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Comment by Ladsko | Hacker News Reader

I've been tinkering with my own keyboard layout:

https://ladsko.github.io/hexed/

It's hexagonal, compact and optimized for German and English thanks to noted (https://dariogoetz.github.io/noted-layout/)

Right now I'm testing key shapes and sizes and the manufacturing of key caps. I thought I needed a resin printer for best results but FDM printed caps with a blob of epoxy resin on top works surprisingly well.

There's no firmware yet, I have not even decided on a micro-controller or software. But I want to use Kailh Choc v1.

This is my first time exposing this project to the public so I'll be very happy about some feedback!

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This looks really cool!

What's the "up/down" key in the bottom row, centre, between the 2 return/enter keys? (I ask because my "dream" keyboard would have a thumbwheel just below/between the 2 spaces bars on an Alice layout keyboard) EDIT: it's a toggle key.

The different heights and layout look interesting; did you perform any statistical examination of which symbol keys were most used? Are you intending on using QMK layers to enter the extra symbols?

Can your fingers accurately hit all those modifier keys? Does that layout lead to less or more pinky usage? (I'm terrible at hitting other keys, I'm just a clumsy person)

Thanks!

That would be the perfect spot for a thumb wheel, it's a cool idea.

I myself did not do any statistical analysis, the effort was done by the neo layout project (https://www.neo-layout.org/) and the hybrid English/German variety called noted. I modified it slightly to fit my hex grid.

The height difference makes it possible to hit the edge of the key without pressing the key below. And you'll find the home row more easily just from the bent layout shape. This should also help with hitting the right modifiers.

I want to try Jan Lunge's Keyboard configurator (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RtYJYFMWjNM) for KMK but have not made a final decision. If I hit a road block with his configurator I might try QMK. Either software supports layers.

Yours is about the most innovative keyboard I've seen in a while. Good luck with it, I wish you every success :)

It looks awesome. Like a prop from a sci-fi movie!

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