Keychron, a company known for its high-quality keyboards, has introduced a new product – the Nape Pro. This device, developed in collaboration with Gizmodo Japan and user menbou0202, known for creating custom keyboards, aims to change the usual interaction with a computer. The Nape Pro is positioned as an alternative to the traditional mouse, offering a unique approach to cursor and function control. The device is currently available for pre-order and will be released soon at a price of $90 USD.

Комплектация и технические характеристики

В комплект поставки Keychron Nape Pro входит:

• Кабель USB-C в оплетке: Позволяет осуществлять проводное подключение и заряжать встроенный аккумулятор.
• Адаптер USB-A: Для подключения к устройствам с соответствующим портом.
• USB-приемник 2.4G: Обеспечивает беспроводное соединение с частотой опроса 1000 Гц.
• Адаптер для USB-приемника: Позволяет приблизить приемник к устройству для минимизации задержек и улучшения стабильности соединения.

Аккумулятор Nape Pro обеспечивает до 50 часов автономной работы.

Design and Functionality

The Keychron Nape Pro is a device with a minimalist design. Two color variations are available: all black and white with a blue trackball.

The main controls include:

• Trackball: Located in the center and used for cursor movement.
• Ring around the trackball: Features tactile notches and, by default, is responsible for volume adjustment. All controls are fully customizable.
• Four buttons (01-04): Located around the trackball. A silent switch is installed under each button, ensuring quiet operation of the device.
• Two buttons (M1, M2): Located at the bottom of the device and, by default, perform left and right click functions.

All buttons and functions can be customized using the Keychron Launcher web application. The software allows for the creation of up to eight different customization layers, making the device a powerful tool for advanced users.

A small button for the pairing process is located on the top of the device. The bottom side features flat rubberized feet for stability and to prevent slipping. The charging port and power switch are located on the side edge.

Ergonomics and Use Cases

Despite its unique form factor, the Nape Pro is smaller than one might expect when compared to traditional large mice like Keychron's M6 model.

Upon initial use, a slight wobble in the trackball is noticeable, which can produce a small rattling sound. However, according to the manufacturer, this wobble does not affect operational stability once the device is placed on a desk.

The Keychron Nape Pro offers flexibility in placement and usage:

1. Under the keyboard: The device can be positioned beneath the keyboard, similar to a laptop's touchpad, minimizing user hand movements during operation.
2. Next to the keyboard: The Nape Pro can be placed to the side of the keyboard, like a conventional mouse, or used in conjunction with a mouse on the opposite side.
3. Diagonal positioning: The device can be positioned at an angle, which may be convenient for accessing specific buttons.

The Keychron Launcher software allows for customization of the scroll direction based on the device's orientation, supporting vertical, horizontal, and diagonal scrolling.

The Keychron Nape Pro can be considered as a mouse replacement, an ergonomic solution for reducing hand strain, an auxiliary tool akin to a macro pad, or a combination of all these functions.