Compare DOIO KB16 01 vs KB16 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers looking at the DOIO KB16 and KB16-01, two 16-key macropads with three knobs and an OLED screen. The decision is hard because they share the same form factor, switch and keycap compatibility, and firmware support. The key difference comes down to the mounting system and construction materials, which affects the typing feel, sound, and overall build quality.

Model
	85	84	Select a keyboard to compare
Rating	0.0 stars (0 reviews)	0.0 stars (0 reviews)
Purchase Options
Main differences	Released in 2022 Has Linear switch options Compatible with both Mac and Windows Uses a PCB Mount mounting style Weighs about 320 g Sized at 30 x 95 x 142 mm Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting	Released in 2025 Has built-in sound dampening Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
Score	Scores Performance: 67.7 Build Quality: 83.1 Productivity: 80.9 Customizability: 93.5 Portability: 71.6	Scores Performance: 65.8 Build Quality: 85.8 Productivity: 76.3 Customizability: 89.8 Portability: 67.1
Name	Name DOIO KB16 01	Name DOIO KB16
Release year	Release year 2022	Release year 2025
Switch Options	Switch Options Linear	Switch Options -
Profile	Profile Normal Profile	Profile Normal Profile
Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable
Layout Size	Layout Size Macropad	Layout Size Macropad
Layout Standard	Layout Standard ANSI	Layout Standard ANSI
Layout Ergonomics	Layout Ergonomics Normal	Layout Ergonomics Normal
Knob Support	Knob Support	Knob Support
Display Support	Display Support OLED	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 Wired, Wired only	Connection Wired, Wired only
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 PCB Mount	Mount Style Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers
Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening
Backlight	Backlight Rgb	Backlight Rgb, North-face
Case Colors	Case Colors	Case Colors
Case Material	Case Material Aluminum, Acrylic	Case Material Aluminum, Acrylic
Keycaps Material	Keycaps Material -	Keycaps Material -
Dimensions	Dimensions 30 x 95 x 142 mm	Dimensions -
Weight	Weight 320g	Weight -

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Pros and Trade-offs

Your choice comes down to the mounting system. The DOIO KB16 is the better pick if you value a quieter, more cushioned typing experience and plan to mod the board. The DOIO KB16-01 is the pragmatic choice for those who want a functional, programmable macropad with knobs and an OLED screen at a lower cost. Both are solid and rely on the same QMK/VIA ecosystem.

DOIO KB16 01

+Lower price point than the KB16, making it more accessible for a basic macro pad.
+The KB16-01 uses a PCB mount, which can feel more flexible and responsive for some users.
+Comes in eight color options including Yellow, Pink, and Light Gray for customization.
+Full programmability with QMK and VIA, compatible with Windows and macOS.

−Lacks the sound dampening and softer typing feel of a gasket mount system.
−Uses a PCB mount instead of a dedicated plate, which may feel less stable than the KB16's FR4 plate.
−A customer review noted difficulty with programming software, though others found it manageable with VIAL.

DOIO KB16

+Gasket mount with silicone structure, Poron, and shock-absorbing cotton layers for excellent sound control.
+Includes an FR4 plate and plate-mount switches, contributing to a stiffer, more consistent keypress.
+North-facing RGB LEDs for potentially better backlighting compatibility with some switch types.
+Pre-built with Gateron G Pro Yellow switches, known for smooth linear performance.

−Higher price point than the KB16-01, as noted by the vendor at approximately 83 Euros.
−Lighting firmware (v2.0) cannot be adjusted via VIA and requires on-keyboard key combinations for real-time changes.
−Slightly heavier than the KB16-01 at an unspecified weight, though still compact.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

For gamers and modders, the DOIO KB16's gasket mount and FR4 plate provide a more refined and stable experience. Office workers will also appreciate its quieter operation. For travel, the KB16-01's slightly lower weight gives it a minor edge. For programming and content creation, the core features are identical, making either a solid choice. The KB16-01 is a more budget-friendly option for those who prioritize the basic features over the enhanced mounting system.

GamingDOIO KB16

•Gasket mount construction with Poron and shock-absorbing cotton layers for a quieter, more cushioned feel during intense use.
•FR4 plate adds a stiffer, more responsive keypress compared to a PCB mount.
•North-facing RGB LEDs provide better compatibility with certain switch designs for backlighting.

OfficeDOIO KB16

•Silicone gasket structure with sound dampening results in a lower noise profile, which is beneficial in shared workspaces.
•Comes pre-built with Gateron G Pro Yellow switches, known for a smooth linear feel suitable for repetitive keystrokes.

ProgrammingTie

•Both support QMK and VIA firmware for full programmability with 4 layers.
•Both feature an OLED screen and three knobs for macro control, aiding in workflow navigation.
•Both are hot-swappable, allowing easy switch changes for preferred typing feel.

TravelDOIO KB16 01

•Slightly lighter weight at 320g compared to the KB16, making it marginally easier to transport.
•Dimensions are identical to the KB16, but the L x W x H of 14.2x9.5x3cm is compact for a small bag.

ModdingDOIO KB16

•Gasket mount design offers a mod-friendly platform for experimenting with different plate materials and foam configurations.
•Includes an FR4 plate and sound dampening layers as a strong starting point for further modifications.
•North-facing RGB provides more flexibility for switch and keycap compatibility.

Content CreationTie

•Both models have three clickable CNC aluminum knobs, ideal for timeline scrubbing, volume control, and brush sizing.
•The OLED screen on both shows layer information, helpful when switching between editing presets.
•VIA software allows mapping custom shortcuts for editing software on all 16 keys.