Why should we back?
Intro
Welcome to KickstartNew! I’m Jason, and today I’m bringing you the spotlight on the Chilkey ND104 mechanical keyboard. This is a full-size 104-key board built with a premium aluminum body, featuring a built-in display, tri-mode connectivity and customization aimed at professionals who demand more than standard keyboards. In this post we’ll explore why it might deserve your backing, what risks to consider, and how credible the team and product appear.
Why should I back this project?
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The ND104 offers a premium build-quality with a full aluminium case and multiple layers of sound-dampening, appealing for users who value solid feel and acoustics.
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It features a built-in screen, serving as a calculator or clock or background display, which adds utility beyond just standard keys.
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Connectivity is flexible: tri-mode (USB-C, Bluetooth, 2.4GHz) means you can use it across devices or control multiple devices.
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It supports hot-swap switches and full key customization (via QMK/VIA), which is attractive for keyboard enthusiasts who like to tailor the feel and layout.
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The project positions itself as productivity-focused: designed “for work” with 104% layout, making it suited for users who spend serious time typing and need more than compact boards.
What are the potential drawbacks you should consider when you back it?
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As a crowdfunding product, the ND104 is still in development: final manufacturing, software/firmware, and mass production may face delays or changes.
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The premium features come at a higher price point compared to basic keyboards, so you’ll want to judge whether the extra features justify the investment.
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While build and features are well described, real-world experience (ergonomics, long-term reliability) is still somewhat limited publicly.
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Tri-mode and advanced features (screen, hot-swap, custom switches) introduce complexity: firmware bugs, connectivity issues or software updates might be required.
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Being full-size 104-key, it may not suit all workflows: if you prefer compact or ultra-portable keyboards, the size and weight (aluminum case) may be less ideal.
The reliability of the project
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The campaign presents detailed technical specifications (case material, switch options, connectivity, battery life) which signals a serious engineering effort rather than a vague concept.
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The brand has previous products (such as other models in the “Chilkey” line) which adds some credibility that this is not their first launch.
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The product page shows prototype images and describes production timeline milestones, which suggests some progress toward manufacturing.
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However, detailed independent reviews or mass backer feedback are not widely available yet, so some risk remains until more units are in hands.
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The standard crowdfunding cautions apply: while the team appears capable, fulfillment, shipping, country-specific logistics or unforeseen manufacturing issues can still affect delivery.
Conclusion
If you’re a serious typist or keyboard enthusiast seeking a high-end full-size mechanical keyboard with advanced features like a built-in screen, tri-mode connectivity and premium build, the ND104 by Chilkey presents a compelling opportunity. That said, you should be comfortable with typical crowdfunding risks—such as delays, firmware issues or final product variations—and weigh whether the premium price aligns with your workflow and needs. If you’re willing to accept those risks and excited by what’s proposed, backing this project could be a smart move. If you prefer a tried-and-true keyboard available now with extensive reviews, you might hold off and watch how this launch unfolds.
