Astrohaus announced a new addition to its Freewrite line of distraction-reducing writing tools at CES. Unlike previous all-in-one devices that combined a keyboard with basic monochrome screens, the Freewrite Wordrunner is a wireless mechanical keyboard with a mechanical timer and word counter. The device is equipped with dedicated keys and a joystick for flexible settings.
Image source: Astrohaus
The Freewrite Wordrunner keyboard features a compact design without a number pad, a die-cast aluminum body, backlit “high-quality tactile switches” and multiple layers of sound insulation, allowing it to be used in public places without disturbing others.
Wordrunner stands out from other mechanical keyboards with two electromechanical counters with rotating number reels. The eight-digit Wordometer continuously tracks the number of words typed from the moment you press the reset button. Another four-bit counter functions as a timer for quick typing or performance tracking.
The top row of function keys has been completely redesigned for easy navigation and document editing. There are dedicated keys for undoing and redoing, jumping between paragraphs, and quickly jumping to the beginning or end of the page. There are also three macro keys – zap, pow and bam – that can be customized to suit individual needs.
To control multimedia playback, the Wordrunner keyboard is equipped with a specialized red joystick. It can be pressed or moved in four directions to skip tracks or adjust volume. The device has an extended wrist rest.
Wordrunner supports connection to up to three computers or mobile devices via Bluetooth, as well as a fourth device via a USB Type-C cable. Switching between devices is done using dedicated hotkeys.
Pricing for the Freewrite Wordrunner has not yet been announced. The device is expected to be available for pre-order in February 2025 through a crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter. All-in-one writing devices from Astrohaus range in price from $349 to $999. We can assume that the lack of screen, storage and other electronics will make the new keyboard significantly cheaper. Early backers will be offered discounts, and Astrohaus is already selling refundable reservations for $1, promising “priority access” and “exclusive prices” for early buyers.