Over time, we've seen projects that aim to turn the Raspberry Pi into a more complete computer. The FUZE gives it a retro look, while the Pi Top transforms it into a portable system. But if you want something more DIY, all you need is a keyboard with enough volume, some extra parts, and a willingness to experiment.

How to Fit a Raspberry Pi Inside a Keyboard
Raspberry Pi

Before anyone asks 'why', we should ask 'why not'. Computers integrated into their keyboards are a classic feature of retrocomputing, yet the new generation of devices has moved away from the huge towers that take up half a desk, favoring compact and hybrid solutions. Of course, we're not saying it's time to replace our PCs, but having a secondary computer never hurts, and the Raspberry Pi is an excellent candidate, especially considering its new version. Also, installing a Raspberry Pi inside a keyboard is far more interesting than buying a compatible case.

How to Fit a Raspberry Pi Inside a Keyboard
This adaptation takes advantage of one of the spaces occupied by the ADB port of the Apple keyboard.

One of the best-documented examples is Ezra Hilyer's, who placed a Raspberry Pi B+ inside an Apple Extended Keyboard. The extra challenge was adapting the keyboard's ADB protocol to work over USB, so he used an Arduino Pro Micro clone and firmware by Hasu, a developer well known for his conversions. Hilyer also added a wireless dongle to give the Pi internet access without Ethernet. The best part is that you don't have to follow his steps exactly; there are many variants, like this Instructables tutorial and this German design based on the Cherry G80-3000 keyboard, which is a real tank.

How to Fit a Raspberry Pi Inside a Keyboard
Here he preferred to leave a free slot using the space assigned to the feet under the keyboard, to remove the SD card.
How to Fit a Raspberry Pi Inside a Keyboard
In keyboards with more space like the Cherry, it is possible to add even a USB hub and Ethernet extensions.

Modern USB keyboards probably won't have enough room to hold a Raspberry Pi, but some old keyboards aren't rare and can be picked up cheaply. I expect this kind of mod will become much more popular now that Microsoft has confirmed Windows 10 compatibility with the new Raspberry Pi. Of course, Linux distros optimized for the Pi are great too, and enthusiasts have used them for everything from HTPCs to arcade machines. With the Redmond giant in the mix, we should expect more activity in the Raspberry Pi world.

More examples

Example 1:

Example 2:

Example 3: