Keyboard-Inspired Coffee Cups from Shanghai’s E Square

If you’ve ever wished your morning coffee routine felt a little more playful—or just wanted a way to make solo sipping feel a bit like typing code—there’s now a design piece that does exactly that. Created by Shanghai-based E Square Design Studio, this unusual coffee set brings the familiar layout of a computer number pad into your mug rack, transforming your caffeine break into a whimsical desk moment.

The set includes twelve individual miniature coffee cups, each shaped like a number key from 0 to 9, plus the asterisk and hash symbols. All 12 cups sit neatly in their own spots on a smooth wooden tray designed to mimic a keyboard layout. There are exactly 12 cups in total, matching the number of keys represented.

What Is the Keyboard Coffee Cup Set?

The E Square keyboard coffee cup set is not just a gag gift or art piece—it’s a precisely arranged collection of functional, espresso-sized cups. Each cup mimics the shape and size of a traditional computer number key, complete with slightly curved edges and a compact build ideal for single servings. The 12-piece arrangement follows the standard numeric keypad layout: numbers 0 through 9, along with the asterisk (*) and hash (#) symbols.

How the Cups Are Arranged

All 12 cups are positioned on a single wooden tray that replicates the layout of a computer keypad. The tray is crafted from wood, offering a natural, minimalist base that contrasts with the clean, geometric lines of the cups. Numbered 0 to 9 and including the * and # keys, the cups are aligned just like you’d see on a standard keyboard number pad, making for both a nostalgic and visually pleasing presentation.

Why This Design Works for Coffee Lovers

Beyond being an eye-catching conversation starter, the design brings a sense of order and familiarity to your coffee setup. Each small cup holds roughly the same volume as an espresso shot or a single ristretto serving—perfect for sampling multiple coffees side by side, conducting quick tastings, or simply enjoying a more playful morning ritual. The compact size encourages slower, more mindful sipping, and the tray keeps everything neatly organized.

The minimalist wooden base elevates the aesthetic, making it suitable for display on desks, kitchen counters, or coffee bars. Whether you're a home barista, a design enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys unique coffee gear, the set offers both function and style.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many cups are included in the E Square keyboard coffee set?

The set includes exactly 12 mini coffee cups, matching the number of keys on a standard computer numeric keypad. These consist of the digits 0 through 9, plus the asterisk (*) and hash (#) keys.

What size are the individual coffee cups?

Although the article does not specify exact millilitre measurements, the cups are designed to resemble standard computer number keys, which means they are small—typically holding around 30–60ml, similar to an espresso or ristretto shot. This makes them ideal for single servings or coffee tastings.

Is the tray included with the coffee cups?

Yes, the 12 coffee cups come mounted on a single wooden tray that is designed to mimic the layout of a computer keypad. The tray holds all 12 cups in their correct numeric positions, including the * and # keys.

What material is the tray made from?

The tray is made from wood. The specific type of wood is not mentioned, but it is described as a smooth, solid surface that provides a natural contrast to the cups’ geometric, plastic or ceramic construction.

Are the cups functional for daily use?

Yes, the cups are fully functional and designed for holding hot beverages. Their small size makes them especially suitable for espresso-style drinks, and their layout encourages organized, tidy coffee tasting or casual drinking at a desk or counter.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Single-Origin Tastings

Try tasting the E Square keyboard cups with FrontStreet Coffee’s Ethiopia Humbera (Yirgacheffe), known for its jasmine and citrus notes, or Kenya Little Tomato for its bright acidity and tropical fruit tones. Both single origins showcase distinct flavour profiles perfect for comparing in the small 30–60ml cups. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.