# The Severance-Inspired Keyboard: A Fusion of Nostalgia and Contemporary Design
In an intriguing blend of pop culture and tech, the realm of mechanical keyboards is about to welcome a distinctive creation influenced by Apple TV+’s acclaimed series, *Severance*. While Apple cheekily teased followers with a fictional Lumon Terminal Pro on its site, the genuine excitement comes from Atomic Keyboard, poised to unveil a Severance-themed keyboard that encapsulates the show’s unique look and themes.
## A Keyboard with a Narrative
The *Severance* series, investigating the murky boundaries between work and personal existence in a dystopian world, has struck a chord with viewers, resulting in a heightened demand for merchandise reflecting its singular style. The keyboard, referred to as the MDR Dasher Keyboard, is crafted not only as a practical device but also as a work of art that embodies the retro computing nostalgia of the show. With its vintage-inspired aesthetic and tactile typing experience, it appeals to both aficionados of the series and mechanical keyboard lovers alike.
As one avid supporter remarked, “The keyboard has become a representation of the show’s unique aesthetic and themes.” The lack of an Escape key, a nod to the themes of confinement and control depicted in the series, introduces a whimsical yet thought-provoking element to the design.
## Customization and Community Input
Atomic Keyboard is not merely producing a product; they are welcoming fans to engage in the design process. The company is actively soliciting feedback on various specifications, including the debated removal of the Escape key. This involvement enables fans to influence the final design, ensuring it aligns with the community’s interests.
### Layout Variations
Atomic Keyboard is providing three distinct layout variants for the Severance-themed keyboard:
1. **The Severance Layout**: This configuration preserves the show’s retro appeal while allowing flexibility. Users can remap keys via QMK firmware, and crucial keycaps like Escape and Control will be included. This option is ideal for devoted fans wishing to maintain the enigmatic “missing ESC” aesthetic.
2. **Standard Layout**: A complete 60% layout that features the traditionally essential keys, including the Escape key. This layout suits users who value an uninterrupted typing experience without compromising functionality.
3. **Standard Layout (with HHKB Style Bottom Row)**: This selection fuses the standard layout with a bottom row inspired by the Happy Hacking Keyboard (HHKB), appealing to those who favor that distinct style.
## Pricing and Availability
While the keyboard’s design and customization options are thrilling, the pricing might raise some concerns. Reports suggest that the keyboard will be sold for between $399 and $699, with potential tariffs driving the price even higher. This price bracket has ignited discussions among fans and prospective buyers, with some questioning if the novelty of the design justifies the cost.
For those still intrigued, Atomic Keyboard has released video demonstrations highlighting the keyboard’s features and design. However, for those who perceive the price as excessive, numerous other mechanical keyboard choices are available at more affordable rates.
## Conclusion
The Severance-inspired keyboard embodies a unique intersection of television culture and technology, enabling fans to connect with their favorite series in a tangible manner. With its retro design, customizable layouts, and community involvement in the creation process, it has the potential to become a coveted item for both *Severance* enthusiasts and mechanical keyboard fans. As the launch date nears, it will be captivating to see how the final product materializes and if it lives up to the high expectations inspired by its source material.