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geekhack Community => Reviews => Topic started by: Matt3o on Wed, 11 May 2016, 02:32:20

Title: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 11 May 2016, 02:32:20
Yesterday I received some new low profile switches from Kaihua.

(http://i.imgur.com/TQQgzja.jpg)

They are clearly inspired by Cherry ML, but they are not compatible with them, the stem is very close but the keycaps don't quite fit. I'm told that they are testing these switches for over an year now and they are finally releasing them.

There are three versions:

RED linear
BROWN tactile
WHITE clicky

The brown one is the closest to cherry ml but definitely smoother. The red is really nice, I don't have specs yet  but it's definitely stiffer than cherry mx red. The clicky one is the big surprise, imho. It feels really good, it's a little like a futaba clicky, but heavier.

I'd say they are all very well weighted, but slightly on the stiff side. If you like very light switches these are not for you.

They are all clear top, backlight compatible and of course PCB mounted (no plate). The travel is approx 2.6mm.

All in all I'm really enjoying them and looking forward to build a keyboard out of them. Unfortunately we will have to wait for the keycaps to be able to actually use these little guys. I'm not sure what's kaihua's plan here. OEM gaming laptop? Wireless keyboards? We'll see.

I'll try to post more pictures soon.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: rowdy on Wed, 11 May 2016, 05:34:40
Is the keycap stem design significantly different?  Or maybe you don't know yet if you have only switches ...

But if it is a new keycap stem design, they are getting themselves off on the back foot as the only keycaps available will be what they sell.  Those wanting to customise a board will be left out in the cold for a while.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 11 May 2016, 05:50:25
the stem actually fits standard cherry ml, the problem is that on Kailh the position is right in the middle of the switch, while on cherry they are slightly shifted towards to the top.

my feeling is the they are targeting OEM mainly (gaming laptop?)
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: rowdy on Wed, 11 May 2016, 05:58:05
Good though about laptops - there are few if any with proper mechanical switches around these days!
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: SpAmRaY on Wed, 11 May 2016, 06:41:37
Would love to see someone release a board with these.

People are always looking for low profile caps also, this has potential.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: CPTBadAss on Wed, 11 May 2016, 07:24:48
I'd love to get my hands on these. Cherry ML wasn't terrible and any improvements on them have me very interested. Thanks for sharing :D
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: quasistellar on Wed, 11 May 2016, 08:16:10
I'd love to get my hands on these. Cherry ML wasn't terrible and any improvements on them have me very interested. Thanks for sharing :D

Indeed; I'd love to see some more lower profile options.  One of my biggest complaints with a lot of mechs is how thick they are and that 4mm switch travel is just a little too long for my taste.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: klennkellon on Wed, 11 May 2016, 18:51:37
I'd love to get my hands on these. Cherry ML wasn't terrible and any improvements on them have me very interested. Thanks for sharing :D

Indeed; I'd love to see some more lower profile options.  One of my biggest complaints with a lot of mechs is how thick they are and that 4mm switch travel is just a little too long for my taste.
have you tried ALPS? They have slightly less travel than MX.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: quasistellar on Wed, 11 May 2016, 20:14:00
I'd love to get my hands on these. Cherry ML wasn't terrible and any improvements on them have me very interested. Thanks for sharing :D

Indeed; I'd love to see some more lower profile options.  One of my biggest complaints with a lot of mechs is how thick they are and that 4mm switch travel is just a little too long for my taste.
have you tried ALPS? They have slightly less travel than MX.

You bet! I'm building an infinity soon, as a matter of fact. Topre is my preferred switch for work, but I'm always on the lookout for something I like better for gaming at home. My switch of choice for now is Romer-g, and it too has a shorter throw and higher activation point. Pretty much all MX varieties and clones are a no-go for me.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: xtrafrood on Tue, 17 May 2016, 14:14:25
Cats love to run across my laptops when I least expect it and the current mechanical laptop switches are uh..

(https://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ta0_1JjeGyxKH3TyT3bF03YiToI=/1020x0/cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/2905402/ces-2015-msi-gt80-titan-7879.0.jpg)

ML inspired switches on a Thinkpad perhaps? 11-14in would be lovely :)
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: dante on Tue, 17 May 2016, 19:39:17
I'd love to get my hands on these. Cherry ML wasn't terrible and any improvements on them have me very interested. Thanks for sharing :D

Indeed; I'd love to see some more lower profile options.  One of my biggest complaints with a lot of mechs is how thick they are and that 4mm switch travel is just a little too long for my taste.

My brother from another mother!
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: switchnollie on Tue, 17 May 2016, 22:15:53
This is very interesting, can't wait to see some side shots :D
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Oobly on Mon, 23 May 2016, 02:27:08
These have a built-in stabiliser bar! Biggest improvement over ML, IMHO. These are the plate mount version as they have the ridge all around and little bumps to hold them in a plate. Apparently there are versions of these without the ridge, which may then fit stock ML caps:

http://www.globalsources.com/gsol/I/Mechanical-keyboard/p/sm/1140057536.htm#1140057536

But those may be pre-production photos, samples, whatever, so who knows. I really hope they make the version without the ridge available to us mech freaks! I like ML's but only once they're heavily modded (which is a PITA, lots of effort needed), I could see myself using these happily without mods.

<EDIT> Apparently they still won't fit stock caps, but possibly SP Family11 could fit? </EDIT>
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Oobly on Wed, 25 May 2016, 04:19:22
From the dimensions in the spec sheet obra posted on his Github it looks like you could jam these into an MX plate for prototyping. The pinout is different to all the other "normal" switches, though, so PCB designing requires creating a module for these.

I really want to try these out!
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 25 May 2016, 05:12:33
From the dimensions in the spec sheet obra posted on his Github it looks like you could jam these into an MX plate for prototyping. The pinout is different to all the other "normal" switches, though, so PCB designing requires creating a module for these.

I really want to try these out!

the switch fits, but it's not ideal (1.5mm is a tad too thick). Also the PCB would be really close to the plate, possibly less than a mm.

(http://i.imgur.com/nJMWt0W.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/jROTCRq.jpg)
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Oobly on Thu, 26 May 2016, 03:45:11
Nice! Thanks for trying it out and for the pics!

