Israfel

The Israfel is both my first split board and my first ortho board and I absolutely love it. Since getting and building this kit in November 2024 it has not left my desk. From the building experience to daily use the Israfel is an absolute joy I cannot recommend it enough.

Some of the best money I've ever spent. Thank you KBDcraft!

Loving the low profile alice layout. No too loud as my per usual keyboards i own. Layout is a slightly bit different so i need to get used to hitting certain keys especially during gaming. The only minor problem i had was that the spacebar for the left side kept getting stuck. So i removed the Stabalizer and now it works fine. I dont know why it didnt work with the stabalizer on, but thats okay its something minor. In the end i think this is a good keyboard.

Summary: You will be hard pressed to find a keyboard with as good of features, build quality, and ease of use for the same price.

I have been looking for several months for an entry level split keyboard, however, I was not willing to learn how to soulder, and I wasn't willing to spend more than $300 USD on a keyboard. In the end the combination of the price, and functions of the Israfel made it a no-brainer choice.

Criticisms:
I wanted a tru split keyboard. While I am able to disconnect the two sides of this keyboard, I'll need to purchase a sperate SH1.0 14pin cable to connect the two halfs (the only suppliers are in China and cost an arm and a leg to get to North America). Many split keyboards use a USB-C or TRS cable. I would recommend that KBDCraft adopt one of these two standards (whichever is cheaper).
Make sure to review the Vial Software documentation if you use a Linux computer, as there are additional steps you need to follow to get the keyboard to register.

Conclusion: If you are looking to get into split keyboards, I would put this keyboard at the top of your list. You may eventyually move to another keyboard, but this keyboard will help you "cut your teeth" first.