TMICE Modular Keyboard Review: Cool Concept, Major Flaws

TMICE Modular Keyboard: Initial Impressions

• 💡 The TMICE modular keyboard features a unique concept with removable modules like an F row, offering theoretically unlimited expansion possibilities.
• 💰 The base 65% keyboard costs $99, featuring a mix of aluminum and frosted acrylic, with a basic tray mount case that is acceptable but not premium.
• ✨ The keycaps are noted for their thickness, good profile, and texture, contributing to a satisfying typing sound and feel.

The "Modular" Problem

• ⚠️ The F row module costs an additional $35, effectively turning the keyboard into a 75% layout for a higher price than a standard 75% keyboard.
• 🧩 Modules attach with a satisfying magnetic snap, offering convenience for changing desk space needs or office setups.
• 📉 However, the keyboard exhibits significant tilting when pressure is applied to the top row, indicating a stability issue.

Numpad and Macro Pad Modules

• 💰 The numpad module is priced at $34.99, considered a decent deal for a metal numpad, but it can only be attached to the right side of the keyboard.
• 🚫 This right-side-only limitation severely restricts true modularity, making it unusable for left-handed users or those who prefer placement elsewhere.
• 🚀 The macro pad module, while featuring a nice knob and six reprogrammable buttons, also suffers from the same attachment limitations.

Core Functionality and Connectivity Issues

• ❌ A major drawback is that none of the modules work independently; they all require the base keyboard to function.
• 🔌 The magnetic cable connection is unreliable, with the keyboard or modules losing connection due to minor bumps or vibrations, leading to frustrating reboots.
• 🐌 The accompanying TMICE software is described as slow and clunky, though functional for rebinding keys and launching apps.

Kickstarter and Overall Value

• 🚩 The keyboard originally ran as a Kickstarter, with reports of delayed fulfillment, raising concerns about the current website sales.
• 💸 While the base keyboard is $99, the cost escalates significantly with modules, and the overall experience is hampered by design flaws and connectivity issues.
• 🤔 The reviewer concludes that despite the cool concept and initial appeal, the TMICE modular keyboard's limitations and problems make it a questionable purchase.