Probably best to use a 1.2 to 1.3mm plate for a properly designed board with a PCB (or just a stiff PCB and no plate), but a stock MX plate looks like it'd be fine for prototyping and hand wiring.

If the Family11 caps don't fit then the fact they use ML mounts a bit pointless, IMO. This would be very sad, since they seem to be very nice switches otherwise. I like modded ML switches, but modding them is a real PITA and Iäd much rather just use switches like these ones.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: jacobolus on Thu, 26 May 2016, 04:00:07
Probably would work with 18 gauge steel plate?

Matt3o: How stable are these switches against off-axis presses? (Might be hard to tell without a keycap.)
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 26 May 2016, 08:29:16
I believe the plate on these switches is more meant as a pcb "cover".

anyway as soon as I get the keycaps I'll post more info.

Oobly, is that you who made that wonderful custom ergo keyboard on cherry ML?
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Oobly on Mon, 30 May 2016, 02:23:25
...

Oobly, is that you who made that wonderful custom ergo keyboard on cherry ML?

No, I believe the one you're referring to is made by Kurplop, the Alumaplop: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=67467.0

He even cast some custom caps for it :)

I have been working on a new prototype for my Writer's Portable design with ML switches and would love to rather use these switches for it: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=66836.0
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: mrbishop on Fri, 29 July 2016, 16:54:04
would be really awesome if these are high quality and not scratchy like the ML switches of cherry's. i have some mobile projects that i'm planning on using the ML switches on only because of the form factor
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 10 August 2016, 17:03:55
I will get a set of keycaps in a week or so!

I'll keep you posted.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: mrbishop on Wed, 10 August 2016, 17:05:18
I will get a set of keycaps in a week or so!

I'll keep you posted.

so can't wait! thanks a million Matt
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: klennkellon on Thu, 11 August 2016, 15:33:32
Can we get a sound sample of them? especially the clicky one.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 12 August 2016, 01:58:13
Can we get a sound sample of them? especially the clicky one.

absolutely!
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: kingnestea on Sun, 14 August 2016, 16:04:24
Cats love to run across my laptops when I least expect it and the current mechanical laptop switches are uh..

Show Image
(https://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ta0_1JjeGyxKH3TyT3bF03YiToI=/1020x0/cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/2905402/ces-2015-msi-gt80-titan-7879.0.jpg)


ML inspired switches on a Thinkpad perhaps? 11-14in would be lovely :)

I love your laptop  :))
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: ideus on Sun, 14 August 2016, 16:57:35
A thinkpad with a mechanical keyboard would rock. Thank you Matt for the note on the new switches.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: xtrafrood on Sun, 14 August 2016, 18:51:36
Cats love to run across my laptops when I least expect it and the current mechanical laptop switches are uh..

Show Image
(https://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ta0_1JjeGyxKH3TyT3bF03YiToI=/1020x0/cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/2905402/ces-2015-msi-gt80-titan-7879.0.jpg)


ML inspired switches on a Thinkpad perhaps? 11-14in would be lovely :)

I love your laptop  :))

I hot linked that picture for reference of what a full cherry mx laptop keyboard looks like. I was implying that an ML based keyboard would be awesome because cherry's other laptop keyboard option (imo) makes the laptop look like a Toshiba T1100 ;)
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: klennkellon on Sun, 14 August 2016, 21:58:25
I feel like with how ridiulously thin Laptops are nowadays that these switches would still be too thick, they may be great on a lower profile gaming laptop though.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Art of Payce on Sun, 21 August 2016, 12:50:23
Still hogged by Corsair, Cherry MX Silent is 3.2mm travel, I believe, so this is a small but welcome improvement. As a fan of laptop scissor switches, I'm always in favor of reducing travel. I think it's a distinct advantage for many touch-typing above 120 WPM or so (or trying).
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 22 August 2016, 08:05:48
teaser-ino

(http://i.imgur.com/03nPsdp.jpg)
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: mrbishop on Mon, 22 August 2016, 08:06:28
teaser-ino

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/03nPsdp.jpg)

Omg so sexy

sent from my chess board

Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: pmck on Mon, 22 August 2016, 08:47:37
Cats love to run across my laptops when I least expect it and the current mechanical laptop switches are uh..

Show Image
(https://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ta0_1JjeGyxKH3TyT3bF03YiToI=/1020x0/cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/2905402/ces-2015-msi-gt80-titan-7879.0.jpg)


ML inspired switches on a Thinkpad perhaps? 11-14in would be lovely :)

I dont think you understand how much that would hurt my wallet
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: mrbishop on Mon, 22 August 2016, 08:48:26
Where is my "shut up and take my money" gif?

sent from my chess board

Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: mrbishop on Mon, 22 August 2016, 08:54:01
[attachimg=1]

found it
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: HPE1000 on Mon, 22 August 2016, 09:05:43
How will creating custom boards for these switches pan out when it comes to the keycaps? Are kailh themselves making the caps or is another company?
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 22 August 2016, 10:28:46
they are doing it themselves, I reckon custom keyboards would be extremely hard to do. Also look at that weird size ctrl.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: HPE1000 on Mon, 22 August 2016, 11:06:40
they are doing it themselves, I reckon custom keyboards would extremely hard to do. Also look at that weird size ctrl.
Yeah, that's what I was thinking. Custom boards are going to have to be built around the keyset if they are even willing to sell the caps in the first place. It would be nice if the caps were doubleshot abs or pbt or something, but these laser etched backlit caps would be a dealbreaker for me.

I do enjoy the ML4100, it is disappointing that these switches aren't compatible with ML caps. You could make a pretty nice board I bet if you managed to fit a plate (with insulation between the pcb) on the switches and swapped it into a dyesub model of the 4100.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: suicidal_orange on Mon, 22 August 2016, 11:50:10
Looks very flat and laptopy :))

Why do you think not DIY friendly, just the strange cap sizes or the stabs?
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: HPE1000 on Mon, 22 August 2016, 12:03:27
Looks very flat and laptopy :))

Why do you think not DIY friendly, just the strange cap sizes or the stabs?
Well if we cannot get custom caps, we are stuck to the layouts that whatever products that use this will use, which is probably going to be laptop type layouts. Assuming they will even supply the caps in the first place.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: suicidal_orange on Mon, 22 August 2016, 12:33:50
Looks very flat and laptopy :))

Why do you think not DIY friendly, just the strange cap sizes or the stabs?
Well if we cannot get custom caps, we are stuck to the layouts that whatever products that use this will use, which is probably going to be laptop type layouts. Assuming they will even supply the caps in the first place.

