MechaniKeebs

In the market for a new keyboard! Browsing around is giving me choice paralysis so I’m looking for recommendations.

Musts:
- dedicated backtick / tilde key

Likes:
- compact layout
- media keys (on layer)
- topre / topre-like aka thocky switches
- home / end keys

Dislikes:
- RGB
- having to replace batteries

father, husband, css golfer, ux engineer, silently defining variables as /sdv sdv.wtf

Any experience with other split/ergo keyboards? I love that this one has adjustable angles. There was one I saw that I think had an embedded trackball in it which I think is more my style, but would love to compare the two (and other popular choices)

1000 $degen

trackball keebs are probably mostly 3d printed (which is fine, but not as solid) 

lots of sculpted options if cost/time is not an issue 

I have a Corne-ish Zen, but it doesn't meet your tilde requirement

also had multiple Microsoft Sculpts, but they're not mechanical

split is an amazing experience. can't go back.

Very great points!!

Would love to do sculpted or something but turns out I can’t be bothered to solder a replacement USB port for my NovaTouch TKL. 🙃 

I do love the feel of a sturdy keyboard, maybe the trackball isn’t worth it.

Will give these and your recommendation more thought. Split seems exciting.

ty!!