Yunzii QL75 Keyboard: This Keyboard Imitates an Old Typewriter 38 comments
Image: Yunzii
From time to time, keyboards such as the Logitech POP Keys (review) have been based on the design of an old typewriter. The Yunzii QL75 is different. The keyboard takes the design from the archaic input device to the lever and power controller.
Through and Through the Typewriter
Yunzii presents the QL75 as a “retro mechanical typewriter keyboard.” The 328 × 215 × 64 mm, 1.5 kg model features an 80% layout in which all the buttons have been tightly pressed. The buttons are elegant and centered, but are made of ABS plastic. In the case of special shapes, however, this is not to be expected. The “feed” of the “typewriter” and the levers, which act as a turntable, are freely programmable and can be documented as desired. The lever acts as a button, like a standard input button, while the rotary control scrolls and regulates the volume. Both, like all key assignments, can be changed as desired thanks to the open-source QMK firmware and via the app. The basic assignment can also be shared between Mac and Windows.
Yunzii ql75
Data transmission is optionally handled via a USB-C cable, Bluetooth 5.0, or 2.4 GHz radio. However, the operating time of the large 4,000 mAh battery is not indicated in the data sheet. The actual duration will depend largely on the backlight. However, according to the product images, the keycaps are not light-transmitting. A tablet can also be used over the buttons—instead of the “paper” of a typewriter—if the QL75 is connected to a suitable device.
The KET gas-mounted keyboard is optionally available with linear buttons, the “Switch V2 Cacoa Cream V2,” or the “Onyx Tactile Switch.” There are no specifications for the latter, only the promise of “crisp” feedback. The button is therefore more “blue” than “brown.” Cocoa switches have a linear upward resistance, a travel of 3.3 millimeters, and a release resistance of 2 millimeters at 50 grams. However, hot-swap heaters also allow for swapping the switches for 3- and 5-pin models built into the Cherry MX layout.
Difficult to cover
Yunzii charges around $110 for the QL75 in its online store. However, the Chinese company currently only offers the keyboard in the ANSI layout and only ships to the United States, Canada, Australia, and Great Britain. Other shipping locations must be inquired about. In addition to shipping costs, there is also a customs fee (import sales tax) added to the purchase price.
Topics: Input Devices Keyboards Source: Yunzii
Victor explores mechanical, ergonomic, and gaming keyboards to combine comfort, precision, and responsiveness.