Hopefully we coud get blanks in a standard(ish - I bet the spacebar is small) layout, they're all flat so should be possible.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Elrick on Sun, 09 October 2016, 00:31:21
they are doing it themselves, I reckon custom keyboards would be extremely hard to do. Also look at that weird size ctrl.

Still waiting on Ebay for them.......   >:(
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Belfong on Sun, 09 October 2016, 01:59:06
A thinkpad with a mechanical keyboard would rock. Thank you Matt for the note on the new switches.
wow, I might just switch back to a ThinkPad (from a Macbook) if this really happens! The experience would be amazing! Please let this be true!
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: jeffgran on Thu, 03 November 2016, 23:33:38
I'd love to get my hands on these. Cherry ML wasn't terrible and any improvements on them have me very interested. Thanks for sharing :D

Indeed; I'd love to see some more lower profile options.  One of my biggest complaints with a lot of mechs is how thick they are and that 4mm switch travel is just a little too long for my taste.

My brother from another mother!

Me too. I'm semi-happy with my jailhouse blues because of the short throw and high activation but they are not perfect either, and it's a waste of space to have such a tall switch/cap for such a short travel. I would love to have more options like this. If these are smooth and stabilized ( the two big complaints I've heard about ML) this could be huge.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Matt3o on Tue, 15 November 2016, 02:26:53
Okay yesterday I met with a Kailh representative. Ian is a very nice guy with a very deep understanding of how switches work. It was a very interesting meeting and I hope we will be doing something together.

We talked a lot about how a nice "silent but clicky" switch could be done, basically a tactile switch with a strong feedback but without the noise.

Regarding the low profile switches, I told him that a huge problem is the keycaps. Being the switches not compatible with Cherry ML they have to provide the best keycaps ever. He said that they are not only committed to that but they will also provide legends for all (most) EU countries!

Unfortunately it seems it wouldn't be possible to do double injection because the key is too short, but PBT with dye-sublimation should be feasible. The problem is that it won't be backlight compatible and they wouldn't want to lose that market. We will be talking more in the coming days about keycaps.

I believe a low profile 60% (with option for split spacebar) would be a nice starting project.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: kurplop on Tue, 15 November 2016, 08:08:09
Does Kailh seem to be interested in the keyboard enthusiast/do-it-yourself market?  That is, will they be willing to offer caps, switches, etc. independent of complete keyboards?  I had contacted them several months ago to make a min. order (8000 switches as I remember) and I never got a response from them.  Being a big fan of the short throw  and compact size of the ML switch, I am excited to see a similar switch that has also solved the off-center press stickiness.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Matt3o on Tue, 15 November 2016, 08:24:57
Does Kailh seem to be interested in the keyboard enthusiast/do-it-yourself market?  That is, will they be willing to offer caps, switches, etc. independent of complete keyboards?  I had contacted them several months ago to make a min. order (8000 switches as I remember) and I never got a response from them.  Being a big fan of the short throw  and compact size of the ML switch, I am excited to see a similar switch that has also solved the off-center press stickiness.

yes, they are very interested. In fact I should get something around 1000 switches in the near future. I will let you know as soon as the keycaps are finalized.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: ideus on Tue, 15 November 2016, 08:25:16
How close are these to a scissor laptop switch, in one end, and to MX switches in the other? Feeling, weight and feedback wise.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Matt3o on Tue, 15 November 2016, 08:52:27
How close are these to a scissor laptop switch, in one end, and to MX switches in the other? Feeling, weight and feedback wise.

they are nothing like scissor switches. They are very close to cherry mx but with a very short travel. They are all on the stiff side I'd say, but they are really good and sturdy.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: ideus on Tue, 15 November 2016, 09:18:06
How close are these to a scissor laptop switch, in one end, and to MX switches in the other? Feeling, weight and feedback wise.

they are nothing like scissor switches. They are very close to cherry mx but with a very short travel. They are all on the stiff side I'd say, but they are really good and sturdy.


Sounds tempting, even if that means to get a full new keyboard and keys. I just hope it includes programmability and some sort of customization. If you develop with them something in the lines of the fox in sixty profile I will be totally in.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: danwomansan on Fri, 18 November 2016, 14:37:54
I'm interested for these switches; ml looked very tempting a while back.

will be very interested to hear a sound sample!
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: dotancohen on Sun, 27 November 2016, 02:55:32
Indeed; I'd love to see some more lower profile options.  One of my biggest complaints with a lot of mechs is how thick they are and that 4mm switch travel is just a little too long for my taste.

You really shouldn't need the whole travel. Most Cherries and clones activate at 2mm travel, the rest is to save you from bottoming out. Once you get used to doing that, the typing experience changes completely.

Don't mash the keys down aimlessly! If you've ever fired a firearm then you are familiar with the "squeeze, don't pull" idea. Apply that to your switches (learn on blues or browns first) and you'll begin to really appreciate the extra travel because you no longer need it!
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: quasistellar on Sun, 27 November 2016, 03:03:44
A: that's not the point
B: I like bottoming out on keyboards for gaming. I have Topre for work.
C: there's a million billion switches with 2mm activation and 4mm total travel. I want more options.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: a-jilted-scholar on Mon, 02 January 2017, 23:09:08
 :eek:

That white switch is the keyboard switch of my dreams. Would buy a batch or two of them. Are they still working on these?

I've heard the pin arrangement is not like ML. Makes sense to me that they should be like Cherry MX pins so we can use the same PCBs. They look compatible with Cherry MX plates already.

