Das Keyboard 5Q release date, specs, price news: Internet-connected keyboard now available to pre-order

Georgia Gana Sunday, January 01, 2017

A promotional image for the Das Keyboard 5Q. | Das Keyboard

Das Keyboard is gearing up for the release of the 5Q, an innovative computer peripheral that is connected to the internet via the cloud. It is an open application program interface (API) RGB mechanical keyboard that aims to streamline the computing process.

The Das Keyboard 5Q first started out as a Kickstarter campaign. It was a success and was able to collect $580,902 from 3,475 backers.

"The excitement continues as we launch this ground-breaking product along with its software suite. As keyboards are traditionally used as input devices, the Das Keyboard 5Q has the capability to be an output device. It is truly innovative, and we think it will change the way keyboards are used forever," said Daniel Guermeur, founder and CEO of Das Keyboard.

According to the company, the 5Q is able to streamline internet browsing so users no longer have to open dozens of tabs or navigate through different types of notifications. The keyboard is also designed for high levels of productivity when doing complex tasks.

The 5Q comes with a connected software suite called Q. It's a customization of the keys so that they glow a certain color based on what specific piece of information the user wants it to represent. The keys light up to alert the user of particular events or notifications.

In terms of specs, the Das Keyboard 5Q comes with very bright RGB lighting and new Gamma-Zulu mechanical switches with a 1.5 mm actuation point. The keys are very durable and can withstand over 100 million presses. The innovative keyboard also comes with ultra-fast response times. It can detect key presses in just 0.4 milliseconds and reports it to the computer in 1 millisecond. It is said to be 45 times faster than other keyboards.

The keyboard is compatible with Windows, Linux and Mac operating systems.

The Das Keyboard 5Q is now available to pre-order in the United States for $229. The company is scheduled to demo the keyboard at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January 2017. First deliveries are expected soon after the trade show.