Key Takeaways
1. Dual-Action Key Mechanism: The Hesper64(100) keyboard features dual-action keys that allow for both main and secondary character inputs without needing the Shift or FN key.
2. Custom Switches and Durability: It uses custom Tecsee linear switches with a lifespan of 50 million strokes, low-profile keycaps made from durable dye-sublimated PBT, and supports N-key rollover.
3. Lighting and Programmability: The keyboard offers 15 lighting presets for key areas and 5 for the edge light strip, with QMK/VIA programmability for custom macros and key remapping.
4. Connectivity Options: It supports multiple connection types, including Bluetooth 5.3, 2.4 GHz wireless, and USB-C wired, with a 3,000 mAh battery for wireless use.
5. Kickstarter Launch: Nics Tek plans to launch a Kickstarter campaign in July, offering the keyboard in Misty Night and Sand Beige, with a presale price starting at $169.
Nics Tek has shared more information about its new Hesper64(100) keyboard, which features dual-action keys that allow this 64-key compact keyboard to function like a 100-key keyboard. The special dual-action key mechanism was previously discussed in this article.
Specifications of the Keys
The low-profile keys come with custom Tecsee linear switches, which have an activation point of 1.7 mm +/- 0.3, requiring a force of 40 gf +/- 10 gf, and a total travel of 3.4 mm +/- 0.2 mm, utilizing 15 mm springs. Each key is designed to last for 50 million strokes and supports N-key rollover. The keycaps are made from dye-sublimated PBT, ensuring durability. The keyboard’s PCB is placed on an IPXE switch pad and case foam, situated above an ABS bottom case. CR PCB foam is positioned between the PCB and the top aluminum frame.
Unique Dual-Action Features
Several keys feature a unique dual-action design that allows pressing the lower part of a key to input the main character, while pressing the upper part, called the Gemini key, inputs a secondary character, eliminating the need for the Shift or FN key. The Gemini keycaps are translucent, which enhances visibility of backlighting and helps differentiate them from the primary key.
Users can swap out the single-action keycaps with low-profile keycaps from third-party vendors. If preferred, the dual-action keys can also be exchanged for single-action keys. However, the current PCB only supports the company’s custom-designed switches for now.
Lighting and Connectivity Options
The keyboard features 15 presets for key-area lighting effects and five for the edge light strip. It offers QMK/VIA programmability, which allows for custom macro programming, key remapping, and lighting effects in a palette of 16.8 million colors.
The Hesper64(100) comes with adjustable feet that allow users to tilt the keyboard at angles of 3.5 and 8.5 degrees. It is compatible with devices running Android, Apple, and Windows. The 3,000 mAh lithium battery enables wireless operation with up to three paired Bluetooth 5.3 devices. Additionally, it supports 2.4 GHz wireless and USB-C wired connections. The polling rates are 125 Hz for Bluetooth (<10 ms), 1,000 Hz for 2.4 GHz (<5 ms), and 1,000 Hz for wired (<3 ms). The dimensions of the keyboard are 299 x 118 x 14 mm (11.8 x 4.6 x 0.6 in.), and it weighs 0.55 kg (1.21 lbs).
Nics Tek plans to launch a Kickstarter campaign for the Hesper64(100) in Misty Night and Sand Beige this July. Potential buyers can secure a presale price starting at $169, which is a discount from the $239 MSRP.
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