5×6‑Split‑KB (rev1)
An ergonomic split keyboard designed for comfort, low height, and simplicity—without thumb clusters or wrist rests.
Design Philosophy
After using the Planck keyboard for over 10 years, I found that common shortcuts—especially involving numbers—often require awkward finger gymnastics. This keyboard is an attempt to create something more comfortable and intuitive in those situations.
I also chose to remove the thumb cluster entirely, as I personally don't find them ergonomic. This layout avoids strain and keeps all keys within easy reach of the fingers.
Key ergonomic decisions include:
- Low Profile: With a total height of just 19.4 mm, no wrist rest is needed.
- Split Layout: Modeled after the Ergodox, allowing natural shoulder-width hand positioning.
- No Thumb Cluster: Reduces thumb strain by omitting thumb-specific keys.
Specifications
- Layout: 5 rows × 6 columns per side (ortholinear grid)
- Total Height: 19.4 mm
- Split Connection: TRRS 3.5mm audio cable (easy to find and replace)
- Microcontroller: Raspberry Pi Pico (one per half)
- PCB: Reversible; same board used for both left and right
- Assembly Method:
- Held together with 2×4 mm magnets
- Requires super glue for final enclosure fit
Ordering Info
- You'll need to order 2× copies of the same PCB
- Designed for AISLER, but probably compatible with other PCB manufacturers.
- On aisler you can simply upload the kicad pcb file directly.
Image Gallery
Click to view:
🔗 Firmware
Firmware is based on QMK.
A link to the readme file will be added here as soon as he firmware branch is merged into the main repository.