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stront

The stront keyboard.

The Stront Keyboard: A New Dimension in Typing Ergonomics

Overview

The Stront keyboard represents an innovative approach to ergonomic typing, being a split columnar stagger keyboard featuring 38 keys and a unique combination of functionalities. Designed with modern users in mind, it includes an LCD display and a Cirque trackpad, making it versatile for various tasks. This keyboard is fully open-sourced under the MIT license, allowing users to modify and adapt it to their needs.

Design and Layout

At first glance, the Stront’s design stands out due to its split configuration. Each half of the keyboard is designed asymmetrically, which deviates from the more traditional symmetric splits that many keyboard enthusiasts have come to expect. This non-standard layout may take some time for users to adapt to, but it aims to enhance ergonomics by placing the keys in a more natural hand position.

The layout is columnar, meaning that keys are aligned in vertical columns rather than staggered offsets typical of conventional keyboards. This design is pronounced and aims to reduce finger movement, making typing more efficient. Each half includes three dedicated keys for the thumbs, providing easy access to important commands and functions.

Multiple top-down views of the stront keyboard showcasing different variations. Licensed under MIT. Source

Multiple top-down views of the stront keyboard showcasing different variations. Licensed under MIT. Source

Features

The Stront keyboard is rich with features tailored to enhance user experience. A key highlight is its hot-swappable Kailh Choc switches, which give users the flexibility to change out switches easily according to their preferences for feel and responsiveness. The integration of a Cirque trackpad adds a modern touch, allowing for smooth navigation without the need for an external mouse.

With a total of 38 keys, it may seem limited, but the design is focused on functionality, ensuring that each key’s placement enhances productivity. Additionally, the keyboard connects via two USB-C ports, one for each half, enabling simple connectivity to multiple systems.

The companion LCD display is another standout feature, providing users with quick access to information and system notifications, which can streamline workflows significantly.

Buy or Build

Potential users of the Stront keyboard face an interesting decision: to purchase a pre-built version or embark on a DIY journey. The keyboard is fully open-sourced, and detailed build guides are available on the official GitHub repository (https://github.com/zzeneg/stront/tree/main/build-guide). This allows tech enthusiasts and DIY purists to create a custom keyboard that meets their unique needs.

However, for those who prefer convenience and are not as experienced with keyboard construction, seeking a commercially assembled model might be a more accessible option. This versatility caters to a broad range of users from hobbyists to everyday professionals.

Multiple top-down views of the stront keyboard showcasing different variations. Licensed under MIT. Source

Multiple top-down views of the stront keyboard showcasing different variations. Licensed under MIT. Source

Similar Keyboards

Keyboards that are similar to the Stront keyboard include:

  • Pinci: The Pinci keyboard is an ultra-thin split keyboard featuring a 34-key columnar layout with two thumb keys.

  • Buzzard: The Buzzard is an ergonomic split keyboard with a unique 40-key layout that incorporates columnar staggering with a splayed design.

  • Kaly: The Kaly is a compact, split ergonomic keyboard boasting 42 keys, focused on being affordable and beginner-friendly.

For more information on the Stront keyboard, visit the GitHub repository. You can also find the comprehensive build guide here.