[PO] R5 Zealios / Zealencios / Transparent Screw-in Stabs / Zeal60 Rev2

[johnthedong]

What lube do you recommend for zeal stabs and switches?  Should I use the same for both stabs and switches or different for each?

I'd like to know this, too.
Just for stabs.

Sent from my SM-N910V using Tapatalk

I personally use thin Krytox for switches and thicker krytox mixes for the stabs as per the recommendations online

[Latin00032]

What lube do you recommend for zeal stabs and switches?  Should I use the same for both stabs and switches or different for each?

I'd like to know this, too.
Just for stabs.

Sent from my SM-N910V using Tapatalk

I personally use thin Krytox for switches and thicker krytox mixes for the stabs as per the recommendations online

I have some Mechlube 2 from elite keyboards. Would that be ok?

Sent from my SM-N910V using Tapatalk

[TheNamesTy45]

Got my order #7698 with stabilizers. Put the authentic Cherry stabilizers in, and my board is finally not a rattly mess. Thank you, Zeal!!

[lzrdwzrd]

What lube do you recommend for zeal stabs and switches?  Should I use the same for both stabs and switches or different for each?

I just got done lubing my new switches with the thick formula Krytox Switch Lubricant from techkeys. They feel fantastic, it lowers the sound profile a bit and makes them so smooth. You do lose the slightest amount of snap in the bump (on 67g switches anyway). I would recommend only lubing the side rails and springs a bit.

I found the EK Mechlube 2 too be a little bit too thick and really changes the feel too much for me. This would be better on stabs.

[Zeal]

What lube do you recommend for zeal stabs and switches?  Should I use the same for both stabs and switches or different for each?

I'd like to know this, too.
Just for stabs.

Sent from my SM-N910V using Tapatalk

I use the GH V4 Thick lube on switches, stabs and springs. Works great all around.

[flipanda]

My wallet hurts now.

From just a look at these switches I've since

• ordered a winkeyless b.face x2 and acrylic case
• orderd these switches in 78g
• ordered keycaps from aliexpress and also browsing the classifieds here and on /r/mechmarket

$200 for the pcb and case and some holtites, $90 for switches and stabs, $40 and counting for keycaps.

And all I was going to do was order a pok3r with mx clears, white backlit and white case. But nope, out of stock. Oh well.

[Sythe]

So my order is switches+lube. Can I expect them to be shipped today/tomorrow?

[Zeal]

So my order is switches+lube. Can I expect them to be shipped today/tomorrow?

You can expect your order to ship out tomorrow, as we have to pack the remaining orders first once lube arrives today.

[Sissy]

My wallet hurts now.

From just a look at these switches I've since

• ordered a winkeyless b.face x2 and acrylic case
• orderd these switches in 78g
• ordered keycaps from aliexpress and also browsing the classifieds here and on /r/mechmarket

$200 for the pcb and case and some holtites, $90 for switches and stabs, $40 and counting for keycaps.

And all I was going to do was order a pok3r with mx clears, white backlit and white case. But nope, out of stock. Oh well.

Welcome to the amazingly expensive world of keyboards.

[lzrdwzrd]

My wallet hurts now.

From just a look at these switches I've since

• ordered a winkeyless b.face x2 and acrylic case
• orderd these switches in 78g
• ordered keycaps from aliexpress and also browsing the classifieds here and on /r/mechmarket

$200 for the pcb and case and some holtites, $90 for switches and stabs, $40 and counting for keycaps.

And all I was going to do was order a pok3r with mx clears, white backlit and white case. But nope, out of stock. Oh well.

Ordered the same case for my 67g switches 

Was going to go with GoN but he never answered any of my emails.

Also grabbed those pixelated galaxy keycaps from massdrop

[flipanda]

My wallet hurts now.

From just a look at these switches I've since

• ordered a winkeyless b.face x2 and acrylic case
• orderd these switches in 78g
• ordered keycaps from aliexpress and also browsing the classifieds here and on /r/mechmarket

$200 for the pcb and case and some holtites, $90 for switches and stabs, $40 and counting for keycaps.

And all I was going to do was order a pok3r with mx clears, white backlit and white case. But nope, out of stock. Oh well.

Welcome to the amazingly expensive world of keyboards.

When I think about it, after having spent so much money on building my pc and other things like 144hz monitors and stuff, a $300+ keyboard that I have to have in order to use my pc is not too bad.

My wallet hurts now.

From just a look at these switches I've since

• ordered a winkeyless b.face x2 and acrylic case
• orderd these switches in 78g
• ordered keycaps from aliexpress and also browsing the classifieds here and on /r/mechmarket

$200 for the pcb and case and some holtites, $90 for switches and stabs, $40 and counting for keycaps.

