We spend a lot of time typing on keyboards, whether it is your desktop computer, your tablet, or texting on your cellphone. If you’re tired of your traditional keyboard, check out these five variations and see what appeals to your taste.
1. The world’s thinnest wireless keyboard
Cambridge CSR has just developed a flexible keyboard that’s less than 0.5 mm thick and really shows off advances in printable electronics.
The keyboard can be integrated into a protective cover, added to a tablet, or even slipped behind the pages of a notebook to pick up writing and sketches from a modified pen. Don’t look for it on the market yet though. The prototype will be unveiled for the first time in the middle of September, but it will take another year to hit the market.
2. A programmer’s dream mechanical keyboard
Two computer programmers, Jeff Atwood and Weyman Kwong, have created a keyboard that’s designed to appeal to programmers. It uses rare Cherry MX Clear mechanical key switches that are unique because they combine solid force with quiet non-click activation.
The keyboard is equipped with a ton of shortcuts so six keys can be pressed at one time (called a 6-Key USB Rollover), but this doesn’t include the standard Ctrl, Alt, and Delete buttons, so technically you can press up to nine keys at once. The CODE keyboard weighs about 2.5 lbs and has a dual-layer PCB with strong solder joints in case you feel like modifying the keyboard yourself. Purchase the CODE for $149.99.
3. A keyboard with mini-LCD screens for keys
Here’s a keyboard that transforms each one of your keys into tiny video screens. The keys on the Optimus Popularis are standalone displays that can be programmed for any language or alternate character set. The images on the keys can even change dynamically. Purchase one for a little over $1,000.
4. A keyboard that projects onto any surface
Who needs to carry around a keyboard, when you can just project one onto any surface? The I-Tech Bluetooth Virtual Laser Keyboard uses a 3.5-inch device to project an infrared full-sized keyboard onto any flat surface. Purchase one for a little over $225.
5. A keyboard that looks like it has melted
Why would someone want a keyboard that looks like it has melted? Well, those who suffer from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and other wrist-related injuries can agree that typing can be a stressful and painful task. The Kinesis Advantage aims to allow users to type in the natural curl position. Commonly used keys will still appear under the thumb though. Purchase one for about $300 (prices vary depending on style).
There you have it. You're not stuck with your boring old keyboard any longer.
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