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Helix

Helix Keyboard: An In-Depth Look

Overview

The Helix is a split ortholinear keyboard, designed with efficiency and ergonomics in mind. It’s fully open-sourced under the MIT license, allowing users to explore its design and functionality freely. With a total of 64 keys, the Helix provides an intuitive typing experience optimized for both productivity and comfort. More details about the Helix can be found on its official GitHub page.

Design and Layout

The Helix features a split design that is symmetrical, making it more comfortable for a range of users. Each half of the keyboard utilizes an ortholinear layout, which means the keys are arranged in a grid rather than staggered, as found in traditional keyboards. This results in a logical key placement that minimizes finger movement. There are 5 rows and 6 columns, along with 2 thumb keys on each half, allowing for both accessibility and ease of use.

The keyboard halves are connected via a TRRS (Tip-Ring-Ring-Sleeve) cable, reinforcing the stability of the connection while maintaining a neat setup. This split design not only helps to reduce strain on the wrists but also allows for posture adjustments to suit individual preferences.

Features

One of the standout features of the Helix is its compatibility with hot-swappable mechanical switches, including options for Alps, Cherry MX, and Kailh Choc switches. This allows users to easily change out switches without soldering, offering a customizable typing experience tailored to personal preferences regarding tactile feedback and sound.

Another important aspect of the Helix is its open-source nature, inviting enthusiasts to dive into its code and hardware design. The full documentation, including a comprehensive build guide, is available through its GitHub repository.

The Helix is designed to work across all operating systems, ensuring versatility and inclusivity. Despite being wired, its design allows for effective use in various setups, appealing to programmers, writers, and keyboard enthusiasts alike.

Buy or Build

Potential users face the choice of either buying a pre-assembled Helix keyboard or building one from scratch. The open-source nature of the Helix: provides all the necessary files and instructions to construct it, making it an enticing project for DIY enthusiasts. The community surrounding the Helix can offer support and advice, ensuring a collaborative building experience.

For those who prefer convenience, completed versions may also be available through various online platforms. Each option offers its unique advantages; building the keyboard allows for personalization in both aesthetics and functionality, while purchasing can save time and effort.

Similar Keyboards

Keyboards that are similar to the Helix include:

  • Lily58: The Lily58 is a popular split keyboard among makers, featuring a column-staggered layout for a comfortable typing experience. More information is available on its GitHub page.

  • Pinky4: This split mechanical keyboard features four 7-column staggered key sections along with four thumb keys, allowing for a versatile typing position. Detailed information can be found on its GitHub page.

  • Sofle: Based on the designs of the Lily58, Crkbd, and Helix keyboards, the Sofle offers a split keyboard experience with enhanced functionality. More details can be discovered on its GitHub page.

For additional information about the Helix keyboard, you can visit its GitHub repository. If you are interested in building your own Helix, the detailed build guide is also available.