Customers nostalgic for the 7-row keyboard found in old IBM ThinkPad machines get a solution from Taiwanese startup Tex-- the Shinobi, an external keyboard inspired by the classic hardware.
The last time we've seen a device featuring the 7-row keyboard layout was in 2017 in the shape of a special edition 25th Anniversary ThinkPad. However that device has come and gone like, as Tex puts it, "the shooting star soared through the darkest night," leading to the creation of the Shinobi. The mechanical keyboard is based on the ThinkPad X61 and comes in various layouts, including EU-ISO, UK and US-ASCII, all with Cherry MX1A switches in a choice of feel (blue, red, black).
The keyboard measures 31.3 x 23.5 x 3.3cm, weighs 1kg and is built in ABS plastic with laser-engraved keycaps. It even includes an integrated red-nub trackpoint with 9 stages of sensitivity, as well as distinctive IBM design features such as the blue enter key and elongated Esc key. All keys come as standard, including the F1 to F12 keys, dedicated volume controls and three "mouse button" keys under the spacebar. Connectivity comes through USB cable or an optional Bluetooth module.
The Shinobi keyboard is shipping now.
Go Tex Shinobi
