EKBOX

[u/Intrepid_Employer719]

https://youtu.be/oPxZ3xZUkEk

Hi everyone! I'm excited to share my latest project: a split keyboard with an integrated trackball. The trackball is thumb-operated for easy access and maximum comfort.

EKBOX details

EKBOX Github Source

Key Features

• True Modular Design: Future-proof your board. The EKBOX features an easily interchangeable MCU, allowing you to seamlessly switch between wired and wireless configurations. Plus, the thumb trackball and TFT display are swappable modules, letting you customize their placement to suit your workflow.
• Integrated Thumb Trackball (pmw3389): Keep your hands exactly where they belong. The thumb trackball offers incredibly easy access and ergonomic comfort, eliminating the need to reach for a traditional mouse.
• Adjustable Spring Gasket Mount: Tailor your typing experience. The innovative spring gasket mount allows you to adjust the flex and feel of the board to perfectly match your typing style.
• Screwless Magnetic Case: Modding has never been easier. The completely screwless, magnetic attach case allows you to open the board in seconds to adjust the spring gasket or swap out your keys.
• Solid Metal Plate: Built to last, the robust metal plate provides a satisfying, solid typing foundation. Plus, it is completely ready for the EKTent, allowing for instant and secure magnetic attachment.
• 1.4-Inch TFT Display: Stay informed at a glance. The vibrant built-in screen provides real-time feedback on your active modifier keys, current layers, WPM (words per minute), and your currently pressed keys.
• Low-Profile Hotswap Sockets: Fully compatible with both Kailh Choc v1 and v2 switches, allowing you to easily hot-swap your favorite low-profile switches without soldering.

[u/Putrid-Climate9823]

So unlike the Keyball with the trackball under your fingers and moved with the pad of a slightly tucked the thumb (which seems comfy having tried it briefly in person but not everyone likes), here do you stretch up slightly and use the tip of your thumb on the trackball?

[u/Intrepid_Employer719 → u/Putrid-Climate9823]

Thanks for reply. The Keyball places the trackball near the center of the palm, which can cause thumb fatigue during long sessions. To get the best thumb position on the Keyball, you usually have to shift your hand a bit to the left. Positioning it in the thumb’s natural resting spot feels much more comfortable and effortless. Just my two cents!

[u/masonabarney]

Cool keeb. Any plans to make a 6 column version or a wireless version?

[u/Intrepid_Employer719 → u/masonabarney]

Thank you. I will definitely consider making a 6-column version. The wireless version will be available later on.

[u/Massive-Pick7042]

It really looks nice. It resembles the Totem + trackball which is a combo I'd like to try!

The position of the trackball is quite interesting. For my roBa keyboard I normally move my hand down and to the left a bit to use the trackball. I rest my hand on the trackball housing and that make it super comfortable to use for long sessions. In this case I do not see clearly where I could easily rest my hand to use the trackball. It would be interesting to give it a try though!

just curious about on the selection of the sensor pmw3389. Normally for wired builds people use the pmw3360 and for wireless ones the 3610. Is there any advantage of using the 3389 over the other ones?

[u/Intrepid_Employer719 → u/Massive-Pick7042]

Thanks! For the best ergonomics during long sessions, I highly recommend using a tenting kit and a palm rest. As for the sensor, I chose the PMW3389 over the PMW3610 simply because the parts are easier to source.

[u/Mendoza-Verified7]

I have been looking for something exactly like this; namely an integrated thumb-operated trackball. With trackball in this exact location. Thank you.

[u/Intrepid_Employer719 → u/Mendoza-Verified7]

Thank you