There are some things in life that one should absolutely pay good money for: shoes, cars, bras, and keyboards. Most agree with the first three, yet often overlook the last. If you’re one that spends many working hours typing at a computer, a quality keyboard absolutely improves the experience. The latest offering also happens to excel in customization, comfort, and compatibility. The compact Keychron K12 keyboard works wired or wirelessly, with the option for hot-swappable optical or mechanical key switches.

Many keyboards come as-is with a “one size fits all” approach. It’s more or less the standard, given typical plug-and-play demands. However, the Keychron K12 switches things up by offering both optical and mechanical key options. Users preferring low-latency precision can select from five different optical key switches. Those who want reliability and tactile responsiveness can consider three different mechanical key switches. And with the hot-swappable option, users can choose how “clicky” or quiet the K12 is. Keys can mix and match individually (limited only by optical for optical, mechanical for mechanical) to suit needs or preferences.

At 60% size, which makes it great for travel and/or tight spaces, the Keychron K12 is the company’s compact keyboard. Although optimized with Mac users in mind (e.g. provides essential access via combination keypresses), the K12 works equally well with Windows OS, Linux, and Android. Bluetooth 5.1 wireless allows users to pair up to three separate devices at the same time. The Keychron K12 also features a USB-C cable for a reliable connection (13 ms latency, versus 30 ms latency for Bluetooth) and battery charging.

With its 4000 mAh battery, this keyboard can operate for up to 570 hours on a single charge (non-backlit version). The backlit version (white and RGB) of the Keychron K12 can last up to 240 hours; still quite impressive. Those who prefer color can enjoy 15 types of RGB backlight settings, which include options to adjust lighting color, speed, direction, brightness, and more. On top of that customization, the K12 offers keycap sets as optional add-ons.

The Keychron K12 keyboard campaign is currently funding on Kickstarter. More than 600 backers have helped raise over US$68 thousand dollars in a day. The campaign still has 29 days left of funding to go. Pledges start at $49 for a non-backlit K12 keyboard and $59 for backlit. Options include optical and mechanical, hot-swappable and not hot-swappable. If everything goes according to schedule, backers can expect shipments to start June 2021.

Source: Kickstarter