Tag ergonomic

Monsgeek is a sub-brand of Akko that focuses on high quality for a low price. Monsgeek’s first keyboard was the M1, a 75% aluminum model. Now there is the M1W SP where the W stands for Wireless. I will share with you my experience, the similarities and the differences between these two Monsgeek keyboards.

Complete package

Unlike the regular M1, the M1W SP comes as a complete keyboard. The keyboard comes assembled with switches, keycaps and stabilizers. Of course you can replace or adjust these parts yourself if desired. This has been made as easy as possible. For example, 5-pin sockets are used and the keyboard is easy to open with the supplied Allen key.

Specifications

Structure:
Gasket Mount

Connection:
Bluetooth5.0 / 2.4GHz / USB Type-C

Backlight:
South-facing RGB

Hot Swappable:
3-Pin / 5-Pin Support

N-Key Rollover:
Support

Battery Capacity:
6000mAh

Polling Rate:
1000Hz In wired and 2.4G mode, 125Hz in Bluetooth mode.

Macro:
MonsGeek Cloud Driver

Stabilizer:
1. Pre-installed Purple Plate Mount Stabilizer

2. Separate TPU Double-shot Stabilizers

Switches:
Akko V3 Piano Pro

Materials:
PBT Keycaps + Aluminum Case

Legends Printing:
Double-shot Side-printed Gradient Shine-through

Keycap Profile:
OEM

Product Weight:
Approx. 2.2kg

Dimensions:
33.3cm*14.6cm*3.26cm

Operating Systems:
Windows / macOS / iOS / Android

Package List:
Keyboard×1, Manual×1, Coiled Cable×1, Keycap Puller×1, Switch Puller×1, Teflon Pads (not pre-installed), Separate TPU Double-shot Stabilizers

Small changes from M1 to M1W SP

Compared to the regular M1, a number of improvements have been made. For example, the rotatable encoder has been slightly improved. It has an improved interior so that it gives even less friction and has become slightly higher. In addition, the poron case foam has become more elastic and the optional teflon stickers have recesses for the screw holes. These teflon stickers are intended for a so-called Force-break mod. As a result, there is less metal-to-metal contact, resulting in less ping. Furthermore, a dip switch has been added next to the caps lock switch. This allows you to choose Mac, Windows or wireless. Furthermore, unlike the regular M1, there are no screw-in stabilizers provided. However, plate mounted stabilizers (pre-lubed) are pre-installed and there is an extra set made with a different material to experiment with. The device still supports screw-in stabilizers however,

Opening the Monster like a Geek

Although the keyboard is basically ready for use, I still wanted to take a look at the inside of the M1W SP and immediately apply a force-break mod. The keyboard can be easily opened by means of 6 screws, which can be removed using the supplied Allen key. However, it is important to be careful when removing the mainboard because there are two cables attached to it that need to be unplugged.

The mainboard is very similar to that of the Monsgeek M1. Here too I notice that there seems to be room for RGB LEDs on the sides. I wonder if they want to release a variant with LEDs on the sides in the future. The sockets again come from Kailh.

Some small mods

I did a little bit of modding myself. For example, I used the supplied teflon stickers around the screw holes of the frame to eliminate the slight ping. I also placed the supplied tape mod on the back of the mainboard. I left out the bottom foam layer and put a layer of cotton wool in the bottom. This gives a slightly different sound.

It’s time for switches B……

The included switches are Akko’s recently released Piano Switches. These are linear switches that operate very smoothly. They have a slightly higher pitch or “clack”. They come well tuned from the factory and I have seen no need to lube them myself. This is also nice with a complete plate. I personally prefer to type with the cream yellows. these feel just a bit more smooth. So many people, so many wishes. Fortunately, there is a lot of choice when it comes to switches.

Ninja Keycaps

The keycaps that come with the M1W SP are of the so-called stealth type. The fonts are on the front instead of on top. Normally they are not visible, but if you turn on the RGB lighting, they come to life thanks to a small cut-out. There is no glow through the switches, which makes the whole look neat. The encoder does not transmit light. This feels sturdy and has a slightly different interior than the regular M1. It should be a bit more stable, although I’ve never had any problems with the regular M1. They are also interchangeable with each other. If you want to use some other keycaps you can take a look at the collection from Akko here.

Wireless connectivity

The big difference with the regular M1 is of course the wireless functionality. The past few days I have used the 2.4ghz connection through the supplied dongle. I experienced no problems and enjoyed the extra space on my desk. I was also curious if there wouldn’t be any problems with the signal between the keyboard and my wireless mouse (Logitech). I had seen a single user write about this online but I did not experience any problem with this. The connection with bluetooth also worked without problems. You connect the device by holding down the FN button in combination with the E R or T key. When it starts flashing you enter pairing mode. the next time you switch to the desired device by short pressing FN together with one of these buttons. The 2.4Ghz is the most stable connection after USB-C. Working with the wireless connection is excellent, just like casual gaming. However, if you want to play competitively in shooters, for example, the USB-C connection is of course recommended if you want the best possible connection.

Software

Unlike the regular M1, the M1W SP version does not come with QMK/VIA support. Instead, a proprietary suite is available called Monsgeek Driver. The interface is simply designed and offers various options to personalize the keyboard. For example, it is possible to move keys, create macros and FN layers and adjust the lighting. It is also possible to import custom profiles from other users. However, the encoder cannot be adjusted in terms of functionality. This controls volume or the intensity of the lighting.

