We are here with our second keyboard collaboration project with another Chinese design studio - Pixelspace.
Out of fascination with science fiction, Pixelspace incorporated lots of the related symbols into their designs. Endless, a sci-fi themed 80%/TKL keyboard, is their first project and has been loved and well-supported by enthusiasts.
On behalf of founder of Pixelspace, young777, please allow us to introduce Pixelspace's new sci-fi themed project, Capsule. (Kudos to York for support with renders here.)
Design
Capsule has been designed in the popular 65% layout, which is both compact and practical, and the overall style continues the sci-fi theme from Endless. The top right of the kit is adorned with a translucent power indicator LED nameplate to enhance the Capsule's recognizability and detail from the top. The sides feature a curved design that allows a smoother connection between the top and bottom, combined with a weightless bottom design, preserving the fluidity and consistency of the kit's look, contributing to a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. On the connector-side of the kit, we used a copper PVD mirror side strip with a recessed USB-C port module, which sets the tone of the kit to a more restrained, minimalistic style.
With the curved design and futuristic vibe, this project left the word "space capsule" deep inside my heart to be the name of this creation - thus, the "Capsule" was born.
Structure
The Capsule follows a 65% layout, and utilizes gasket mounting. We have chosen three different materials for the plate: FR4, PC, and POM. After giving serious consideration to the hardness of the plate and the gasket's material, thickness, density and compression ratio, we chose soft silicone as the gasket material, which not only creates a light feel and good flex, but also makes it easier to install. For the plate foam, we have chosen a 3.5mm high density Poron® foam, with a 0.5mm PE switch muting sheet.
For the case foam, we have two options: 1. 2.5mm high density Poron® foam, for a crisp and bright tone. 2. 1.5mm high density Poron® foam, which together provides a more muted sound.
Both options guarantee a soft and bouncy feel as well as making each keypress feel effortlessly powerful. In addition, to ensure the whole kit is beautiful and comfortable to use, we set the typing angle to 5°, to accommodate most enthusiasts' typing preferences.
PCB and Layout
Due to the constraints of the internal structure, the kit cannot be screw-free on the base. Thus, the kit uses stickers to conceal the screws on the bottom, which will be cleaner in terms of visual experience. However, the disassembly of the base still requires removing the foot stickers first (extra foot stickers will be provided). That being said, the kit will provide a hot swappable PCB with per-key RGB to reduce the chances of having to take apart the kit. Considering this advantage of hot swappable PCBs, as well as the convenience for enthusiasts to assemble it, we decided to sacrifice soldered PCBs and the greater range of layouts. The PCB will be 1.2mm thick; the thinner design will give the PCB more of a poppy feel to the overall kit. Stabilizer shims will be provided to compensate for the thinner PCB. PCB support QMK+VIA.
Product Photos
Prototype Photos from Pixelspace:
E-yellow Colorway photoed by Budianzai:
Black Anodized version:
What's Included
►Top and bottom case: Aluminum ►Curved front strip: PVD Brass ►Nameplate module: Aluminium ►USB-C port module: Aluminium
Some colors in render picture are for illustration only. ThreeFour colors will be available.
From top to bottom: ►Ice Blue ►Ivory ►Black ►E-Yellow
Sale Plan
Please note this is a sale plan and subject to change. Will be finalized when GB happens.
Sale format
Pixelspace's current plan is to offer Capsule in two rounds: ► R1 (In-stock): FCFS, around 200 in-stock units ready to ship ► R2 (Groupbuy): regular GB format with more configurable options and 18mm front height & 6 degree typing angle, including more layouts, soldering PCB, ai03 C3 Unified DB's Circuit and ESD Protection Solution
Estimate Pricing
► R1 (In-stock): Anodized version: ~$410, Electrophoresis: ~$430 ► R2 (Groupbuy): not finalized yet, but target to get them under $400
Interested?
Upholding our enthusiasm for custom keyboards, we are always willing to explore and work with everyone in the community!
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