Oneplus and Keychron have opened the orders for Oneplus’ unusual keyboard. The Keyboard 81 Pro is unusual because the brand is actually known for smartphones. The cooperation with Keychron results in a custom keyboard that will be delivered from July 26, 2023. The price is 250 euros, which is not unusual in the niche market of custom keyboards.
Oneplus opted for the 75 percent format for the first keyboard. This is relatively compact and does without the special keys and number block. However, the F keys, an arrow key block and four additional keys remain. The Keyboard 81 Pro also integrates a volume knob. All keys can be configured via QMK/VIA.
ANSI layout only
The keyboard is reminiscent of the Keychron Q1 with Oneplus branding. We see this above all in the colored Enter and Escape keys. The keycaps are made of PBT plastic. However, Oneplus currently only offers the ANSI layout with a smaller enter key. The keys can be programmed accordingly using software, so that even German-speaking users can quickly get to grips with them.
The switchplate is inserted using gaskets and is intended to provide a softer typing experience. In addition, the housing shell is lined with dampening foam. The tip sound should sound duller and deeper. Switches can also be exchanged using hot swap without soldering.
Oneplus offers the Keyboard 81 Pro in two colors: with blue or red keycaps. Switches and keycaps are also available for 250 euros. So the keyboard seems to have a good price-performance ratio compared to other custom keyboards.