Poker 3

[ynrozturk]

Just somewhat announced on the Vortex Facebook page.

https://www.facebook.com/Vortexgear

[Computer-Lab in Basement]

Back to PCB mount...

[HoffmanMyster]

PCB mount in a low-profile case?  I am not sold on that.  I can't imagine many people want to see that red PCB.   

Other than that, it looks interesting.  Seems like they're saying it comes stock with a metal case? 

[ynrozturk]

Looks like it, which means it'll probably be at least $200 when it comes out. And I'm not a fan of the PCB mount.

[heedpantsnow]

I don't mind putting in my own plate.  Not a compelling upgrade from my 3 Poker X's though.

[jinq-sea]

I don't mind putting in my own plate.  Not a compelling upgrade from my 3 Poker X's though.

Would be ripe for a plate-mod as a PCB-mount board though, no? (Plus good for those who like opening switches in situ, I guess)

[Latin00032]

I'm hoping for a plate mount option. I'm also hoping this pcb will be compatible with existing poker cases.

Full programmability would be the icing on the cake.

[ynrozturk]

Vortex just said that the pictures were just engineering samples, and that the final keyboard will indeed have a metal plate.

[heedpantsnow]

Yes I like putting in my own plate (like you said for modding switches but TBH I pretty much never do it!).

Full programmability (including LED's, etc) would be awesome, depending on the language/tools available to do it.  I have seen some that were very tedious to program; kindof takes the fun out of it.

I can't imagine that they would make it incompatible with their old cases.

[Roibhilin]

whoever runs the vortex FB page said that it's going to be plate mounted once it's released

[Fragil1ty]

Just somewhat announced on the Vortex Facebook page.

https://www.facebook.com/Vortexgear

The overall keyboard looks rather nice to be honest, might have to pick one up.

[Sygaldry]

Just somewhat announced on the Vortex Facebook page.

https://www.facebook.com/Vortexgear

The overall keyboard looks rather nice, don't like the visible PCB though.


Not for me ;_;, damnit.

The pictures you see now are engineering samples. Vortex responded in the FB comments that there will be a plate on the final version.

It supposedly has full programability (including full FN and PN layer programmability)

[jinq-sea]

The pictures you see now are engineering samples. Vortex responded in the FB comments that there will be a plate on the final version.

I stand corrected then!

[slickmamba]

The pictures you see now are engineering samples. Vortex responded in the FB comments that there will be a plate on the final version.

I stand corrected then!

Good, low profile + plateless would have been an interesting choice

[HPE1000]

So, it it going to have a metal case and doubleshot backlit pbt keycaps?

Insta buy for me regardless but that is kinda what it seems like.

[Lastpilot]

PCB mount in a low-profile case?  I am not sold on that.  I can't imagine many people want to see that red PCB.   

Agreed. I had enough of that PCB on my Poker X lol.

[hwood34]

Nice! Stock plates this time. No more flexing when I bottom right on out and I love those low profile cases

[dustinhxc]

They Finally are using the low profile cases! I won't have to keep buying pure limited cases for mine nice..

[mogo]

It's hard to justify it since I have a Pure, but the programmability on the keys AND the LEDs is tempting.

[Sygaldry]

Only thing missing now is the split BS and split right shift keys... Poker 4 for me unless they can make this happen for the 3!

[Puddsy]

PCB mount

Good thing I don't have to buy one.

[Dubsgalore]

Something wrong with pcb mount? some prefer it to plate mount 

[Puddsy]

IT'S PLATE MOUNT

"This is an engineering sample, the final version will have a plate"

THANK YOUR DESIGNATED DEITY

[hwood34]

IT'S PLATE MOUNT

"This is an engineering sample, the final version will have a plate"

THANK YOUR DESIGNATED DEITY

hail our lord and savior flying spaghetti monster

[BucklingSpring]

Interesting.

One thing I like about my new Ducky Mini and older Poker is the FN Arrow keys located on OKL; instead of this WASD. Maybe they can be relocated with the programmable setup.

[appleonama]

Hmm not sure how I feel about a red pcb

[faceyourfaces]

Hmm not sure how I feel about a red pcb

Are we even sure that we'll be able to see it in the final version?

[Sygaldry]

Hmm not sure how I feel about a red pcb

Are we even sure that we'll be able to see it in the final version?

