The standout feature of the Photon keyboard is its remarkably long battery life. With ZMK firmware optimized for energy efficiency, the keyboard offers impressive customization options, such as ModTap, Tap Dance, and onboard macros via ZMK Studio. CannonKeys claims that the Photon’s 1,500 mAh battery can last approximately six months, or 4,000 hours, when the RGB backlighting is off.
In comparison, the longest battery life recorded in recent tests is about 580 hours, which puts the Photon in a league of its own if these claims hold true. It significantly outperforms competitors like the Keychron K15 Max, which offers around 140 hours on Bluetooth. However, users should be aware of the standard low polling rates that come with regular Bluetooth connections.
The Photon features a 65% layout, ZMK stock power, a front height of 15.6mm, and a 7° typing angle. It weighs 565 g when fully built with the battery, and 330 g when unassembled. Its gasket-mount design supports an optional hot-swap customizable encoder and knob module, with a default PC plate and a 6.25u bottom row. Notably, it offers a more generous navigation key setup on the right edge, featuring four keys instead of the usual three, with an optional knob module replacement available for $17.
Additionally, users can choose from extras like alternative materials for the stock color-matched PC plate (such as aluminum, FR4, and carbon fiber) and different PC plates for color customization. Available in four translucent polycarbonate colorways—Teal, Coral, Frosted (white), and Smoke—the kit includes hot-swap and wireless features as standard, as well as a USB-C cable for charging and wired use. Optional switches and a basic stabilizer and keycap set make up the complete package for a total of $166.28.
This makes the Photon an intriguing choice for those seeking a compact, customizable, and highly efficient wireless mechanical keyboard.
