Show HN: I've built a tiny hand-held keyboard

Historical context and similar devices

• Commenters recall earlier one-handed or chorded keyboards (Microwriter, WriteHander, Twiddler, DataHand, bike-mounted systems in the 80s).
• Some note these often flopped commercially despite good performance, suggesting niche demand and momentum of QWERTY as barriers.

Use cases and enthusiasm

• Strong interest from people wanting mobile or relaxed computing: coding on couches/beds, treadmills, recumbent bikes, VR/AR headsets, Apple Pencil + shortcuts on tablets.
• Others see it as ideal for gaming shortcuts, RTS/VR control, or partial keyboards for one-handed use.
• Several say the project evokes a “cyberpunk” or 90s wearable-computing vibe and is “peak hacker.”

Learning curve and layout design

• The author reports around 20 WPM while still learning, emphasizing the need for muscle memory.
• Discussion of chord design: custom-optimized layouts vs more mnemonic schemes; some want mappings compatible with WASD or Vim-style habits.
• Links to existing chorded layouts (e.g., Artsey/Ardux) as references for UX design.
• One user admits abandoning a minimal-keyboard experiment because learning during work was too costly, despite liking the concept.

Ergonomics and physical design

• Many praise the clever use of COTS components and modeling clay; several are inspired to retry similar projects, sometimes with scanning/3D printing.
• Concerns raised about finger bending and thumb reach; suggestions include smaller or low-profile switches and custom narrow keycaps.
• Some propose alternative materials like thermoplastic instead of clay.

Power and safety concerns

• Debate around using bare 18650 cells in holders: risks cited include over-discharge, short circuits (e.g., in wet pockets), and regulatory backlash.
• Others argue they’re commonly recharged safely and prefer them to pouch cells, though acknowledge exposed terminals are a hazard.

Requests for improvements and comparisons

• Multiple people ask for videos showing typing speed and build steps, plus more photos.
• Twiddler and Azeron devices are mentioned as commercial alternatives; opinions differ on how close they are in function and price/value.