It won't be seen in the final version.

Vortex's reveal of the Poker 3, I'm finding, was handled rather poorly which goes to show that Taiwan's strengths are not in marketing. My brethren (I'm also Taiwanese) should just stick to ECE and hire out of the country for their marketing needs.

I have seen this question asked about 300 times over the course of this morning and it should have been mentioned in their initial reveal post. lol

[Tiramisuu]

Full programmability would be wonderful.

The dip switch to turn the windows key into a fn key is nice
but the PN key needs to go somewhere much less used so I can get my super key back.

Colemak in the main layer and the ability to use capslock for ctrl or backspace is another annoying piece.

That said I am finding my poker a real pleasant improvement over my trust old di novo ten keyless.   I missed the bluetooth and bought a dedicated tenkey pad for the top corner of my workspace but the focus on maintianing a home row position that the 60% gives you is stellar.
If I can just get my life transferred into emacs and learn how to keep my hands off the mouse life will be gooder.

[HoffmanMyster]

it should have been mentioned in their initial reveal post. lol

They shouldn't have mentioned anything.  They should have posted actual photos of the product as it will be for final production.  :facepalm:

[Puddsy]

it should have been mentioned in their initial reveal post. lol

They shouldn't have mentioned anything.  They should have posted actual photos of the product as it will be for final production.  :facepalm:

Yeah.

I guess they're trying to build hype or something.

It's probably still a ways off.

[dante]

It seems like a poor business decision to show this off so early - the Poker 2 is still enjoying healthy sales, no?

[byker]

Yeah I believe so. I am excited to see the final product and the price. Hopefully it is cheaper then making your own custom 60% with an alu case.

[CommonCurt]

Hope they offer a non low profile  case.    Wonder if they are going to launch the new PURE's around the same time?

The new PURE's are supposed to be offered with two different case options.

[Coreda]

Please don't use that logo Vortex :/ The backwards 'E' looks tacky.

So it will be fully programmable?

[Puddsy]

Please don't use that logo Vortex :/ The backwards 'E' looks tacky.

So it will be fully programmable?

3 programmable layers is confirmed.

[Tiramisuu]

I'm not sure how the price can go down on these boards.   Unless they use open source and arduino to develop full programmability then someone has to be paid to develop and maintain the code.   It seems like many of these 60% keyboards are all being churned out of the same manufacturing plant with different labels and different roms on the same infrastructure.

The poker 2 rom is already usb flashable but Vortex has not released any kind of configurator to support it.   I suspect that they do not own the underlying software and simply provide their specification to the manufacturer or some such thing.

[Signature]

Pcb mount with leds... Ruins the pcb mount advantage since you can't remove the switchtops cause the led is in the way... :I

[Coreda]

3 programmable layers is confirmed.

So, presumably the standard layer is now also programmable? What I'd love to know is if the Pn key can finally be moved.

[Puddsy]

3 programmable layers is confirmed.

So, presumably the standard layer is now also programmable? What I'd love to know is if the Pn key can finally be moved.

No, it's the standard layer, then 3 programmable layers.

Pcb mount with leds... Ruins the pcb mount advantage since you can't remove the switchtops cause the led is in the way... :I

It's platemount, these photos are of an engineering sample.

[coconut monger]

It seems like a poor business decision to show this off so early - the Poker 2 is still enjoying healthy sales, no?

It does seem to be more of an "enthusiast" model. Lower profile case, led variability, several programmable layers...

I'd be very interested in knowing if the lower profile cases will fit the poker 2s, if they do they would present an interesting entry into the market with stock cases to paint/experiment on.

[byker]

It seems like a poor business decision to show this off so early - the Poker 2 is still enjoying healthy sales, no?

It does seem to be more of an "enthusiast" model. Lower profile case, led variability, several programmable layers...

I'd be very interested in knowing if the lower profile cases will fit the poker 2s, if they do they would present an interesting entry into the market with stock cases to paint/experiment on.

I could see them keeping the poker 2 as a lower price point option, then having the poker 3 with the upgrades as it would be quite a bit more expensive.

[GankIndustries]

It seems like a poor business decision to show this off so early - the Poker 2 is still enjoying healthy sales, no?

It does seem to be more of an "enthusiast" model. Lower profile case, led variability, several programmable layers...

