miryoku_kmonad VS Skeleton-Dactyl-Mini

You could install kmonad (https://github.com/kmonad/kmonad) with a Miryoku layout (https://github.com/manna-harbour/miryoku_kmonad) for instance.

Something I don't see mentioned enough is just preparing yourself for smaller keebs by using pc-side software to emulate a smaller layout with whatever keyboard you're using now. Thankfully, Manna Harbour created a kmonad version of Miryoku that is perfectly suited for trying out a smaller layout on a bigger keyboard. (Be aware that typing on an actual ergonomic split keyboard is even nicer.)

There are software option to do this mapping on your computer instead of on the keyboard. That is what I understand that https://github.com/manna-harbour/miryoku_kmonad kmonad is.

As u/w0lfwood mentioned, you can use Miryoku kMonad to try out a 3x5+3 layout on a row staggered board.

As others have noted, a programmable ergo split is the best solution. But for a conventional keyboard you can add home row mods and layers using KMonad. The lite mapping in Miryoku KMonad adds home row mods, and the finger part of the Nav layer when space is held. That would be enough to significantly reduce your movement from home.

u/set92 If you just want to try Miryoku briefly on the Defy you could use Miryoku KMonad. To implement Miryoku natively, pay particular attention to the mod tap settings. You'll need to find settings suitable for home row mods.

KMonad is cross platform. Here's an example config. The lite mapping will put cursor keys on the home row and the other keys you mentioned on the row below, when space is held.

Check your KMonad mod tap settings. See Miryoku KMonad for an example, e.g. here. There's no special support for preventing accidental mods in KMonad, so all you can do is increase tapping term and adjust your typing style. See The Guide for details.

Others use popular layouts like Miryoku. It has options to use an inverted T nav cluster, and set which side. You can now even try it without a programmable keyboard, via KMonad.

Miryoku KMonad is for use with keyboards that do not support custom firmware. The full Miryoku layout is included, plus all alternative layout options. Individual mappings for non-programmable ergonomic keyboards such as Kinesis Advantage or X-Bows will be added on request.

If you have access to a 3D printer, I would recommend handwiring a Skeletyl or Scylla.

if you are looking for a sculpted/keywell design I would start with something like the https://github.com/sanderboer/chonkybois or https://github.com/Bastardkb/Skeletyl then work on refining your needs from those ideas.

There's these made by Quentin, which can be mirrored for Skeletyl/Cnano.

Awesome. Do you think single-key RGB would be an issue? Would it add too many cables? I'm currently looking at the Skeletyl, but am intimidated by the four additional cables per LED.

If you have access to a 3d printer you could print something like a skeletyl or a dactyl manuform and then handwire it with some diodes and wires. That's the cheapest way I can think of.

I'd throw BastardKBs Keyboards into the mix as well as he's open sourcing all of his designs, for instance the Skeletyl or the Charybdis

You can take a look at the Skeletyl. It's a 5x3+3 design. Basically the upper three thumb keys of the one you posted and with 2 keys less on row 3 and 4.

a printed, blue Skeletyl