I hope these get released.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: dante on Tue, 03 January 2017, 08:22:13
Any updates on this matt3o?
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: davkol on Tue, 03 January 2017, 16:42:15
thread @ Deskthority (https://deskthority.net/product-news-f44/kailh-cherry-ml-inspired-low-profile-switches-t13734.html) with more updates
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: dante on Tue, 03 January 2017, 17:57:21
thread @ Deskthority (https://deskthority.net/product-news-f44/kailh-cherry-ml-inspired-low-profile-switches-t13734.html) with more updates

Thank you!  I'm very excited for this! :)
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 05 January 2017, 06:25:51
teasing

(https://i.imgur.com/d5CaXYQ.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/OyYArLf.jpg)
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: dante on Thu, 05 January 2017, 08:32:47
IT'S SO THIN AND PERFECT!!   :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: dante on Thu, 05 January 2017, 08:36:25
Is this going to be double shot in some way?  I think you were insistent about using PBT.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 05 January 2017, 11:54:45
Is this going to be double shot in some way?  I think you were insistent about using PBT.

unfortunately the key is too thin for doubleshot
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Halverson on Thu, 05 January 2017, 12:06:05
teasing

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/d5CaXYQ.jpg)


Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/OyYArLf.jpg)


Wowwwww, that's awesome! Make sure there's a rose gold option if you start selling them ;)
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: dante on Thu, 05 January 2017, 12:27:18
Is this going to be double shot in some way?  I think you were insistent about using PBT.

unfortunately the key is too thin for doubleshot

So you are saying these are painted backlit (ala WASD Code ) keycaps?  If that's true I'm out. :(
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 05 January 2017, 16:39:16
yes those are definitely painted, but it's just a prototype, no worries :)
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: dante on Thu, 05 January 2017, 18:17:38
Can you provide any hints as to the keycap options either for Kailh's official board or yours?  Even blank black ABS would be preferable to painted backlit.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: chyros on Fri, 06 January 2017, 07:21:45
teasing

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/d5CaXYQ.jpg)


Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/OyYArLf.jpg)

Hahahaha monolithic aluminium eh? I spy an Apple fan  :)) .

Looks cool though, maybe we'll finally have one of these low-profile aluminium keyboards that doesn't suck donkey balls! :D
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: dante on Fri, 06 January 2017, 08:27:56
teasing

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/d5CaXYQ.jpg)


Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/OyYArLf.jpg)

Hahahaha monolithic aluminium eh? I spy an Apple fan  :)) .

Looks cool though, maybe we'll finally have one of these low-profile aluminium keyboards that doesn't suck donkey balls! :D

Don't go there girlfriend!  Here is a quality aluminum low profile albeit fullsize only:

Siig Premium Aluminum

(http://images10.newegg.com/ProductImage/23-191-007-05.jpg)

And unlike most mechanicals with a 1 or 2 year warranty (where's your faith OEM's?) this is good for 5 years.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: chyros on Fri, 06 January 2017, 09:23:27
teasing

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/d5CaXYQ.jpg)


Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/OyYArLf.jpg)

Hahahaha monolithic aluminium eh? I spy an Apple fan  :)) .

Looks cool though, maybe we'll finally have one of these low-profile aluminium keyboards that doesn't suck donkey balls! :D

Don't go there girlfriend!  Here is a quality aluminum low profile albeit fullsize only:

Siig Premium Aluminum

Show Image
(http://images10.newegg.com/ProductImage/23-191-007-05.jpg)


And unlike most mechanicals with a 1 or 2 year warranty (where's your faith OEM's?) this is good for 5 years.
Never heard of it, the only aluminium keyboards I know are the Apple ones xD . If SIIG made it, I'm sure it's fine, they know their stuff. Strange they won't make a space-saving version though, SIIG are probably most well-known for their space-saving keyboards.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 07 January 2017, 02:09:42
Can you provide any hints as to the keycap options either for Kailh's official board or yours?  Even blank black ABS would be preferable to painted backlit.

Kailh is working on PBT keycaps.

Hahahaha monolithic aluminium eh? I spy an Apple fan  :)) .

Looks cool though, maybe we'll finally have one of these low-profile aluminium keyboards that doesn't suck donkey balls! :D
[/quote]

that's Kailh design, but I believe it's good to show what can be done with those switches


Siig Premium Aluminum

c'mon, we don't do scissor switch here.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: dante on Sat, 07 January 2017, 07:31:21
Can you provide any hints as to the keycap options either for Kailh's official board or yours?  Even blank black ABS would be preferable to painted backlit.

Kailh is working on PBT keycaps.

Dyesub?  (I HOPE!)
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: chyros on Sat, 07 January 2017, 08:54:14
Man, you guys are so demanding of your keycaps! You wouldn't buy practically ALL commercial keyboards on the market nowadays! xD
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: dante on Sat, 07 January 2017, 09:36:56
Man, you guys are so demanding of your keycaps! You wouldn't buy practically ALL commercial keyboards on the market nowadays! xD

All that I ask is for keycaps that are not painted backlit and the aesthetics of the keyboard wasn't inspired by hemorrhoids.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: chyros on Sat, 07 January 2017, 09:55:36
Man, you guys are so demanding of your keycaps! You wouldn't buy practically ALL commercial keyboards on the market nowadays! xD

All that I ask is for keycaps that are not painted backlit and the aesthetics of the keyboard wasn't inspired by hemorrhoids.
Yes, that's what I said, you wouldn't buy practically ALL commercial keyboards on the market nowadays :p .
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: dante on Sat, 07 January 2017, 18:29:07
It looks like Tesoro (https://www.facebook.com/LinusTech/videos/1191507957612314/) is coming out with a Kailh ML clone board in Q2.

Too bad it has a number pad!
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 08 January 2017, 13:11:35
yes, PBT keycaps with dye sub legends
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: chyros on Sun, 08 January 2017, 16:03:15
BLUE switches too, are these any different from the white clicky ones we saw before?

Good that it has a numpad - made to be useful, then 8) .
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: dante on Sun, 08 January 2017, 17:24:38
yes, PBT keycaps with dye sub legends
!