I'd be very interested in knowing if the lower profile cases will fit the poker 2s, if they do they would present an interesting entry into the market with stock cases to paint/experiment on.

I could see them keeping the poker 2 as a lower price point option, then having the poker 3 with the upgrades as it would be quite a bit more expensive.

Didn't they do something similar with the X and the 2?

[tyvar1]

Hmm! Seems interesting!

[HipsterPunks]

Damn i have alot of 60% already but if this has mouse buttons my interest shall be peaked!

Big fan of the low profile cases, ballsy for them to ship them stock like this though due to how easily the stems can snap now. The low profile cases can be annoyng when transporting your keyboard, catch the bottom of a cap on your bag and snap!

But i like this, just give me mouse buttons!

[heedpantsnow]

Wat!  Mouse buttons!?

[HipsterPunks]

Wat!  Mouse buttons!?

These things

[heedpantsnow]

Wat!  Mouse buttons!?

Show Image

These things

Ahh ok thanks!

[azhdar]

An indicator for the WASD lock will also be necessary , it's the only thing that drive me nuts on a daily usage .

[Coreda]

An indicator for the WASD lock will also be necessary , it's the only thing that drive me nuts on a daily usage .

A million times this. Although I'd like a setting that disables it entirely as both the layer locks are annoying when accidentally triggered.

[Oobly]

The case looks like the ones Pexon ran a GB for. They're very nice, much like the original Pure Limited case, but more accurate casting and finishing, with a thicker back edge.

If these things are FULLY programmable (so you can put Fn or Pn wherever you want) they should sell very well.

Standard layout, programmable, thick backlit keycaps, low profile aluminium case... yummy.

[mogo]

Pure Limited? I want to hear more about this (PM me if you'd like, I don't mean to derail the thread).

[bigDave]

https://www.facebook.com/Vortexgear

New pic of the poker 3 have been posted!

[mogo]

Gorgeous with that plate on it!

[Freebird]

Well ****, deffo be buying one of these when they are available...Those new pics look much better than the other ones.

[Latin00032]

So, the new pic shows that it will have plate mounting. That's good.

They also show the "big-ass-enter" key as an option.

[jdcarpe]

They also show the "big-ass-enter" key as an option.

Close. That's ISO J-Enter, not Asian "Big Ass Enter"

[Latin00032]

They also show the "big-ass-enter" key as an option.

Close. That's ISO J-Enter, not Asian "Big Ass Enter"

Oops!

Hopefully, there will be a hhkb type option. I doubt it though.

[CommonCurt]

Hopefully, there will be a hhkb type option. I doubt it though.

Yeah,  I don't see that happening.  Would be cool though.

[heedpantsnow]

They also show the "big-ass-enter" key as an option.

...not Asian "Big Ass

Hey, I resent that comment!

[HPE1000]

I would really like to see a new plate finish for the poker 3. Perhaps matte or brushed. It has the exact finish as the poker 2.

Kinda nitpicking here, I know.

[GankIndustries]

I would really like to see a new plate finish for the poker 3. Perhaps matte or brushed. It has the exact finish as the poker 2.

Kinda nitpicking here, I know.

Lacquer coating. I believe.

[appleonama]

hmm looks like i need to get rid of my pokers asap


I'm already selling off some mechs to make a gon tkl crystal 

[Tiramisuu]

So if I'm reading correctly:

- Full Keys Programming (including FN and PN)
- Cherry MX switches
- Still has 4 dip switches
- 3 layers Programmable
- LED's (individually programmable)
- Metal Case
- Metal Frame
- iso and ansi versions available

If they can hold the price down this is going to put a lot of pressure on the 60% specialty market.   I'm not not a big fan of led's but it is obviously a high demand item.   If fully programmable including main layer this will compete directly with even the full customs.
The metal case steps up the game tremendously.   Adding another $100+ to the price of a poker has been ordering an aluminum shell for it (although truthfully the plastic poker 2 is heavy and rigid enough without).   Metal Frame...   With no notches and leds without sips the switches are not easily moddable but the keyboard is crisper and less liable to break.   iso and ansi... Well the euros will be happy and the ability to map dvorak/colemak and a Gr key will be a big selling item.   

Figure out how to mod a logitech or bluetooth wireless module and battery into this to got with my mouse and give me the ability to switch between laptop, desktop, and cell phone  and I'm left obsessing over keycaps.

