What makes the HP Extras Class 1800 Southpaw unique compared to standard keyboards?

The HP Extras Class 1800 Southpaw stands out with its left-handed (Southpaw) numpad layout, making it ideal for users who prefer or require the numpad on the left side. This design improves ergonomics for left-handed typists and can enhance workflow efficiency for specific tasks.

Does the keyboard support different mounting styles?

Yes, it features both top mount and silicone bottom with gasket mounting options. This flexibility allows users to tailor the typing feel—whether you prefer a firmer or more cushioned experience, the Class 1800 Southpaw can accommodate your preference. It also supports plateless builds for an even softer typing sensation.

What is the keyboard made of?

The case of the Class 1800 Southpaw is crafted from high-quality 6063 aluminum, offering both durability and a premium feel. Inside, it includes a brass weight treated with an antioxidant finish to maintain its appearance and heft over time.

Is the PCB compatible with custom firmware?

Absolutely. The keyboard features a QMK- and VIAL-compatible PCB, which means you can fully customize keymaps, macros, and layers through open-source firmware. This makes it an excellent choice for enthusiasts who want to tweak every aspect of their keyboard.

How heavy is the Class 1800 Southpaw keyboard?

Unbuilt, the keyboard weighs approximately 3.5kg, and when fully assembled, it reaches around 4.2kg. This substantial weight not only gives the keyboard a solid, premium feel but also ensures stability on your desk during intense typing sessions.

Can I use the keyboard for both work and gaming?

Definitely! With its robust construction, customizable firmware, and ergonomic layout, the Class 1800 Southpaw is suitable for both professional work environments and gaming setups—especially for users who appreciate a left-side numpad.

What layout options are available for this keyboard?

The Class 1800 Southpaw comes in several layout variants, including WK (standard with Windows keys), HHKB (Happy Hacking Keyboard-inspired), and WKL (without Windows keys). This allows you to choose a layout that best fits your typing style and preferences.

Is the plate or PCB customizable after purchase?

The keyboard comes with fixed PCB and plate options. While you can customize keycaps and switches, the PCB and plate are specific to this model and are not designed for swapping with other types.

Is the Southpaw layout difficult to adapt to if I’m used to a standard keyboard?

While there may be a short adjustment period, many users find that switching to a Southpaw layout quickly becomes intuitive, especially for left-handed users or those who frequently use the numpad. The ergonomic benefits can be significant for those who take the time to adapt.

What kind of typing angle does this keyboard offer?

The Class 1800 Southpaw features a 7° typing angle, which is designed to promote a more natural wrist position and reduce strain during extended typing sessions.

HP Class 1800 Southpaw Starting at $349.99

Vendor	Location	Coupon Code	In Stock	Price (USD)	Link*
HP Class 1800 Southpaw
	Global	-	Check vendor	Check vendor	Visit shop
[Extras] Class 1800 Southpaw Keyboard Kit
	Based in US	-		$350 Out of stock	Visit Shop

Vendor

Location

Coupon Code

In Stock

Price (USD)

Link*

HP Class 1800 Southpaw

Global

Check vendor

Visit shop

[Extras] Class 1800 Southpaw Keyboard Kit

Based in US

$350

Out of stock

Visit Shop

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Compare HP Class 1800 Southpaw vs Royalaxe XL98 vs LUMINKEY Luminkey98 V2 Specification

Compare similar keyboards side by side, or use the comparison table to compare all keyboards!

