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μTRON Keyboard Review

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utron keyboard
“μTRON Keyboard” img src
utron keyboard 02
“μTRON Keyboard”

This is a excellent design. The only design issue i found is that it doesn't have dedicated function keys. The function keys are merged with the number keys. However, the other quality design makes up for it. (For why dedicated function is important, see: Function Keys in Computer Keyboard. For why the μTron is a excellent design, see: Keyboard Hardware Design Flaws.)

The key switch mechanism is Topre switch. 〔☛ Guide to Computer Keyboard Key Switch Mechanisms

utron keyboard 06
excellent quality LEDs.
utron keyboard 09
A keyboard with such a physical logo on it means it's EXPENSIVE. Also, here you can see the quality of the keycap labels. Probably by a process called Dye Sublimation, a very expensive process. The label will NEVER rub out because it's part of the plastic.

μTRON Keyboard Layout

Here's its manual utron_keyboard_manual.pdf.

utron keyboard layout normal mode
Normal mode.
utron keyboard layout tron mode
TRON mode.

μTRON vs Happy Hacking

μTRON compared with Happy Hacking (HHKB) Keyboard.

utron vs hhkb keyboard 1
The μTRON is slightly smaller. Note that, the width of four keys (ASDF) on HHKB measures 7.5 cm, but 6.8 cm on the μTRON.
utron vs hhkb keyboard 2
Sizes of Keys, and also showing the Topre key switch underneath. 〔☛ Guide to Computer Keyboard Key Switch Mechanisms
utron vs hhkb keyboard 3

Video Intro & Official Website

〈はじめてみようμTRONキーボード〉

Official website: www.personal-media.co.jp.

The list price is JPY$52500, which is about USD$570.

Where to Buy

Here's ways you can buy it:

Unboxing

utron keyboard 03
utron keyboard 04
utron keyboard 05
utron keyboard 10

All the big photos are by the keyboard expert webwit, at http://webwit.nl/input/utron/ and http://forum.hardware.fr/hfr/HardwarePeripheriques/Clavier-Souris/unique-clavier-mecanique-sujet_6902_27.htm. Used with permission. Thank you very much webwit for real quality photos.

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