We are convinced that the keyboard-and-mouse combo isn't going anywhere, but for some users it isn't the ideal solution. The repetitive motion of moving a hand from the keyboard to the mouse and back again can be inefficient, and even painful if there is a pre-existing physical problem. The KeyMouse project aims to solve both problems at once with an ergonomic design and a sensor that lets you use half a keyboard as if it were a mouse.
A keyboard split in two
One of the most popular keyboard designs among those who prefer to build them with their own hands is the ErgoDox. Basically, it's a keyboard “split in two” that gives the user more positioning flexibility and places greater emphasis on thumb usage. The ErgoDox is inspired by designs like the Kinesis Advantage and the specialized Maltron keyboards, which are sought after by people who require special conditions when typing. But the existence of the ErgoDox has led to exploration in specialized forums of the remote possibility of using one of its halves as if it were a mouse. The original ErgoDox layout doesn't account for such a modification, but a recent Kickstarter project seems to intend to fill the gap.
The KeyMouse experience
The KeyMouse plan is to eliminate the need to constantly move one of your hands to the mouse. Either half of the KeyMouse can assume the role of the mouse, and the user only needs to indicate their preference with a switch on the underside. The number of auxiliary buttons on the KeyMouse is impressive, and its developers anticipate a high level of programmability, including macros and other special combinations, thanks to the software that accompanies the keyboard. Its connectivity is Bluetooth, which implies some dependency on batteries (they are still evaluating options in that regard), and the switches in the prototype are low-profile Cherry ML, so it's likely its final design will be mechanical.
Crowdfunding and availability
The KeyMouse project is looking for exactly one hundred thousand dollars on Kickstarter, and with twenty days to go it has already received over 30 percent, which makes us think it will reach its goal. Right now, the price for each KeyMouse (both halves, of course) is $249 (not too crazy if we compare it with other mechanical keyboards on the market), and they ship worldwide, though they don't specify the cost. If there are no delays, the first KeyMouse deliveries should take place in September of this year. Developing keyboards with the help of crowdfunding isn't simple. The Qwerkywriter is delayed until August, the King's Assembly is four months behind, and the price of the Hemingwrite machine turned out to be a bit more outrageous than we imagined. I hope everything goes well for the KeyMouse.
