Introducing The Caerdroia
"This caerdroia is sacred. You know that you are home now."
James - AKB
The Story
Caerdroia is not just a keyboard. It’s a symbolic object — an intentional tool born from myth, meaning, and introspection. It's what happened when an inspired creator emerged from years of challenge and setback to create a great work inspired by pure curiosity and the keyboard community loved it.
The name comes from ancient Welsh labyrinths carved into hillsides and history, echoing the paths of ritual, challenge, and return. For its designer, James of Alchemist Keyboards, it was never just about function — it was about intrigue. Inspired by late evening forays into The Green Knight, the tale of Ser Gawain, and the winding layers of both Welsh and Greek mythology, Caerdroia is what happens when a visionary builds from their heart, and expresses something words can't using the symbology of an ancient maze.
“I lean toward the esoteric... toward things that aren’t fully explained. I prefer symbolism over statement. Ambiguity over ego. Love over hate” — James, AKB
Caerdroia doesn’t scream for attention with a logo, or a brand. It’s a board for those who feel before they act, who take a deep breath before they type, who value story over splash, and who find meaning in the unspoken details. It's under-stated and classically elegant with stunning rounded corners and an elegant, thoughtful design.
Those who know the Thocc Exchange will know we only partner with businesses and communities that share our values of kindness and inclusivity - AKB is in perfect alignment.
💬 Why Choose Caerdroia?
Second run, community-proven. The first release sold out in-stock; this GB offers refinements and extra functionality without losing magic. It also benefits from the reputational and financial support of a global leading vendor - Cannonkeys.
Designed by a top British designer. No flashy logo. No corporate nonsense. Great aesthetics from a world leading keyboard designer who participates daily in the Thocc Exchange community (among many others). I have complete trust in this designer and their ability to deliver this project.
Built from myth and curiosity. A blend of story, symbolism, and functional purity.
For builders who value meaning. This is not for trend-chasers. It's for those who want their keyboards to express something about themselves, who they choose to support, and what they believe about the world.
Unique range and utility. This keyboard has 2x USB 3.0 passthrough ports so you can plug in and use more devices, an optional electro-capacitive (EC) compatibility kit for Topre enjoyers, and optional Alps compatibility kit for classic enthusiasts.
🔧 Keyboard Specifications
Layout: F12 TKL (WK or WKL)
Typing Angle: 7° - comfortable for everyone
Front Height: 19mm - usable with or without wrist wrests
Mounting Style: Top Mount for classic sound
Case Material: CNC Aluminium (Anodised or E-Coated)
Weight: Powdercoated Brass
Plate: 4.5mm Polycarbonate for optimal acoustics
PCB: Default solderable; hotswap upgrade available
Connectivity: USB-C + USB 3.0 hub (daughterboard)
Extras Included: Force break gasket, 4x AKB feet, hardware, microfiber cloth, carry case
🧩 Optional Add-ons
(Sold separately - look for the "extras" listing)
Extra PCBs (Solder or Hotswap)
USB Hub Kits
"Thicc" PC Plate - a very rare plate choice
EC Kit Add-on (Steel Plate + PCB + Hardware)
Alps Kit Add-on (Steel/Brass Plate + PCB)
Extra AKB Feet (Pack of 16) - an emerging standard for keyboard feet
We recommend buying all the extras you need when you enter the Group Buy as these will not be sold as extras after the GB completes.
📦 Included in the Kit
Top + bottom case (anodised or E-coated Aluminium)
Powdercoated brass weight
PCB of your choice
PC Plate (4.5mm) - for incredible acoustics and feel
USB-C/USB 3.0 hub daughterboard and Molex Cable
1x Force break gasket
4x AKB Feet
Hardware + Microfiber cloth
Zippered carry case
CK-branded shipping box
Thocc Exchange exclusive - to celebrate the honour of hosting an AKB group buy, I am giving all buyers one FREE pack of our bestselling budget switches. And no, I can't tell you which ones... But I can confirm they sound and feel amazing in the board.
⚠️ Group Buy Disclaimer
This is a Group Buy item — not an in-stock product.
Group Buy Period: April 11 – May 11, 2025
Estimated Delivery: Q4 2025
By purchasing, you are reserving a unit that will be manufactured and shipped at a later date. Timelines may shift due to production or logistics delays. I will keep you fully informed and if you have questions - I'm always available.
Please be aware no active discount codes are applicable to this purchase. If you apply a discount code you will be contacted to pay the balance.
Refunds or cancellations are not typically possible after the GB ends. But as with all Thocc Exchange group buys, you are able to receive a full refund prior to GB end date. We understand that circumstances and decisions change, and want you to feel great about your purchase.
If you need support paying for this, please get in touch. This is only available for existing UK based customers. I can, for a small number of customers, offer extended payment terms or spread payments so that you can get an extra payday in. Please only use this capacity if you absolutely need to so that others can benefit as well.
The Thocc Exchange will always maintain an industry leading policy whereby group buy revenue is held separately to working capital until the group buy completes. This means that barring any extreme circumstances completely outside of our control, it is not possible for us to default or fail on our obligations in this project. Buy with confidence.