The erection is strong with this one!
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: AdrianPi on Sat, 14 January 2017, 07:51:44
Did anyone notice also those switches on Kailh website?
http://www.kailh.com/gb/productdetail.asp?Productid=1583
http://www.kailh.com/gb/productdetail.asp?Productid=1587
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: klennkellon on Sun, 15 January 2017, 04:53:58
Did anyone notice also those switches on Kailh website?
http://www.kailh.com/gb/productdetail.asp?Productid=1583
http://www.kailh.com/gb/productdetail.asp?Productid=1587
I don't think those are keyboard switches. Kailh makes a lot of switches/buttons. Some of the buttons/switches in your car are probably Kailh.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: hanya on Mon, 16 January 2017, 21:30:38
Did anyone notice also those switches on Kailh website?
http://www.kailh.com/gb/productdetail.asp?Productid=1583
http://www.kailh.com/gb/productdetail.asp?Productid=1587
I've seen them few months ago. I did not check well at that time. But the first one has shorter height (8mm) than MX (11mm). And footprint of the switch is narrower.
Second one says its a keyboard switch with center LED.

Since this thread is for new low profile one, they are out of the subject.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: HPE1000 on Sat, 21 January 2017, 00:14:34
teasing

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/d5CaXYQ.jpg)


Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/OyYArLf.jpg)

That is really cool!
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 22 January 2017, 02:24:48
they just shipped to me enough keycaps, stabilizers and switches to build a custom keyboard. go-go DHL!
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: dante on Sun, 22 January 2017, 10:03:03
they just shipped to me enough keycaps, stabilizers and switches to build a custom keyboard. go-go DHL!

Are they shipping you PBT dyesub or just ABS to start out with?
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 22 January 2017, 10:58:13
Are they shipping you PBT dyesub or just ABS to start out with?

I'm pretty sure they are still painted and lasered ABS, but I don't actually know yet, it's holiday now in China and I can't really talk to them until Feb 4th
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Findecanor on Sun, 22 January 2017, 16:17:09
Is that flat wide chiclet keycap style the only keycap style there will be?
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 23 January 2017, 00:48:27
Is that flat wide chiclet keycap style the only keycap style there will be?

not sure about that, they showed me a couple of renders (one like a cherry ML keycap) but these "laptop style" seem they way they want to go.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: dante on Mon, 23 January 2017, 07:54:26
Is that flat wide chiclet keycap style the only keycap style there will be?

not sure about that, they showed me a couple of renders (one like a cherry ML keycap) but these "laptop style" seem they way they want to go.

As a huge fan of MX 3.0 and G20 caps I definitely want chiclet/laptop keycaps on this.  Cut the fat out of it I say! :D
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 23 January 2017, 09:40:10
today I received something I really wasn't expecting. Doubleshot low profile keycaps. They initially said it wasn't possible but evidently they found a way. Together with that I have enough switches to make a keyboard!

(https://i.imgur.com/hGWoSmw.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/AWMS3DL.jpg)
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: dante on Mon, 23 January 2017, 09:46:23
Please tell me you have a ANSI Enter key!  That big ass enter looks weird.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 23 January 2017, 09:50:54
LOL, yes ANSI Enter is in da house
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: chyros on Mon, 23 January 2017, 10:13:22
So, just to confirm, what exactly is your role in this? Are you a tester for them or something? Impressive keycaps by the way!
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: ishtob on Mon, 23 January 2017, 13:19:53
are these switches available to the public? I can see this going great on that mech fidget gadget on the IC forum
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 23 January 2017, 16:35:23
So, just to confirm, what exactly is your role in this? Are you a tester for them or something? Impressive keycaps by the way!

not exactly a tester, I'm trying to make a keyboard out of them.

are these switches available to the public? I can see this going great on that mech fidget gadget on the IC forum

they are available but MOQ directly from kailh is pretty high.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: dante on Wed, 25 January 2017, 10:25:31
Matt3o: Are you planning on designing your own cases?  Or will these drop into standard "MX" ones?
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: tp4tissue on Wed, 25 January 2017, 14:14:09
Hrrrrrrrrm...

this would help increase the maximum tenting angle of the ergodox.. by 5-10 degrees..
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Halverson on Wed, 25 January 2017, 14:34:16
So, just to confirm, what exactly is your role in this? Are you a tester for them or something? Impressive keycaps by the way!

not exactly a tester, I'm trying to make a keyboard out of them.

are these switches available to the public? I can see this going great on that mech fidget gadget on the IC forum

they are available but MOQ directly from kailh is pretty high.

Sorry if I missed it, but what kind of prices we looking at approximately at this high MOQ?
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: mrbishop on Wed, 25 January 2017, 15:13:55
If they are any good a custom board would be pretty awesome. Because low profile 😆

sent from my chess board

Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: dante on Wed, 25 January 2017, 18:10:44
Because low profile 😆

Low profile is love! Low profile is life! Trim the fat out of our keyboards! So say we all!
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Kominyetska on Wed, 25 January 2017, 18:46:25
I think it's time for a GB IC...
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 27 January 2017, 13:56:39
Sorry if I missed it, but what kind of prices we looking at approximately at this high MOQ?

the switch per-se is not terribly expensive, the problem is that we need new keycaps, stabs, plates, case, ....

Matt3o: Are you planning on designing your own cases?  Or will these drop into standard "MX" ones?

we need a whole new case, yes. Technically it works on a cherry mx switch plate, but it's not a perfect fit.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: kurplop on Fri, 27 January 2017, 15:18:26
I think we should see if mass drop could get them.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Halverson on Sat, 28 January 2017, 00:08:15
Sorry if I missed it, but what kind of prices we looking at approximately at this high MOQ?

the switch per-se is not terribly expensive, the problem is that we need new keycaps, stabs, plates, case, ....

Matt3o: Are you planning on designing your own cases?  Or will these drop into standard "MX" ones?

we need a whole new case, yes. Technically it works on a cherry mx switch plate, but it's not a perfect fit.

Hmmmmm hopefully plans for a kit come up someday :)
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 29 January 2017, 05:19:07
This is more or less what I wanted to do.

(https://i.imgur.com/u8ccciA.jpg)

basically an HHKB with split spacebar. Unfortunately I don't have all the key size to make it perfect, but I can settle with that for a prototype.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Halverson on Sun, 29 January 2017, 16:44:15
This is more or less what I wanted to do.

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/u8ccciA.jpg)


basically an HHKB with split spacebar. Unfortunately I don't have all the key size to make it perfect, but I can settle with that for a prototype.

