WELDER Keyboard - Everything You Need to Know
BIKMAN TECHIn the ever-evolving landscape of portable technology, we rarely see a device that genuinely challenges the status quo of mobile productivity. The WELDER Keyboard is one such disruption—a device that attempts to bridge the gap between the tactile satisfaction of a desktop mechanical keyboard and the multitasking utility of a secondary monitor. For the digital nomad, the coder on the go, or the mobile content creator, the dream of a "Cyberdeck" that fits in a backpack is finally becoming a reality. At BIKMAN TECH, we have analyzed this ambitious piece of hardware to see if it truly delivers on its promise to transform your laptop into a dual-screen powerhouse.
1. Product Overview
The WELDER Keyboard is not just a peripheral; it is a hybrid workspace solution. It combines a 75% compact mechanical keyboard with a built-in 12.8-inch touchscreen display bar. Unlike standard portable keyboards that sacrifice typing quality for thinness, the Welder prioritizes functionality and build quality, targeting "prosumers" who refuse to compromise on their input experience while traveling. It represents a shift towards maximalist portability—bringing the desktop experience to the coffee shop.
2. Design and Build Quality
When we examine the construction of the Welder, it immediately distinguishes itself from the plastic peripherals flooding the market. The chassis is crafted from CNC-machined aluminum, providing a dense, premium feel that significantly dampens typing sounds. This metal construction is necessary not just for aesthetics, but for structural rigidity; it protects the internal components and the glass screen from torsion.
The centerpiece of the design is the 180-degree folding mechanism. When closed, the device protects both the keys and the screen, folding into a compact "book" form. We found that the hinge mechanism is engineered to lock firmly when extended, creating a stable typing platform that resists flex, even under heavy keystrokes. However, at approximately 1 kg (2.2 lbs), this is a substantial piece of kit, weighing as much as some ultrabooks.
3. The Integrated Display
The standout feature is undoubtedly the 12.8-inch IPS touchscreen positioned directly above the number row. With a resolution of 1920 x 720 pixels, this "strip" display offers a unique aspect ratio perfect for specific workflows. It features 10-point capacitive touch, allowing for intuitive interaction with windows and widgets without needing a mouse.
While the 300-nit brightness is adequate for indoor use, professionals should note that the color coverage sits around 80% NTSC. This makes it excellent for coding terminals, stock tickers, or communication apps like Slack and Discord, but perhaps less ideal for critical color grading work. The placement ensures that secondary information remains in your peripheral vision, reducing the need for constant head-turning associated with side-mounted portable monitors.
4. Typing Experience and Performance
For mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, the Welder does not disappoint. It features a hot-swappable PCB, meaning you can easily replace the switches without soldering. This level of customization allows users to tailor the typing feel—whether linear, tactile, or clicky—to their exact preference. The stock configuration typically supports standard 3-pin and 5-pin MX-style switches.
The keycaps are made from durable PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate) with dye-sublimation printing. Unlike cheaper ABS plastics, these keycaps resist the "shine" from finger oils over time and offer a textured, grippy surface. The 84-key layout retains crucial function keys and arrow keys, compressing a Tenkeyless design into a portable footprint.
5. Connectivity and Power
The Welder utilizes a "one cable" philosophy via USB-C DisplayPort Alt Mode. A single cable connects the keyboard to your laptop, carrying video, data, and power simultaneously. It also supports 65W Power Delivery (PD) pass-through, allowing you to charge your laptop through the keyboard while using it.
However, power management is critical. Driving a screen and a mechanical keyboard requires significant energy. We advise users that if their host laptop's USB port is underpowered, the Welder may require an external power source connected to its auxiliary PD port to ensure the screen operates without flickering. While there are mentions of an internal battery (ranging from 8,000mAh to 10,000mAh in various reports), the device is best utilized as a wired tethered peripheral for maximum performance.
6. Real-World Utility and Workflow
In practical terms, the Welder excels in horizontal workflows. For software engineers, the screen is the perfect home for a debug console or Git log. For video editors, it serves as a dedicated timeline or mixer panel. By moving these toolbars off your main screen, you effectively declutter your primary workspace.
The folding design solves the primary issue of previous "cyberdecks" like the Kwumsy K2, which were rigid and difficult to transport. The Welder fits easily into a messenger bag, making it a viable option for hybrid work setups where desk space is at a premium.
7. Compatibility
The device is plug-and-play with Windows 10 and 11, where it is recognized as a standard secondary monitor and USB composite device. Android power users with Samsung devices can leverage DeX mode to turn their phone and the Welder into a complete desktop replacement.
Mac users should be aware of some limitations. While the keyboard and display will function, macOS does not natively support touch input for external displays, which may limit the touchscreen to basic mouse emulation unless third-party drivers are used.
8. Technical Specifications
- Display: 12.8-inch IPS Touchscreen (1920 x 720 resolution)
- Chassis Material: CNC Machined Aluminum
- Weight: Approx. 1.0 kg (2.2 lbs)
- Switch Type: Mechanical, Hot-Swappable (Compatible with 3/5 pin)
- Keycaps: PBT Dye-Sublimation
- Connectivity: USB-C (Video/Data/Power), USB-A Hub
- Hinge: 180-degree locking mechanism
- OS Support: Windows, Android (DeX), macOS (limited touch)
9. Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Premium CNC aluminum build quality ensures durability.
- Innovative folding design makes a dual-screen setup portable.
- Hot-swappable mechanical switches offer a superior typing feel.
- Integrated touchscreen boosts productivity for specific horizontal workflows.
Cons:
- Significantly heavier than standard travel keyboards.
- Hinge mechanism and ribbon cables introduce potential long-term durability risks.
- Requires a host device with full USB-C video output support.
- Mac touch support is limited without extra software.
Conclusion
The WELDER Keyboard is a bold step forward in the convergence of input and display technology. It isn't for everyone; if you just need to type a few emails, a lightweight Bluetooth keyboard is sufficient. But for the power user, the developer, or the creative professional who feels constrained by a single laptop screen, the Welder offers a unique and compelling solution. It brings the tactile joy of mechanical switches and the efficiency of a secondary monitor into a package you can actually carry with you.
At BIKMAN TECH, we see this as a specialized tool for a specialized workflow—one that values productivity and build quality above all else. If you're ready to upgrade your mobile command center, the Welder is worth your attention.
Have questions about setting up a mobile workstation? Drop a comment below and let us know!
