Keychron Orca Echo split ergonomic keyboard revealed

Keychron announced the Orca Echo, a 49-key split ergonomic keyboard using a columnar stagger layout. The device includes a trackball and a roller under the right thumb, plus two touch-sensitive scroll pads located above the left-side caps key and the right-side B key. Keychron says the keyboard uses a new Nova socket design to allow for a lower-profile build than traditional sockets. While it supports both low-profile and full-height MX switches, users must swap the plate to switch between the two profiles. These new Keychron switches are incompatible with Keychron Milk POM switches.

Image: TechPowerUp

The keyboard connects via USB-C, 2.4 GHz, or Bluetooth, and the two halves connect to each other wirelessly. It uses ZMK firmware and is compatible with Keychron Launcher software. Reports say the keyboard features an ABS plastic case and an aluminum switch plate. For ergonomics, the halves include fold-out feet for tenting and magnets to snap the two sides together. Keychron offers the keyboard with linear or tactile switches. A $5 reservation program ends on November 17, though Keychron has not announced a price or release date.