Wife is going to be very annoyed with me when another Poker keyboard arrives in the mail.

[Coreda]

- Full Keys Programming (including FN and PN)

Still haven't seen confirmation of this, unless it's in the FB comments somewhere. Hoping it's true.

[Tiramisuu]

- Full Keys Programming (including FN and PN)

Still haven't seen confirmation of this, unless it's in the FB comments somewhere. Hoping it's true.

[azhdar]

Do you think they'll wait until RGB become avaible to them to make an RGB poker 3 ?

[Tiramisuu]

I'm personally considering breaking the solder joints on the three leds I have in my poker 2 now.

I really don't understand the led keyboard craze.   It's nice when a keyboard has backlight when it's dark so you can orient to the home row but mostly they are more distracting than helpful and doubly so when they are bright and colourful.   I'm a blank pbt kind of guy.

[Coreda]

Show Image

Hyyyyyype!

The keycaps could look better though, kind of a downgrade from the Poker II imo.

[azhdar]

I'm personally considering breaking the solder joints on the three leds I have in my poker 2 now.

I really don't understand the led keyboard craze.   It's nice when a keyboard has backlight when it's dark so you can orient to the home row but mostly they are more distracting than helpful and doubly so when they are bright and colourful.   I'm a blank pbt kind of guy.

I'm not crazy about leds either but if I was kbc marketing guy I'd wait another 2-3 months for a RGB poker3 because it would be high demand I guess

[Tiramisuu]

Hopefully they release the non led, pbt, ansi version first 
I'm likely to wait till the reviews come in either way. 

I still haven't completely adjusted to the 60% form factor so I'm not in a rush to make the switch yet but it would be nice to dump autohotkey from my list of required hacks to make my keyboard work the way I want it to.

[connorelsea]

They put up more images on their Facebook. The ISO version of the Poker 3.

[CommonCurt]

Hopefully they release the non led version first 

+1 

[beefjerky]

I'm personally considering breaking the solder joints on the three leds I have in my poker 2 now.

I really don't understand the led keyboard craze.   It's nice when a keyboard has backlight when it's dark so you can orient to the home row but mostly they are more distracting than helpful and doubly so when they are bright and colourful.   I'm a blank pbt kind of guy.

A godsend for people who can't touch type properly actually. I know I still have to look at the keyboard. Especially for any keys that i should be hitting with my ring finger.

[ynrozturk]

So.. learn to touch type?

I'm not sure what kind of difference the LED's would make for typing - if you look down you still have letters on the caps, unless you're using blanks. Which you're probably not since you can't touch type.

The whole LED thing is more of a gimmick than anything else in my opinion. Looks cool for the first few days then just meh.

[beefjerky]

So.. learn to touch type?

I'm not sure what kind of difference the LED's would make for typing - if you look down you still have letters on the caps, unless you're using blanks. Which you're probably not since you can't touch type.

The whole LED thing is more of a gimmick than anything else in my opinion. Looks cool for the first few days then just meh.

Not gonna disagree there. I don't see the use of them at night, would rather have a light directed at my keyboard than a backlight.

Also, it's a lot harder to learn at an older age compared to when you're young so while I can sort of touch type, it's imperfect and I rarely break 50 wpm myself.

[SoTh]

These days was looking to buy my first mini keyboard (ansi) because I live in Spain, and to play to change the look of the keycaps with GB, I take ansi about the issue of compatibility and not think I have many problems of adaptation between iso and ansi. He had in mind a V60 Mini vs. Poker II, but I think the best will wait at Poker 3, which do you think? My goal is to buy a good mini keyboard, and devote myself to buy more keycaps and less full keyboards.

Thanks!

[tbc]

I'm personally considering breaking the solder joints on the three leds I have in my poker 2 now.

I really don't understand the led keyboard craze.   It's nice when a keyboard has backlight when it's dark so you can orient to the home row but mostly they are more distracting than helpful and doubly so when they are bright and colourful.   I'm a blank pbt kind of guy.

why don't you just turn them off?

the only downside to leds is when you plan on modding

[DrHubblePhD]

I think it looks great, if you don't like low profile cases, I'm sure you could just drop the PCB into another case!

[Tiramisuu]

I'm personally considering breaking the solder joints on the three leds I have in my poker 2 now.

