Chilkey ND104

The ND104 follows the ND75, which launched in 2024 with a full-aluminium case, five-layer sound damping and a distinctive screen. The maker says the new model is the product of a year of refinement and dozens of optimisation passes, built around a design idea it describes as offering "every solution in every key."

A heavy, machined shell

The case is CNC-machined from blocks of 6063 aluminium and finished with what the maker calls its "Acustatic" electrostatic spray process, which it says improves colour vibrancy, texture and smoothness compared with conventional electrophoretic coating. The case weighs 2225g; according to Chilkey, the mass is there to keep the board from shifting and to suppress unwanted echo.

Inside, the maker lists five layers of foam and cork damping and a gasket mount between the case and PCB, intended to soften impact and curb resonance. The keycaps use a low-front, high-back profile that the maker says varies the tone from row to row. Two switch options are offered: Breeze switches, described as quiet and clear, and WS silent linear switches, which the maker says give a cushioned, membrane-like feel quiet enough not to wake someone sleeping nearby.

Two editions, one layout

The Lite model ships with double-shot PBT keycaps in multiple colour options, while the Ultra model uses MetaPBT keycaps with a metallic sheen and comes in black only. Both are VIA compatible for key remapping. The PCB supports both ANSI and ISO layouts, with ISO users needing a separately purchased ISO plate, according to the maker.

Key specifications, per the maker

• 104-key full layout with dedicated numpad
• Tri-mode connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, USB-C wired
• Bluetooth memory for up to 5 devices
• 1000Hz polling rate over 2.4GHz and USB-C
• Dual 4000mAh batteries, up to 120 hours of continuous use
• Customisable screen showing time, weather or personal images, with a built-in calculator
• Side-mounted volume control knob
• Hidden storage box for items such as the 2.4GHz receiver or a USB drive

The ND104 is presented as a Kickstarter project, and all performance and acoustic claims above come from the maker.