Yushakobo and Keychron Collaborate on Keychron Valkey Orb
Yushakobo, headquartered in Tokyo, has announced its joint development of the “Keychron Valkey Orb” trackball-equipped split keyboard with Keychron, a global brand specializing in mechanical keyboards. This collaboration leverages Yushakobo’s expertise and culture in custom keyboards and Keychron’s established track record and passion for mechanical keyboard innovation.
The Keychron Valkey Orb project aims to combine high-quality interior aesthetics with a comfortable input experience, supporting user productivity in desk work.
Key Features of Keychron Valkey Orb
The Keychron Valkey Orb is designed with several features to enhance user comfort and productivity:
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Split Design: Allows users to maintain an open posture for shoulders and chest, promoting a more comfortable and productive desk environment.
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Dual Connectivity: Supports both wireless and wired connections, offering flexibility to suit various environments and uses.
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Integrated Trackball: A Φ25mm trackball is built into the right-hand unit, enabling mouse operations without significant hand movement from the home position.
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Aluminum Body: Provides a substantial presence on the desk and a stable weight for precise trackball operation.
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Hot-Swappable Sockets: Features Cherry MX compatible sockets, allowing users to easily swap out switches to their preference.
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Keychron Launcher Compatibility: Enables intuitive customization of keymaps and macros.
Product Specifications (Planned)
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Product Name: Keychron Valkey Orb
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Colors: Black, White
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Connection Method: Wireless, Wired
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Trackball: Φ25mm / positioned for right thumb operation from the home row
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Switches: Hot-swappable, Cherry MX compatible sockets
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Keymap/Macro Settings: Keychron Launcher compatible
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Sales Price: Undetermined
Please note that the above specifications are based on the current prototype stage and may be subject to change during the mass production process.
Prototype Exhibitions
Attendees will have the opportunity to experience the Keychron Valkey Orb prototype firsthand at the following events:
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TOKYO GAME SHOW 2026: September 17 – September 21, 2026, at Makuhari Messe (Keychron booth)
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TOKYO KEYBOARD EXPO 2026: September 23, 2026, at Tokyo Ryutsu Center (Keychron booth and Yushakobo booth)
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Tenkaichi Keyboard Waiwai-kai Vol.12: October 3, 2026, at DMM.com Group Seminar Room (Keychron booth and Yushakobo booth)
Crowdfunding Campaign
The Keychron Valkey Orb is slated for a crowdfunding launch within 2026 on “GIZMART,” an online store operated by Mediagene Inc. Further announcements regarding the campaign start date will be made.
About Yushakobo
Yushakobo Co., Ltd. operates a specialized retail store and online shop for custom keyboards. The company also provides workspace and processing services like laser cutting and UV printing, supporting the custom keyboard culture. In March 2025, Yushakobo became a group company of Kaho Musen Holdings Co., Ltd., which operates Gooday home centers primarily in Kyushu.
About Keychron
Keychron, established in 2017 by a group of keyboard enthusiasts with extensive manufacturing experience, is a Hong Kong-based keyboard brand. It offers mechanical keyboards characterized by cutting-edge technology and minimalist design, enhancing productivity for a wide range of users from office workers to gamers. Kopek Japan Inc. serves as the exclusive distributor in Japan, and Keychron’s wireless products have obtained technical conformity certification.
About Mediagene Inc.
Mediagene Inc., established on October 30, 1998, operates 17 media outlets targeting specific communities, including “Business Insider Japan” (an economic media for millennials), “Gizmodo Japan” (a technology & product information media), “Roomie” (a lifestyle media), and “Lifehacker Japan” (proposing efficient work styles). The company also runs four commerce services, such as the pre-purchase EC sites “Costly” and “GIZMART.” Through a total of 21 brands, Mediagene provides information and experiences that enrich readers’ lives.
About GIZMART
GIZMART is a community commerce platform operated by Mediagene Inc., offering a wide range of products, primarily gadgets. Leveraging the editorial and content creation capabilities of the technology and gadget media “Gizmodo Japan,” GIZMART conveys the “story behind the product,” including development background, design philosophy, and creators’ aspirations, to deeply communicate product appeal and brand value. Furthermore, feedback from readers and buyers obtained through media and sales is provided to manufacturers, contributing to product development and the planning of next-generation models. GIZMART connects users and manufacturers, supporting the introduction of new products to Japan and the expansion of updated models.
