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Sofle

The Sofle keyboard.

Sofle Keyboard

Overview

The Sofle keyboard is an innovative split keyboard designed to enhance ergonomic typing while offering customizable features and a compact layout. Drawing inspiration from popular split keyboards such as Lily58, Crkbd, and Helix, the Sofle provides a unique typing experience tailored for enthusiasts and professionals alike. Fully open sourced and supported by a dedicated community, the Sofle keyboard promises versatility and adaptability for all types of users.

Design and Layout

The design of the Sofle keyboard centers around its split structure, allowing for a more natural hand positioning during typing. Each half of the keyboard maintains a symmetrical layout, which is beneficial for reducing strain on the hands and wrists. The key matrix consists of 4 rows and 6 columns, making it compact yet functional. Additionally, the columnar staggered layout provides a more aligned finger movement compared to traditional keyboards, which can lead to improved typing comfort.

The keyboard features 58 keys in total, with each half including 3 keys specifically designed for thumb access. This thoughtful design caters to the natural positioning of the hands while promoting efficiency.

A top-down view showing a variation of the Sofle keyboard. Licensed under MIT. Source

A top-down view showing a variation of the Sofle keyboard. Licensed under MIT. Source

Features

One of the standout features of the Sofle keyboard is its mechanical switch compatibility. Users can choose between hot-swappable Cherry MX and Kailh Choc switches, offering flexibility in typing feel and sound. This allows users to customize their setup according to their preferences or needs.

The Sofle is connected through a TRRS cable between the two halves, ensuring a reliable and stable connection. Additionally, the keyboard is compatible with all operating systems, making it a versatile choice for users across different platforms.

Being fully open-sourced under the MIT license, the Sofle encourages community involvement and allows users to modify and share their own designs and firmware. This openness fosters innovation and ongoing development, making it a continually evolving product.

Buy or Build

Interested users have the option to either buy a pre-assembled version or undertake the DIY experience to build their own Sofle keyboard. The build guide available at Sofle Keyboard Build Guide provides comprehensive instructions for those opting to construct the keyboard from scratch. This DIY route not only allows for full customization of the keyboard’s components but also provides a rewarding project for hardware enthusiasts.

A detailed view of half the Sofle keyboard. Licensed under MIT. Source

A detailed view of half the Sofle keyboard. Licensed under MIT. Source

Similar Keyboards

Keyboards that share similarities with the Sofle keyboard include:

  • Pinky4: The Pinky4 is a split mechanical keyboard featuring a layout with 4 x 7 columnar staggered keys and 4 thumb keys, making it a great alternative for ergonomic typing.

  • Lily58: Among makers, the Lily58 is a popular choice, known for its column-staggered design and split configuration, providing comfort and customization options.

  • Pinky3: The Pinky3 is a split keyboard with a layout of 3×7 columnar staggered keys and 4 thumb keys, offering a compact and ergonomic typing experience.

For additional information on the Sofle keyboard, you can visit the Sofle Keyboard GitHub. A comprehensive build guide is also available at Sofle Keyboard Build Guide.