Bias R2 Mechanical Keyboard: A Deep Dive into Baionlenja's Masterpiece

Years in the making and refined through 7 unique prototype stages, the Bias R2 keyboard is finally ready for the spotlight. Created by Baionlenja, this mechanical keyboard represents a culmination of passion, innovation, and community feedback.

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Pre-order Information:

Price: 620 USD (VAT included for EU buyers)
Raffle Date: November 16th, 2021
Availability: 100 units
Shipping: From Finland, Q3 2022 or earlier
Limited Edition: Bias R2 will be retired after this group buy

Meet the Creator: Baionlenja

Behind the Bias R2 is Magnus, also known as Baionlenja, a passionate keyboard enthusiast from Finland. Keyboard creation isn’t just a hobby for Baionlenja; it’s a deeply engaging process that spans from initial design to logistical planning. With a history of private keyboard group buys, Bias R2 marks his venture into a wider audience.

Previous Projects by Baionlenja:

The Origin Story of Bias: Overcoming Challenges and Finding Community

In a refreshingly honest and relatable narrative, Baionlenja shares the personal journey behind the Bias R2. Moving away from typical corporate-style announcements, he opens up about his struggles with PTSD and insecurity, which initially hindered him from sharing his work. Keyboard design became a solitary pursuit, a space for learning and improvement away from the fear of judgment.

“I rarely show off any designs until they’re absolutely finished and perfect. It’s why I haven’t posted any IC’s or promoted my boards much outside my Instagram. And to me, my designs are never finished or worth showing. I do not feel I am worthy.”

A turning point arrived when Baionlenja connected with Discord community members and offered to design a custom TKL keyboard. This collaboration led to the creation of a dedicated Bias Discord Server, fostering a supportive environment that boosted his confidence and self-worth. The positive reception within these communities, particularly on the bias discord server, encouraged him to seek professional help and further refine his designs.

This journey of self-improvement is directly reflected in the Bias R2. It’s not just an “overpriced rectangle,” but a symbol of personal growth and the power of community support, especially the encouragement found within the bias discord server.

Baionlenja emphasizes the importance of mental health, urging readers to seek help if needed and to break the stigma around vulnerability.

Introducing Bias R2: Refinement and Evolution

Building upon the original invite-only Bias group buy in 2020, the Bias R2 is not a mere re-release. Driven by requests and a desire to surpass the original, Baionlenja embarked on extensive improvements, dedicating countless hours to prototyping, testing, and sourcing. The result is a keyboard meticulously crafted with passion evident in every detail.

Bias R2 keyboard in silver color showcasing the overall design and layout

Key Features of the Bias R2 Mechanical Keyboard:

Fixed WKL TKL Layout: A winkeyless tenkeyless layout for a classic, streamlined aesthetic.
17.5mm Front Height: Low front height for comfortable ergonomics.
7 Degree Typing Angle: Optimized angle for extended typing sessions.
“Seamless” HHKB Sides: Homage to the iconic HHKB side profile.
Flush M3 Hex Screws: Clean and modern screw integration.
Robust Bezel Design: Classic bezels without compromising structural integrity.
Grabbable Sides: Ergonomic design for easy handling.
Recessed & Angled USB-C Port: Convenient and durable connectivity.
Bumpon Cutouts: Prepared for bumpon feet for stability.
Enhanced Features & Materials: Significant upgrades compared to Bias R1 at a modest $40 price increase.

Close-up render of the Bias R2 keyboard highlighting the seamless HHKB sides and flush screws

Evolved Grommet Mount System:

The Bias R2 introduces an evolved grommet mount, blending the desirable traits of gasket mounts with improved ease of use. Inspired by earlier projects like the WB keyboard, these custom injection-molded silicone grommets simplify plate assembly, offering plate isolation and a softer typing experience without the complexities of foam stickers. The grommets are easily removable and come in two different softnesses for customization.

Exploded view of the Bias R2 keyboard showcasing the grommet mount system and internal components

Leaf Spring Cuts on Aluminum Plate:

Further enhancing the typing feel, the Bias R2 incorporates leaf spring cuts on the aluminum plate. Building on experiments from Bias 1.5, 2.0, Ophanim, and WB, these milder leaf cuts, combined with the grommet mount, deliver an excellent typing experience. (Note: Polycarbonate plate option does not include leaf springs due to inherent flexibility).

