System_65
Launching In-Stock 2024
Introduction
Development
The System_65 was born from the idea that an accent weight should be appreciated for its design, not hidden underneath or inside the keyboard where the user cannot see it. This became the key design feature for System_65. From the beginning, it was important to provide an assembly process that was straight-forward, which has been simplified during prototyping. Not only by reducing the amount of screws needed, but also switching to magnets for interchangeable parts designed for customization. The 65% form factor offers an excellent combination of functional productivity and a compact key set. Additionally, its popularity makes it a viable option for a wide range of individuals.
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Design
The design of System_65 features an accent weight attached magnetically at the front of the keyboard, slightly angled towards the user, with plenty of space for engraving and other details in the future. Additionally, a badge is also attached via magnets at the bottom. These two parts combined offer an extra level of customization, available in the future through add-ons, special edition or commission variants. As for internal structure, the System_65 uses a top mounted switch plate secured by 5 screws, with one of those being optional. All switches and stabilizers rest on top of a custom designed PCB (hotswap and solderable), which offers a variety of layout options, making it suitable for many users.
Introduction
Development
The System_65 was born from the idea that an accent weight should be appreciated for its design, not hidden underneath or inside the keyboard where the user cannot see it. This became the key design feature for System_65. From the beginning, it was important to provide an assembly process that was straight-forward, which has been simplified during prototyping. Not only by reducing the amount of screws needed, but also switching to magnets for interchangeable parts designed for customization. The 65% form factor offers an excellent combination of functional productivity and a compact key set. Additionally, its popularity makes it a viable option for a wide range of individuals.
⠀
Design
The design of System_65 features an accent weight attached magnetically at the front of the keyboard, slightly angled towards the user, with plenty of space for engraving and other details in the future. Additionally, a badge is also attached via magnets at the bottom. These two parts combined offer an extra level of customization, available in the future through add-ons, special edition or commission variants. As for internal structure, the System_65 uses a top mounted switch plate secured by 5 screws, with one of those being optional. All switches and stabilizers rest on top of a custom designed PCB (hotswap and solderable), which offers a variety of layout options, making it suitable for many users.
Supported Layouts
Another major objective for System_65 was to offer extensive layout support resulting in 32 different possible configurations, unfortunately split spacebars will not be supported for the bottom row. To make things easier for manufacturing and for the build experience both PCBs, MZ65-SYS (solderable) and MZ65×SYS (hotswap), as well as all plate materials will support each layout option.
The FR-4 plate does not support the hotswap assembly hardware, but is still compatible with the hotswap PCB.
Layout Options
Backspace: Full / Split
Enter: ANSI / ISO
Caps Lock: Standard / Stepped
Left Shift: Full / Split
Bottom Row: 6.25u / 7u
Supported Layouts
Another major objective for System_65 was to offer extensive layout support resulting in 32 different possible configurations, unfortunately split spacebars will not be supported for the bottom row. To make things easier for manufacturing and for the build experience both PCBs, MZ65-SYS (solderable) and MZ65×SYS (hotswap), as well as all plate materials will support each layout option.
The FR-4 plate does not support the hotswap assembly hardware, but is still compatible with the hotswap PCB.
Layout Options
Backspace: Full / Split
Enter: ANSI / ISO
Caps Lock: Standard / Stepped
Left Shift: Full / Split
Bottom Row: 6.25u / 7u
PCBs & Daughterboard
The PCBs are designed in-house for System_65, with the primary goal of including identical layout support for both the solderable MZ65-SYS and hotswap MZ65×SYS. To accompany this goal, layout identifiers are implemented for areas of the board where switch positions are very close together, especially the bottom row. The only slight differences between the PCBs are the addition of caps lock LED support for the solderable variant, and the colour of the solder mask: purple for solderable; and red (decision not final) for the hotswap variant. The hotswap PCB MZ65×SYS is included in the keyboard kit, which includes the assembly hardware necessary for hotswap. The solderable MZ65-SYS will be available as an add-on.
All PCBs will be configurable with QMK firmware and compatible with VIA software.
Features
› MZ65-SYS (Solderable) & MZ65×SYS (Hotswap)
› All layout options supported
› Layout Identifiers
› Caps-Lock LED, MZ65-SYS (solderable) only
› USB Type-C
PCBs & Daughterboard
The PCBs are designed in-house for System_65, with the primary goal of including identical layout support for both the solderable MZ65-SYS and hotswap MZ65×SYS. To accompany this goal, layout identifiers are implemented for areas of the board where switch positions are very close together, especially the bottom row. The only slight differences between the PCBs are the addition of caps lock LED support for the solderable variant, and the colour of the solder mask: purple for solderable; and red (decision not final) for the hotswap variant. The hotswap PCB MZ65×SYS is included in the keyboard kit, which includes the assembly hardware necessary for hotswap. The solderable MZ65-SYS will be available as an add-on.
All PCBs will be configurable with QMK firmware and compatible with VIA software.
