Sure, it’s possible to use Keychron’s Q0 Plus as “just” a number pad, but that’s a bit like buying a Bugatti and then using it for grocery runs. As with the Q1 Pro, this number pad is totally customizable via QMK/VIA support, which is a fancy way of saying it’s possible to get pretty wild with key and function mappings. It even features a rotary encoder knob that users can map to volume control and scrolling websites, though people seriously considering purchasing this keyboard probably already have more creative uses in mind.
The Keychron Q0’s CNC aluminum body is anodized and sandblasted (among 24 other manufacturing stages), so it’s durable enough to tackle any numerical challenge and look good doing it. Double-gasket design and silicone pads on the top and bottom cases help muffle metal-on-metal sounds and offer some measure of protection from Dorito dust and crumbs resulting from all-nighter coding or gaming sessions.
Keychron offers the choice of Gateron G Pro Red or Brown switches at purchase. The Red offers a linear behavior with a lower operating force and quiet sound, while the Brown requires more force to operate and thus has a more tactile feel and heightened sound level. Blue switches can be purchased separately for what Keychron calls a distinctly “clicky” sound. The switches are hot-swappable, so no soldering is required. $109 puts a Q0 Plus at your fingertips.
In other tech news, check out the Philips Evina 5000 Gaming Monitor.