Chalice 40% Alice keyboard kit

Color on the upper cover: anode silver, anode black, shallow purple, PC

Below color: anode silver, anode red, anode rose gold, brass

Chalice 40% Alice keyboard kit

The Chalice 40% Alice keyboard kit is a customizable mechanical keyboard kit designed for enthusiasts who want to build their own compact keyboard. It follows the Alice layout, which is a unique, ergonomic layout characterized by a slight “curved” or “angled” design of the key clusters to reduce strain on the hands. The 40% layout refers to a compact design that includes only a portion of the standard keys found on a full-size keyboard, focusing on the most essential keys.

Former high: 18mm

Slope: 8 °

Color on the upper cover: anode silver, anode black, shallow purple, PC

Below color: anode silver, anode red, anode rose gold (red copper), pure brass (anti -oxidation)

Positioning board: PC, Black Gold FR4

Cotton cotton: Poron (no cotton and axial pad)

Gasket: rubber column

PCB: Da Na Dual Model (Black Card is Black Shen Jin) only welded

Battery: 1500mAh*2

Distribution design

If you have customized keyboard project production needs, please contact us

Key Features of the Chalice 40% Alice Keyboard Kit:

1. 40% Layout:
   A 40% keyboard typically omits the number row, function row, and most of the navigation keys (like arrow keys, insert, home, etc.). This makes the keyboard very compact, ideal for those who prefer minimalism or need a portable, space-saving option. Users will need to rely on layers (such as function layers) to access additional keys.
2. Alice Layout:
   The Alice layout is an ergonomic design that angles the two halves of the keyboard to provide a more natural typing position. It typically involves a slight curve where the keys are offset, helping to reduce wrist strain over long typing sessions. It’s especially popular among people who type frequently and want to minimize discomfort from traditional straight keyboard layouts.
3. Customizable Kit:
   The kit allows users to assemble the keyboard themselves, selecting key switches, stabilizers, keycaps, and the case. This gives enthusiasts a high degree of customization in terms of feel, sound, and aesthetics. It’s often compatible with hot-swappable switches, meaning you can change switches without soldering, which adds flexibility for experimentation.
4. PCB (Printed Circuit Board):
   The PCB in the kit is typically designed to support 40% layouts and may feature hot-swappable switch sockets, RGB lighting, or other advanced features like Bluetooth support or USB-C connectivity, depending on the version.
5. Build Quality:
   Many kits feature high-quality materials such as aluminum, stainless steel, or polycarbonate for the case and backplate. These materials provide a sturdy and premium feel, as well as acoustic qualities that impact the typing experience and sound profile.
6. DIY Focus:
   The Chalice 40% Alice kit is aimed at keyboard enthusiasts who enjoy the process of building and customizing their own keyboard. It allows users to choose everything from the switches (e.g., linear, tactile, clicky) to the keycaps, stabilizers, and other internal components.

Components You’ll Need to Complete the Build:

1. Key Switches:
   Choose mechanical switches that suit your typing preference (linear, tactile, or clicky). If the PCB supports hot-swapping, this is easier because you don’t need to solder the switches in place.
2. Keycaps:
   You’ll need a set of keycaps that are compatible with the 40% layout. Alice layouts often use a more specialized set of keycaps, so be sure the profile matches your kit’s design.
3. Stabilizers:
   Stabilizers are used for larger keys like the spacebar, enter, and shift. Choose between clip-in, screw-in, or snap-in stabilizers, depending on your preference and the PCB design.
4. Lubing and Modding Tools:
   Some builders prefer to lube the switches and stabilizers to improve smoothness and reduce noise. While not strictly necessary, it can enhance the typing experience.
5. Soldering Kit (if not hot-swappable):
   If the PCB is not hot-swappable, you’ll need to solder the switches into place. This requires a soldering iron, soldering wire, and potentially some flux.
6. Sound Dampening Materials (optional):
   Many enthusiasts add dampening foams inside the case or between the PCB and plate to reduce noise and vibrations, improving the overall acoustics.

Popular Features and Customizations:

• RGB Backlighting: Many of these kits support RGB or customizable LED backlighting, allowing you to change the colors and effects.
• Customizable Layers: The 40% layout typically relies heavily on layers, so the software (like QMK or VIA) allows users to assign custom functions to each layer.
• Sound Profile: You can experiment with different case materials, plate types (such as brass, aluminum, or polycarbonate), and switches to fine-tune the acoustic profile of your keyboard.

Conclusion:

The Chalice 40% Alice keyboard kit is perfect for those looking for a compact, ergonomic, and customizable mechanical keyboard. With its unique Alice layout, it offers a balance of minimalism and comfort, while still providing all the customization options that enthusiasts love. Building your own keyboard can be a rewarding project, and this kit allows you to tailor the experience to your exact preferences, from the feel of the switches to the overall sound and aesthetics.