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Compare Deadline Doys Pad vs Knife Lab Dolphins75 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for users deciding between a specialized accessory and a full-sized custom keyboard. The Deadline Doys Pad is a compact, wireless macro pad with knobs, while the Knife Lab Dolphins75 is a substantial 75% wired DIY kit. The decision hinges on whether you need a supplementary tool for shortcuts and media control or a primary, high-end typing and gaming board.

78
DEADLINE Doys Pad Macro Keyboard VIA Macro Pad
70
[In Stock] Dolphins75 75% Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Released in 2024
  • Available in a Macropad layout
  • Comes with a knob
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 600 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 300 g
  • Sized at 23 x 87 x 95 mm
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
  • Released in 2022
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Weighs about 2400 g
  • Sized at 20 x 327 x 150 mm
  • Offers No RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 69.2
  • Build Quality: 76
  • Productivity: 66.2
  • Customizability: 87.6
  • Portability: 84.7
Scores
  • Performance: 68
  • Build Quality: 72.3
  • Productivity: 60.8
  • Customizability: 68.6
  • Portability: 61
Name
Deadline Doys Pad
Name
Knife Lab Dolphins75
Release year
2024
Release year
2022
Switch Options
-
Switch Options
-
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
Macropad
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
Display Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
Connection
Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
600 mAh
Battery capacity
-
Hall Effect Support
 
Hall Effect Support
 
QMK Support
 
QMK Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIAL Support
 
VIAL Support
 
N-Key Rollover
 
N-Key Rollover
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Mount Style
-
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
-
Keycaps Material
-
Dimensions
23 x 87 x 95 mm
Dimensions
20 x 327 x 150 mm
Weight
300g
Weight
2400g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you want a versatile, portable tool to enhance your workflow with knobs and macros, the Deadline Doys Pad is a compelling and more affordable accessory. If you are building a high-end, stationary custom keyboard as your main driver, the Knife Lab Dolphins75 kit offers a premium foundation with excellent modding potential. They serve fundamentally different roles on a desk.

Deadline Doys Pad

  • +Dual-mode connectivity with wired USB-C and Bluetooth 5.0.
  • +Includes two programmable knobs and eight hot-swappable keys for extensive macro control.
  • +Highly portable with a 300g weight and compact 23 x 87 x 95 mm footprint.
  • +Features RGB backlighting for key visibility.
  • +Comes pre-built and ready to use.
  • −Lacks a traditional keyboard layout, requiring a separate board for typing.
  • −Small 600mAh battery may require frequent charging with heavy wireless use.
  • −No information on polling rate for gaming latency.

Knife Lab Dolphins75

  • +Premium gasket mount design for a potentially more consistent and softer typing feel.
  • +Substantial 2400g full CNC aluminum build with a 7-degree typing angle.
  • +Includes multiple modding components like a PC plate, Poron bottom foam, IXPE switch pad, and gasket foam.
  • +Hot-swap PCB supports VIA for easy reprogramming.
  • −Wired-only connectivity limits placement and adds cable clutter.
  • −Sold as a DIY kit, requiring the user to source and install switches and keycaps.
  • −Very heavy and large (327 x 150 mm), making it unsuitable for travel.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Knife Lab Dolphins75 is the clear choice for primary use cases like gaming and programming due to its full layout and wired performance. The Deadline Doys Pad excels as a secondary device for office productivity, content creation, and travel, thanks to its wireless operation and programmable knobs. For modding enthusiasts, both offer a strong foundation, though the Dolphins75 provides more structural customization options.

GamingKnife Lab Dolphins75
  • •The Dolphins75 has a specified 1000Hz polling rate for wired responsiveness.
  • •Its gasket mount and included foam layers may provide a more consistent typing feel.
  • •The 75% layout includes arrow keys and function row useful for many games.
OfficeDeadline Doys Pad
  • •The Doys Pad offers Bluetooth connectivity for easy switching between devices.
  • •Its programmable knobs and macros can streamline repetitive office tasks.
  • •It is highly portable at 300g and can be used alongside any existing keyboard.
ProgrammingKnife Lab Dolphins75
  • •The Dolphins75 provides a complete 75% layout with all essential keys for coding.
  • •VIA support allows for deep key remapping and layer programming.
  • •Its substantial build and gasket mount may offer a more comfortable long-term typing feel.
TravelDeadline Doys Pad
  • •The Doys Pad is extremely lightweight at 300g and measures only 23 x 87 x 95 mm.
  • •It features a 600mAh battery and Bluetooth 5.0 for cable-free use.
  • •Its small form factor makes it easy to pack in any bag.
ModdingTie
  • •Both keyboards support hot-swappable switches and VIA for firmware customization.
  • •The Dolphins75 is a DIY kit offering a gasket mount, multiple foam layers (Poron, IXPE), and plate options.
  • •The Doys Pad is also hot-swappable, includes two knobs, and offers RGB lighting for aesthetic customization.
Content CreationDeadline Doys Pad
  • •The Doys Pad's two programmable knobs are ideal for scrubbing timelines, adjusting brush size, or controlling volume.
  • •Its 8 programmable keys can be set for common shortcuts in editing software.
  • •Wireless operation reduces desk clutter.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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