Keyboard Builders Digest #211: Switch sales, Epomaker HE68 Lite review, open source Levels54
This weekly keyboard newsletter highlights community favorites from April vendor sales data, reviews the budget magnetic Epomaker HE68 Lite and the wireless KiiBOOM Phantom 98 Lite with froggy keycaps, and announces the Levels54 dual-trackball wireless split keyboard is now fully open source. It also features modular ortholinear boards, handwired split keyboards, and custom keycap art.
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AI CuratedModder Creates Affordable Open-Source Hall Effect Split Ergonomic Keyboard
The Silakka54 HE is an open-source adaptation of the Silakka54 split mechanical keyboard, featuring 54 keys in a 6x4 layout plus thumb clusters, Hall effect switches, an RP2040 Zero MCU, QMK firmware, and VIAL configuration. It is wired and connects halves with a TRRS cable. The project offers a more affordable third-party split Hall effect keyboard option.
Modders Bypass RTX 5090's Melting Connector Issue by Soldering Wires Directly to the PCB
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RAWM eSports Debuts Nyx60 Gaming Keyboard with Light-Guided Optical Switches
RAWM's Nyx60 is a full aluminum keyboard using optical switches, claiming 0.01mm actuation precision and rapid trigger. It will launch on Kickstarter on September 3 with an early bird price of $99 (MSRP $199). The company says optical switches offer more stable actuation than magnetic HE switches.
(PR) Attack Shark Unveils R86 HE Carbon Fiber Magnetic Switch Gaming Keyboard
The R86 HE features a carbon fiber composite top case, magnetic switches, and Hi-fi acoustic design. It is a 82-key gaming keyboard scheduled for release on September 7, 2026.