Close-up of the aluminum plate showing the leaf spring cuts designed to enhance flex and typing feel

BAION WAVE™ (Patent Pending) Case Floor Design:

A unique internal feature, the BAION WAVE™ case floor, allows for increased PCB flex without switch pin interference. This distinctive design element showcases Baionlenja’s attention to detail and innovative approach to keyboard acoustics and feel.

Internal view of the Bias R2 case highlighting the BAION WAVE case floor design

Optional PCB Film for Sound Customization:

The Bias R2 offers an optional PCB film, a glossy film with a thin Poron layer that sits between the PCB and switches. This feature provides an additional layer of sound customization without altering the typing feel. It creates a firmer switch-to-PCB connection, influencing the sound profile. Baionlenja recommends experimenting with and without the film to find your preferred sound, noting personal preference for Gateron switches with the film and Cherry switches without.

Render of the PCB film and its placement on the PCB under the switches

Color Options:

The Bias R2 is available in two distinct colors:

Radiant sunshine battery acid eggplant atrocity BlackEmerald
Sugarplum starshine cerebrospinal fluid Silver

Explore More Renders
View Prototype Photos

Color swatches displaying the two available colors for the Bias R2: BlackEmerald and Silver

Designer-Focused Features & Community Feedback:

Baionlenja incorporated numerous design choices to address common frustrations and enhance the builder experience:

Widened JST Cable Channel: Simplifies the build process.
Thick & Flush Screws: Durable and aesthetically clean screw design.
Robust Internal Geometry: Enhanced case durability.
Glue-Free Mounting System: Easy assembly and disassembly.
Standard Grommet Compatibility: Replaceable with readily available grommets.
Self-Aligning Case & Plate: Streamlined assembly.
Optimized Screw & Mounting Point Placement: Minimized bezel size.
Longevity-Focused PCB Design: Includes spare diodes for increased lifespan.
Liftable Case Design: Improved ergonomics for handling.

These features are a testament to Baionlenja’s personal experiences and valuable feedback gathered from the mechanical keyboard community, particularly within platforms like the bias discord server.

Layout diagram of the Bias R2 keyboard showcasing winkeyless TKL and ANSI/ISO options

Layout Options:

Winkeyless Only
Fixed ANSI with optional stepped Caps Lock
Optional fixed ISO plate with optional stepped Caps Lock
Plate files for additional layouts to be released pre-shipment.

Typing Test: (Link to be inserted here)

Pre-Order & Group Buy Details:

Group Buy Format: Raffle
Group Buy Date: November 16th, 2021
Raffle Window: 48 hours
Units Available: 100
Shipping From: Finland
Join the Bias Discord Server for raffle form, updates, and future project announcements.
Estimated Shipping: Q3 2022 or earlier
Extra Units: May be available post-shipment.

Base Kit Includes:

Bias Keyboard
Stainless Steel Multicolor Weight
Custom PCB by Yiancar (h87 compatible)
Aluminum Plate
Two Sets of Custom Grommets (different softnesses)
2 x Custom Molded Poron PCB Film
Carrying Case with Custom Molded Interior
Hardware & Stickers
2-Year Warranty

Pricing:

Bias Kit: 620 USD (EU price includes VAT)
Shipping: International 45 USD, Europe 35 Euro

Extra Parts Available:

Extra PCB with Daughterboard: 60 USD
Extra Aluminum Plate: 50 USD
Polycarbonate Plate: 60 USD

Warranty & Support:

Baionlenja is committed to customer satisfaction, offering a 2-year warranty and stocking replacement parts, including PCBs, grommets, and PCB films.

Limited Run: Bias R2 Retirement

This group buy marks the final chapter for the Bias R2. Baionlenja will be retiring the design after this run, making it a truly limited and collectible piece. Don’t miss your chance to own this exceptional keyboard.

Fill out the Interest Check Form to stay informed!

(Edits: Added more IRL pictures of the board insides, EU pricing clarification, updated shipping prices.)