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Compare Tex Shinobi vs Shura Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for users who want a mechanical keyboard with a built-in TrackPoint, a feature popularized by ThinkPad laptops. Both the Tex Shinobi and Tex Shura are DIY kits requiring assembly and share core features like hot-swappable PCBs and a TrackPoint. The decision is difficult because they cater to different priorities: the Shinobi offers a non-standard layout with more keys, while the Shura provides a compact 65% design.

Tex Shinobi Hotswap DIY Keyboard Kit
Tex Shura 65% Hotswap DIY Keyboard Kit

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  • Available in a Unknown layout
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Supports , Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Made with a ABS case
  • Available in a 65% layout
  • Made with a Plastic, ABS case
Scores
  • Performance: 55
  • Build Quality: 51.8
  • Productivity: 59.9
  • Customizability: 57.6
  • Portability: 45.9
Scores
  • Performance: 49.6
  • Build Quality: 57.8
  • Productivity: 45
  • Customizability: 61
  • Portability: 69.1
Name
Tex Shinobi
Name
Tex Shura
Release year
2023
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
Unknown
Layout Size
65%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
Display Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
Connection
, Wired, Wired only
Connection
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
-
Battery capacity
-
Hall Effect Support
 
Hall Effect Support
 
QMK Support
 
QMK Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIAL Support
 
VIAL Support
 
N-Key Rollover
 
N-Key Rollover
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Mount Style
Plate Mount
Mount Style
Plate Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Backlight
 
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS
Case Material
Plastic, ABS
Keycaps Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
ABS
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
-
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Select the Tex Shinobi if you value dedicated media controls and a larger, non-standard layout for office or creative work. Opt for the Tex Shura if a smaller, portable 65% form factor is your priority, and you are willing to forgo dedicated media keys. Both are excellent DIY platforms for building a unique TrackPoint-equipped mechanical keyboard.

Tex Shinobi

  • +Includes dedicated multimedia keys for media playback control.
  • +Comes with a TrackPoint module, keycaps, stabilizers, and O-rings.
  • +Features a hot-swappable PCB for easy switch customization.
  • +Vendor listing confirms full N-key rollover for gaming and fast typing.
  • +Offers a separate BLE upgrade kit for wireless functionality.
  • −Has a non-standard layout size, which may complicate finding replacement keycap sets.
  • −Is a wired-only keyboard unless the optional BLE kit is purchased separately.
  • −Requires assembly as a DIY kit and does not include switches.

Tex Shura

  • +Has a standard 65% compact form factor, saving desk space.
  • +Retains arrow keys in its compact layout, according to the vendor.
  • +Includes a TrackPoint, keycaps, stabilizers, and O-rings in the kit.
  • +Features a hot-swappable PCB and is programmable.
  • +Listed as a barebones kit, offering a clean starting point for builders.
  • −Lacks dedicated multimedia keys mentioned for the Shinobi.
  • −Requires assembly as a DIY kit and does not include switches.
  • −Case is listed as plastic, whereas the Shinobi's case is listed as ABS.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Shinobi is the more versatile choice for office work, gaming, and content creation due to its inclusion of multimedia keys and a larger layout. The Shura is the clear winner for portability with its defined 65% size. For programming and modding, both keyboards are equally capable, sharing hot-swap sockets, programmability, and a TrackPoint. Your primary need for desk space versus dedicated media controls will dictate the best choice.

GamingTex Shinobi
  • •The Shinobi's listing includes multimedia keys, which can be useful for in-game controls.
  • •Its non-standard layout may provide more dedicated key options for macros.
  • •The vendor description notes it has full N-key rollover for simultaneous key presses.
OfficeTex Shinobi
  • •The Shinobi includes dedicated multimedia keys for controlling volume and media playback.
  • •Its larger, non-standard layout may include dedicated navigation keys for spreadsheet work.
  • •The integrated TrackPoint can reduce the need for a separate mouse on a cluttered desk.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both keyboards are programmable, according to their vendor descriptions.
  • •Both feature a TrackPoint, which can be efficient for cursor movement without leaving the home row.
  • •Both are DIY kits, allowing programmers to choose their preferred switches for long typing sessions.
TravelTex Shura
  • •The Shura is explicitly a 65% form factor, which reduces its footprint.
  • •Its compact size makes it easier to fit in a bag alongside a laptop.
  • •The vendor states the 65% layout retains arrow keys, maintaining core functionality.
ModdingTie
  • •Both keyboards are hot-swappable DIY kits, allowing easy switch changes.
  • •Both kits include keycaps, stabilizers, a keycap puller, and O-rings.
  • •Neither kit includes switches, providing a blank canvas for customization.
Content CreationTex Shinobi
  • •The Shinobi's multimedia keys offer direct control for video editing timelines and audio levels.
  • •Its potentially larger layout could accommodate more dedicated shortcut keys.
  • •The TrackPoint allows for precise cursor control during detailed photo or video editing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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