Dygma Raise 2 is a split ergonomic keyboard that exudes gamer vibes

Spain-based keyboard maker Dygma announced a new version of its split keyboard, the Dygma Raise 2. The company has previously launched two other split keyboards, the Raise and Defy, the Raise 2 being a sequel to the former, adding a slew of new features compared to the original. It is currently on pre-order starting from US$299, with delivery to buyers targeted for October 2024.

Depending on the configuration you select, the Raise 2 can take on a host of different form factors. At the most basic level, it's an aluminium wired split keyboard with two parts that can be merged to form what looks like a regular 60% keyboard. It has hot-swappable switches, removable wrist rests attached using magnets, RGBW lighting for the keys, and is fully programmable using the company's own software. In addition, the Raise 2 has an expansion port for add-ons — more on that later.

Beyond the basics, if you max out this keyboard's options, you get:

• Wireless connectivity including RF and Bluetooth (supports five connected devices)
• Tenting up to 60 degrees — putting the Dygma Raise 2 split keyboard in an inverted V position so your palms rest more naturally rather than in a palm-down position
• RGBW under glow, which can tell you what keyboard layer you're on

There's no doubt that the market for keyboards these days is huge. Mechanical keyboards in various shapes, sizes, and prices can be found on not just enthusiasts, but mainstream users' desks. The world of split keyboards, however, is comparatively small. Discussions around split keyboards generally revolve around the advantages they bring to the health of the user, particularly those who spend long hours at a computer and start to experience pain or discomfort using a regular keyboard.

The varying needs of these users mean there's still a wide range of split keyboards to choose from. Some simply look like a regular keyboard cut into two, while others like the Kinesis Advantage360 will look really radical to the uninitiated, with a concave top surface. 

Given what we know about the Dygma Raise 2 so far, it seems to fulfil some important ergonomic needs without being too "far out" that only a small number of users can get used to. For instance, it uses a staggered key layout like a regular keyboard, unlike the company's own Defy keyboard, which has a columnar (keys are arranged in straight columns) layout. The latter is supposed to be better for your hands but will require the user to take time to learn. The fact that Dygma's founder used to be Fnatic's LoL coach surely also helps its appeal to a wider audience. Dygma calls the Raise 2 "the first wireless gaming ergonomic keyboard", an understandable claim given the gamer lighting aesthetic and RF wireless connectivity for lower latency.

Finally, back to that expansion port, which is a very intriguing proposition. Located on the inner top edges of the two keyboard halves, this is supposed to let you expand the functionality of the Raise 2. Dygma mentioned a trackball add-on, which could make a lot of sense as it will let you add a pointing device without your hand ever having to move away from the keyboard. However, we will never advise buying a product based on a manufacturer's future plans — the same applies here. Treat it as a bonus, but don't make your pre-order decision based on the hope of a trackball attached to your keyboard.

Availability and pricing

Starting from US$299 (~S$402) at pre-order (retails at US$369 after pre-order) from the company's website, the Dygma Raise 2 goes up to a staggering US$619 at retail with everything thrown in. The company has a VIP pre-order program right now, see the above chart for details.

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