Verdict of the Monsgeek M1W SP

The M1W ISO is an excellent variation on the standard M1. However, in addition to advantages, there are also potential disadvantages. This mainly depends on your own wishes / requirements. The wireless convenience is of course a big plus. The fact that both a 2.4Ghz and 3 different Bluetooth connections are possible is a big plus. In addition, the wired option will of course still be present.
Small quality of life improvements such as the improved Teflon stickers with cutouts for the screw holes, better material for the included optional sound-reducing mat and the improved encoder are welcome. The lack of VIA support can be a drawback for people who tweak their keyboard to their own liking. For many people, however, the included software will be sufficient. I do miss the integration of a key tester in the software.

The model I tested is the ISO version. I could easily get used to this layout. Although we in the Netherlands are mainly used to ANSI, this is not the case in other parts of Europe. Logitech also supplies mainly in the ISO layout in the Benelux, so there are quite a few people who prefer this layout. This kit is ideal for people who want to get started right away. The keyboard comes with good, smooth switches that don’t need work and high-quality keycaps in a stealthy look.

If all this appeals to you but you prefer an ANSI layout, this is also available and you can also choose from two other colors. They can all be viewed on the product page of the M1W series.

For this review I tested the M1W SP version which comes complete with switches and keycaps. For the DIY version you can check this link.

Coupon for first time orders

If this is your first order on Akkogear.eu and there is no current discount on the website you can use coupon HELLOAKKO to get 10% your first order!

This review was first post in Dutch on Tweakers.net link here

Akko send me this product for review, the links in this article may be affiliate links which help me maintain this website.

Why you should invest in a monitor arm.

While a monitor is often an essential part of your (home) office you don’t have to sacrifice half of your deskspace for it. An easy way to tackle this is by getting an adjustable monitor arm. Luckily most monitors these days can be adjusted in height. They still have big clumsy feet though. A monitor arm can give you back your space and clean your desk up. On top of that they can add some ergonomic benefits.

Space

On your desk you probably have a mouse and keyboard, maybe some speakers like the Razer Nommo Chroma. Or maybe a picture of you spouse or cat…. Now look at your monitor…Chances are the monitor stand takes a lot of precious deskspace. With a monitor arm you can take back a lot of that space! Most monitor arms also come with a cable management system which will further help you clean up your desk.

Ergonomics

Sitting behind your desk, especially for prolonged hours can cause some serious issues. While more and more feet that come with monitors offer things like height and swivel adjustments a monitor arm also lets you change the distance between the screen and your eyes. It will also help you adjust for things like conference calls or meetings in front of your webcam. No longer will you need to maneuver yourself in awkward positions. With a monitor arm you can easily adjust you monitor to give you the center stage.

Important things to consider

Height adjustment on a monitor arm

Most monitor arms offer on the fly height adjustments by using a mechanical spring or gas cylinder. A mechanical spring monitor arm will usually last longer. On the other hand a monitor arm with a gas spring will operate more smoothly and silent. Gas spring monitor arms are the most commonly used by people who want to easily adjust their monitor. There are also monitor arms that don’t use either but instead use a screw mechanism to adjust their height. This is most suitable for people who tend to leave their monitor at a fixed height.

Size and weight

Knowing what size and weight your monitor has is important. Most monitor stands specify the maximum weight they are able to hold. Check if both your monitor and arm are VESA compliant. The VESA standard is there to ensure a monitor uses a standard hole pattern on the back. There are different sizes here so check is your monitor and arm offer the same options. For example 100 x 100 or 75 x 75 are sizes commonly used.

Mounting to your desk

Mounting the monitor stand itself can be done by clamping or a screw-in hole. If you don’t mind drilling a hole in your desk the latter is usually the most secure option. Clamping gives you more flexibility though if you want to change things up.

Here’s are some great options

Arctic Z1 (Gen3)

The Arctic Z1 is a good option for those who need a set and forget solution. This stand offers easy rotation and tilt options. It comes with an USB 2.0 hub for pass through of your keyboard and mouse for example. There is no gas-lift mechanism though so adjusting the height is something you wont be doing on the fly. Arctic also offers models with usb 3.0 hubs, without USB hubs and multiple monitor support.

The Arctic Z1 (Gen3) supports up to 34″ monitors or 38″ Ultrawide models with a maximum of 15kg.

You can check the current price on Amazon.nl here

Iiyama DS1002C-B1

The Iiyama DS1002C-B1 is a dual monitor stand which supports up to 10KG monitors. The stand doesn’t come with an USB hub but instead offers a clean looking desk solution. Monitors up to 30″ are supported. Iiyama also offers a triple monitor version which can be found here.

The Iiyama dual monitor arm supports monitor of up to 10kg per monitor and supports both the VESA 75×75 and 100×100 standards.

Amazon Basics Monitor Arm

The Amazon Basics monitor arm is a great bang for buck option. Its sturdy, has a built in cable management system and takes up little space. The Amazon basics arm is actually a rebranded Ergotron monitor arm. You can also buy a laptopstand to mount on the arm instead of the monitor backplate. So if you want to have both you will need to buy either two arms or a dual monitor arm with it.

The Amazon basics monitor arm supports up to 32″ monitors with a maximum of 11kg.

Dell Single monitor arm MSA20

The Dell MSA20 isn’t cheap but it is a very solid option. It is very sturdy and very adjustable. For those people who own a Dell monitor this is a very convenient option. For most Dell monitors you can just click the backplate right on the back of you monitor just like the original stand that came with you monitor does. If you don’t own a Dell monitor you can still use a normal screw-in connection thanks to its support for the VESA 100x100mm standard. The dell also offers a visual scale which will tell you if the monitor is too light or to heavy with your current adjustment settings.

The Dell arm supports monitors from 19″ to 38″ with a maximum weight of 10kg.

Final words

So there you have it, some examples to improve your ergonomics and take back your deskspace. There are of course more ways to achieve this. You could consider going with a wireless ultralight mouse and wireless compact keyboard for example. There are also ergonomically shaped keyboards like the Akko Alice and mice like the Logitech MX Vertical.