Nics Tek reveals additional details on its Hesper64(100) keyboard with dual-action keys

Nics Tek has revealed additional details on its upcoming Hesper64(100) keyboard, which uses dual-action keys to give the 64-key compact keyboard the functionality of a 100-key keyboard. Its unique dual-action key operation was previously detailed in this article.

Keyboard switches

The low-profile keys are equipped with custom Tecsee linear switches that have a 1.7 mm +/- 0.3 activation point with an activation force of 40 gf +/- 10 gf, and a total travel of 3.4 mm +/- 0.2 mm using 15 mm springs. Each key has a 50 million stroke lifespan and supports N-key rollover. The caps are made of dye-sublimated PBT for durability. The keyboard PCB sits on top of an IPXE switch pad and case foam on top of an ABS bottom case. CR PCB foam sits between the PCB and the top aluminum frame.

Dual-action keys

A number of keys have a special dual-action design where a press of the lower part of the key produces the main character, and a press of the Gemini key, the upper part of the key, produces the secondary character, without requiring the use of the Shift or FN key. The Gemini keycaps are translucent, enabling more visible backlighting to help distinguish it from the primary key.

The standard version has dual-action keys at:

• Top-most row: ESC and F1 through F12 keys

The full version adds additional dual-action keys at:

• 2nd row: QWER and IOP keys
• 3rd row: ASDF and KL; keys
• 4th row: ZXCV and ,./ keys
• 5th row: Right-Alt and Right-FN keys

The single-action keycaps can be replaced with industry-standard low-profile keycaps from 3rd party vendors. The dual-action keys can be replaced with single-action keys, if desired. The current PCB only supports the company’s custom-designed switches at this time.

Lighting and programmability

The keyboard comes with 15 key-area lighting effects presets and five for the edge light strip. It supports QMK/VIA programmability, enabling custom macro programming, key remapping, and lighting effects in 16.8 million colors.

Connectivity and specifications

The Hesper64(100) has adjustable feet to tilt the keyboard at 3.5 and 8.5 degrees. The keyboard is compatible with Android, Apple, and Windows devices. A 3,000 mAh lithium battery enables wireless use with up to 3 simultaneously-paired Bluetooth 5.3 devices. The keyboard also supports 2.4 GHz wireless and USB-C wired connections. The keyboard has a 125 Hz Bluetooth polling rate (<10 ms), a 1,000 Hz 2.4 GHz polling rate (<5 ms), and a 1,000 Hz wired polling rate (<3 ms). The keyboard measures 299 x 118 x 14 mm (11.8 x 4.6 x 0.6 in.) and weighs 0.55 kg (1.21 lbs.).

Availability

The company expects to launch its Kickstarter campaign for the Hesper64(100) in Misty Night and Sand Beige this July. Interested buyers can lock in a presale price as low as $169, a discount off the $239 MSRP.

Update July 1, 2025: Nics Tek has opened its Kickstarter campaign for the Hesper64(100) keyboard with early bird pricing still available.