And all I was going to do was order a pok3r with mx clears, white backlit and white case. But nope, out of stock. Oh well.

Ordered the same case for my 67g switches 

Was going to go with GoN but he never answered any of my emails.

Also grabbed those pixelated galaxy keycaps from massdrop

I was looking at GoN Nerd60 but after reading about some of the stories regarding that, I decided not to. I think as far as keysets is going, that GB for the GMK Adventure Night over on originative seems right up my ally.

[jmdaly]

I was looking at GoN Nerd60 but after reading about some of the stories regarding that, I decided not to. I think as far as keysets is going, that GB for the GMK Adventure Night over on originative seems right up my ally.

I picked up two GoN Nerd60 PCBs through LeandreN/Mekanisk's most recent group buy, and the PCBs are great. I converted one to QMK, and am loving the programmability. If you're interested in one of the Nerd60 PCBs, definitely keep an eye out for LeandreN's next group buy - it's a solid route to go.

[johnthedong]

Just wondering how long would it take for my stab order that I placed yesterday to ship, thanks again! 

[flipanda]

Just wondering how long would it take for my stab order that I placed yesterday to ship, thanks again! 

just to give you a rough idea on how fast this was (which blew my mind)

I placed my order on 4/10 and received it today 4/12. this was to the southwest united states.

[johnthedong]

Just wondering how long would it take for my stab order that I placed yesterday to ship, thanks again! 

just to give you a rough idea on how fast this was (which blew my mind)

I placed my order on 4/10 and received it today 4/12. this was to the southwest united states.

Sounds great - did you get a shipping notification? That's awesome!

[TelFiRE]

How do people figure out what kind of Zealios they like? I kind of want to try them but it's hard to take a leap and do a whole keyboard in them


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[BlackInk]

Hi Zeal,

I thought you are sending out the packages on Wednesday and Thursday?

[Zeal]

How do people figure out what kind of Zealios they like? I kind of want to try them but it's hard to take a leap and do a whole keyboard in them


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

65g/67g are always safe bets. Most popular weights as well. 78g if you're a bit heavier handed, and want something lighter than MX Clears.

Hi Zeal,

I thought you are sending out the packages on Wednesday and Thursday?

I've been shipping orders out daily. All non-PCB GB orders should already be out/printed now. Received Zeal60 PCBs today, currently flashing & testing every single one, then will work on packing them out.

[TheNamesTy45]

That's exciting news about the PCBs! Put my preorder in Feb 1st, and I'm super excited that the day is getting closer and closer. Thanks for the hard work on this, Zeal!

[BlackInk]

How do people figure out what kind of Zealios they like? I kind of want to try them but it's hard to take a leap and do a whole keyboard in them


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

65g/67g are always safe bets. Most popular weights as well. 78g if you're a bit heavier handed, and want something lighter than MX Clears.

Hi Zeal,

I thought you are sending out the packages on Wednesday and Thursday?

I've been shipping orders out daily. All non-PCB GB orders should already be out/printed now. Received Zeal60 PCBs today, currently flashing & testing every single one, then will work on packing them out.

Yay super excited for the package, when will R6 starts? Need some more switches and holtites for up comming The Moon

[TelFiRE]

Ok, I am leaning toward jumping on the 67g. I am a fan of brown and wouldn't mind slightly more tactility. I also like the sound of increasing resistance as you get closer to bottoming out.

Are the 2x3x4 "Fast" RGB LEDs you sell compatible with the Zealios? And do you think I should order the R5s or are the issues people are talking about with keycaps pulling it through something a first time keyboard builder (and solderer) should avoid and maybe wait for R6?

Thanks

[Zeal]

Ok, I am leaning toward jumping on the 67g. I am a fan of brown and wouldn't mind slightly more tactility. I also like the sound of increasing resistance as you get closer to bottoming out.

Are the 2x3x4 "Fast" RGB LEDs you sell compatible with the Zealios? And do you think I should order the R5s or are the issues people are talking about with keycaps pulling it through something a first time keyboard builder (and solderer) should avoid and maybe wait for R6?

Thanks

Auto changing RGB LEDs are a bit more picky and may not be compatible with all PCBs. They work with Zealios no problem, as they're just like all other 2 pin LEDs. You won't be able to select the colours and they'll just flash a preset cycle every time.
There haven't been any changes to the Zealio switch since R4, it's been refined to my satisfaction now. So not sure what issues you're referring to. If you're a first time builder/solderer though, I would recommend the 65g plate mount variant as the bottom is more resistant to heat to prevent overheating.