Looking good!
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: dante on Sun, 29 January 2017, 20:16:59
I'm not a big fan of the HHKB layout, however as long as it's fully programmable - for example I can implement dual space-fn layers with the space bars then I'm all good.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Sarreq Teryx on Thu, 23 February 2017, 03:23:43
soooooo, where can the rest of us buy these??  Looking to try to build my own Teensy keyboard.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Sarreq Teryx on Wed, 01 March 2017, 15:06:24
I guess the blaring non-response means we can't?
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: hking0036 on Thu, 02 March 2017, 07:14:31
I guess the blaring non-response means we can't?
It's going to be a little while yet, yes. You can try and contact kaihua like matt3o but it's probably better just to wait it out.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: dante on Mon, 17 April 2017, 10:22:48
Still interested in April!
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: SNReloaded on Tue, 25 April 2017, 09:38:42
I love all the work being done with the ML-based switches! 60% keyboards with this profile of switch would be pretty neat, since it would be a great travel option/take to class option!

Cheers, and keep up the good work : )
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Russbo on Tue, 25 April 2017, 16:23:51
I'm really interested to here more about these switches too - registered just to say so! Hope keycaps happen soon - When they do a group buy should be able to happen since you can already pick these switches up on Globalsources.

Is there any more info Matt3o?
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: danwomansan on Tue, 25 April 2017, 18:38:53
I just want to pop in and see if there's more info on these switches and their keycaps yet
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: RominRonin on Sun, 21 May 2017, 00:37:08
Bump.


I would very much like to build my own custom board out of these.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: dante on Sun, 21 May 2017, 10:42:42
Still interested in April!

Still interested in May!
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Russbo on Sun, 21 May 2017, 10:44:37
I'm also still interested.

There was a post by Kailh on /r/mechanicalkeyboards about a week ago saying to contact them about switches, but still haven't heard anything about keycaps. The rep that was in that thread had rather rudimentary English skills so communication was difficult at best.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: SNReloaded on Sun, 21 May 2017, 11:26:14
I'm still interested. It would be awesome to build a slim Planck with these for travel

Sent from my XT1650 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 24 May 2017, 11:22:21
I've been very busy with the MT3 keycap profile, but I'm still interested in doing something with this switch.

We are trying to run another batch of WhiteFox (with or without massdrop), as soon as that is defined I can move on other projects.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Russbo on Wed, 24 May 2017, 17:53:47
The caps you posted earlier on were looking good, I'd love to see more soon.

Personally, I'm primarily interested in perhaps a group buy on switches and caps, I'm thinking of making my own PCB and case.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Findecanor on Sun, 04 June 2017, 11:35:05
The Tesoro Gram prototype at Computex 2017. It has been rumoured that this would be the Kailh switch ... Is it?
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Vladimir on Fri, 09 June 2017, 05:49:26
Yes, but I don't know which kind.
That's because Kaihua made two of them, Choc (closer to ML) and Choc mini.
Each kind will have its variations (at least blue and red alike).

http://imgur.com/a/yrECe

Choc: 3mm travel | 50g | actuation at 1.5mm | total height 8mm | lifespan 70 mi
Choc mini: 2.4 mm travel | 50g | actuation at 1.2mm | total height 5.85mm | lifespan 25 mi

Also apeared at Computex: http://imgur.com/a/JqiAq
Photo 37 and 38, I think.
(http://i.imgur.com/GL1hC8Y.jpg)

Announcement:
https://www.wstx.com/p-23617-1

Keyboard already using the switches
Dareu EK820
http://item.jd.com/4781628.html

Source:
https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/6elfwe/newscomputex_kaiihau_kailh_announced_choc_series/
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: HendyZone on Fri, 09 June 2017, 08:40:51
The Tesoro Gram prototype at Computex 2017. It has been rumoured that this would be the Kailh switch ... Is it?

Yeah, this one use the Kailh low profile switches for sure

Many clones start to make low profile switch again.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Russbo on Sat, 10 June 2017, 05:55:13
Man I want some of those ~6mm switches and caps so badly. I thought the switches weren't supposed to be ML cap compatible?
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Vladimir on Sat, 10 June 2017, 08:02:55
I was thinking about having those as well, but then I see the lifespan drops from 70 million to 25. Ouch
It's better if we leave them to use only with notebooks, when it's absolutely necessary to have them as small as possible.

And no, even if they look alike, ML caps won't fit the Chocs. I think is about the position of the stem/slider. One is more centered than the other I GUESS. I even saw someone fiting the caps, but it looks like the upper wall of the cap hit the housing or something, so you can't press properly.

Quote from: HendyZone
Many clones start to make low profile switch again.

I didn't knew that. Can you show other clones here? Is always good to have options.
So far, I've only see Kaihua making them.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: dante on Sat, 10 June 2017, 08:42:50
I was thinking about having those as well, but then I see the lifespan drops from 70 million to 25. Ouch

Considering Cherry/clones very rarely (in my experience) last beyond a year without something chattering I'll take a gamble for the feels.

I'm going to post a query in the main forum to figure out the best way to order that EK820.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: davkol on Sat, 10 June 2017, 09:02:46
Quote from: HendyZone
Many clones start to make low profile switch again.

I didn't knew that. Can you show other clones here? Is always good to have options.
So far, I've only see Kaihua making them.
AFAIK, Gateron (in some gaming keyboard) and TTC (in a Lenovo "laptop") are confirmed.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Vladimir on Sat, 10 June 2017, 09:44:12
Quote from: HendyZone
Many clones start to make low profile switch again.

I didn't knew that. Can you show other clones here? Is always good to have options.
So far, I've only see Kaihua making them.
AFAIK, Gateron (in some gaming keyboard) and TTC (in a Lenovo "laptop") are confirmed.

TTC is unknow to me. I mean, I heard about the company but haven't see any review about their switches.
But when I've search for the Gateron ones, this is what I've found:

http://www.tomshardware.com/news/tesoro-chiclet-mechanical-keyboard-gateron,33395.html
[attachimg=1]
"Update, 1/11/17, 10:55am PT: We have received confirmation that these switches were developed by Tesoro in a partnership with Gateron, not Kailh, as we'd previously suspected.

The keyboard pictured here is a handmade prototype, but Tesoro expects the final, shipping version in Q2, by the time Computex rolls around this summer."

