ZSA Voyager Keyboard and Navigator Trackball: A Must-Try for Tinkerers
Are you a keyboard enthusiast who loves tinkering with layouts or experimenting with unusual input devices? The ZSA Voyager keyboard paired with the new Navigator trackball may be the gadget you’ve been waiting for. Designed for those who enjoy pushing their setup to the limits, this combination promises both comfort and creativity—but only if you’re willing to invest some effort.
The Voyager is a split, low-profile mechanical keyboard with 52 hot-swappable keys arranged in a columnar-staggered layout. ZSA also offers the Navigator, a magnetic trackball attachment that snaps to either side of the keyboard, letting you explore new ways to navigate your computer.
What Makes the Voyager Stand Out
The Voyager keyboard isn’t just another mechanical keyboard. It offers four Kailh Choc v1 switch options, letting users choose the feel that best suits their typing style. The review unit features Pro Red linear switches, which provide a softer, slightly mushy feel compared to traditional Cherry MX Browns.
For users who enjoy aesthetics, the Voyager also includes RGB lighting. It’s customizable through ZSA’s software, so you can make the keyboard reflect your personality—or match your workspace vibe.
The Magnetic Magic of the Navigator Trackball
The real showstopper is the Navigator trackball attachment. This module snaps magnetically onto the Voyager, either on the left or right side, just above the thumb cluster. Trackball enthusiasts will find the experience satisfying and precise, offering a tactile alternative to traditional mice. The magnetic attachment makes it easy to remove or reposition, which adds an extra layer of convenience for users who like experimenting.
Customization Is Key
ZSA has built customization into the core of the Voyager. Hot-swappable keys make it simple to swap out switches, and the keyboard software allows you to remap keys and create macros. The included tenting nubs help angle the keyboard for ergonomic comfort, reducing wrist strain during long typing sessions.
Whether you’re programming, gaming, or writing, the Voyager lets you fine-tune your setup to your exact preferences. However, its columnar layout might not suit everyone. Some typists prefer a traditional staggered layout, so this keyboard is clearly aimed at enthusiasts who love to experiment.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
No product is perfect, and the Voyager with Navigator has its drawbacks. Price is a significant consideration: the Voyager keyboard costs $365, and the Navigator trackball adds another $169. The 52-key layout might feel limiting to some users, particularly those accustomed to full-sized keyboards.
On the plus side, the keyboard’s magnetic accessory system, hot-swappable keys, and ergonomic options make it a top pick for tinkerers. The trackball, in particular, is a joy for precision tasks and offers a unique way to navigate your computer.
First Impressions: Setup and Typing Experience
Setting up the Voyager is straightforward but requires patience for full customization. The keyboard ships pre-assembled, but enthusiasts will likely want to dive into the software to remap keys and adjust lighting. The Pro Red switches feel smooth and linear, though some typists might find them softer than expected.
Typing on the split design takes some adjustment, but once you’re used to it, the Voyager offers a comfortable and efficient experience. Combined with the Navigator, it opens up possibilities for one-handed navigation, making it both fun and functional.
Who Should Consider the Voyager and Navigator
This keyboard-trackball combo isn’t for casual users. It’s aimed at tinkerers, productivity enthusiasts, and anyone willing to experiment with a non-traditional layout. If you love personalization, the magnetic modular design is incredibly appealing.
Gamers, coders, and creative professionals will especially enjoy the precision and ergonomic flexibility offered by the Voyager and Navigator. For those who stick to traditional layouts or seek plug-and-play simplicity, this setup may be more work than it’s worth.
Design and Build Quality
The Voyager feels solid under your fingers, with a low-profile build that’s both sleek and sturdy. The magnetic trackball module attaches seamlessly, without wobble or friction, and the keyboard itself comes with small but effective tenting nubs to improve typing posture.
The RGB lighting is subtle but noticeable, and the software allows for full customization. Overall, ZSA has designed a keyboard that feels premium while offering practical modularity that enthusiasts crave.
Worth the Investment?
For those who love mechanical keyboards and experimental peripherals, the ZSA Voyager paired with the Navigator trackball is a treat. It offers customization, ergonomic flexibility, and a magnetic modular system that encourages experimentation.
However, the cost and learning curve mean it’s not for everyone. Enthusiasts who enjoy optimizing their workflow and personalizing their typing experience will likely find it worth the investment. Casual users or those seeking a more conventional keyboard may want to look elsewhere.
Bottom Line: Fun Meets Function
The Voyager and Navigator combination is a celebration of customization and experimentation. ZSA has delivered a keyboard that invites users to tinker, explore new layouts, and enjoy the satisfaction of a high-quality trackball. It’s an ambitious, niche product—but for the right audience, it’s a dream setup.
Whether you’re a keyboard hobbyist, a productivity geek, or simply curious about trackballs, this duo offers an engaging, unique experience worth exploring.
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