Ghost in the Shell keyboard: a stunning blend of anime art and competitive gaming tech
Iqunix has released two Ghost in the Shell-themed mechanical keyboards based on the EV63, featuring 8K polling, Hall effect switches, and designs inspired by the 1995 film, at a premium price of $249.
Iqunix's new Ghost in the Shell Edition keyboards are a collaboration that brings the iconic 1995 anime film to life in a gaming peripheral. They are based on the standard Iqunix EV63, a 65% Hall effect keyboard aimed at gamers. The boards offer an 8,000Hz polling rate and rapid trigger keys, popularized by Wooting, for a competitive edge. They are wired only, as current high-speed Hall effect boards typically require a wired connection.
Two designs are available: Shell Core and Cyber Blue. Both feature aluminum cases with bright RGB lighting and frosted keycaps on the escape, space bar, left shift, enter, and arrow keys. The aesthetics draw heavily from Mamoru Oshii's 1995 film, with close-ups of characters' faces on several modifier keys. The Cyber Blue model includes a subtle outline of Motoko Kusanagi's nude profile from the theatrical poster on its keycaps and bottom case, though it's less revealing than the source material.
The keyboards weigh 2.7 pounds (1.2 kg) and use KeyTok Nova linear magnetic switches, which are light and crisp. The typing feel is satisfying for a Hall effect board, with a sharp bottom-out and a pleasant clack sound. Compared to the Dry Studio Ice Ring 63 RT, the GITS EV63 sounds significantly better, though it doesn't achieve the deep, thocky sound of some non-HE mechanical keyboards.
At $249, the Ghost in the Shell Edition commands a $80 premium over the standard EV63 ($169). However, the unique licensed designs and excellent build quality make it a worthwhile investment for fans and enthusiasts. While niche, these keyboards demonstrate that anime collaborations can produce high-quality, functional gear that looks and performs exceptionally well.
