In the evolving landscape of writing technology, Astrohaus is making waves at CES 2025 with its latest innovation that bridges the gap between traditional mechanical keyboards and specialized writing tools. The new Freewrite Wordrunner represents a significant departure from the company's previous all-in-one writing devices, offering a focused solution for writers who prefer their existing software ecosystems.
A Writer's Mechanical Companion
The Freewrite Wordrunner stands out with its unique integration of mechanical word-counting displays. Two electromechanical counters sit prominently on the keyboard's top edge – the Wordometer for tracking word count and a timer with LED indicators for monitoring writing sessions. This physical representation of progress offers writers immediate feedback without the need to check software statistics.
Key Features:
- Tenkeyless mechanical keyboard design
- Dual mechanical counters (word count and timer)
- Die-cast aluminum construction
- Sound dampening layers
- Backlit tactile Kailh switches
- Multi-device connectivity (3x Bluetooth + 1x USB-C)
- Dedicated writing function keys
- Three customizable macro keys
- Media control joystick
Thoughtful Design for Serious Writers
Built with a tenkeyless layout, the Wordrunner features a die-cast aluminum body and incorporates multiple layers of sound dampening. The keyboard includes backlit tactile Kailh switches, though they aren't hot-swappable. A distinctive red joystick in the upper-left corner handles media controls, replacing traditional media keys.
Customized Functionality
The keyboard's function row has been reimagined with writer-specific controls, including dedicated keys for undo, redo, and paragraph navigation. Three programmable macro keys – labeled zap, pow, and bam – allow writers to customize their workflow. The device supports connection to up to four devices simultaneously through Bluetooth and USB-C connectivity.
Connectivity Options:
- 3 Bluetooth device connections
- 1 USB-C wired connection
- Quick device switching via hotkeys
Availability and Pricing
While specific pricing remains unannounced, Astrohaus plans to launch the Wordrunner through a Kickstarter campaign in February 2025. The company is currently offering USD $1 refundable reservations for priority access and exclusive early-bird pricing. Given that it lacks the screens and storage of Astrohaus's other products (which range from USD $349 to USD $999), the Wordrunner is expected to be more affordably priced.
Market Position
The Wordrunner represents Astrohaus's strategic move to cater to writers who want the benefits of focused writing tools while maintaining the flexibility to use their preferred writing applications. This approach could potentially attract users who found the company's previous all-in-one solutions too restrictive or expensive.