Designing an ergonomic, low-profile mechanical keyboard concept

lowkey Keyboard - A compact wireless keyboard that uses low-profile mechanical switches for precise typing and ergonomics.

An orthographic render of the keyboard in fresh avocado green. The pastel colors take a step away from gaming-oriented hardware in order to make the device more accessible.

Device description

Lowkey is a low-profile wireless keyboard concept that houses a built in battery and mechanical switches. It strives for better ergonomics than a regular full-size keyboard with smaller frame size and lower height. Despite the lower height it houses mechanical switches for precise typing. The integrated lithium-ion battery guarantees a long battery life for wireless connection and can be charged with an USB-C cable.

The keyboard has multiple color options and three different switch types to choose from: the tactile brown, linear red and clicky blue. The function keys can be accessed by holding down the fn-button and pressing the corresponding number key.

The top frame is made from slightly textured ABS, the injection molded keycaps are PBT and the stiff bottom plate is milled aluminium alloy 6061. In between are sandwiched the FR4 PCB, the switches, and the battery.

The internal battery can be charged with a removable USB-C cable.

A breakdown showing the internal mechanical construction of the keyboard. The keyboard was designed with manufacturing in mind.

A side breakdown illustrating how the device is assembled. The assembled height is lower compared to traditional mechanical keyboards.

Date: 06/2020

Tags: Industrial Design, Rendering