Are you tired of committing to just one keyboard layout or input device? Meet the Naya Connect, a game-changer for those who can't decide between a traditional keyboard, a compact setup, or even a trackball versus a mouse. This modular mechanical keyboard system is designed to cater to the indecisive among us, offering unparalleled flexibility in how we interact with our devices. And let’s be honest—who hasn’t spent hours debating whether a full-size keyboard or a minimalist one would better suit their workflow? But here’s where it gets even more intriguing: Naya Connect builds on the success of its predecessor, the Naya Create, a quirky ergonomic split keyboard that already turned heads on Kickstarter. The Create featured swappable controllers like a touchpad, trackball, rotary encoder, or a 6DoF spatial mouse. Now, Naya Connect takes that modular concept and applies it to a more conventional flat keyboard design, expanding its ecosystem to be even more adaptable. And the crowd has spoken—it hit its funding goal in just six minutes.
Created by Terrence O'Brien, The Verge’s weekend editor with over 18 years of experience (including a decade as managing editor at Engadget), this project is no amateur endeavor. The Naya Connect consists of four core components: the Naya Type, a low-profile 75% mechanical keyboard; a 24-key multipad; a six-key programmable strip; and a dock. The dock itself is a marvel, featuring four keys and a slot for one of the same swappable controllers as the Naya Create. But here’s where it gets controversial: is this modularity a genius solution for customization, or just overkill for the average user?
Each component connects magnetically, allowing for nearly endless arrangement possibilities. Want a giant rotary controller on the left and a touchpad on the right? Done. Left-handed? No problem—place the multipad wherever it suits you. Or go wild with dual multipads for macro enthusiasts. And this is the part most people miss: the flexibility isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about tailoring your setup to your unique workflow.
Of course, all this customization comes at a price. The All-in bundle, which includes everything—two docks, all controllers, and every component—costs €568 (about $662). If that’s too steep, the cheapest bundle with a dock and touchpad controller starts at €187 (around $218). But here’s the kicker: is it worth the investment, or are you better off sticking with a traditional setup? Kickstarter disclaimers still apply, so proceed with caution.
Whether you’re a productivity guru or a tinkerer at heart, the Naya Connect invites you to rethink how you interact with your keyboard. So, what do you think? Is this the future of input devices, or just a niche solution for the indecisive? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take!
