Key Takeaways
1. Chilkey’s ND104 full-size mechanical keyboard will launch on Kickstarter on October 15 at 10 AM EST.
2. Two models will be available: ND104 Lite with multiple color options and ND104 Ultra in Shadow Black.
3. Customization options include different PCB thicknesses and aluminum or polycarbonate plates available as add-ons.
4. Early bird pricing starts at $169 for ND104 Lite and $189 for ND104 Ultra, with limited quantities for each tier.
5. The keyboard features tri-mode connectivity, a built-in calculator display, and a modular design for customizable components.
Beijing-based Chilkey has revealed that its ND104 full-size mechanical keyboard will be launching on Kickstarter on October 15 at 10 AM EST. This marks the beginning of their first significant crowdfunding effort. The ND104, which was initially hinted at in September, features a high-quality aluminum construction, quiet switches, a distinctive built-in calculator display, and a range of customization choices.
Editions and Color Options
The Kickstarter campaign will present two main models – the ND104 Lite and the ND104 Ultra. While they share the same layout and internal configuration, they differ in their finishes and color selections. The ND104 Lite will be available in Lumen Yellow, Sky Blue, Lunar White, Soft Pink, and Gunmetal Gray. In contrast, the ND104 Ultra will only be offered in Shadow Black.
For those outside the U.S., Chilkey has announced that an ISO layout will be available, but only in the Gunmetal Gray variant at launch. All six colors will be provided in an ANSI layout for U.S. customers.
Customization and Pricing
The keyboard will come with options for PCB thickness of 1.2 mm and 1.6 mm, and Chilkey intends to sell both versions as separate add-ons. The same goes for the aluminum and polycarbonate (PC) plates, which will be available in both ANSI and ISO formats.
Early supporters can take advantage of several limited pricing tiers for both versions. The ND104 Lite starts at $169, with the first 200 backers offered a choice between two free gifts – either an $89 keycap set or over 105 extra switches. This same price applies to an additional 500 units without add-ons, followed by higher tiers at $179 and $189, each limited to 1,000 units.
Final Pricing Structure
The ND104 Ultra follows a similar pricing structure, starting at $189 for the first 200 units, which also includes the free gift options. Subsequent batches will be priced at $189, $199, and $209, with limits of either 500 or 1,000 units depending on the tier.
Both versions will go live through their official Kickstarter page when the campaign kicks off on October 15.
To recap, the ND104 is designed with a full aluminum frame, tri-mode connectivity (USB-C, Bluetooth 5.4, and 2.4GHz wireless), and features a built-in calculator key and display situated above the numpad. It employs WS Breeze and Silent Linear switches for a quieter typing experience and includes various internal dampening layers to minimize noise. The keyboard also has modular design aspects, allowing users to remove or replace the LCD, keys, and knob based on their layout preferences.
In the end, the Kickstarter campaign will shape the final production run and the shipping schedule for early backers. Links for both the ND104 Lite and ND104 Ultra will be activated when the campaign launches on October 15 at 10 AM EST.
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