Frequently Asked Questions
I have a question about the Model 01
As of Q2 2020, we're sold out of the Model 01 forever. We've designed a successor product, the Model 100, which is now in stock for immediate shipment. The Model 100 is nearly identical in terms of key shape and layout, but is significantly improved on the internals.
We've moved the Model 01 FAQ to a separate page.
Does the Atreus work with my computer?
Yes! It’s been extensively tested with macOS, Windows, Chrome OS, and Linux. No additional drivers are needed; just plug in the keyboard and start typing.
If it’s the first time you’re using the Atreus with a macOS device, you may get a message: “Press the key immediately to the right of the Shift key on the left side of the keyboard that can't be identified”. Press z. On the next screen, select ANSI.
There is a bug in macOS Catalina 10.15 and 10.15.1 that prevents flashing the Atreus (or many Arduino device's) firmware; this bug is resolved in macOS Catalina 10.15.2 and subsequent releases.
Does the Atreus work with my mobile device?
On Android devices: in general, the Atreus works great for typing. While we support full N-key rollover on desktop operating systems, on Android keyboard will only support 10 key rollover (registering ten simultaneous keypresses at once).
On iOS devices: the Atreus has been tested to work without any issues.
Do you ship to my country?
Probably! We ship just about everywhere in the world. Try checking out and see.
We are FCC and CE certified.
Do you have a European distributor?
At this time, we do not have a distributor in Europe.
Will I have to pay import duty, VAT, customs fees, or other tax?
Where possible, our shipping partner will offer you a mix of shipping rates, some of which include a pre-payment of tax and duty and some of which do not. This will be clearly indicated on the shipping page. If you choose a shipping option without pre-payment of tax and duty, you may be responsible for paying taxes before or after receiving your shipment, depending on local law. We expect that most customers will find it more convenient to choose a shipping option that includes pre-payment of duty.
If you have any questions, feel free to write us at help@keyboard.io and we can help you understand the shipping options.
What key switches should I get for the Atreus?
Our most popular switch is BOX Brown. If you aren't sure what to get, that's a good choice. It's a lightly tactile mechanical keyswitch that is a good choice for typing and gaming. Like other BOX switches, it has extra protection against dust and moisture.
As of summer 2020, we are also offering three other choices of keyswitch preinstalled:
BOX White switches are "clicky" switches. They have both a tactile bump and a loud click. They're most similar to Cherry Blues, if you're familiar with Cherry switches.
BOX Red switches are linear and don't have a tactile bump at actuation. They are most popular with gamers who know they want linear switches.
Speed Copper switches are a quiet tactile switch that actuates higher up in the keystroke than the BOX Brown, leading to an ultra-responsive feel.
How do I change the Atreus layout?
The simplest way is to install Chrysalis, our graphical configuration tool. This makes it easy to change the key layout and LED layout.
If you're an advanced user interested in compiling your own firmware, you can use the Arduino IDE on a computer running macOS, Windows or Linux to build and install new firmware. Instructions for installing the Arduino IDE and using it to flash new firmware onto the Atreus start on this wiki page.
I have big (or small) hands. Will the Atreus work for me?
Probably! While the Atreus is remarkably compact, this is mostly due to the smaller number of keys (44 vs 100+ on a full-size keyboard). The keys are the same size and spacing as you would find on a typical mechanical keyboard.
You can download and print a life-size papercraft Atreus to see for yourself whether the spacing and layout feels good to you.
Make sure your computer is set to print things at actual size, rather than shrinking or stretching them to fit on a sheet of paper. It should fit on a standard sheet of A4 or letter / 8.5"x11" paper.
Do you offer non-QWERTY layouts for the Atreus?
Yes! The keyboard ships in QWERTY configuration, but you can change it. You'll want to do two things:
For the firmware, you can change the keyboard to QWERTZ, Dvorak, Workman, Colemak, Spanish, German, etc. In fact, you can change any key to type any other key you might find on a keyboard, such as ñ or ß or any other symbol you want.
The keycaps can be pulled off the switches with your fingers and rearranged to match your layout.
How should I transport my Keyboardio Atreus?
We recommend disconnecting the cable for transport and keeping the keyboard protected from dust and hard impacts. We sell a case custom-designed to fit the Atreus.
How can I get an invoice?
You will receive an email receipt after checkout. If you need an official invoice in addition, please write us at help@keyboard.io and tell us your order number as well as any information you need included on the invoice (company name, address, etc.)
What is your refund/return policy?
We are happy to offer you a full refund at any time before your order ships. All you have to do is ask.
While we are happy to replace or repair defective keyboards under the terms of our one year limited warranty, we are unable to offer refunds for shipped keyboards. In particular, because we don’t sell refurbished keyboards, we aren’t able to accept returns on used keyboards just because the purchaser doesn’t like it.
For components, we offer refund or replacement (at our option) on any defective components only.
What is the warranty?
Limited one-year parts and labor warranty
If you have purchased a new Atreus from Keyboardio or an authorized distributor, your keyboard is covered by a limited one-year parts and labor warranty from the date of purchase.
Opening your keyboard does not void your warranty
The Atreus is designed to be easy to dissasemble. Be careful when doing this, as there are sensitive electronics inside and damage to the electronics due to you poking at them will void your warranty. The mere act of unscrewing the parts of your Atreus, however, does not void your warranty.
Replacing or updating your keyboard’s firmware does not void your warranty
The Atreus’s firmware is open source. You are free to modify it and, if you wish, to share your changes. It’s also possible to replace our firmware entirely. We’ve done a bunch of work to make sure that you can’t “brick” (destroy) your keyboard just by flashing alternate firmware. If you think that you might have bricked your keyboard, please drop us a line and we can walk you through recovery procedures.
That said, it is possible for custom firmware to do things that will destroy your keyboard. If misbehaving custom firmware destroys your keyboard, that voids your warranty.
Accidental or intentional damage will void your warranty
This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship, but does not cover accidents, abuse or normal wear and tear.
Contact us about repairs
If your keyboard stops working, please contact us at support@keyboard.io and we’ll work with you to figure out the best way to get you back up to speed.
If we determine that your keyboard was damaged due to to an accident or abuse or that it is otherwise out of warranty, we may, at our option, choose to repair your keyboard, or offer you replacement parts or a replacement keyboard at a discount.
My question isn’t answered here.
Please email us at help@keyboard.io, so we can help you out.