The impetus for the creation of Monogram’s original modular tactile control solution, the Creative Console, was for creative pros perpetually seeking methods for optimizing their workflow to eke out every bit of precious time, especially in regards to repetitive tasks. The same team is now back with the customizable and multifunctional, Monogram Keyboard, a form factor serving space efficiency and workflow productivity in equal measure.
Made with CNC-machined aluminum, the modern mechanical keyboard is equipped to deliver the pleasing ASMR tactile pleasure via its inclusion of low-profile Gateron Brown mechanical key switches. While brown switch keys are themselves nothing new, what they engage is unique. Powered by Monogram OS6, the peripheral is engineered for maximum customization, offering thousands of commands and macros specifically aimed to maximize productivity for photographers, video editors, and musicians in ways cognizant of the multi-application requirements required of professional creatives.
Where Monogram OS6 differs from other keyboard operating systems is not only its extensive integration with applications such as Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop, or Capture One by Phase One, but its ability to switch between application toolsets and shortcuts, changing the functions of 13 Action Keys and the Control Dial as quickly as required instantly.
Additionally, the keyboard is equipped with numerous OLED Mini Displays across the top of the keyboard, each allowing the Monogram to display the current active tool for each input controller. Calvin Chu, CEO and founder of Monogram, notes the inclusion of Mini Displays was one of the top requests, subtracting the need to memorize keystroke combinations, an interesting contrast to the general antipathy of Apple users and the similarly executed (but more limited) Touch Bar that was recently put to bed.
The Monogram Keyboard and Monogram Multipad were both fully funded via crowdfunding, with the Multipad priced at about $168 and the Keyboard pre-launching at around $293, both prices reflecting their professional aimed intent. In either case, the investment comes with a November 2024 delivery.