Unicorne - CNC Aluminum Case for Corne (MX)
The Unicorne is our flagship case for the Corne (CRKBD) split keyboard layout, it's CNC-machined from aluminum, thoughtfully designed for ergonomics, and compatible with both traditional Corne PCBs and our own Unicorne MX SMT hot-swap PCB. It’s the ultimate upgrade for your build.
Built to meet the expectations of serious keyboard users, the Unicorne is engineered for real-world use, premium feel, and seamless compatibility — whether you’re building wired or wireless, hot-swap or soldered.
Designed to Support Real Typing Comfort
Unicorne is built around the beloved Corne (CRKBD) split layout — a compact, column-staggered keyboard that prioritizes typing comfort, portability, and customization. Its 3x6+3 layout minimizes finger travel while enabling a highly efficient workflow for programmers, writers, and creators.
When paired with our Unicorne MX SMT PCB, you’ll unlock a full-featured, hot-swappable setup that’s beginner-friendly and packed with power.
Split Design: Improve Posture and Reduce Strain
Standard keyboards force your arms inward, which puts stress on your shoulders, elbows, and wrists. The Unicorne’s split layout lets you position each half independently, helping you maintain a more natural shoulder-width typing posture.
Column Stagger: Typing Feels More Natural
Unlike traditional row-staggered keyboards, the Unicorne uses columnar staggering — aligning each key with the natural downward motion of your fingers. This small change significantly reduces strain and fatigue during long sessions.
Tenting for Optimal Comfort
Add the optional Booster Packs to tent your keyboard at a 5 or 10-degree angle. This subtle lift helps keep your wrists in a neutral position, preventing discomfort and minimizing the risk of repetitive strain injuries like RSI and carpal tunnel syndrome.
A Case Built to Perform
- CNC Aluminum Case: Machined from solid aluminum, the Unicorne case is strong, sleek, and built to last. Its matte anodized finish and chamfered edges deliver a clean, modern look and premium feel.
- FR4 Switch Plates: Every case includes Standard FR4 switch plates that ensure a solid and seamless assembly with our SMT PCB. If you need to use other PCBs, Unicorne is compatible with Legacy and Pro Plates.
- Sound Dampening Foam: Included in all case kits, provides a quieter and more refined sound profile when typing.
- OLED-S + Joystick Support: Compatible with OLED displays and joysticks when used with compatible PCBs.
- Backwards Compatible with Corne/CRKDB PCBs: If you already have a Corne you're in luck! The Unicorne fits most standard Corne PCBs and makes it feel like an entirely new build.
Ready for Wireless BLE Builds
While the Unicorne case is most commonly used with our SMT hot-swap PCBs, it also supports traditional wireless Corne builds using nice!nano, Supermini, or any other BLE-compatible Pro Micro controller.
To build wirelessly, you'll need:
- A DIY/Solderable Corne PCB
- A Legacy Plate (see below) to make your case compatible
- A BLE controller like nice!nano
This setup gives you full wireless support while still benefiting from the Unicorne's premium case and ergonomic design.
Choose Your Plate
Your plate determines what kind of build your Unicorne supports. Each case kit includes one Standard Plate set by default.
- Standard Plate: Included with every Unicorne case kit. Designed for use with the Unicorne SMT PCB (hot swap, solder-free, LEDs, USB-C)
- Legacy Plate: Optional add-on, adapts your Unicorne to with with standard Corne DIY PCBs and Pro Micro footprint controllers (like nice!nano, Blok, Supermini, or Elite-C). Required for wireless builds.
-
Pro Plate: An optional upgrade with joystick cutouts for LP builds using compatible modules.
Tool-less Tenting Support
Want to tent your keyboard for even better wrist alignment? Just add our Booster Packs for a 5° or 10° angle with no tools required. The Unicorne supports tenting out of the box and it's super easy to install or remove if you're moving your board around or traveling with it.
Ideal For
- First-time split keyboard users who want to go with a 40% layout
- Experienced builders upgrading from a 3D-printed or acrylic case
- Anyone who wants to improve posture and reduce strain or pain while typing
- Wireless BLE builders using nice!nano or Supermini looking for a premium aluminum Corne case
- Fans of the Corne layout who want a refined all metal version
What's Included
- Unicorne CNC Aluminum Case (Left and Right Halves)
- Left and Right FR4 Switch Plates
- Left and Right Sound Dampening Foam Inserts
- Acrylic Screen Covers (Left and Right)
- Screws and Standoffs
Easy to Build, No Soldering Required
Getting started with your Unicorne is simple and beginner-friendly:
- Zero Soldering needed: Just click your switches into place, and you’re ready to go.
- Step-by-Step Guides: We provide detailed tutorials with photos to walk you through the entire build process.
- Open-source software guides: Unlock the full potential of the Unicorne with guides to help you customize layouts, macros, and more using popular tools like QMK and VIA.
Watch the Unicorne in Action
We’ve created a video showcasing everything the Unicorne has to offer. Check it out below:
Shipping and Availability
Ships from Las Vegas, NV. Most orders ship the next business day.
Note: Unicorne is compatible with all standard Corne PCBs and supports advanced firmware features like QMK, Vial (wired), or ZMK (wireless) depending on your controller.
Are you looking for a Low Profile LP version of the Unicorne? Check out the Unicorne LP