[TelFiRE]

Ok, I am leaning toward jumping on the 67g. I am a fan of brown and wouldn't mind slightly more tactility. I also like the sound of increasing resistance as you get closer to bottoming out.

Are the 2x3x4 "Fast" RGB LEDs you sell compatible with the Zealios? And do you think I should order the R5s or are the issues people are talking about with keycaps pulling it through something a first time keyboard builder (and solderer) should avoid and maybe wait for R6?

Thanks

Auto changing RGB LEDs are a bit more picky and may not be compatible with all PCBs. They work with Zealios no problem, as they're just like all other 2 pin LEDs. You won't be able to select the colours and they'll just flash a preset cycle every time.
There haven't been any changes to the Zealio switch since R4, it's been refined to my satisfaction now. So not sure what issues you're referring to. If you're a first time builder/solderer though, I would recommend the 65g plate mount variant as the bottom is more resistant to heat to prevent overheating.

I see. Well, the only reason I want RGB is because I'm after a particular shade of green. I definitely don't want rainbow LEDs Is color selection possible?

I will most likely be making them on a RAMA PCB if that is of any info.

And the issue I'm talking about was being discussed here, I know nothing more than what I read on this page: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=84248.850

[Zeal]

Ok, I am leaning toward jumping on the 67g. I am a fan of brown and wouldn't mind slightly more tactility. I also like the sound of increasing resistance as you get closer to bottoming out.

Are the 2x3x4 "Fast" RGB LEDs you sell compatible with the Zealios? And do you think I should order the R5s or are the issues people are talking about with keycaps pulling it through something a first time keyboard builder (and solderer) should avoid and maybe wait for R6?

Thanks

Auto changing RGB LEDs are a bit more picky and may not be compatible with all PCBs. They work with Zealios no problem, as they're just like all other 2 pin LEDs. You won't be able to select the colours and they'll just flash a preset cycle every time.
There haven't been any changes to the Zealio switch since R4, it's been refined to my satisfaction now. So not sure what issues you're referring to. If you're a first time builder/solderer though, I would recommend the 65g plate mount variant as the bottom is more resistant to heat to prevent overheating.

I see. Well, the only reason I want RGB is because I'm after a particular shade of green. I definitely don't want rainbow LEDs Is color selection possible?

I will most likely be making them on a RAMA PCB if that is of any info.

And the issue I'm talking about was being discussed here, I know nothing more than what I read on this page: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=84248.850

Currently, the only aftermarket PCB that can let you choose any shade of color is the Zeal60 RGB PCB on our site. All other PCBs are single color only and are limited by LED color.

Those posts are referring to the stabilizer wire sometimes popping out when keycaps are pulled from stabilized keys. There's an easy fix to reduce the tightness of the stabilizers, and that's to squeeze the horizontal stem on the insert with pliers once or twice, each side. We're currently working with the manufacturer to address the tightness.

[TelFiRE]

Oh wow. That boggles my mind. Guess I won't be building a keyboard after all (at least until someone comes out with a TKL PCB that does color selection). Thank you for the info, appreciate it!

Edit: I've just been informed that diffusers don't require the PCB to have key RGB support. Plus, someone pointed out the Zeal65 you've teased which looks pretty dope! So I think I'm on the hook for the project after all haha. I would love a Zeal75 or Zeal TKL

Edit2: Just found and bought a Zealios tester from https://www.novelkeys.xyz so I can try them out and be a little more sure!

Edit3: you make some really sexy PCBs btw

[Latin00032]

Out of curiosity, is there any pics that show how the light looks passing through the clear zealio versus a frosted bottom zealio?

Sent from my SM-N910V using Tapatalk

[BlackInk]

Happy Easter Zeal

Hope you will send out orders with Zeal60 by this week!

[Zeal]

Out of curiosity, is there any pics that show how the light looks passing through the clear zealio versus a frosted bottom zealio?

Sent from my SM-N910V using Tapatalk

Not quite the same, but similar (for frosted switch): https://imgur.com/a/e9akf
For pics of regular Zealios on the Zeal60, they're posted on the listing.

Happy Easter Zeal

Hope you will send out orders with Zeal60 by this week!

About that...Unfortunately there's some bad news with regards to Zeal60 order fulfillment time.

