Image reference: https: //www.diatec.co.jp/shop/xacro/m10sp.php
DiaTech Corporation announced that it will release the Majestouch Xacro M10SP, the first FILCO-branded split keyboard, on October 26, 2023.
This is a very high-profile product because it is a mass-produced split keyboard, which is rare among Japanese manufacturers.
This article provides a brief introduction to the newly released Majestouch Xacro M10SP.
Representative of GreenEchoes Studio
He launched his own media as a site operator and web writer, and now plans and manages multiple corporate media. He often types heavily in his work, and in his search for greater efficiency, he became addicted to the keyboard swamp and established “GreenKeys”.
Majestouch Xacro M10SP Features
Let’s take a look at the features of the Majestouch Xacro M10SP.
summary
- To be announced on October 26, 2023
- Prices range from 23,100 yen to 24,200 yen (tax included)
- 60% layout with macro keys (officially called 70% layout)
- Supports wired connection
- Available keyswitches are Cherry Red/Brown/Blue/Silent Red
- Japanese/English layout lineup
- QMK/VIA is not supported, and aggressive keymap changes are not possible.
- Hot-swapping not supported
Areas of Interest
The Majestouch Xacro M10SP features a basic layout based on 60% with the arrow keys eliminated and a macro key in the center, which is called as 70% lewout.
The placement of the 10 macro keys in this central area shows a great deal of effort, including the registration of a design.
This macro key seems to be easily configurable in the software.
Exclusive software: FILCO Assist The connection method is only wired using USB Type-C, and a Type-C cable is also used for the connection between the left and right sides.
The position of the included tilt feet can be changed as desired, and in addition to the normal tilt that tilts from the back to the front, it can also be used for tenting, which is a tenting position when the unit is split.
The keymap can be changed by hardware method, such as changing CapsLock to Left CTRL by a combination of DIP switches on the bottom.
Two models are available in Japanese and English layouts, and in combination with four types of Cherry key switches (red-axis, brown-axis, blue-axis, and silent red-axis), a total of eight different models can be selected to suit your preference.
In addition to the basic QWERTY layout, other layouts can be easily changed by operating DIP switches.
For the dedicated array keycaps, they can be purchased from the official website.
The hardware has also been carefully designed, with PBT keycaps and silicon sheets inserted to improve the key feel.
points of concern
As this is a split keyboard, which is quite rare for a domestic product sold to the general public, this product has attracted a lot of attention, as it was featured in various media even before its release date, and many people may be considering purchasing it.
I will now tell you what I was concerned about.
Please refer to the following information to check before you buy, which may help you avoid “I wish I had never bought”.
KawamuraThis really depends on your taste, and there is no doubt that this is an attractive product. This is just my opinion, so please use it as a reference.
As a person who usually uses a self-made keyboard, I was most concerned about the lack of flexibility in changing the keymap.
I have not seen the actual machine, so I can’t say for sure, but from the description on the official website, I got the impression that it does not support keymap changes in the GUI.
I had the impression that it is possible to set up an original key arrangement with hardware macros, but as a person who usually uses VIA /Vial /Remap using open source such as QMK, I have the impression that it is a little inflexible in terms of keymap changes.
Frankly speaking, there are more than enough keys, and most of them can be typed on the first layer, so I don’t think many people care about it.
However, special attention should be paid to those who wish to change the position of the arrow key.
On a normal 60% keyboard, “WASD” is the arrow key, but on this model it is “ESDF” or “IJKL,” which is sensibly a bit off center on the keyboard.
If you can remap this, it does not seem to be that big of a problem, but it does seem a bit difficult, so you should be careful if you are concerned.
As a minor point, I have the impression that it is difficult to change the keyswitches, as hot-swapping is not supported.
As for keycaps, US-array models will be able to accommodate changes to some extent.
For Japanese-language models, Acid Caps may be able to handle this.
summary
This is a brief description of the Majestouch Xacro M10SP.
It is a delightful time to see a domestic manufacturer start selling split keyboards in general sales products.
Speaking of split keyboards, there were few available from overseas manufacturers, and if you were particular about it, the only way was to buy and assemble your own keyboard kit.
We hope that this launch will lead to a greater focus on split keyboards in Japan as well.
If you are interested, please also see this article.
