The NocFree&, a new split keyboard to look forward to

The NocFree& is a new split keyboard in development, which looks great on paper.

The “NocFree and” (stylised as NocFree &) keyboard has just been announced as the successor to the NocFree Lite. Both are split keyboards designed to help provide ergonomic comfort, as users can place both haves at any position and angle they choose. Compared to Alice keyboards, which have fixed angles and spacing between both halves, a truly split keyboard allows users to organise both halves in any way they choose, resulting in better ergonomic comfort.

This is a 75% keyboard, with low profile 40gf switches, with a standard QWERTY layout. No ortholinear layouts here, which means less adaption time for people coming from standard keyboards. It looks nice and slim, and I hope it'll fit easily into a backpack.

 The newer NocFree& seems to address some of the criticisms of its older sibling. It introduces Bluetooth connectivity (in addition to wired and dongle-based connections), which was missing from the prior version. It also fixes the placement of the "?" key, which in the old version was out-of-place (see image to the right) and invited accidental key presses. It also adds a full function row, and additional keys such as page up/down, and home.

In terms of accessories, there's a separate number pad for number crunchers who swear by it. A tenting kit seems to also be available, which lets you angle the keyboard in a way which is good for your wrists. That's quite unique, and will be interesting to see how well it works in practice.

What is still unclear is whether this is a mechanical keyboard (it seems so), and whether the full wireless connectivity has any limitations.

It looks like it may cost around USD 250, which will be on the higher end compared to the competition. For example, the amazing Keychron K11 Max (which I rated 5.0/5.0) costs USD 99, while on the premium end, the ZSA Voyager is USD 365.

There's a Kickstarter starting on August 5 which will give up to 31% off the listed price, or alternatively if you want to be a super early backer, you can use my code to access up to 35% for the first three people. Just go to https://www.nocfree.com/pages/nocfree-and-wireless-split-keyboard, and when you check out, enter my code 9PBG972H.

If you’re in a hurry and need a ergonomic, yet portable and travel friendly split keyboard fast, check out our reviews and recommendations here: The Best Portable Ergonomic Split Keyboards