I typed on a concrete keyboard—and loved it

At a glance:

• The keyboard’s case is made from raw, unsealed concrete, giving it a heavy, textured feel that stains easily.
• Stabilizers are PCB‑mounted and factory‑lubricated, eliminating rattle and providing smooth key travel.
• It uses Hall Effect switches with a 1,000 Hz polling rate, delivering both typing comfort and gaming responsiveness.

What the keyboard is made of

Keychron’s latest novelty is a full‑size keyboard encased in raw concrete. The material choice is deliberately utilitarian: concrete is dense, heavy, and has an uneven surface that develops a natural patina over time. While the aesthetic appeals to a niche of tactile‑focused users, the concrete also absorbs oils and fingerprints, leading to noticeable smudges after just a few weeks of regular use. The reviewer notes that stains appeared from unknown sources, and although concrete can be cleaned with aggressive methods like power washing or brake cleaner, the risk of damaging the internal electronics remains uncertain.

Stabilizer design and feel

Unlike many mainstream keyboards that rely on plate‑mounted stabilizers, this model uses PCB‑mounted units that are pre‑lubricated at the factory. The reviewer observed small clumps of lubricant on the housings—more than typical—but found the result pleasant: the larger keys felt smooth, consistent, and free of the usual rattling or sticking noises. This construction contributes to a quieter typing experience and a more refined tactile response, especially noticeable on larger keys such as the space bar and shift.

Switch technology and gaming performance

Keychron previously experimented with tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR) switches, which the reviewer praised for their novelty and performance. The concrete keyboard, however, returns to standard Hall Effect (HE) switches. While HE switches are technically a step back from TMR, they still deliver a crisp, lightweight actuation and rapid snap‑back. Coupled with a 1,000 Hz polling rate, the keyboard feels responsive enough for fast‑paced gaming, bridging the gap between a premium typing tool and a functional gaming peripheral.

Overall impressions and trade‑offs

The combination of concrete construction, PCB‑mounted lubricated stabilizers, and Hall Effect switches creates a unique user experience. Typists who appreciate a solid, weighty feel and are comfortable managing a bit of surface grime may find the keyboard rewarding. Conversely, users who prioritize pristine aesthetics or lightweight portability might view the material’s staining propensity as a drawback. The reviewer concludes that, despite the concrete’s quirks, the typing and gaming performance are strong enough to outweigh the visual imperfections for many enthusiasts.

Photograph credit: Henri Robbins