Julian Yap has launched the Pando, an open-source split ergonomic mechanical keyboard designed to address common compromises in materials, build complexity, and configuration software. The board features USB-C connectivity with ESD protection, an integrated STM32 MCU instead of a separate dev board like the RP2040, hot-swap switches, and open-source firmware with Vial support for full layout customization.

The Pando can be built as a DIY project from the GitHub repo, following its predecessor the Pando58, but pre-soldered barebones kits without switches or keycaps are available for $109 on Etsy. An upgraded version with a multi-jet fusion-printed case and stainless steel bottom plate costs $179.

The design ships as a complete integrated board with no controllers to solder, using an on-board IO expander on the second half and a single USB-C cable. Users can install any MX-compatible switches and reconfigure layers and macros through the Vial app.