Sinc Rev. 4 PCB Kit - Split 75%/TKL Keyboard

Second Sinc

I started using a Sinc several years ago as my primary device at work. I was kinda just waiting to see how it would do and riding it out. I've enjoyed it so much I decided to replace my home keyboard and see what has changed in the last couple revisions. I didn't think I'd care much for the LEDs, but there are a ton of options and I like some of the subtle patterns available. I decided to just go with the Durock Shrimps for the silent tactile feel and a standard keycap profile. I think I still prefer the SA profile for big chunky kecaps, but these feel really good with the shrimps. I really enjoy the soldering process so I thought I'd miss that, but the hotswap option just let's you jump right in and it's a lot more forgiving if you do a few things out of order and have to disassemble or shift a few switches around. The switches are also a lot more firmly stuck in the top plate than I expected, so removing the keycaps didn't pop the switch out of the socket. I at least got to solder the knob onto the board and that feels great. I love having a physical knob to adjust volume. I started with an ergodox for a split keyboard and I've been using it for years, but the biggest improvement I've found for ergonomics is not the layout of the keys, but just being able to split the keyboard. I'm actually a bit glad to return to a standard QWERTY layout. The VIA app was super easy to switch a couple keys around for my preference. haven't decided what I'll do with all 10 macro keys, but I'm sure I'll find a use at home. Obviously I'm typing on the Sinc with as long as this is review is. Picture attached. I do keep it quite a bit more split during regular typing, more in line with my chair's armrests. If I'm playing a game that needs more space for the mouse, I'll just move the right side out of the way entirely. I've always appreciated how Keebio saves you from having to source too many extra components, but I did get a longer cable to connect the halves. Everything worked without any additional troubleshooting. This is probably the best keyboard I've ever experienced.

Great, despite a few quirks.

Love my Sinc(s)

I've built three of these now in assorted generations of PCB and they are all great. I love the rotary dials and the full-sized split board (I can't lose my function keys). If you made an Ortho linear version I'd probably end up with 3 of those too.