Features
› MZ65-SYS (Solderable) & MZ65×SYS (Hotswap)
› All layout options supported
› Layout Identifiers
› Caps-Lock LED, MZ65-SYS (solderable) only
› USB Type-C
Variants
For the launch release of System_65 there will be three variants available. These specific variants were chosen for their neutral tones that compliment a majority of keycap sets and to further simplify fulfillment.
In subsequent releases, there will be more variants, including dual-tone variants.
Azure Odyssey
Top › Silver
Bottom › Silver
Accent Weight › Blue PVD
Badge › Blue PVD
Imperial White
Top › White (E-coat)
Bottom › White (E-coat)
Accent Weight › Black PVD
Badge › Black PVD
Triple Black
Top › Black
Bottom › Black
Accent Weight › Black PVD
Badge › Black PVD
Specifications
Features
› 65% Layout, Top Mount
› Interchangeable Accent Weight & Badge
› Custom PCB, w/ Multi-layout Identifiers
› USB Type-C daughterboard
Materials
› Aluminum | top, bottom, switch plate
› Stainless Steel | accent weight, badge
› Polycarbonate | switch plates
› FR-4 | PCB, switch plate
Case Details
Dimensions: 325 mm × 120 mm × 32 mm
Typing Angle: 7.0°
Front Height (Adjusted): 19.4 mm
Weight (Unbuilt): 1.22 kg
Sale Format
The initial System_65 release will begin as a limited pre-order, with an in-stock sale following afterwards. The possibility of a group buy is not out of the question, however its feasibility will be determined at a later time through public interest and demand. Pricing will be announced once all details are finalized.
Please note that pre-orders are not the same as group buy. You can learn more by visiting the Methods of Sale page.
Interest Check Form
The purpose of this form is to gather information and assess the demand for a group buy sale of the System_65. This group buy would run after the in-stock sale.
Sale Format
The initial System_65 release will begin as a limited pre-order, with an in-stock sale following afterwards. The possibility of a group buy is not out of the question, however its feasibility will be determined at a later time through public interest and demand. Pricing will be announced once all details are finalized.
Please note that pre-orders are not the same as group buy. You can learn more by visiting the Methods of Sale page.
Interest Check Form
The purpose of this form is to gather information and assess the demand for a group buy sale of the System_65. This group buy would run after the in-stock sale.
Top Piece
Azure Odyssey › Silver
Imperial White › White (E-coat)
Triple Black › Black
Switch Plate
› Aluminum
› FR-4
› Polycarbonate (1.5mm)
› Polycarbonate (5mm)
PCB
Solderable › MZ65-SYS
Hotswap › MZ65×SYS
Daughterboard › MZ-USB
Bottom Piece
Azure Odyssey › Silver
Imperial White › White (E-coat)
Triple Black › Black
Accent Weight & Badge
Azure Odyssey › Silver
Imperial White › White
Triple Black › Black
What's in the Box?
All necessary magnets will be installed during QC & fulfillment. Hotswap PCB and assembly hardware is included in the kit.
*These add-ons have not been finalized yet. Please send feedback to voice your opinion.
Case Parts
› Top Piece
› Bottom Piece
› Accent Weight
› Switch Plate
› Badge
› MZ65×SYS (Hotswap)
› MZ-USB (Daughterboard)
› 4× SKUF (Silicone Feet)
Assembly Hardware
› JST Cable
Screws:
› 2× M3x8mm T10
› 2× M3x6mm T10
› 9× M2x4mm T6
Hotswap Assembly:
› 6× M2x3mm T6
› 6× M2x3.5mm Spacer
› 6× M2x3mm Countersunk T6
Add-ons
Switch Plate:
› Aluminum
› FR-4
› Polycarbonate (1.5 mm)*
› Polycarbonate (5 mm)*
PCB:
› MZ65-SYS (Solderable)
› MZ65×SYS (Hotswap)
Accent Weight (TBD)*
Badge (TBD)*
NOT Included
› Switches
› Stabilisers
› Keycaps
› USB Type-C Cable
The Road to Launch
The journey of the System_65, from concept to reality, has been a long one. Since everything was self-funded, it was crucial to proceed with caution during development and prototyping. Nevertheless, there is still a bit of work to be completed before pre-orders can go live.
If you are a content creator (twitch streamer, photographer, etc.), or want your favourite creator to showcase the System_65, please send a message on Instagram to discuss details and a special opportunity.
Final Prototypes
Evaluate and approve final prototypes that are almost finished manufacturing, and make minor adjustments if necessary. An update will be posted later with photos of the new prototypes.
In the meantime, you can find photos of previous prototypes on Instagram.
Packaging
The packaging for System_65 is currently being designed, and will be prototyped soon.
Build Guide
Develop an instructional guide for users to follow while building their System_65.
Pricing (TBD)
The final pricing will be announced once all details are finalized. The current targeted in-stock price for the System_65 Keyboard Kit is ~$425 USD (aiming to be lower).
Creators Preview
Prior to the launch of the pre-order, a few creators will showcase the build process, design, and typing sound tests of the System_65. Please note that units shown by creators are considered prototypes and packaging may not represent final product.
Concept Variants
The following are some of the variants that could potentially be offered during a group buy.
