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What does “split” actually mean?

Plain-English explanations of the terms keyboard enthusiasts use every day. Plus what to buy if you want it.

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split · adjective

The keyboard is in two physically separate halves you can place at shoulder width and angle independently. Reduces wrist deviation; ZSA Moonlander and Kinesis Advantage are well-known examples.

How to get it · CHEAP
Keychron Q8
Keychron Q8
Aluminum Alice prebuilt · wired-only

Aluminum Alice from Keychron — the most affordable assembled split-Alice option, wired-only at the price.

see why →buy on amazon →buy on keychron →
How to get it · BEST
QK Alice Duo
QK Alice Duo
Fully split Alice barebone · forever board

Fully split Alice the community calls a forever board — the canonical premium split-build target.

see why →buy on QwertyKeys →
How to get it · DIY
Neo Ergo
Neo Ergo
Alice ergo barebone · popular and approachable

QwertyKeys' Alice ergo barebone — popular for the looks and the price, the gateway split build for first-timers.

see why →buy on QwertyKeys →