Compare KEEBD Cantor Remix vs Paintbrush V5 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for builders deciding between two distinct low-profile DIY kits from KEEBD. The choice is challenging because both are hot-swappable, low-profile kits at a similar price point but serve fundamentally different purposes. The Cantor Remix is a 36-key split keyboard for ergonomic typing, while the Paintbrush V5 is an 8-key reversible macropad designed for systems like ARTSEY. Your decision hinges on whether you need a primary keyboard or a supplementary input device.

Model
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Rating	0.0 stars (0 reviews)	0.0 stars (0 reviews)
Purchase Options
Main differences	Released in 2022 Available in a Other layout Offers Split ergonomics Includes a No display Features PBT keycaps	Released in 2021 Offers Normal ergonomics Includes a Yes, OLED display Made with a Acrylic case Features PBT, ABS keycaps
Score	Scores Performance: 38.2 Build Quality: 40.9 Productivity: 49.9 Customizability: 59.9 Portability: 65.7	Scores Performance: 38.4 Build Quality: 47.3 Productivity: 43.7 Customizability: 69 Portability: 42.2
Name	Name KEEBD Cantor Remix	Name KEEBD Paintbrush V5
Release year	Release year 2022	Release year 2021
Switch Options	Switch Options -	Switch Options -
Profile	Profile Low Profile	Profile Low Profile
Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable
Layout Size	Layout Size Other	Layout Size Unknown
Layout Standard	Layout Standard ANSI	Layout Standard ANSI
Layout Ergonomics	Layout Ergonomics Split	Layout Ergonomics Normal
Knob Support	Knob Support	Knob Support
Display Support	Display Support	Display Support OLED
Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support
Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys
USB-C	USB-C	USB-C
USB passthrough	USB passthrough	USB passthrough
Connection	Connection	Connection
Polling Rate	Polling Rate -	Polling Rate -
Battery capacity	Battery capacity -	Battery capacity -
Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support
QMK Support	QMK Support	QMK Support
VIA Support	VIA Support	VIA Support
VIAL Support	VIAL Support	VIAL Support
N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover
Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger
Mount Style	Mount Style -	Mount Style -
Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers
Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening
Backlight	Backlight	Backlight
Case Colors	Case Colors	Case Colors
Case Material	Case Material -	Case Material Acrylic
Keycaps Material	Keycaps Material PBT	Keycaps Material PBT, ABS
Dimensions	Dimensions -	Dimensions -
Weight	Weight -	Weight -

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Pros and Trade-offs

Select the KEEBD Cantor Remix if your goal is to build a primary, ergonomic keyboard for daily typing. Opt for the KEEBD Paintbrush V5 if you need a compact, programmable input device for macros, shortcuts, or alternative input systems, and value the inclusion of an OLED screen. Your core need for a typing instrument versus a utility tool dictates the choice.

KEEBD Cantor Remix

+Full 36-key split keyboard layout for ergonomic typing.
+Kit includes two PCBs, TRRS sockets, and a TRRS cable for connecting halves.
+Diodeless PCB design simplifies the build process.
+PBT keycap material is listed for durability.

−Requires sourcing separate Black Pill controllers, switches, and keycaps to complete.
−The split design is less portable than a single unit.
−No built-in display or extra features like an OLED screen.

KEEBD Paintbrush V5

+Includes an OLED display for showing custom information.
+Reversible design allows for left or right-hand use.
+Acrylic case and plate materials are listed.
+Explicitly designed for adaptable systems like ARTSEY.io.

−Only 8 keys, making it a macropad, not a full keyboard.
−Vendor reviews mention the build guide is minimal and firmware configuration can be challenging.
−Requires sourcing a Pro Micro controller, switches, and keycaps separately.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Cantor Remix is the clear choice for any use case requiring extensive typing, such as office work or programming, due to its split 36-key layout. The Paintbrush V5 excels as a portable, highly customizable accessory for macros, system control, or niche input schemes like ARTSEY, aided by its OLED screen. For gaming, neither is ideal, but each could serve specialized, non-traditional roles.

GamingTie

•Neither is a conventional gaming keyboard.
•The Paintbrush V5 could be programmed as a dedicated macro pad for game commands.
•The Cantor Remix's split layout is not typical for standard gaming keybinds.

OfficeKEEBD Cantor Remix

•The Cantor Remix is a full 36-key split keyboard capable of handling all typing tasks.
•Its split, low-profile ergonomic design may reduce strain during long typing sessions.
•The Paintbrush V5 has only 8 keys, making it insufficient for general office typing.

ProgrammingKEEBD Cantor Remix

•The Cantor Remix provides enough keys for a layered programming workflow.
•Its split layout can improve comfort during long coding sessions.
•The Paintbrush V5's 8-key limit requires heavy layer usage for programming symbols.

TravelKEEBD Paintbrush V5

•The Paintbrush V5 is a single, compact unit, making it easier to pack.
•Its reversible design adds flexibility for different setups.
•The Cantor Remix requires carrying and connecting two separate halves.

ModdingKEEBD Paintbrush V5

•The Paintbrush V5 includes an OLED display as a modding feature.
•Its listing mentions optional EZ-Solder and 4Pin Header sockets for controller and display hot-swapping.
•Both kits are hot-swappable and DIY barebones, offering a solid foundation.

Content CreationKEEBD Paintbrush V5

•The Paintbrush V5's OLED screen can display custom information or layer status.
•It can be programmed as a dedicated macro pad for editing software shortcuts.
•The Cantor Remix focuses on typing ergonomics over dedicated macro keys.