I really don't understand the led keyboard craze.   It's nice when a keyboard has backlight when it's dark so you can orient to the home row but mostly they are more distracting than helpful and doubly so when they are bright and colourful.   I'm a blank pbt kind of guy.

why don't you just turn them off?

the only downside to leds is when you plan on modding

You cant turn off the led's on the "non backlit mode"  caps lock light specifically.

[eyesmiles]

And here I was hoping they were going to finally have an update regarding the Pure or give the 1.5, 1, 1.5 bottom row a chance since they showed a keyboard with a Mac command key which was 1.5x back in July. I guess the same ol' same from Vortex

[snipars]

Do you think they'll wait until RGB become avaible to them to make an RGB poker 3 ?

 
 
Isn't waiting the only option?

[mr626]

Hopefully they release the non led version first 

+1 

+ 2

Has there been confirmation that there will actually be a non-led version?

I'm another one of those people that doesn't really 'get' backlit keyboards

[Puddsy]

Hopefully they release the non led version first 

+1 

+ 2

Has there been confirmation that there will actually be a non-led version?

I'm another one of those people that doesn't really 'get' backlit keyboards

signs are pointing to LEDs only actually

but i'm mostly pulling from the chinese forums, nothing official

[heedpantsnow]

Chinese like their bling'd out boards. Leds for sure.

[Oobly]

This is going to sell nicely I reckon. Solid aluminium case (better finish than the Pure Limited one), plate mount, LED's, full programmability. Do you think they'll release it with those backlit PBT / POM caps?

Having LED's is certainly not a drawback, IMHO, as long as they don't ship it with rubbish stock backlit caps, like they did with the backlit Poker II's. Just don't turn them on if you don't want to.

[bigDave]

The Poker 3 is due February next year!

[DrHubblePhD]

The Poker 3 is due February next year!

Show Image

I am super pumped now!

[Sygaldry]

Agh I want a closer look at the plate and the PCB to see if it would support split backspace and split right shift...

[tyvar1]

The Poker 3 is due February next year!

Show Image

Awesome! :D I hope a pexon case is better than the stock one.

[Flyersfan1]

The Poker 3 is due February next year!

Show Image

Awesome! :D I hope a pexon case is better than the stock one.

It most definitely is.

[tyvar1]

The Poker 3 is due February next year!

Show Image

Awesome! :D I hope a pexon case is better than the stock one.

It most definitely is.

Awesome! Because I heard that poker 3 having a aluminum case.

[Flyersfan1]

The Poker 3 is due February next year!

Show Image

Awesome! :D I hope a pexon case is better than the stock one.

It most definitely is.

Awesome! Because I heard that poker 3 having a aluminum case.

Oh! Sorry, I did not know that. Well, people seem really happy with Pexon's case, but it might be a little redundant if it already comes with one. I'm looking forward to see the quality of the stock case!

[bowji]

Ive been looking into building my own 60% but this... this is a compelling alternative.
Reading all the solder threads and the disheartening set-up price, Im stuck with the dilemma of choosing a premade one(pok3r) with so much new specs.
IF they do use the RGB switches, it will be a much easier choice.
Lets see it release, come on February!!

[Sygaldry]

I'm super tempted by this as well.

If this supports split backspace and split right shift layouts and they use the current Vortex/Pexon case (phenomenal case) for this then my money is as good as gone.

[Joebroniee]

I'm super tempted by this as well.

If this supports split backspace and split right shift layouts and they use the current Vortex/Pexon case (phenomenal case) for this then my money is as good as gone.

says the hhkb master, lol, im sold on this either way, fully programmable =D

[ynrozturk]

[Tiramisuu]

What load will be interested in finding out if I can have colemak on the first layer and ctrl z x c v y in their traditional location simultaneously

[Lord of Narwhals]

I like that they moved the arrow cluster but I think the legend placement looks weird since it's not the same for all keys.

[Oobly]

Show Image

Show Image

Noice!

Looks good. I don't really care about the legends or layout since I'd replace the keycaps and reprogram the whole thing anyway.

Although I've actually already got a NerD60 in one of these cases, so...

[tyvar1]

Mailed vortex and asked if current poker II cases will work with Pok3r. They said yes!

And they also confirmed Nordic ISO

[inanis]

I like that they moved the arrow cluster but I think the legend placement looks weird since it's not the same for all keys.

