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[IC] Athena – A Modular & Highly Customizable 65% Keyboard

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shiva1796:
Introducing Athena




Precision. Customization. Elegance.

Hey Everyone,

After months of design, prototyping, and iteration, I'm excited to introduce Athena — a 65% keyboard designed with customization at its core.

This is my first keyboard project at this scale, and I wanted to build something that stands out, offering a balance between functionality, aesthetics, and user customization.

Whether you prefer ISO, ANSI, split backspace, multiple spacebar options, or a knob, Athena lets you configure it to your preference.

If you're looking for a solid, premium keyboard with a unique modular twist, this might be the perfect board for you.

Key Features

✓ 7° Typing Angle – Comfortable and ergonomic incline
✓ ZMK Firmware – Wireless-first, open-source firmware
✓ ZMK Studio Support – Easy wireless remapping with ZMK Studio
✓ Wired, Wireless, and Wired+Wireless modes
✓ Swappable Side Accents – Choose between Anodized Aluminum, Brass, or LED Accents
✓ Available in Hot-Swappable and Solderable PCB Options – Supports ANSI & ISO layouts
✓ Split Backspace & Split Spacebar Support – Layout flexibility
✓ Full CNC Aluminum Body – Precision-milled for a sleek premium feel
✓ Hot-Swappable Key Position – Install a rotary encoder or a customizable metal cap
✓ Gasket Mount Design – Soft, cushioned keystrokes for a smooth typing experience
✓ Two PCB Options:

Flex Cut Per-Key RGB PCB (1.2mm)

Non-Flex Cut PCB (1.6mm)

Design & Build

Athena features a fully anodized aluminum case, designed for both aesthetics and performance. The gasket mount provides a softer typing experience while maintaining firm feedback.

One standout feature is the hot-swappable key position, allowing you to install a rotary encoder or a customizable metal cap depending on your preference.

Athena’s modular system means you can customize the board to suit your needs and style, including swappable side accents for even more personalization.

Why Athena?

I wanted to create something different.

Many keyboards force you into one layout, one aesthetic, one experience. Athena is built to be versatile, so you can make it truly yours.



Current PCB Layout Options

Prefer a knob? Install a rotary encoder.

Prefer a cleaner look? Install a customizable metal cap.

Need an extra key? Install a Key.

Athena is designed to adapt to your workflow, whether for productivity, gaming, or daily use.

Interest Check – I Need Your Feedback

This is still in the Interest Check (IC) phase, and your feedback is critical to refining the final design.

I'd love to hear your thoughts:

What do you think of the design and features?

What color finishes would you love to see? We currently have voting going on for final 5 colors, if you would like to weigh in please Vote here!

Would you like to see additional accent materials (carbon fiber, PVD, etc)?

Color Voting is Live! You can help choose the 5 final colors — Vote here!

Renders

Poseiodon Blue









Hades Burgundy









Artemis Green









Aphrodite Pink









Hermes White









Bottom Case and Weight's

Anodized Gold colored Aluminum with Brass Weight



Anodized Copper colored Aluminum with Copper Weight



Anodized Black colored Aluminum with Anodized Black Aluminum Weight





Prototype Pics


























Next Steps

Receive and test final prototypes ✓

Finalize any necessary case/PCB tweaks ✓

Select final colorways (based on voting feedback)

Confirm pricing and vendor information

If you’re interested in seeing Athena come to life, drop a comment below. Your feedback will help shape the final product.

Join the Community & Stay Updated

Want to follow along with the development, give feedback, or just chat with fellow keyboard enthusiasts?

🔗 Join the Discord: NyxKeys Discord
🌐 Visit the Website: NyxKeys Official Website

Stay tuned for more updates!

Randomlosername:
Before commenting on the design It would be nice to see the bottom of the board. As far as layout goes I personally love an exploded nav layout. I will say not offering 7U seems like a big miss though. Would definitely like to see that included. 

shiva1796:

--- Quote from: Randomlosername on Tue, 18 February 2025, 10:07:50 ---Before commenting on the design It would be nice to see the bottom of the board. As far as layout goes I personally love an exploded nav layout. I will say not offering 7U seems like a big miss though. Would definitely like to see that included.

--- End quote ---
You're absolutely correct, I just updated the post and added the picture of what the back looks like as of right now and a side view, 7U is definitely doable! its something I can add on to my list of improvements.

Randomlosername:

--- Quote from: shiva1796 on Tue, 18 February 2025, 10:20:47 ---
--- Quote from: Randomlosername on Tue, 18 February 2025, 10:07:50 ---Before commenting on the design It would be nice to see the bottom of the board. As far as layout goes I personally love an exploded nav layout. I will say not offering 7U seems like a big miss though. Would definitely like to see that included.

--- End quote ---
You're absolutely correct, I just updated the post and added the picture of what the back looks like as of right now and a side view, 7U is definitely doable! its something I can add on to my list of improvements.

--- End quote ---

Just checked it out and I love the owl haha, nice clean side profile and a distinct bottom. From the render will the bottom be brass ? Looking forward to seeing more info as the project develops!

shiva1796:

--- Quote from: Randomlosername on Tue, 18 February 2025, 10:26:52 ---
--- Quote from: shiva1796 on Tue, 18 February 2025, 10:20:47 ---
--- Quote from: Randomlosername on Tue, 18 February 2025, 10:07:50 ---Before commenting on the design It would be nice to see the bottom of the board. As far as layout goes I personally love an exploded nav layout. I will say not offering 7U seems like a big miss though. Would definitely like to see that included.

--- End quote ---
You're absolutely correct, I just updated the post and added the picture of what the back looks like as of right now and a side view, 7U is definitely doable! its something I can add on to my list of improvements.

--- End quote ---

Just checked it out and I love the owl haha, nice clean side profile and a distinct bottom. From the render will the bottom be brass ? Looking forward to seeing more info as the project develops!

--- End quote ---
Thankyou! I'm glad you liked it. There will be 2 options for the bottom it can be anodized aluminum or brass whatever the end user prefers!

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