Peripheral manufacturer Vantex has revealed its latest hardware project, the V1, bringing an integrated central touchpad directly into a split mechanical keyboard layout. Designed to eliminate the need for an external mouse during everyday computing tasks, the device houses a 45 by 45 millimetres touch-sensitive surface squarely between the two typing halves. The hardware measures 30.74 by 13.74 by 3.48 centimetres, weighs roughly 1.57 kilograms, and sits at a rearward incline of seven degrees.
Built into a CNC-machined aluminium chassis with a powder-coated finish, the keyboard offers 60 keys distributed across four programmable layers. The typing experience relies on gasket-mounted construction to cushion keystrokes, paired with white linear switches boasting an actuation force of 42 grams of force and a rated lifespan of 50 million clicks. Enthusiasts can replace the switches without soldering, and the dye-sublimated PBT keycaps are fully customizable via an interchangeable keycap set. Noticeably absent from the layout is Microsoft's dedicated Copilot key, a design choice likely to attract users seeking a conventional productivity setup.
Connectivity across the lineup spans USB-C, Bluetooth, and 2.4 GHz wireless options, though the wireless variant currently features a 4,000 mAh battery that remains under evaluation by the manufacturer. Vantex has listed the wired package starting at $129 on Kickstarter, while the wireless version starts at $159. Prospective backers should note that the wireless model is still actively in development, and crowdfunding initiatives inherently carry risks regarding shipping timelines, component availability, and final product delivery.
Vantex Introduces Split Mechanical Keyboard with Built-In Touchpad
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