So, we were wrong. The KB in the video it's not Kailh, but Gateron.

EDIT: Potato pictures of the Gateron and TTC version:
TTC
(http://i.imgur.com/jd5Bcqj.png)
Gateron
(http://i.imgur.com/q3kee6N.png)
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: dante on Sat, 10 June 2017, 14:58:27
A 60% comes forth: http://imgur.com/a/TbjtK
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: SNReloaded on Sat, 10 June 2017, 15:53:15
A 60% comes forth: http://imgur.com/a/TbjtK
I really like this. I would purchase this or some form of Planck variant

Sent from my XT1650 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Vladimir on Sat, 10 June 2017, 16:13:06
A 60% comes forth: http://imgur.com/a/TbjtK

I could totally buy this.
It would be better with blue, but whatever.
Any link where we can buy it yet?

The numbers were moved 1u to the right.
Also reducing the backspace size.
It disturbs me a little...

EDIT: I've just see where you've found this. I will leave the source, for reference:
https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/6gf1ub/keyboard_spotting_rakk_gears_low_profile_60/
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Malachor on Sat, 10 June 2017, 18:02:22
Has anyone seen these switches? https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=89657.msg2427611#msg2427611
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Vladimir on Sun, 11 June 2017, 04:50:29
First time I've seen this.
The HKNS looks the same as the Greetech GT04.
The first report I've found was this, jan 2016:

Source*
https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/41sifb/the_mysterious_greetech_gt04_laptop_switch/
BTW, the lenovo y900 talked about in this link, actually uses the TTC by the look of it.

On the Greetech main site, informs that it has:
Travel 2.5mm | 50mi lifespan | 7.8 mm total height
Black and blue variations.
On the Greetech Alibaba link, additionally inform the pre-travel of 1.5mm
Force weight still unknow. Only shows a red stem variation.

The HKNS alibaba link shows a few diferent things.
The lifespan is 20 million and pre-travel at 1.2mm.
Same height and total travel. Black and Blue variations.

On the banner, showed at source*, the Greetech informs 20 million lifespan. Black and Red variations. Same height.
Judging at how they mistake the name of the switch, we can't know for sure about what are the true values.
[attachimg=1]
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Russbo on Tue, 27 June 2017, 17:13:26
I messaged Rakk, no response about the board yet. I thought the video had been removed but it's further down their page:

https://www.facebook.com/rakk.ph/videos/1896373617253070/
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: doman18 on Fri, 30 June 2017, 09:05:52
Wow! Maybe this will finally get me into the mechanical keyboard world!
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: kurplop on Mon, 17 July 2017, 12:35:13
I ordered some of the Kailh Low Profile switches direct from Kailh. I was shocked but delighted to find them delivered from Hong Kong to my California doorstep just four days after I paid for them through Paypal.

I ordered some of each type and my initial favorites are the reds. They all feel pretty good though.
[attach=1]

The Kailh switches footprint is noticeably bigger than the ML's but just slightly higher.
[attach=2][attach=3]

From the underside you can see that it lacks the ML's jumper pins which make for easier trace runs (especially on 1 sided PCB's) but they seem to have provisions for both PCB only mounting and plate mounting. For the backlighting crowd, the clear case top is a plus.
[attach=4]

It will be a while before I will be able to use these but I'm looking forward to making a few keyboards with them.

Anyone wishing to work with these will have to figure out what to do about caps since none are available yet. I will probably mill out a few masters, make molds and cast them in urethane.


 
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Russbo on Mon, 17 July 2017, 12:46:04
Do you have a mechanical drawing or 3D model of the caps? If so would you be able to share it here? I also have a CNC router which I could make some molds with.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: kurplop on Mon, 17 July 2017, 13:33:11
Do you have a mechanical drawing or 3D model of the caps? If so would you be able to share it here? I also have a CNC router which I could make some molds with.

I haven't gotten that far yet. I was planning on starting with a modified Cherry ML cap. The two caps aren't compatible because the spacing of the stems is slightly different and they are not centered on the ML cap.

If I machine the masters, I'll get the precise dimensions of the Kailh stems but mostly freehand in the shape of the cap without exact drawings.

If anyone would like to sample them, PM me and I'll send you a few for my costs. I  have extras but not an endless supply I may have to end the offer at some point.

Eventually, I think Massdrop should offer them. They could get volume pricing and while the distributer was helpful, I don't think they are set up for small orders.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: mrbishop on Tue, 25 July 2017, 12:24:42
any likely hood of a KiCAD footprint? asking for a friend... also i need those browns! i'd love to know how much they are and what the MOQ is might have to design some PCB's to fit them :D :thumb:
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Russbo on Tue, 25 July 2017, 12:33:17
any likely hood of a KiCAD footprint? asking for a friend... also i need those browns! i'd love to know how much they are and what the MOQ is might have to design some PCB's to fit them :D :thumb:

When I get a moment I'll try and crack one out. Could be a while, I'm extraordinarily busy at the moment.

It's interesting, the caps from my G84 don't fit that badly, I can see they don't bottom out but still actuate.

What I might do is design a chiclet cap since that suits my project, get them professionally 3D printed, make a mold from them and then make a board from ones I cast.

Big thanks to kurplop for sending the switches over, they're really cool :)
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: kurplop on Tue, 25 July 2017, 12:39:43
any likely hood of a KiCAD footprint? asking for a friend... also i need those browns! i'd love to know how much they are and what the MOQ is might have to design some PCB's to fit them :D :thumb:
I bought mine from Bella at Kailua.  sales12@kailh.com   He is willing to sell small quantities for 0.21USD per switch plus shipping.

I bought extra and can sell some at my cost but I don't know if I can part with enough for a full keyboard. PM me if you think I can help.

I saw a pcb footprint diagram somewhere. I'll try to find it for you.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Russbo on Tue, 25 July 2017, 13:11:51
If you saw an existing footprint, would be great if you could share it, saves me some time haha!
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: mrbishop on Tue, 25 July 2017, 14:52:50
yes footprint! i hear there is one on easyeda but i dont use them for designing as ive put so much time into learning KiCAD (and am rather proficient in it now) also yes PM me or email me with any details on purchasing bishopkeyboards@gmail.com

thanks so much!

also did you say you tried cherry ML caps on these? do they fit ok?

does Kailh sell the stabilizers for these?
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: kurplop on Tue, 25 July 2017, 18:07:09
http://www.kailh.com/gb/Productdetail.asp?Productid=1584

This is their data sheet on the 1350 switches.