Spent my whole Easter break flashing/inspecting/QCing each Zeal60. A large majority of Zeal60 orders had to be put aside due to them failing my personal "QC" standards. They are all fully functional boards and nothing is wrong electronically, but many didn't meet my aesthetics QC (ie: any PCB with a visible scratch on the surface will fail). This was a surprise for me because the first round was spotless. Not sure what happened the second time around during handling. They were all packed the same, so it wasn't shipping damage. I have contacted the fab and have asked them to remake all the boards that had any aesthetic defects. The Zeal60 is a premium board and the quality, design & aesthetics should reflect it. I will send out as many boards as I can that meet my criteria, but the majority of participants will have to wait a bit while we resolve this issue with the PCB fab. Apologies for the delay.

[TheNamesTy45]

I know I speak for myself here... but no worries from me on the Zeal60's. Thanks for doing such stringent QC on the boards. Appreciate the commitment to quality!

Besides, I ordered Feb 1st. What's a few more weeks in the grand scheme?

[Robotical]

Out of curiosity, is there any pics that show how the light looks passing through the clear zealio versus a frosted bottom zealio?

Sent from my SM-N910V using Tapatalk

Not quite the same, but similar (for frosted switch): https://imgur.com/a/e9akf
For pics of regular Zealios on the Zeal60, they're posted on the listing.

Happy Easter Zeal

Hope you will send out orders with Zeal60 by this week!

About that...Unfortunately there's some bad news with regards to Zeal60 order fulfillment time.

Spent my whole Easter break flashing/inspecting/QCing each Zeal60. A large majority of Zeal60 orders had to be put aside due to them failing my personal "QC" standards. They are all fully functional boards and nothing is wrong electronically, but many didn't meet my aesthetics QC (ie: any PCB with a visible scratch on the surface will fail). This was a surprise for me because the first round was spotless. Not sure what happened the second time around during handling. They were all packed the same, so it wasn't shipping damage. I have contacted the fab and have asked them to remake all the boards that had any aesthetic defects. The Zeal60 is a premium board and the quality, design & aesthetics should reflect it. I will send out as many boards as I can that meet my criteria, but the majority of participants will have to wait a bit while we resolve this issue with the PCB fab. Apologies for the delay.

I'm glad that you want it to meet your quality standards instead of just shipping them out. Makes me excited to receive my PCB. I am going to PM you though with questions regarding my order.

[Edit] Thanks Zeal for taking care of me so quickly!

[Skuloth]

Is it possible to add on to our orders if they haven't shipped yet?

I'm regretting not picking up a 7u stab with my 6.25u stab

[Zeal]

Is it possible to add on to our orders if they haven't shipped yet?

I'm regretting not picking up a 7u stab with my 6.25u stab

Send me an email with what you want added and I can send over a custom cart link.

[Skuloth]

Is it possible to add on to our orders if they haven't shipped yet?

I'm regretting not picking up a 7u stab with my 6.25u stab

Send me an email with what you want added and I can send over a custom cart link.

yay

email sent

[TelFiRE]

Just got my pre-order in for some Zealios switches. I got a switch tester and I really like the feel of 65g. I think I'm going to love it!

Any chance the Zeal 65 or a TKL or 75 is anywhere near being available?

[shortsyoungster]

Any idea when R6 will start, really interested in 62g?

[Zeal]

R6 will start around May or so. Need to finalize some details first.

Zeal65 pcb & kit may be pushed back to end of May/early June.

[Theconejo]

Zeal65 pcb & kit may be pushed back to end of May/early June.

Hope its so you can send me a prototype =)

[dohmain]

About that...Unfortunately there's some bad news with regards to Zeal60 order fulfillment time.

Spent my whole Easter break flashing/inspecting/QCing each Zeal60. A large majority of Zeal60 orders had to be put aside due to them failing my personal "QC" standards. They are all fully functional boards and nothing is wrong electronically, but many didn't meet my aesthetics QC (ie: any PCB with a visible scratch on the surface will fail). This was a surprise for me because the first round was spotless. Not sure what happened the second time around during handling. They were all packed the same, so it wasn't shipping damage. I have contacted the fab and have asked them to remake all the boards that had any aesthetic defects. The Zeal60 is a premium board and the quality, design & aesthetics should reflect it. I will send out as many boards as I can that meet my criteria, but the majority of participants will have to wait a bit while we resolve this issue with the PCB fab. Apologies for the delay.

Does this not apply for the Massdrop units?
I just received my PCB from Massdrop and I'm seeing some minor scratches and discolorations in the soldermask.

Honestly, I probably wouldn't be bothered with it if I didn't see your post. It got me all excited to get a pristine PCB, but now I'm just a little sad.

[Zeal]

About that...Unfortunately there's some bad news with regards to Zeal60 order fulfillment time.

