Japanese keyboard manufacturer Realforce is collaborating with the Mobile Suit Gundam series to launch a set of four limited edition mechanical keyboards, drawing inspiration from iconic Gundam themes. The collection features keyboards based on the Z Gundam and Hyaku Shiki from Zeta Gundam, as well as the Nu Gundam and Sazabi from Char’s Counterattack. According to information on Realforce’s Japanese website, pre-orders are set to commence in late December, though pricing details remain unannounced.
All of these keyboards are modeled on the Realforce GX1, a wired tenkeyless keyboard typically priced around $250. Realforce keyboards are produced by Topre Corporation and incorporate capacitive Topre switches, akin to the much-loved Happy Hacking Keyboard.
Realforce has indicated the availability of both English and Japanese ISO layouts, providing hope that these themed keyboards might be available beyond Japan. As a fan of Gundam, I am hopeful that they will become available in the US as well.
Despite their impressive aesthetic, I find the designs a bit understated, similar to the earlier Asus ROG Strix Scope Gundam Edition. There are other Gundam-themed keycap sets that elevate the anime style to new heights. I can speak from experience, as I’ve purchased some myself. Following the addition of Char Zaku II keycaps to the Zoom75 Tiga, as featured in our recent keyboard buying guide, I have also adorned my Epomaker P75 and Keychron Q1 Max with Hi-Nu Gundam and Sazabi keycaps, respectively.
Now I just need the matching Gunpla kits.
