While CES 2026 saw Keychron unveil a host of new mechanical keyboards boasting impressive battery life, it was an unexpected newcomer that truly captured attention: the Nape Pro trackball. Marking Keychron’s foray into the trackball market, this sleek and versatile device promises to redefine how we interact with our desktops, offering a compelling alternative to the traditional mouse.
A Paradigm Shift in Desktop Ergonomics
The Nape Pro’s most striking feature is its compact and slender design, which allows for unprecedented flexibility in placement. Unlike conventional trackballs that typically reside to the left or right of a keyboard, the Nape Pro can be ingeniously tucked directly in front of your board. This innovative positioning means users can navigate their cursor, operate its rotary dial, and activate any of its six fully-programmable buttons without ever having to shift their hands from the primary typing position.
This unique approach draws parallels to the iconic Lenovo TrackPoint, a staple on ThinkPad laptops and some dedicated keyboards. By bringing similar functionality to a standalone trackball, Keychron is offering a solution that could significantly enhance workflow efficiency and reduce wrist strain for many users.
Features That Impress and Anticipation Builds
Beyond its clever placement, the Nape Pro is engineered for precision and customization. The inclusion of a rotary dial adds another layer of control, perfect for scrolling through documents, adjusting volume, or fine-tuning creative applications. With six programmable buttons, users can tailor the Nape Pro to their specific needs, assigning shortcuts and macros for a truly personalized experience.
Keychron co-founder Paul Tan confirmed that the Nape Pro is set to launch soon in Japan via a crowdfunding campaign. For enthusiasts in the US, the wait won’t be long, with a spring 2026 release anticipated. Pricing is expected to range from $60 to $100, subject to tariffs.
For those, like this journalist, who have yet to experience the benefits of a trackball, the Nape Pro presents an incredibly appealing entry point. Its versatility and thoughtful design make it a device worth looking forward to, potentially finding a place on or even under a keyboard, complementing a traditional mouse setup for ultimate flexibility. Options, after all, are indeed fun.
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