Group BuyKeyboards

Vertex Intro S100 | The Bigger the Better! | Pre-order date: Feb 05 2025

by ClickClack.io

$220.00

geekhackpolycarbonateenriched

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byClickClack.io

Description

INTRO S100
by TKD
Post edited by Click Clack

Hello everyone! Each time we embark on a new project, a variety of ideas are proposed regarding layout size options. However, considering the community's current preferences and trends in keyboard layouts, mainstream products often fail to offer a full range of choices. To address this, we aim to expand our design portfolio by introducing the new INTRO series, which will feature a variety of layout sizes to meet diverse needs.

Index

- Design Philosophy
- Design Concept
- Product Showcase
- Specifications
- Parts List
- Colorways
- Pricing and Vendors
- Follow the development

Design Philosophy

The S100 is a 100% full-size keyboard with a standard 104/108 layout (switchable), establishing the foundation for a modern keyboard configuration. This design was chosen as the starting point for our INTRO series.

As with our previous projects, our focus remains on creating exceptional typing tools for everyone. Combining a superior typing experience with high-quality craftsmanship has always been our guiding principle. This philosophy reflects our deep understanding of keyboards and is thoughtfully applied to every aspect of our designs.

Design Concept

The S100 features a classic upper- and lower-case design. To enhance its visual appeal, we have incorporated a color-matching approach for most variants, allowing us to explore more dynamic and engaging color combinations.

The S100 supports an additional four extended function keys with RGB through the front badge, effectively enabling it to achieve a 108-key layout in certain configurations.

"Bro, it's all good, but please hide the screws, and it will be even better." Was the main consensus when finalizing the designs, obviously we listened.

We implemented the Baionbolt system to conceal the screws, allowing the use of larger M2.5 screws. This enables a tighter lock between the upper and lower cases, utilizing the internal angled space for added stability.

However, we decided to retain the screws in the four bottom corners. This ensures that each corner of the keyboard is secured, providing an even lock between the upper and lower cases. Regardless of the internal locking screw configuration, it is not possible to place screw points at the keyboard's corners. Therefore, we had to adjust the screw points vertically along the left and right edges of the keyboard. However, due to the narrow border design of the S100, there isn't enough space for the screws in these two areas to be compatible with Baionbolt. Nonetheless, the screws can still be concealed beneath the feet.

Beneath its minimalist design, we incorporated ambient lighting on both the back and front of the S100 to enhance the atmosphere when using the keyboard at a desk.

We understand that many keyboard enthusiasts appreciate vibrant RGB effects, but we are also mindful of the potential for these effects to distract users and draw attention away from the keyboard itself. To strike a balance, we added a subtle, continuous light strip along the back side of the keyboard, which remains out of direct view. On the front, we included a centered light in the numpad area, serving both as a decorative element and as a distinct Num Lock indicator within the 10% section of the keyboard.

We believe that most users are familiar with the internal structure, the weight distribution of the bottom case, and the influence of materials on the keyboard's typing sound performance. For this iteration, we added two stainless steel inner weights to enhance the overall weight. Additionally, we experimented with using a polycarbonate (PC) material as the internal cover. This material serves as a medium for reflecting sound within the bottom case, effectively altering the keyboard's acoustic performance. In practice, this approach has proven to be both effective and efficient.

This time around, a golden finger contact points battery connection is introduced to our boards. This innovative feature will change the game when it comes to the connection of the battery component in mechanical keyboards now and down the line!

Product Showcase

All product images below are of the actual items. Due to lighting conditions and screen calibration, there may be slight color differences. These are for reference only.

Colorways

Anodized

Blank

Space

Navy

Wheat

Symbiotic

Monster

Fuji

Very Peri

Chinese Red

TKD Coating:

Starry

Cream

Rock

Sunflower

Gateway

Half Life

More Images

Specifications

Basic Information:

LAYOUT: 100% full size;
SIZE: 437.35x136.72x39.85mm;
FRONT HEIGHT:15.8mm/EKH=21.7mm (without feet);
MOUNTING: PCB gasket mount;
WEIGHT: ≈2450g(unbuild)/3000g(built);
MATERIALS: aluminum/SS/PC;
PCB: FR4, 1.6mm, non flex cuts;
FIRMWARE: VIA tri-mode (with 4400mAh) only;

Plates:

ALU

FR4

Layout Support:

Soldered:

Hot-Swapped:

Parts List:

Cases(top+bottom) x1set;
Internal weight(SS) x2;
PC internal cover x1;
PCB(with DB+2.4G deceiver) x1;
Plate x1;
Bumpons x1set;
PCB stabilizer (for full size) x1set;
Foam kits (plate/PE/case) x1set.

Groupbuy Information

Pricing:

All Colorways: $220
Hotswap PCB: +$10

GB Time: Feb 5th 2025 (8PM vendors local time)
Fulfillment Timeline: 2-3 months after GB conclusion (around mid 2Q2025)

Vendors