In a nutshell: Serene Industries has introduced a keyboard that stands out from anything else on the market. The Icebreaker is a brutalist-style mechanical keyboard that is precision-crafted from a single solid block of aluminum using CNC machining. Its distinct wedge-shaped design is both functional and undeniably striking.
The Icebreaker's design draws inspiration from New York's iconic Flatiron Building, according to Serene founder Denis Agarkov, who shared insights with Null Society. When unveiling the Icebreaker concept earlier this year, Agarkov explained that the goal was "to create a keyboard that goes against the prevailing trends, adopting a more distinctive and challenging design."
Based on the images, it's clear they've succeeded in achieving that vision.
The keycaps are machined from the same aluminum material as the shell, each featuring around 800 micro-perforations to allow RGB backlighting to shine through, making it ideal for night typing. While the specifications don't list the weight, the keyboard measures 450 x 44 x 24 mm.
It's not just about aesthetics – the Icebreaker also packs impressive functionality. For instance, it includes an integrated EC11 rotary encoder, which can be custom-bound for tasks like volume control or video editing. Additionally, silicone dampeners are embedded in the base to minimize noise and vibration, enhancing the typing experience. The keycaps boast a hot-swappable design, making it easy to customize the layout to your liking.
On the connectivity front, the Icebreaker is available in both wired and Bluetooth wireless versions. The wireless model is powered by a substantial 4,000mAh battery, which Serene claims can last up to three months on a single charge.
Now, let's address the elephant in the room – the price. The Icebreaker starts at an eye-watering $1,500 for the basic wired model. Opting for the Bluetooth-enabled version will set you back an additional $1,600. And if you're eyeing the black color option, be prepared to shell out an extra $500 on top of that.
It's clear this is a niche product aimed squarely at enthusiasts seeking the ultimate keyboard flex.
Pre-orders are now open, with production scheduled to begin on January 28. However, there's no word yet on how long it will take to ship the product after production starts.
This $1,600 keyboard is made entirely of aluminum, keycaps included
