The Behemoth V2 Mechanical Keyboard is getting closer to release as its developer has shared the second design progress update, confirming that the layout and major hardware features have now been finalized. While most keyboard manufacturers continue to focus on compact layouts that leave more room for mouse movement, the Behemoth V2 takes a completely different direction by combining a full-size mechanical keyboard with a dedicated gamepad built directly into the left side of the chassis.
The keyboard uses what the developer calls a 135% layout, offering a standard 104-key keyboard alongside a 32-key mechanical gamepad. This brings the total key count to 136, making it one of the largest enthusiast mechanical keyboards currently in development. Unlike a traditional external gaming keypad, the integrated gamepad is angled slightly toward the center of the keyboard, allowing users to rotate the keyboard for a more comfortable gaming position while still creating additional mouse space on the desk.
Its size is equally impressive. The Behemoth V2 measures 609 × 177 mm (24 × 7 inches) and stands 25 mm tall without keycaps installed. The keyboard weighs approximately 9.4 pounds (4.2 kg), largely because of its CNC-machined 6061-T6 aluminum construction. According to the latest update, the aluminum case was recently revised with additional material, a change intended to simplify production and help reduce manufacturing costs.
Beyond its large footprint, the Behemoth V2 includes several features aimed at mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. It supports QMK and VIA firmware, allowing every key to be fully remapped, including the gamepad section. The keyboard also features hot-swappable MX-style switch sockets, giving users the freedom to install different mechanical switches without soldering. Above the number pad are four programmable rotary encoders that can be assigned to media controls, application shortcuts, macros, or other custom functions through VIA.
Other hardware features include RGB lighting with customizable effects, N-Key Rollover, magnetic keyboard feet, and a dual RP2040 split PCB design. Although the keyboard uses two controller boards internally, they communicate through a USB-C connection inside the chassis while requiring only a single USB-C cable to connect to a PC running Windows 10 or Windows 11.
One feature that adds a bit of personality is the dedicated “Rage Quit” key. By default, it performs the familiar Alt + F4 command while playing a user-loaded audio countdown before closing the active game or application. Since the keyboard supports full remapping, users can assign the key to virtually any shortcut, including launching programs, triggering macros, or capturing gameplay clips.
The developer also plans to offer several anodized color options, allowing buyers to mix different finishes for the frame, top plate, and gamepad plate. Available choices are expected to include Black, Red, Purple, and Polished Metal, giving enthusiasts additional customization options.
Key Specifications
- 135% layout with 136 total keys
- Standard 104-key keyboard plus 32-key integrated gamepad
- CNC-machined 6061-T6 aluminum frame
- Dimensions: 609 × 177 × 25 mm
- Weight: 9.4 lbs (4.2 kg)
- QMK and VIA firmware support
- Fully programmable key mapping
- Hot-swappable MX-style switch compatibility
- Four programmable rotary encoders
- RGB lighting with customizable effects
- N-Key Rollover
- Dual RP2040 split PCB design
- Magnetic keyboard feet
- Single USB-C connection to the PC
- Windows 10 and Windows 11 support
- Dedicated programmable “Rage Quit” key
- Expected price: $400–500
According to the latest progress update, pricing has not yet been finalized, but the expected retail price currently falls between $400 and $500. Despite being developed by what is essentially a one-person operation, the Behemoth V2 is expected to be sold directly rather than through a traditional group buy, making it more accessible once production is ready.