Model	HP Class 1800 Southpaw	Royalaxe XL98	LUMINKEY Luminkey98 V2
	61	68	72
Rating	0.0 stars (0 reviews)	0.0 stars (0 reviews)	0.0 stars (0 reviews)
Purchase Options
Main differences	Released in 2025 Supports QMK firmware Uses a Top Mount mounting style Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity Weighs about 4200 g Offers No RGB lighting	Released in 2023 Has Linear switch options Offers Normal ergonomics Comes with a knob Includes a Yes display Equipped with a 8000 mAh battery Weighs about 1800 g Sized at 67 x 220 x 543 mm Made with a Aluminum, Plastic case Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting	Released in 2026 Provides dedicated media keys Has built-in sound dampening Runs at a 8000 Hz polling rate Equipped with a 6000 mAh battery Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
Score	Scores Performance: 48.3 Build Quality: 66.6 Productivity: 48.9 Customizability: 60 Portability: 40.4	Scores Performance: 56.5 Build Quality: 58.1 Productivity: 76.5 Customizability: 72.8 Portability: 66	Scores Performance: 82.5 Build Quality: 63.3 Productivity: 79.9 Customizability: 67.8 Portability: 66.1
Name	Name HP Class 1800 Southpaw	Name Royalaxe XL98	Name LUMINKEY Luminkey98 V2
Release year	Release year 2025	Release year 2023	Release year 2026
Switch Options	Switch Options -	Switch Options Linear	Switch Options -
Profile	Profile Normal Profile	Profile Normal Profile	Profile Normal Profile
Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable
Layout Size	Layout Size Unknown	Layout Size 98%	Layout Size 98%
Layout Standard	Layout Standard ANSI	Layout Standard ANSI	Layout Standard ANSI
Layout Ergonomics	Layout Ergonomics Southpaw	Layout Ergonomics Normal	Layout Ergonomics Southpaw
Knob Support	Knob Support	Knob Support	Knob Support
Display Support	Display Support	Display Support	Display Support
Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support
Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys
USB-C	USB-C	USB-C	USB-C
USB passthrough	USB passthrough	USB passthrough	USB passthrough
Connection	Connection Wired, Wired only	Connection Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless	Connection Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate	Polling Rate -	Polling Rate -	Polling Rate 8000 Hz
Battery capacity	Battery capacity -	Battery capacity 8000 mAh	Battery capacity 6000 mAh
Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support
QMK Support	QMK Support	QMK Support	QMK Support
VIA Support	VIA Support	VIA Support	VIA Support
VIAL Support	VIAL Support	VIAL Support	VIAL Support
N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover
Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger
Mount Style	Mount Style Top Mount	Mount Style Gasket Mount	Mount Style Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers
Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening
Backlight	Backlight	Backlight Rgb	Backlight Rgb, South-face
Case Colors	Case Colors	Case Colors	Case Colors
Case Material	Case Material Aluminum	Case Material Aluminum, Plastic	Case Material Aluminum
Keycaps Material	Keycaps Material -	Keycaps Material PBT	Keycaps Material PBT
Dimensions	Dimensions -	Dimensions 67 x 220 x 543 mm	Dimensions -
Weight	Weight 4200g	Weight 1800g	Weight -

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Product Description

The HP Extras Class 1800 Southpaw is a high-mass, customizable mechanical keyboard kit designed for users who prefer a left-handed layout. It suits hobbyists and enthusiasts who want to build and program their own keyboard with flexible mounting options and advanced firmware support. This board is appropriate for those who value a solid typing platform and extensive customization but are comfortable assembling a keyboard from parts.

Key Features

Southpaw layout optimized for left-handed users, offering a unique key arrangement not commonly found in standard keyboards.
QMK-VIAL firmware support allows deep customization of keymapping and macros, enabling tailored workflows.
Supports both top mount and silicone bottom with gasket mounting, giving users control over typing feel and sound by adjusting keyboard flex and damping.
Plateless design support provides additional typing feel customization by removing the plate that holds switches in place.

Build Quality

Constructed with a 6063 aluminum case, providing a sturdy and durable frame.
Includes a brass inner weight treated with an antioxidant to add heft and reduce vibrations, contributing to a stable typing experience.
Heavy overall weight (~4.2 kg built) ensures the keyboard stays firmly in place during use.
Prototype PCB may have functional variations compared to final group buy units, which could affect reliability or feature completeness.

Typing Experience

Mounting options and plateless support allow users to fine-tune acoustics and keypress feel, useful for those who want a specific typing sound or feedback.
Weight and materials contribute to a solid, less flexible typing surface, which some users may prefer for stability.
Unknown switch compatibility and sound profile details, as these depend on user-installed switches and keycaps.

Trade-offs

Southpaw layout limits compatibility with standard keycap sets and may require custom keycaps or modifications.
Prototype PCB status means some functions might vary or be incomplete, which could affect user experience.
Heavy weight and aluminum construction reduce portability, making it less suited for mobile use.
No wireless connectivity; this is a wired keyboard only.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)