The NocFree & split keyboard looks great on paper and we're looking forward to getting a full review unit
We're keeping a close eye on the "NocFree &", an upcoming split keyboard which offers fully wireless capabilities. That means you don't need to use a cable to connect the left and right halves, like what our recommendation, the SpiderIsland split keyboard needs (full review here). You just turn it each half on, and start typing. This is incredibly user-friendly, given it practically eliminates daily setup time.
The manufacturers are creating a 75% low profile keyboard, and it looks small and slim enough to potentially challenge the Keychron K11 Max: our current recommendation for the best portable, split ergonomic keyboard, and travel friendly for those who need to pack an office into a backpack and go. They will use an aluminium case, and while this means it is solid, it also results in a heavier keyboard (1.03 kg/2.23 lb), which is double what the Keychron weighs (500g/1.1lbs). Whether one can actually feel the additional weight in a backpack is something that we will test extensively.
They will use mechanical switches with a choice of keycaps, and at the time of publication, these will include a choice of either tactile or silent switches. It appears that these switches are self-developed, and initial reviews on early test units sent out to YouTubers appear positive, although this may mean you need to only buy from NocFree if you ever want to swap out switches.
For those who work in the dark, there is a white backlight, and an expected runtime of 2-4 months on a single charge. To connect they keyboard to your Mac/PC, the keyboard will support three connection choices: wired via USB C, or wireless via a 2.5 GHz dongle, or Bluetooth.
The people behind NocFree plan a range of accessories, including a wrist rest, a tenting kit, and a travel case. Unique to the NocFree &, the tenting kit can be also used as a stand to store the keyboard vertically on smaller desks. I haven't ordered the tenting kit though, as I've found that the armrests on a good ergonomic chair is sufficient from keeping your wrists from curling up during typing. To their credit, NocFree are considering releasing the tenting kit as a 3D printable file, so you may be able to print your own and customise the tilt accordingly.
This keyboard will be fully configurable using software that NocFree is developing. Apparently, the people behind NocFree used to work in the tech industry, which hopefully will translate to a good user experience.
The specs, and what we've seen so far is quite exciting. Their original keyboard, the NocFree Light, received good reviews when it came to the quality and typing experience (but lost out on their unconventional placement of the "?" key, which was placed to the right of the arrow keys), so we can expect the same with the NocFree &.
A key sticking point may end up being the cost. The current Kickstarter price is USD 249 or 269, depending on how early you get in. If you were to buy it at full price though, it will cost USD 349. All accessories, including the number pad, is an additional charge, and these will add up quickly, potentially pushing you towards the USD 400-500 mark (plus shipping). It is a lot to throw on a keyboard, given other options cost less, such as the Keychron K11 Max which is USD 99.
Despite the expense, I have ordered a NocFree &, and am looking forward to making it my main driver for a few months before passing judgement. It ticks many boxes and addresses drawbacks from similar keyboards, and hopefully this spurs more manufacturers to enter the competition.
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