I dislike that they moved the arrow cluster! I swapped capslock and FN on my Poker II and I find that using WASD as the arrows makes the most amount of sense. Does no one else use it this way? I thought it was pretty common, but maybe not.

[Valen]

I don't play games so WASD does not make sense to me. This arrow cluster makes more sense to me because I am used to arrows on the right side and I don't have to move my right hand away with this layout.

[Polymer]

Finally, someone that is putting the arrows on IJKL...makes complete sense to do that..except no FN key on the left side (I'm sure you can change it to that). 

I wonder if they realize it ONLY makes sense to do IJKL if you can FN with your left hand....

[inanis]

Maybe I have tiny woman hands or something, but I can't comfortably do IJKL as arrows, even with a left side FN. The reason WASD works for me is that it is literally right next to the FN key. I guess I'm in the minority. 

[Polymer]

Huh?  How can you use normal arrow keys but not IJKL?  It is practically the same?  And it is the same as WASD except on a different side...The difference is WASD you have to shift your hands...with IJKL your hands (if you use home row) are already in position...from a typing perspective it makes perfect sense...it ends up being better (IMO) than dedicated arrow keys since you don't even have to lift your hands to a different part of the keyboard....

[inanis]

Huh?  How can you use normal arrow keys but not IJKL?  It is practically the same?  And it is the same as WASD except on a different side...The difference is WASD you have to shift your hands...with IJKL your hands (if you use home row) are already in position...from a typing perspective it makes perfect sense...it ends up being better (IMO) than dedicated arrow keys since you don't even have to lift your hands to a different part of the keyboard....

I dunno...it is just what feels comfortable. I don't have to shift my hands at all to use wasd. I guess I move my pinky to the fn key (which is in the capslock location) but that is it. Then it is just up, down, left right. No muss, no fuss. Now I could probably get used to ijkl too, I just don't currently...I like doing it with one hand, not two. I will try to be more opened minded! I'm a creature of habit, I find it hard to change my ways.

[Tiramisuu]

At this point with my poker 2 I have a few keysets and an aluminum milled case.  I have a neoprene case on order and a braided cable would be nice but otherwise I'm happy with my keyboard.   One more upgrade and I will have two 60% keyboards

Buying the Poker 3 is about:

1) programmability and flexibility of the first layer  (colemak, nkro)
2) not having to source and solder a pcb, teensy, switches, diodes. (i don't have a solder station and I have too many unfinished projects)

If I look at the expensive korean option:
A Nerd 60 pcb is $55. with the usb/wireless combo is $110.
Switches $40
controller a356 with gon or a teensy 2.0 $30 ish
diode, wire, solder etc...

So somewhere around an additional 140-200 to get to fully programmable and optionally wireless (ignoring the fact that I might never finish assembling it)

OR

The poker 3.   If they go with an aluminum case as is the rumour then $99 poker 3's on Massdrop don't seem likely.    Retail could be closer to $200+
No option on the wireless module but no soldering required.

We will find out soon enough.   







 

[derb2k2]

Finally, someone that is putting the arrows on IJKL...makes complete sense to do that..except no FN key on the left side (I'm sure you can change it to that). 

I wonder if they realize it ONLY makes sense to do IJKL if you can FN with your left hand....

I agree with this! You are right, it makes 100% sense. If only the HHKB had the arrow cluster on IJKL. It would've been perfect!

I was already planning on getting one before but I'm excited for it now, although typing on Topres 45g has been the best typing experience for me and all I want to do is type on topre!
 

[Polymer]

Huh?  How can you use normal arrow keys but not IJKL?  It is practically the same?  And it is the same as WASD except on a different side...The difference is WASD you have to shift your hands...with IJKL your hands (if you use home row) are already in position...from a typing perspective it makes perfect sense...it ends up being better (IMO) than dedicated arrow keys since you don't even have to lift your hands to a different part of the keyboard....

I dunno...it is just what feels comfortable. I don't have to shift my hands at all to use wasd. I guess I move my pinky to the fn key (which is in the capslock location) but that is it. Then it is just up, down, left right. No muss, no fuss. Now I could probably get used to ijkl too, I just don't currently...I like doing it with one hand, not two. I will try to be more opened minded! I'm a creature of habit, I find it hard to change my ways.

