ProtoArc EK01 Plus review: a one-piece split keyboard for a full-size desk

Verdict: The ProtoArc EK01 Plus suits a dedicated desk where a full-size layout, numpad, integrated palm rest and white backlighting matter more than compactness. Its “split” shape is fixed in one wide body, and Mac users should plan on Bluetooth because ProtoArc documents shortcut limits with the USB receiver. This is source-based analysis, not a hands-on test. ProtoArc’s specifications ProtoArc’s FAQ

Pros

• Full-size 117-key layout retains a numpad and adds a curved split arrangement.
• Integrated padded rest and white backlight give a desk setup more options.
• Two Bluetooth channels plus a 2.4GHz receiver can serve up to three devices. ProtoArc’s specifications

Cons

• At about 500 × 265 × 40 mm, it takes substantial desk space and its two sides cannot be repositioned independently.
• The backlight turns off after a minute without activity and cannot be set to stay on continuously.
• Some Mac shortcuts may not work fully through the USB receiver; Bluetooth is the safer choice. ProtoArc’s FAQ

What does “split” mean on the EK01 Plus?

It means the keys sit in two fixed, angled zones inside a single keyboard. The body does not separate, so you cannot widen the gap or set each side’s angle. ProtoArc lists 117 keys and dimensions of roughly 50 × 26.5 × 4 cm. The numpad helps with numeric work, but the long shell may push your mouse outward. ProtoArc’s specifications

Independent reviewers describe a favorable feel in their own setups, with caveats. The Gadgeteer reviewer liked the cushioned rest and angle but found limited tactile feedback; ProtoArc supplied that sample. Ergonomie am Arbeitsplatz also liked the rest and typing feel, but said the wide body could shift when its front feet were raised. Treat these as individual observations, not predictions for every user. The Gadgeteer review Ergonomie am Arbeitsplatz review

Are the backlight and device switching a fit?

The scissor-switch keyboard has a white backlight, but the FAQ says it switches off after one minute of inactivity and cannot be set to stay on continuously. The product page and older review material differ on the number of brightness settings, so this analysis does not rely on a count. ProtoArc’s FAQ

The EK01 Plus connects to two Bluetooth devices and one 2.4GHz USB receiver. ProtoArc says some Mac function keys or shortcuts may not work through the receiver, so Bluetooth offers the most complete documented support. ProtoArc’s specifications ProtoArc’s FAQ

Buy the Grey EK01 Plus (Amazon US ASIN B0DQ4T5M8C) if you have room for a full-size board and want its built-in angled layout, numpad and rest. Skip it if you need a true separable keyboard, a small footprint or a backlight that stays on. See the product page for the purchase destination and confirm the selected version before ordering. Amazon US destination