Chosfox Init40 Short Review

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This might be the top contender for 40% small keyboards.

The Init40, scheduled for release by Chosfox on August 25, is a low-profile mechanical keyboard featuring a 40% row staggered layout.

The most striking feature is undoubtedly the low key count.

Compared to a standard keyboard with a number pad (100%), it only has about 40% of the keys.

It is incredibly compact, omitting not only the function row but also the number row—reducing the vertical height by about two rows—and several symbol keys on the right side.

It is compact both vertically and horizontally.

The standard approach for “small keyboards” of this size is to use “layer keys” to input the omitted characters.

In short, while holding down a layer key, you transition to a different layer, allowing you to type the keys hidden beneath the surface.

In my personal keymap, I navigate two layers using two layer keys assigned to my thumbs, allowing me to type just like I would on a regular keyboard.

Another appealing point is that it uses “Vial,” which allows anyone to easily change keymap settings via a web interface without needing any programming skills.

When typing on a keyboard that relies on layers, you typically cannot visually confirm which layer you have transitioned to while holding a key.

However, the Init40 allows you to see which layer is active through the changing colors of the LED light located at the bottom left.

The fact that they’ve considered such details is a testament to the thoughtful design of this keyboard.

With a 5-degree typing angle and low-profile switches, it’s possible to type comfortably without a palm rest.

By adopting a standard row staggered layout rather than an “irregular layout” (like the company’s Geonix Rev. 2.5), they have lowered the switching cost for those moving to a small keyboard.

There is a wide variety of switches available; choosing silent switches allows for worry-free typing even in an office environment.

(In the list below, Deep Sea Silent refers to the silent switch option.)

It’s also a plus that you can choose between linear switches (no resistance until the end of the press) and tactile switches (slight resistance at the beginning of the press).

It comes with a carrying bag and is lightweight (approx. 490g) and compact, so it won’t be a burden when you’re on the move.

The stress-free tri-mode connection is another attractive feature.

The high-quality texture of the aluminum case makes it a piece that truly satisfies the desire for ownership.

The world of 40% small keyboards has recently garnered sudden attention, especially after the Keychron Orca Echo crowdfunding campaign raised over 500 million yen.

Among them, the Init40, with its integrated row staggered layout, seems to be an ideal choice for a “first introduction to small keyboards.”

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