I found that the stems on the ML caps have just a slight bit different spacing.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: mrbishop on Tue, 25 July 2017, 18:31:16
http://www.kailh.com/gb/Productdetail.asp?Productid=1584

This is their data sheet on the 1350 switches.

I found that the stems on the ML caps have just a slight bit different spacing.

sweeeet time to try my hand at a from scratch footprint  :thumb:
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: mrbishop on Tue, 25 July 2017, 20:14:26
https://i.imgur.com/1piX3xM.png getting there. need to verify the key cap size and positioning
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Russbo on Thu, 27 July 2017, 12:28:43
Fantastic mrbishop, looking good.

KiCad's pretty great isn't it? I'm using it for various circuit boards I make (non keyboard related). But soon I will be making keyboards with it rest assured!

The ML caps do fit, mine do anyway, they just rub a bit at the bottom of the actuation because they aren't centered right.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: mrbishop on Thu, 27 July 2017, 14:33:45
Fantastic mrbishop, looking good.

KiCad's pretty great isn't it? I'm using it for various circuit boards I make (non keyboard related). But soon I will be making keyboards with it rest assured!

The ML caps do fit, mine do anyway, they just rub a bit at the bottom of the actuation because they aren't centered right.

thanks a ton! I will get a test board fabricated with this footprint soon-ish (next time i order more PCB's) but i need someone to be willing to ship me 2-4 caps so i can properly test. i have a cherry ML board i can borrow caps from but lack the new switches to test properly. i do want to get some of these switches and caps long term but i'll need a sample before i decide to buy in quantity. not begging just thinking out loud ;)
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: ant1ksts on Sat, 29 July 2017, 21:39:21
teaser-ino

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/03nPsdp.jpg)


Could somebody tell me where I can buy such keycaps? Thanks!
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: hanya on Mon, 28 August 2017, 21:57:14
As described in the following entry of someone, Kailh has stoc of keycap for PG1350 switch, it seems.
http://hrhg.hatenablog.com/entry/2017/05/23/055419
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Russbo on Tue, 29 August 2017, 13:32:16
As described in the following entry of someone, Kailh has stoc of keycap for PG1350 switch, it seems.
http://hrhg.hatenablog.com/entry/2017/05/23/055419

Fantastic find Hanya! Now we just need to get our hands on some. Would save me a great deal of messing about with making keycaps. Haven't even gotten around to finalizing my 3D model and sending it off to get printed yet. I'll hold fire now.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Tiramisuu on Sat, 02 September 2017, 01:01:44
Sub'ed in hopes of blank 1u keycaps.
A fascinating switch but with no keycaps it isn't much use.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Vladimir on Sat, 16 September 2017, 16:09:27
http://www.kailh.com/gb/Productdetail.asp?Productid=1584

This is their data sheet on the 1350 switches.

I found that the stems on the ML caps have just a slight bit different spacing.

404

This link may solve: http://www.kailh.com/uploads/soft/170802/1-1FP2103447.pdf
(download while you can)

Also, this is the list of Choc switches (1350):
(https://i.imgur.com/T2Jzh1I.png)
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Bella_Hwang on Thu, 21 September 2017, 02:31:27
I'm also still interested.

There was a post by Kailh on /r/mechanicalkeyboards about a week ago saying to contact them about switches, but still haven't heard anything about keycaps. The rep that was in that thread had rather rudimentary English skills so communication was difficult at best.

the keycap samples as the attachment
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Bella_Hwang on Thu, 21 September 2017, 02:38:48
Yes, but I don't know which kind.
That's because Kaihua made two of them, Choc (closer to ML) and Choc mini.
Each kind will have its variations (at least blue and red alike).

http://imgur.com/a/yrECe

Choc: 3mm travel | 50g | actuation at 1.5mm | total height 8mm | lifespan 70 mi
Choc mini: 2.4 mm travel | 50g | actuation at 1.2mm | total height 5.85mm | lifespan 25 mi

Also apeared at Computex: http://imgur.com/a/JqiAq
Photo 37 and 38, I think.
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/GL1hC8Y.jpg)


Announcement:
https://www.wstx.com/p-23617-1

Keyboard already using the switches
Dareu EK820
http://item.jd.com/4781628.html

Source:
https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/6elfwe/newscomputex_kaiihau_kailh_announced_choc_series/


Kailh Choc switch is PG1350   3mm travel | 50g | actuation at 1.5mm | total height 8mm | lifespan 70M
Kailh Choc Mini switch is PG1232   2.4 mm travel | 50g | actuation at 1.2mm | total height 5.85mm | lifespan 25M
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: Bella_Hwang on Thu, 21 September 2017, 02:47:16
As described in the following entry of someone, Kailh has stoc of keycap for PG1350 switch, it seems.
http://hrhg.hatenablog.com/entry/2017/05/23/055419

yeah,
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: 4sStylZ on Thu, 21 September 2017, 04:18:41
I am waiting for my Kailh switch too. I have ordered some red / brown sample from Bella by Email / Skype / Paypal.
She was very serious and fast.

Now I need too order a custom plate for my project. I wonder if you have some file for the plate that I can use. Because I have never used this kind of software.
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: mrbishop on Thu, 21 September 2017, 09:01:28
Got my switches on order last night! Can't wait to work out this split PCB and use them in it!
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: ss77 on Mon, 23 October 2017, 14:13:32
My current keyboard is a scissor switch type and i found this topic while searching to see what mechanical keyboard is most similar to the one i have.  These look very interesting.
 I also saw a post at TPU about a wireless keyboard that uses the same (?) switches https://www.techpowerup.com/forums/threads/drevo-introduces-low-profile-wireless-vrangr-keyboard.238071/#post-3743213
Title: Re: New low profile Kailh switches (cherry ML inspired)
Post by: ss77 on Sat, 11 November 2017, 16:24:50
TPU did a review on the HAVIT HV-KB390L
https://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Havit/HV-KB390L/