry MX switches, allowing users to tailor their typing experience according to their preference for tactile feedback. The MX-style world still offers the most range of switches and keycaps to choose from.
  • Symmetrical Split Design: The balanced design promotes ergonomic hand positioning, aiming to minimize strain during prolonged use.
  • Key Count: With 60 keys distributed across the two halves, the Fortitude60 maintains functionality within a compact form factor.
  • TRRS Connection: The two halves of the keyboard are connected through a TRRS cable (audio cable), ensuring stable communication between them.
  • USB-C Connector: For ease of use and compatibility with modern devices, the Fortitude60 utilizes a USB-C host connection.
  • Open Source: Being fully open-sourced, users have access to the complete design files and can contribute improvements or customizations.

For more detailed technical specifications or to access the open-source resources, users can visit the GitHub repository.

Buy or Build

One of the most appealing aspects of the Fortitude60 is its do-it-yourself (DIY) nature. Enthusiasts can either purchase pre-assembled versions or build the keyboard from scratch using the available resources. The comprehensive build guide provides step-by-step instructions, making it accessible for both seasoned builders and newcomers.

This flexibility allows users to engage with their keyboards on a personal level, customizing the design to fit their specific needs and preferences.
Why not go crazy with your choice of case color, keycaps, and LED lighting?

Similar Keyboards

Keyboards that share similar characteristics with the Fortitude60 include:

  • Avalanche: The Avalanche is an ergonomic split keyboard featuring a 4×6 (or 3×6) column staggered key layout, equipped with 5 thumb keys, an additional pinky key, and 2 extra keys for the index finger. Depending on the variant, it accommodates between 50 and 64 keys.

  • ErgoDash: The ErgoDash is a split keyboard boasting a columnar layout that operates on the QMK firmware, allowing for advanced customization.

  • Ergotravel: The Ergotravel is a portable ergonomic split keyboard inspired by designs such as the ErgoDox, Let’s Split, and Minidox, emphasizing ease of use on the go.

For additional insights into the Fortitude60 keyboard, you can visit the GitHub repository. If you’re looking for guidance on assembling the keyboard, you can refer to the build guide.