Getting masive Koyu vibes. This needs a split between the arrow keys and modifiers
We're exploring the option of a split between the arrows and modifiers. However, like we mentioned before, the split will throw off the uniform bezel regardless of how it is implemented. An offset cluster would require an entire redesign of the board's internals as well since the mounting system is concealed within the bezel. The current layout is relatively unique to the Paragon and allows it to maintain an even/symmetrical appearance and any changes would immediately alter the aesthetic.
Very nice looking case. I think a wider bottom weight would like nicer and better proportioned.
Thanks, we've received a lot of feedback regarding the weight (especially the width). We're reconsidering the design of the weight at the moment as it pertains to increasing the size.
Looks really interesting, filled in the IC form. One thing I would also like to say is that the knob looks a bit too tall, but aside from that it looks really clean!
Thanks, we've also received a lot of feedback regarding the knob and we're looking into reducing the height. However, we would like the knob to still be as tall or taller than the keycaps but there's still some height that can be trimmed down.
A bit too similar to the Koyu imo. I understand that the guts are different, but the outside looks like a 75% koyu with a knob. That's past inspiration at this point. There needs to be more to claim it was "inspired by" and not "copied". Something as simple as a chamfered edge would make a world of difference. New designers stand on the shoulder on giants, so it is fine and understandable to want to use those who came before us as inspiration, but if you're not adding on to that design, you're not standing on their shoulders, you're leaning on them. Look at the Alice for instance: Many boards have copied the layout, but some of them are outright clones, while others have provided very nice additions and made amazing cases that really set them apart from the original design.
Also, a blocker between the ctrl and arrow key cluster would make this a prettier and easier to use board (for me). Even better if the navkeys also end up separated, but that's not as important to me.
The single most important thing though is definitely that you guys partner with a reputable vendor.
There is potential here, but it needs more time on the drawing board. This is your first board, and there is a big risk that you will get the copycat label assigned to you by the community if you go through with this.
Don't let these comments tear you down, and don't abandon the project! I'm just giving you guys my honest feedback and I hope my criticism is constructive and helpful, I wouldn't bother commenting if I didn't think this could become something nice.
Edit: spelling
Thanks for the feedback. We've explained the differences in the FAQ so we're not going to rehash the issue entirely but we did highlight the surface level differences between the Paragon and the Koyu. Since the internals are completely different along with the surface level differences including the form factor, knob, and layout spacing, we feel that this board differentiates itself enough at the moment; while adding a chamfer is an interesting idea, it would instantly detract from the clean curves and bezel of the Paragon. We've addressed the issue with key spacing above and the current layout of the Paragon is relatively unique; adding blockers and clusters/offsets would only make it more similar to existing boards (something which we're being paradoxically critiqued for here). As we mentioned before, we're looking into partnering with vendors and we're currently waiting for responses.
How about a curved cutout on the back, the reveal the base? If base has a different colour it would be a nice accent. Knob and base could be colour matched, would like nice IMO.
This is interesting and we'll look into it. There will be at least a third color option based predicated upon the IC and maybe we can mix and match the bottom and top if we do go down this route.