Well I can see people liking that if they want to use one hand...but you're still shifting your hand (I guess that depends how you type..for "proper" form your pinky is on A...not that you have to type that way...But it isn't you lack the flexibility or size of your hands..you're just thinking about using it the way you do today..which for most people would be impossible if you want to use your left pinky for FN and IJKL with the rest of your left hand..

My actual thoughts would be I'd use my left thumb for FN (which hopes you can dip switch the alt key to that) and then just use the arrows with IJKL with not moving my hands off home row and it is the same as using arrow keys today.  Granted, I can use my left hand but I don't like the idea of shifting my hands...Just personal preference really..

[ideus]

I want my Pok3r.

[STARLORDCOFFEE]

still not totally sold on this one. We will just have to wait till a geek hacker gets there hands on one.

[tyvar1]

Any more news ?

[hyperboloid]

Any more news ?

Maybe after the Chinese holidays will be news... Try to monitor official Vortex FB page.

[SoTh]

I can wait! Hahaha

[Sygaldry]

I'm super tempted by this as well.

If this supports split backspace and split right shift layouts and they use the current Vortex/Pexon case (phenomenal case) for this then my money is as good as gone.

says the hhkb master, lol, im sold on this either way, fully programmable =D

Lol yeah, you're right. I might have to pass on this. I have 110 switches lying around waiting for a board to put them on so this isn't my next keyboard purchase =(

[Oobly]

I'm super tempted by this as well.

If this supports split backspace and split right shift layouts and they use the current Vortex/Pexon case (phenomenal case) for this then my money is as good as gone.

says the hhkb master, lol, im sold on this either way, fully programmable =D

Lol yeah, you're right. I might have to pass on this. I have 110 switches lying around waiting for a board to put them on so this isn't my next keyboard purchase =(

GON NerD60 PCB, stabilisers and universal 60% plate + Case from Pexon = Better than this Maybe even for less overall cost.

[lolkey]

There is someone on Reddit claiming these will be $109-$119.

http://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/2wz671/poker_3_pricing_and_release_date_new_info/

[lolkey]

There is someone on Reddit claiming these will be $109-$119. Bit hard to believe, aren't the plastic case ones $110 shipped from MassDrop?

http://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/2wz671/poker_3_pricing_and_release_date_new_info/

[Tiramisuu]

Gon is a whole different level.   That said the initial reviews of the pok3r will be interesting.   Programmability is the big open Question.

Fully programmable and available without all the usual geekhack piecemeal buys and delays is very  appealing.

[Bucake]

if there'd be a non-backlit version with a high profile case and black switches, then i'd be on it. but i doubt i'll be in luck :E

[ideus]

I'm super tempted by this as well.

If this supports split backspace and split right shift layouts and they use the current Vortex/Pexon case (phenomenal case) for this then my money is as good as gone.

says the hhkb master, lol, im sold on this either way, fully programmable =D

Lol yeah, you're right. I might have to pass on this. I have 110 switches lying around waiting for a board to put them on so this isn't my next keyboard purchase =(

GON NerD60 PCB, stabilisers and universal 60% plate + Case from Pexon = Better than this Maybe even for less overall cost.

A Nerd60 pcb with stabs, resistors, and diodes is over $90 USD and you should solder the resistors and diodes, if you want a plate and a case you will be around $200. Add to it your own switches and caps, and it will be over $300. Of course, it is a totally different board, than a stock one like the Pok3r. One PCB is on its way to my door now, I already have a case, the switches and caps; but no, it is not in the same market than a Pok3r.

[dustinhxc]

All of those months hunting for Vortex Pure Limited cases.. (before pexon picked cases up) it was a tough time.. Now they COME with them!
Vortex, you Know WHATS UP! 

[Dark_wizzie]

It's the end of March. 

Anyways, how do Pexon cases stack up against a Tex case? (Something like this http://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=627)

And Vortex isn't the same as Tex, is it? Weird how they make similar cases and have similar names.

[sdiearly]

It's the end of March. 

Anyways, how do Pexon cases stack up against a Tex case? (Something like this http://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=627)

And Vortex isn't the same as Tex, is it? Weird how they make similar cases and have similar names.

Because TEX guys are Vortex member originally, now they are split

[Sencha]

Here's a little typing vid

[heedpantsnow]

It's the end of March. 

Anyways, how do Pexon cases stack up against a Tex case? (Something like this http://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=627)

And Vortex isn't the same as Tex, is it? Weird how they make similar cases and have similar names.

