Revolutionizing the mechanical keyboard market, CannonKeys has unveiled the Soleil, an ultra-premium wireless mechanical keyboard designed for unparalleled battery longevity. Featuring a 780 mAh battery, ZMK firmware, and an integrated solar cell, the Soleil promises an astonishing 12 months of battery life under reasonable usage, setting a new standard for wireless peripherals.
Unprecedented Battery Life and Solar Charging
The Soleil keyboard stands out with its innovative power solution. Unlike typical wireless mechanical keyboards that require frequent charging, the Soleil’s combination of a large battery, efficient ZMK firmware, and a small solar cell aims to provide a year of use on a single charge. While direct testing is needed to fully verify these claims, the technology suggests a significant leap in wireless keyboard autonomy.
- Key Takeaways:
- 12-month battery life claim with reasonable usage.
- Integrated solar cell for ambient light charging.
- 780 mAh battery combined with ZMK firmware for efficiency.
- Backlighting off is recommended for optimal battery performance.
Design and Build Quality
The Soleil boasts a standard TKL (Tenkeyless) form factor, incorporating an F13 key and a dedicated navigation cluster. Its premium construction features an aluminum case complemented by elegant wood accents, available in either rich walnut or lighter maple. The design prioritizes acoustic performance, offering a distinct typing experience.
- Design Features:
- Standard TKL form factor with F13 key.
- Aluminum case with walnut or maple wood accents.
- Top-mount design focused on acoustics.
- Front height of approximately 20 mm, space bar at 24 mm.
- Weighs around 1900g when fully built.
Customization and Availability
The Soleil will initially be offered as a DIY kit, allowing users to personalize their keyboard with their preferred switches, stabilizers, and keycaps. It features a hot-swap PCB, supporting various space bar sizes and split configurations for enhanced customization. CannonKeys is also considering a wired PCB option for those who prefer a wired connection but desire the Soleil’s unique design.
- Customization Options:
- DIY kit format requiring user-supplied switches, stabilizers, and keycaps.
- Hot-swap PCB with support for 6.25u and 7u space bars.
- Split right shift and backspace support.
- Stepped caps lock support.
- Potential future wired PCB option.
Via CannonKeys
