Severance-inspired keyboard could cost up to $699 – have your say [Video]

Apple might not really be able to sell you a Lumon terminal, but we noted earlier this month that you will be able to buy a Severance-inspired keyboard. The good news is that you now have a chance to have your say on the specs for the device (as well as see video demos) – the bad news is that it will cost up to $699 …

Apple played into the popularity of its Apple TV+ show with a tongue-in-cheek listing of a Lumon Terminal Pro on its website, but when Atomic Keyboard announced a Severance-inspired MDR Dasher Keyboard, it was no joke.

The keyboard has become a symbol of the show’s distinctive aesthetic and themes […] Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts appreciate the vintage-inspired design, unique keycap profiles, and the tactile, satisfying typing experience suggested by the show. The keyboard embodies both retro computing nostalgia and the show’s unique dystopian aesthetic. “Please try to enjoy each keystroke equally.”

Part of the theme was no Escape key, which is fun as a nod to the show, but perhaps not such a great move in real life – and that’s one of the things the company is now re-thinking. It’s seeking your input on this and other decisions it needs to make before moving into production. The survey takes a couple of minutes to complete.

Atomic offers three layout options:

1. The Severance Layout:
   This stays true to the retro aesthetic while giving you flexibility. You can remap the layout anytime (using QMK), and we’ll include Escape and Control keycaps. This way, you can still access essential keys like Esc and Control. This layout keeps the mysterious, “missing ESC” aesthetic intact — ideal for die-hard fans.
2. Standard Layout:
   A full 60% layout that includes the missing fifth row, Escape key, Control key, and all the essentials you’re used to. Ideal for those who want a seamless typing experience right out of the box.
   Adding ESC is practical, but changes the look slightly from the show prop. Still, we get that muscle memory matters.
3. Standard Layout (with HHKB style bottom row):
   A Standard Layout with HHKB style bottom row.

The pricing, however, does seem to be taking the joke a little too far. Macworld notes that the form reveals pricing of $399 to $699 – with a warning that tariffs might push things even higher!

But if that hasn’t put you off, you can check out a couple of videos below. Or you could look at mechanical keyboard options with less eye-watering prices …

Highlighted accessories

Screengrab: Atomic