Linux-ready Launch Heavy is a $300 mechanical keyboard designed for data crunchers

December 10, 2022 By Jozeph P

(Image Credit Google)

Prebuilt mechanical keyboards frequently fail to include Linux support. Users frequently report success getting basic mechanical keyboard features to work, but many of these peripherals do not support software for managing advanced features, such as macros, with Linux. System76's Launch keyboard has been attempting to solve this problem since last year. However, number crunchers will be far more fascinated by the new Launch Heavy. The Launch Heavy, which was released this week, is a Numpad-equipped version of the 84-key Launch. The keyboard is one of the most personalized Linux-focused mechanical keyboards available, as detailed in our System76 Launch review. However, the lack of a Numpad made the Launch an instant 'no' for many. The released recently Launch Heavy addresses many, but not all, of the shortcomings of its smaller counterpart. Also Read: How To Clean Laptop Keyboards? Do's & Don'ts To Keep in Mind As you can see, the 105 keys on the Launch Heavy aren't in a traditional layout. System76 messed with the keys to the left of the Numpad, removing some entirely. In comparison to the Launch, the Launch Heavy adds media control keys above the Numpad. Unfortunately, there are no volume controls available out of the box. mechanical keyboard

Since we reviewed the Launch in March, System76 has been kind enough to update the mechanical switches that come with its keyboards. Furthermore to the supremely stiff clicky Kailh Box Jades and tactile Box Royals (both of which require 75 grams of force to actuate), the Launch Heavy and the rest of the lineup can be ordered with quieter, tactile Kailh Box Silent Browns (50 g). Also Read: How to Clean a Mechanical Keyboard? System76's Launch mechanical keyboards are among the few mechanical keyboards that claim Linux support. The Launch series is also admirably tinker-friendly, from the open-source software to the chassis and PCB. The hub on the top of the keyboard's edge, with four increasingly rare USB-A ports, is perhaps the series' most useful feature.

By Jozeph P

Journalism explorer, tech Enthusiast. Love to read and write.

Linux-ready Launch Heavy is a $300 mechanical keyboard designed for data crunchers

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