Kinesis 360 Keyboard
- Kinesis 360 is the next generation of the Kinesis Advantage2 Keyboard.
- Kinesis 360 is announced in 2021 and shipping began in 2022-09.
- Total of 76 keys
- keyboard weight: 1.45 kg (3.2 pounds).
Kinesis 360 (wired) vs Kinesis 360 Pro (wireless)
There are two versions:
- Kinesis 360 (USB wired. With SmartSet firmware.)
- Kinesis 360 pro (Bluetooth. With ZMK firmware.)
Difference Between Kinesis 360 USB vs Kinesis 360 Pro
They are physically the same, but are completely different in their software setup and key-remap features.
| Kinesis 360 | Kinesis 360 pro | |
|---|---|---|
| connection | USB wired | Bluetooth |
| firmware | SmartSet | ZMK |
| programing keys |
• on-the-fly remap • on-the-fly macro • graphical user interface app • easy to use |
• website configurator • powerful open source ZMK firmware • harder to use. |
| backlight | no | Yes ✅ |
| misc | support kinesis foot pedal |
The version reviewed here is the 360 USB.
Video Review
USB Ports
Comes with two cables.
- The main cable, is USB-A to USB-C. Braided cable.
- The link cable, linking two keyboard modules, is USB-C to USB-C. Braided cable.
Each module has 2 USB-C ports at the back.
The linking cable connects to the two ports in middle. The main cable connects to the right module.
Dish Surface of Keys
The keys form a concave dish surface, so that your fingers dip in on it.
Thumb Keys
Most frequently used keys are at the thumb area. Thumb is the most muscular and flexible finger.
Key Switches
The keyboard comes with choice of
- Tactile Gateron “brown” (55g) Switch [see Gateron Switches]
- Linear Kailh BOX “pink” (35g) Switch [see Kailh BOX Switch] (I have this switch. i recommend this switch.)
Optionally, you can choose other switches, by shopping for the “Advantage360 Signature Series” on their website. Essentially it's built-to-order.
Keycaps
- Keycaps are PBT plastic. (Excellent. Does not develop shine) [see Keycap Material: ABS, PBT, PVC, POM]
- Key labels are done by dye sublimation. (Excellent. Never wear off.) [see Key Label Printing Tech]
Included extra keycaps.
Adjustable Tenting
The keyboard can be tented in 3 levels.
Metal prop stand at the back, has 3 levels of rachet-like mechanism. Press the button at the bottom to release the lock, then you can raise the metal stand 2 more levels higher, in total of 3 height adjustments.
Fixed Configuration
included is a plastic snap-on bar that holds the two modules together for a fixed configuration.
Magnetic, Detachable Palm Rest
(sold separately.)
Profiles and Layers
A profile is a set of configuration.
- 10 Available Profiles
- Profile 0 is not programmable
By default, there are 3 layers: base, number pad, and fn layer. You can program more layers.
you can program the keyboard layout to Dvorak or Colemak [see Ergonomic Keyboard Layouts]
On-The-Fly Key Remap and Macro (Driverless Programable Keys)
- You can remap a key by just pressing a few keys. For example, make the Home key send Ctrl+c for copy.
- You can also record a macro a key by just pressing keys.
No need to install or launch any software.
SmartSet App
SmartSet App is a software with graphical user interface to program the keys. Available for Microsoft Windows and Mac. You download it from their website.
The user interface is ok.
The programability is fairly extensive.
- You can program 9 profiles.
- Each profile can have 3 or more layers.
More Photos
Design Advantages
The curved surface and thumb for modifier keys are great design. I've been using Kinesis Advantage2 Keyboard for 7 years.
- The curved surface let your fingers dip in naturally, sans bending up.
- The thumb modifier keys let you easily type key combinations.
for why, see
Microsoft Windows, Mac, Linux Support
- Yes. Plug and Play.
- No need to install software to use keyboard.
- No need to install software to program keys. (for the Kinesis 360 USB version.)
- Optionally, you can insall the SmartSet software, for graphical remapping the keys.
How long does it take to get used to?
About 3 weeks. But if you have used grid layout before, you get used to right away. (grid layout means the key columns are straight lines.)
Vim / Emacs Keymap Recommendations
Difference Between Kinesis Advantage2 vs Kinesis 360
The new features in Kinesis 360 are:
- Split with adjustable tenting and orientation.
- Bluetooth wireless (the 360 pro version).
- Nice big fn key on both corners, for f1 f12 keys and layer.
- Looks more professional and quality.
- Much better palm rest (buy separately).
- A big key to toggle numberpad for number layer on right-hand-side.
Conclusion
I have been using the previous version the Kinesis Advantage2 Keyboard for over 6 years.
This improves several aspects of the previous version.
- The choice of the linear light switch (at 35g), is BEST. Because when you have Repetitive Strain Injury, you must have very light switches. Before, the lightest switch you can get is Cherry MX Red Silent at 45g.
- Increased number of full-sized keys. Before, it's 68. Now, 76. Now, you have corner keys so you can apply palm press. [see How to Press Control Key (Palm-Control)] Also, you have 4 extra blank keys, you can set them to be macro keys, such as copy, cut, paste, undo, or switch to your fav app by one key press. I also love now the full-sized number-pad toggle key. Now i use that frequently. (before, it's a tiny button. I basically never use.)
- Removed the tiny buttons for function keys. (i love physical functions keys, but i never used them on the previous model because they are tiny, and in rows without gaps so you cannot hit the right key without looking.)
Other Good Parts
- You can program the keys without needing to install or start software.
- Highest quality physical build.
- Industrial design, indestructable. This keyboard can be part of military equipment.
Bad Parts
- Expensive.
- The adjustable feet is clunky.
Where to Buy
- Kinesis 360. USB wired. Linear Kailh BOX “pink” (35g) Switch Buy at amazon
- Kinesis 360. USB wired. Tactile Gateron “brown” (55g) Switch Buy at amazon
- Kinesis 360 Pro. Bluetooth wireless. Tactile Gateron “brown” (55g) Switch Buy at amazon