Massdrop x 0.01 Z70 Mechanical Keyboard

Created by 0.01 (pronounced “zero point zero one”), the Z70 is a fully programmable 70-percent board with a one-of-a-kind layout—and it’s available only on Massdrop. Designer 0.01 (who takes his name from the fraction of variance found in many production processes) saw how popular unique keyboards had become with the Massdrop Mech Keys Community. So we worked together to bring the community his own rendition of the popular 68-key layout, this time with more functionality than ever before. With equal emphasis on ergonomics, functionality, and aesthetics, the Z70 could be considered his magnum opus. It features a split space bar, CNC aluminum case, frosty white backlighting, your choice of switches, and the latest USB-C connection.

Perhaps most notable about the Z70’s layout is its split space bar. With a standard space bar, for most people one thumb tends not to get used. The thumb however, is far more dextrous than the pinkie, which is why this keyboard allows you to program your most-used modifier keys—like shift, backspace, enter, etc.—within thumb’s reach. Slightly larger than a 60-percent board, but not large enough to disrupt your desktop, the Z70 also has arrow keys and a navigation cluster on the right side. Of course, the board is fully programmable, too. So no matter if you’re gaming, working, or entering data, it’s got you covered however you want to set it up.

Machined from 6061 T6 aluminum, the Z70 is built for the long haul. Looking at it from the side, you’ll notice a slight angle from the front of the board to the back. This 3-degree angle, which is extremely difficult to machine, adds to the keyboard’s streamlined profile. Also worth noting is that the screws in the case are on the bottom, as opposed to most keyboards which leave them exposed on the top. As for backlighting, it’s made with an icy white glow that illuminates from the sides of the board for a radiant look.

The switch options for the Z70 are some of the most preferred by the Mech Keys Community. Authentic Cherry MX Blue, Brown, Clear, Green, and Red switches are available, followed by Gateron Blue, Brown, Clear, Green and Red switches. Also included are Zealios, the purple/clear switch designed by community member Zeal. Zealios are Gateron switches, comparable to Cherry MX Clears, with a slightly higher actuation point and an extremely smooth action. All DIY kits or assembled kits come with 70 switches of your choosing. The keycaps are made from PBT—which has long been considered the superior plastic when it comes to keycap selection. PBT keycaps help resist the shine that accumulates from oils and sweat on your fingertips.