Mantis Q40 - Smart Braille Keyboard

Humanware Mantis Q40 braille display with full qwerty style keyboard.

The HumanWare Mantis Q40 is a unique, all-in-one device that combines a full-size QWERTY keyboard with a built-in, refreshable 40-cell Braille display — letting you type like on a standard laptop while reading Braille output at the same time. It connects via Bluetooth (up to 5 devices simultaneously) or USB, making it versatile for use with computers, smartphones, or tablets — but it also works as a standalone Braille notetaker and reader thanks to onboard software for editing, reading books, and file management. Lightweight and portable enough to fit into a laptop bag, the Mantis Q40 offers a 40-cell refreshable Braille line beneath the keyboard that updates in real time as you type or read — enabling smooth Braille input/output without needing separate devices.

Manufacturer: Humanware

Mantis Q40 Product Features

  • Multimodal Input/Output — QWERTY + Braille: The QWERTY keyboard + Braille display combination supports both standard typing and Braille reading/writing, lowering the barrier for users familiar with print keyboards.
  • Device Versatility & Connectivity: Its ability to pair with multiple Bluetooth devices + USB — useful for switching between computer, tablet, smartphone, or even using it standalone as a Braille notetaker.
  • Built-in Accessibility Features: Support for many file formats (doc, txt, brf/brl, etc.), onboard Braille translation, and internal apps make it accessible even without a separate screen reader.
  • User Experience & Accessibility Impact: The Mantis Q40 can improve productivity, independence, and inclusion for blind or visually impaired users — by combining familiar keyboard habits with Braille literacy and mobility.
  • Portability & On-the-Go Use: Its slim, laptop-sized build and internal storage + apps (editor, book-reader, file manager) make it practical for travel, school, or work without needing extra hardware.