Machenike's KT84 Keyboard Packs a Low-Res "Pixel Screen" Alongside a Compact High-Res Panel

Gaming peripherals maker Machenike has launched a crowdfunding campaign for a retro-styled mechanical keyboard that includes a programmable LED matrix display, dubbed a "pixel screen," above the function key row.

"After the huge success of KT68 Pro [keyboard], we've received a ton of incredible feedback. How can we elevate the keyboard experience for everyone? That’s the question we've been focused on, and it led us to create the all-new KT84," claims Machenike's Wai Fung Chan. The company's answer, as embodied in the KT84? Screens. Two of them, to be precise.

At its heart, the KT84 is an 84-key mechanical keyboard, featuring the usual features you'd expect to see in such a thing: N-key rollover, hot-swappable switches, RGB LED backlighting, and a choice of black or white cases. There's an internal 8Ah lithium battery, allowing it to be used either wired or via proprietary 2.4GHz or Bluetooth wireless connections — the latter two offering a claimed 110 hours of operation with the backlight off, or 22 hours with it on.

What makes the KT84 interesting isn't the keyboard itself, though, but what's above it: a pair of displays, including what Machenike calls a "pixel screen." Built around a 7×70 array of RGB LEDs, the 490-dot display — measuring 6.9" in an ultra-wide aspect ratio — is designed to be programmed with the user's choice of pixelated animations.

Next to the large, low-resolution display is a much smaller yet ironically high-resolution 1.47" color TFT panel. This, the company says, provides easy access to features including keyboard settings, connected computer metrics including temperature, a clock, and even weather forecasts.

Machenike is currently funding production of the keyboard on Kickstarter, with rewards starting at $199 — down from a claimed retail price of $249 — for the first 300 "Super Early Bird" backers. Devices are expected to ship in September this year, the company says.