Spent my whole Easter break flashing/inspecting/QCing each Zeal60. A large majority of Zeal60 orders had to be put aside due to them failing my personal "QC" standards. They are all fully functional boards and nothing is wrong electronically, but many didn't meet my aesthetics QC (ie: any PCB with a visible scratch on the surface will fail). This was a surprise for me because the first round was spotless. Not sure what happened the second time around during handling. They were all packed the same, so it wasn't shipping damage. I have contacted the fab and have asked them to remake all the boards that had any aesthetic defects. The Zeal60 is a premium board and the quality, design & aesthetics should reflect it. I will send out as many boards as I can that meet my criteria, but the majority of participants will have to wait a bit while we resolve this issue with the PCB fab. Apologies for the delay.

Does this not apply for the Massdrop units?
I just received my PCB from Massdrop and I'm seeing some minor scratches and discolorations in the soldermask.

Honestly, I probably wouldn't be bothered with it if I didn't see your post. It got me all excited to get a pristine PCB, but now I'm just a little sad.

Massdrop PCBs were also checked for scratches. There shouldn't be any major scratches, unless I had accidentally missed it during hand review.
If by discoloration, you mean by a bit of extra purple "rings" surrounding the holes, those are unfortunately part of all PCBs and will happen during the soldermask & drying process. 

[Lisinge]

I placed order #7935 for PCB, Zealios, zealstabs and some hot swap sockets.

When do you think it will get shipped?

[dohmain]

About that...Unfortunately there's some bad news with regards to Zeal60 order fulfillment time.

Spent my whole Easter break flashing/inspecting/QCing each Zeal60. A large majority of Zeal60 orders had to be put aside due to them failing my personal "QC" standards. They are all fully functional boards and nothing is wrong electronically, but many didn't meet my aesthetics QC (ie: any PCB with a visible scratch on the surface will fail). This was a surprise for me because the first round was spotless. Not sure what happened the second time around during handling. They were all packed the same, so it wasn't shipping damage. I have contacted the fab and have asked them to remake all the boards that had any aesthetic defects. The Zeal60 is a premium board and the quality, design & aesthetics should reflect it. I will send out as many boards as I can that meet my criteria, but the majority of participants will have to wait a bit while we resolve this issue with the PCB fab. Apologies for the delay.

Does this not apply for the Massdrop units?
I just received my PCB from Massdrop and I'm seeing some minor scratches and discolorations in the soldermask.

Honestly, I probably wouldn't be bothered with it if I didn't see your post. It got me all excited to get a pristine PCB, but now I'm just a little sad.

Massdrop PCBs were also checked for scratches. There shouldn't be any major scratches, unless I had accidentally missed it during hand review.
If by discoloration, you mean by a bit of extra purple "rings" surrounding the holes, those are unfortunately part of all PCBs and will happen during the soldermask & drying process.

PM'd

[Zeal]

I placed order #7935 for PCB, Zealios, zealstabs and some hot swap sockets.

When do you think it will get shipped?

Currently waiting to hear back from the PCB fab regarding replacement timeline. The LEDs used with the Zeal60s are custom produced as well, so will have to coordinate the two pieces simultaneously. Realistically, I'm expecting the replacements to arrive by late May or early June. Will update everyone with any new updates as I receive them.

[TheNamesTy45]

Hey noticed you said you'd send out all of the ones that passed inspection. Just wondering if all of those have been sent out already. Keeping hope alive for order #6825.

[eldonw]

Any chance those PCBs that didn't pass your QC will be sold as B Stock?

[Wilba]

Any chance those PCBs that didn't pass your QC will be sold as B Stock?

No.

[Zeal]

Hey noticed you said you'd send out all of the ones that passed inspection. Just wondering if all of those have been sent out already. Keeping hope alive for order #6825.

Unfortunately not many went out. Will be waiting on the replacement batch.

Any chance those PCBs that didn't pass your QC will be sold as B Stock?

No, we don't sell any b-stock products on our site.

[BlackInk]

So all orders with zeal60 will be ship out around late May or early June?

[CYFX]

Hey, I ordered some Zealio R5 78g under order 7936. I was wondering if you might have an idea of when these might ship out?

Thank you

CYFX

[Zeal]

Hey, I ordered some Zealio R5 78g under order 7936. I was wondering if you might have an idea of when these might ship out?

Thank you

CYFX

You can expect a shipping notification over the weekend. We're catching up on fulfilling the orders while we received during our short business trip.

[CYFX]

Nice! Thank you very much for the update. Im excited to hear that they will be shipped out that soon. Now hopefully my Planck Will be here by then