Copyright Forbes
If you’ve always fancied owning a mechanical keyboard from the likes of NuPhy, Keychron, or Logitech but were put off by the price, there’s now a budget mechanical keyboard available from NuPhy, which costs less than $100 but has all the features found in more expensive models. The new NuPhy Node 75 mechanical keyboard launches today and comes in three colors — Ink Gray, Light Pink, and Lunar White — and a choice of low or high profiles. This is a keyboard that’s built to a price, but it still feels robust and you get a choice of three types of hot-swappable mechanical switches to suit most tastes. The keyboard comes with three connection methods: Bluetooth, USB-C and 2.4GHz RF for low-latency wireless connectivity. The layout of the Node 75 is USA ANSI and it’s a 75% design which is compact enough to fit on most small desks but with enough keys to suit more people’s needs. Three Switch Options When ordering the NuPhy Node 75, you can choose between Red, Brown or Blush switches in both the high- and low-profile versions of the keyboard. The Red switches have a total travel of around 3.5mm. MORE FOR YOU If you like a bouncy feel to your keys, then the Brown Max or Brown Nano switches will appeal. If you work in a busy office, the Blush Max or Blush Nano options might be a better choice as they are virtually silent in operation. The overall design of this new keyboard was heavily influenced by the classic German Braun T3 pocket radio that was launched in 1958. There is a slightly nostalgic feel about this keyboard and instead of RGB status LEDs, the Node 75 uses dot matrix lights to show essential conditions such as battery charge. Three Typing Angles To ensure an ideal typing angle there are two kickstands with three-stage settings to offer front-low and back-high shapes that help align the user’s wrists, preventing soreness even after many hours spent typing. A PCB gasket mounting helps to soften each keystroke by absorbing impact and therefore reducing vibration. The standout feature on the Node 75 is its customizable touch bar, which provides efficient controls you can adjust by sliding a fingertip across it. The touchbar can be programmed for single taps, double taps and sliding, which could be used to control the volume or vary the screen brightness. It’s up to you and NuPhy has released a handy configuration app for both Window and Mac computers. The user-friendly customization app can be set up tp tweak shortcuts, adjust settings or program quick actions directly through its intuitive interface without the need to use complex third-party software or online web-based portals. Three Types Of Connections The NuPhy Node 75 is unusual as it’s available with high or low-profile switches. NuPhy recommends the high-profile option if you want a classic mechanical feel. On the other hand, if you want a keyboard that’s easy to carry and simple to use in lectures or when on the move, the low-profile version would be the better choice. With a choice between Bluetooth and 2.4GHz using the supplied USB-A dongle, you can connect to four devices wirelessly with three via Bluetooth or one via 2.4GHz. This could be useful for having a couple of computers and a tablet running at the same time with easy switching between them. The Bluetooth connection has a polling rate of 125Hz while the 2.4GHz dongle offers a very fast 1000Hz polling rate. Finally, there is the option to use a USB-C cable to connect and charge the keyboard. A full charge of the Node 75’s onboard battery can provide up to 1000 hours of use which translates into weeks of operation between recharges. That battery life does reduce considerably with the RGB backlights turned on, although there are energy saving settings that can extend battery life by turning of the lights after a few seconds. Pricing and Availability: The NuPhy Node 75 mechanical keyboard is available with high or low-profile Red, Brown or Blush switches. It comes in Ink Gray, Light Pink, and Lunar White colorways and is priced at $99.95. More details from the NuPhy website. Tech Specs:
