Outemu Stenotoppers

⊕ The stem of an Outemu Blue switch.

I first started learning stenotype on an N-key rollover keyboard, but I wanted keycaps that would be optimal for steno. I came across Stenotoppers; 3D printed keycaps for regular keyboards with row stagger. Unfortunately, these are only designed for cherry stems, so it wasn't as easy as printing the files as is..

The keyboard in question was a very inexpensive Aukey mechanical keyboard that I bought second hand for $30. It uses Outemu Blue switches, and I ended up redesigning the stem of the Stenotopper keycaps in Rhinoceros to fit the switch.

It took a while to get the fit right, but the end result is really nice. I'm using a Georgi full-time now, but for a beginner, this approach to learning steno is great. In fact, I was able to reach bursts of 150 words per minute on this DIY steno machine. Not bad for $30 hardware!

⊕ The keyboard with the Stenotoppers.

That said, this hardware solution isn't great for faster stroke speeds. At my current speed, I can only practice on this for about 5 minutes before I have to take a break. For a beginner who strokes words a lot slower, though, that's not a problem. The heavy springs also make it really forgiving for a beginner who might learning proper finger placement. It's only until about 100 words per minute that this hardware begins to hinder your ability.

These modified Outemu stenotoppers can be downloaded here.