Keychron and Japanese manufacturer Yushu Kobo have released the Valkey Orb, a split ergonomic keyboard designed to reduce strain for users who spend long hours at a desk. The device integrates a 25mm trackball directly into the layout, offering a practical alternative to traditional mice for gamers and office workers seeking better wrist posture. This release marks a continued collaboration between the two firms on specialized input devices.
Keychron and Yushu Kobo release a 49-key aluminum keyboard with a built-in trackball
The Valkey Orb features a 49-key layout built into a sturdy aluminum chassis. Keychron developed this split design in partnership with Yushu Kobo to improve the typing experience through adjusted key placement. The keyboard supports both wired and wireless connections, allowing users to switch between setups without changing hardware.
Specifications
- Key Count: 49
- Trackball Size: 25mm
- Chassis Material: Aluminum
- Connectivity: Wired and Wireless
- Switch Compatibility: CHERRY MX style hot-swappable
Typists can customize the typing feel by swapping switches, as the board supports CHERRY MX style hot-swappable mechanical switches. The device relies on the Keychron Launch web driver for software configuration, eliminating the need for heavy desktop applications. This setup allows users to remap keys and adjust settings through a standard browser interface.
We looked at previous split keyboard releases while tracking Keychron's hardware launches. The Valkey Orb combines a compact key count with a dedicated tracking ball to bridge the gap between typing and pointing. The product ships with a fixed aluminum build and does not currently list a release date or price.
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