LoremIpsum36 is an open-source, 36-key ergonomic keyboard design by Penk Chen—not a finished retail keyboard. It pairs a compact unibody split layout with Gateron low-profile hot-swap switches, an RP2040-Zero controller and a 3D-printed case. The project’s packaging aims to keep the board thin, but no published source gives a measured thickness for LoremIpsum36 itself.
What is the LoremIpsum36?
LoremIpsum36 is a unibody split keyboard: its two angled key clusters sit in one case rather than in separate halves. The layout has 36 keys arranged as 3×5 alphanumeric keys and three thumb keys per side. KBD.news describes it as a no-frills Gateron low-profile keyboard by Penk Chen. KBD.news project coverage
Chen created a custom PCB because he could not find a 36-key board with the Gateron low-profile footprint he wanted. Hackster.io reports that the PCB uses one diode per switch and has a cutout for the controller. Hackster.io’s build overview
Is it a finished product or a DIY build?
It is a build-it-yourself project. Project coverage says the design files, firmware and PCBA-production files are available on GitHub under the MIT license; the case is made from released STL files. That gives builders a route to make the keyboard, but it does not mean a complete, assembled board is for sale. The cited sources provide no retail listing, current parts availability or complete priced bill of materials.
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- Feel the Wave: Get comfier with Wave Keys, the ergonomic wireless keyboard shaped to help workdays go easier on you
- Type in comfort all day long: The wavy design of this compact keyboard places your hands, wrists and forearms in a natural typing position
- More palm support, less pressure: A cushioned palm rest with memory foam supports you all day long and gives you more wrist support (1)
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- Ergo-certified: The Wave Keys Ergonomic Keyboard has been designed and tested according to criteria set out by leading ergonomists and is approved by United States Ergonomics
Depending on how you source the electronics, you will need:
- A fabricated custom PCB or a PCB assembly service, plus the matching low-profile hot-swap sockets and one diode per key.
- 36 Gateron low-profile switches and compatible keycaps.
- A Waveshare RP2040-Zero controller.
- A 3D printer, suitable filament and the project’s case STL files.
- USB Type-C connectivity and the tools and skills needed to assemble the PCB and case.
Check the project’s files and board footprint before ordering components: the right switch family alone does not guarantee a socket or PCB match.
Rank #2
- [Comfortable Ergonomic Design]: This Split-frame ergonomic keyboard features an integrated wrist rest and 2 pairs of adjustable kickstands, giving your wrists steady support while letting you fine-tune the tilt angle to your perfect comfort zone. It helps reduce strain and fatigue during long typing sessions. Ideal for office workers, late-night gamers, and and all-day typists.
- [RGB Backlit Keyboard]: This light up keyboard offers 10 dynamic rainbow modes and 7 solid colors, featuring 17 customizable lighting effects— including breathing, wave, gradient, and static modes— to match your setup or mood. The five brightness levels keep keys visible in daylight, dim rooms, or total darkness. Work comfortably or game immersively in any lighting. Great for night owls, gamers, and low-light setups.
- [Reliable Wired Connection]: This wired keyboard connects via a 5.6FT USB-A cable, providing a stable, plug‑and‑play typing with zero input lag — No pairing, batteries, drivers, or charging. Auto sleep/wake with your computer – no manual switches. Includes USB‑C adapter for laptops and desktops with different ports. In addition, this keyboard offers a 10‑million‑keystroke lifespan and is FCC certified, ensuring both durability and safety.
- [Full-Size & 17 Dedicated Shortcuts]: This full size keyboard includes the number pad and 17 multimedia shortcut keys for one‑tap control of Play/Pause, Volume, Tracks, Screen Brightness and Lock. Shortcuts also include Calculator, Emoji, Search, Home, PrintScreen and more. – streamlining spreadsheets, emails, media, chat, and daily tasks.
- [Broad Compatibility]: This USB computer keyboard is fully compatible with Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, Linux, etc. —no driver or software installation required. It works perfectly with desktops, laptops, iMac, and other devices, but not compatible with gaming consoles such as PS5 or Xbox. Note: Functional differences may occur when switching operating systems or in a dual-boot environment, this is normal.
Why is LoremIpsum36 designed to be slim?
The design places the switch sockets and other components on the underside of the PCB. The RP2040-Zero is mounted upside down, with its tallest components passing through a cutout in the board. This arrangement reduces the height required above the PCB.