Because TEX guys are Vortex member originally, now they are split

OK, I always wondered what happened.  What happened?

[illitirit]

does anyone know if the pok3r will be offered with cherry mx greens?

[Altis]

Here's a little typing vid

I'm going to be honest.... I don't think it sounds that great... quite plasticky and hollow sounding. And that's with a towel underneath it, so it's at its best.

I've noticed that keyboards that don't have a lip around the base of the keys seem more likely to sound a little more like this.

[ideus]

The open volume inside the case underneath the pcb is what makes the sound to be that ugly.

[Sencha]

Here's a little typing vid

I'm going to be honest.... I don't think it sounds that great... quite plasticky and hollow sounding. And that's with a towel underneath it, so it's at its best.

I've noticed that keyboards that don't have a lip around the base of the keys seem more likely to sound a little more like this.

Yeah I thought the space bar sounded off as well. I just got a korean made FC660m which is incredibly well made. Far better then my pokers so I'll wait full reviews before jumping in myself.

[ynrozturk]

Video review :

[ideus]

Here's a little typing vid

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x_4ngJzKY_s

I'm going to be honest.... I don't think it sounds that great... quite plasticky and hollow sounding. And that's with a towel underneath it, so it's at its best.

I've noticed that keyboards that don't have a lip around the base of the keys seem more likely to sound a little more like this.

Yeah I thought the space bar sounded off as well. I just got a korean made FC660m which is incredibly well made. Far better then my pokers so I'll wait full reviews before jumping in myself.

Leopolds are like tanks.

[hasu]

From video it looks like MCU is Holtek Cortex. And Poker2 also has same, IIRC.
Just sayin...

[ctm]

From video it looks like MCU is Holtek Cortex. And Poker2 also has same, IIRC.
Just sayin...

Any possibility of flashing in custom firmware to Holtek Cortex?

[Jixr]

i see the pcb supports pcb mounted switches, but can't tell if you can use pcb stabilizers. I'm deff going to get one if i can ditch the plate.

[Giorgio]

Why? Is it too rigid with the plate? It's gonna be a long task since you need to desolder and then solder each switch...

i see the pcb supports pcb mounted switches, but can't tell if you can use pcb stabilizers. I'm deff going to get one if i can ditch the plate.

[Tiramisuu]

From video it looks like MCU is Holtek Cortex. And Poker2 also has same, IIRC.
Just sayin...

Any possibility of flashing in custom firmware to Holtek Cortex?

It is possible to flash the poker 2 rom. The problem is no one has reverse engineered it.

Colemak on the poker 2 should be as easy  as modding the bin and re flashing.

[livingspeedbump]

Eh...the flop from PCB mount, to Plate mount, back to PBC mount, plus no led options right away is just making me wait on buying one of these. The Poker ii was so solid in most regards, and I'm really not sold this is an upgrade. WIll definitely NOT be buying one anytime soon.

[Sencha]

Thought the pok3r is plate mount as well"?

[Giorgio]

Pok3r has always been plate mount. The confusion arised from some engineering samples

[Axollott]

Does Vortex have a webpage? Only thing i have found is a Facebook page... 

[Giorgio]

Qwertim is not an option anymore for ordering the pok3r (he is selling the business), so we have amazon and corus keyboards.

[childofthehorn]

Hey guys, I am having a lot of issues with getting the tops pulled off on my pok3r to change out the springs. It looks like it should, but NONE of the tops are opening up at all!

[Giorgio]

Emergency emergency calling doctor cherry.

You can't remove the tops. There are no cutouts in the plate.

Hey guys, I am having a lot of issues with getting the tops pulled off on my pok3r to change out the springs. It looks like it should, but NONE of the tops are opening up at all!

[Giorgio]

Search for corus kb!

Does Vortex have a webpage? Only thing i have found is a Facebook page... 

[Herothereu]

Anybody know when the backlit version is shipping?

[jerue]

Anybody know when the backlit version is shipping?

bruh

[Zorox]

Anybody know when the backlit version is shipping?

Vortex answered me that the ISO backlit will ship at around December

[SoTh]

Some day is possible the pok3r RGB backlit version? I'm thinking wait to buy it or buy now the pok3r with white backlit....

[Zorox]

Pok3r RGB is coming soon.