Anyone who uses an ergonomic or Alice keyboard on a desktop setup can find it jarring when they are forced to switch to using a conventional keyboard layout on a laptop. It’s hard to readapt a typing style for anyone who is used to a split layout.

Many people opt for keyboards with an ergonomic and split layout, which is also known as an Alice keyboard. The reason people use these keyboards is that the split layout promotes a more comfortable wrist and arm posture when typing. Some people say that an Alice keyboard helps relieve symptoms of their RSI, like wrist and shoulder strain.

Keyboard manufacturer Keychron makes a range of split keyboards for desktops and now the company has designed a foldable and portable keyboard with a split layout that would be ideal for laptop users who don’t want to use the built-in keyboard of their computer as well people who want a keyboard for a tablet and smartphones.

Folding Portable Keyboard

The new Keychron B11 Pro is a thin and portable wireless keyboard that folds up into a size that’s small enough to fit in the side pocket of a laptop bag. Finished in Deep Space Gray, the B11 Pro has a built-in rechargeable battery and a Hall-Effect sensor that automatically powers the keyboard on when it’s open and turns it off when it’s folded up and put away.

The rear of the B11 Pro is made of a matte soft-touch material that forms a cover for with good grip and feel when it is folded. The keyboard is rugged enough to slip into a laptop bag and ensures the user has an ergonomic input device wherever they go.

Like all new Keychron keyboards, the B11 Pro works with the Keychron Launcher web app, which can be accessed with any HID-compatible web browser like Chrome, Brave or Microsoft Edge. The Launcher app can be used to remap keys, set up macros and create shortcuts. Another neat feature is a built-in emoji launcher for quick access to those smiley faces.

Connecting the B11 Pro keyboard is via a choice of 2.4 GHz wireless, Bluetooth 5.3, or USB-C. There’s a switch on the keyboard for selecting the connection method and, in Bluetooth mode, the keyboard can be paired with three separate devices. The 2.4GHz wireless connection is via a supplied USB-A dongle, while the wired connection requires a cable with a USB-C connector. Keychron includes a suitable cable in the box.

The keycaps on this unusual keyboard have scissor switch mechanisms and each key has a concave sculpting to make it more comfortable to type on. There’s also a second sliding switch on the keyboard that sets the B11 Pro into Mac or Windows layout so it’s able to work with devices running macOS, Windows or Linux. It’s a suitable second keyboard for the new MacBook Neo, especially if you don’t want to wear the keys on your pristine laptop. It also works well with smartphones and tablets.

Pricing and Availability:

The Keychron B11 Pro ultra-slim wireless foldable Keyboard is available now from Keychron website and is priced at $64.99.

  • Model: Keychron B11 Pro.
  • Connectivity: 2.4GHz / Bluetooth / USB Type-C wired.
  • Polling rate: 1000Hz (Wired and 2.4GHz) / 125Hz (Bluetooth).
  • Wireless working time: 138 Hours (Lab test result may vary by actual use).
  • MCU: RTL8762GKU.
  • Body material: ABS.
  • Keycaps: ABS.
  • Backlight: No.
  • Battery: 250mAh rechargeable Li-polymer battery.
  • Compatible systems: macOS, iOS, Windows, Android, Linux.
  • Dimensions: 392.6 x 143mm.
  • Weight: 258g.