Keychron produced 96 blank keys, leaving someone else to deal with the issue.

      The 10-by-10 macro pad transforms a vacant grid into a personalized control panel.

      Keychron has introduced a 100-key macro pad for anyone who has ever looked at a keyboard and wished that the keys had no assigned functions. The Keychron C100 8K is priced at $64.99 and features a 10-by-10 grid devoid of letters, numbers, or commands.

      The four corner keys are designated for lighting controls and cannot be remapped, leaving 96 programmable keys. This offers nearly an entire full-size mechanical keyboard dedicated to shortcuts, though no one has yet determined what these functions should be.

      Programming capabilities

      The C100 8K is compatible with QMK and the browser-based Keychron Launcher, allowing users to assign specific commands or complex macros. The per-key RGB lighting can create visual distinctions across the grid, which may be helpful when every transparent keycap appears identical.

      Keychron has incorporated an 8K polling rate, which seems more beneficial for competitive gaming keyboards than for a large shortcut panel. The pre-lubed Apex Red switches are hot-swappable, enabling owners to replace them without soldering if 100 matching switches don’t provide enough customization.

      Who needs 96 extra buttons?

      Most people likely do not require this. The C100 8K serves as an affordable alternative to a specialized control panel. For instance, a video editor could dedicate sections to frequently used tools, while a flight-simulation enthusiast could assign cockpit controls without purchasing a dedicated button box.

      The blank design places a burden on its users. Without legends or small displays to identify each command, intricate layouts will necessitate a good memory, custom labels, or thoughtfully organized RGB colors. A tailored console might sound appealing until one forgets which unmarked key mutes the microphone.

      What is missing for $65?

      The C100 8K is wired only, and its square plastic body measures nearly 7.75 inches on each side, taking up significant desk space alongside a standard keyboard, mouse, and other devices.

      Keychron’s official store currently lists the macro pad as backordered, without a set shipping date. Those seeking wireless connectivity or a pre-configured layout should consider other options. However, for those who already know precisely what functions to assign to 96 keys, this $65 control panel seems surprisingly justifiable.

      Paulo Vargas is an English major turned reporter turned technical writer, with a career that has always circled back to…

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