Hackaday reports that Chen says the assembled LoremIpsum36 is thinner than the NuPhy Air60 v2, whose cited thickness is just over half an inch (13.9 mm). That is a comparison, not a published measurement of LoremIpsum36: none of the cited sources gives the keyboard’s exact thickness. Hackaday also mentions a 3 mm tray in discussing rigidity and thinness, but that figure is not the board’s overall height. Hackaday’s coverage
The Tool Desk
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- Split Design Ergonomic: Split design helps to position wrists and forearms in a natural, relaxed position. Arteck Split Ergonomic Keyboard with Cushioned Wrist and Palm Rest, 2.4G USB Wireless Comfortable Natural Ergonomic Split Keyboard, for Windows Computer Desktop Laptop
- Wrist Rest: Soft cushioned wrist rest helps you to rest your wrist and forearm while typing and makes work easier and more comfortable.
- Easy Setup: Simply insert the nano USB receiver (stored at the back of the keyboard) into your computer and use the keyboard instantly.
- 6-Month Battery Life: Rechargeable lithium battery with an industry-high capacity lasts for 6 months with single charge (based on 2 hours non-stop use per day).
- Package contents: Arteck Split Ergonomic Keyboard, nano USB receiver (stored at the back of the keyboard), USB-C charging cable, welcome guide, our 24-month warranty and friendly customer service.
Which switches and keycaps fit?
The design is explicitly built around 36 Gateron low-profile mechanical switches. Hackaday identifies hard-to-find SK-33 sockets and cites XVX-profile and FKcaps LPF keycaps as examples used with the build. Those examples are not a universal compatibility guarantee: check the exact PCB footprint, socket variant and keycap profile against the project files before buying.
Because these parts are less interchangeable than many standard-height keyboard components, confirm the socket and keycap requirements early in the build. The sources do not establish current stock or availability for the sockets or keycaps.
Rank #4
- Split-Key Ergonomic Design: One-piece split layout separates keys into left and right zones to reduce wrist bending and support a natural hand position, helping minimize strain during long hours of typing.
- Long Key Travel & Tactile Feedback: Extended key travel delivers responsive, tactile feedback with audible confirmation, similar to brown mechanical switches. Built for durability with up to 20 million keystrokes.
- Old-School Curved Row Design: Stepped, curved key rows promote a natural typing posture and reduce fatigue during long sessions. Made from high-quality ABS with membrane switches and 4.2 mm key travel.
- Ergonomic Curved Keycaps: Curved keycaps with flatter tops and back edges fit fingertip contours for improved comfort and control. Available in black, beige, and white color options.
- Natural Learning Curve: Ergonomic shape may require a short adjustment period. Most users adapt within 1–2 weeks and experience improved comfort and reduced wrist pressure with continued use.
What firmware and connections does it use?
The Waveshare RP2040-Zero runs QMK firmware with VIA compatibility, so the layout can be remapped through VIA. The keyboard connects by USB Type-C for power and data. Firmware support makes the keymap configurable, but the cited coverage does not report controlled testing of typing speed, ergonomics, durability or failure rates. Treat the ergonomic description as a layout characteristic, not evidence of a measured health or performance benefit.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Who should consider building it?
LoremIpsum36 is most relevant to keyboard enthusiasts who want a compact unibody split layout and are comfortable sourcing a custom PCB, low-profile parts and fabrication. It is less suitable for someone who wants a ready-to-use keyboard, a straightforward standard-parts build or verified measurements for case height and typing performance.
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- Compact keys: Wave Keys’ compact size allows you to bring your mouse closer to your body, resulting in a more natural shoulder position compared to a full size keyboard
- Feel the Wave: Get comfier with Wave Keys, the ergonomic wireless keyboard shaped to help workdays go easier on you
- Type in comfort all day long: The wavy design of this compact keyboard places your hands, wrists and forearms in a natural typing position
- More palm support, less pressure: A cushioned palm rest with memory foam supports you all day long and gives you more wrist support (1)
- Smoother days, your way: Personalize your Wave Keys experience using the Logi Options+ App, where you can choose shortcuts that save time and keep your work flowing (2)
Before committing, review the PCB and assembly files, verify each component against the footprint, and confirm that you can fabricate or obtain the board. The project’s open-source files make the design reproducible in principle; they do not remove the practical work of sourcing and assembling a specialized low-profile build.
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