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Compare DOIO KB16 01 vs KB16B 02 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for users deciding between two highly similar DOIO macro pads. Both share a core feature set: 16 hot-swappable keys, three aluminum knobs, an OLED screen, and programmability via VIA/QMK. The choice is difficult because they are built from the same 6063 anodized aluminum and acrylic materials. The decision ultimately hinges on whether you need wireless connectivity and expanded layers, or prefer a simpler, potentially more affordable wired device.

85
DOIO KB16-01 Macro Keyboard 16 Keys + 3 Knob Macro Pad
85
DOIO KB16B-02 Macro Keyboard Updated Macro Pad

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  • Released in 2022
  • Uses a PCB Mount mounting style
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Weighs about 320 g
  • Sized at 30 x 95 x 142 mm
  • Released in 2023
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Weighs about 490 g
  • Sized at 30 x 142 x 95 mm
Scores
  • Performance: 67.7
  • Build Quality: 83.1
  • Productivity: 80.8
  • Customizability: 93.4
  • Portability: 71.6
Scores
  • Performance: 67.6
  • Build Quality: 80.5
  • Productivity: 80.8
  • Customizability: 93.4
  • Portability: 86.8
Name
DOIO KB16 01
Name
DOIO KB16B 02
Release year
2022
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Linear
Switch Options
Linear
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
Macropad
Layout Size
Macropad
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
OLED
Display Support
 
OLED
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Connection
Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
-
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
PCB Mount
Mount Style
-
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum, Acrylic
Case Material
Aluminum, Acrylic
Keycaps Material
-
Keycaps Material
-
Dimensions
30 x 95 x 142 mm
Dimensions
30 x 142 x 95 mm
Weight
320g
Weight
490g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your choice between these DOIO macro pads comes down to connectivity and software depth. If your setup is stationary and you only need basic macro layers, the wired KB1601 is a capable and potentially more affordable choice. If you want to reduce cable clutter, switch between devices wirelessly, or require extensive key mapping across nine layers, the KB16B02 is worth the extra investment. For modders, both offer an identical foundation.

DOIO KB16 01

  • +Lower cost option for a fully-featured macro pad.
  • +Lighter weight at 320 grams.
  • +Includes all essential macro pad features: 3 knobs, OLED, hot-swap, and VIA programming.
  • +Simpler setup with wired-only connectivity, avoiding potential Bluetooth pairing issues.
  • −Wired-only connectivity limits placement and device switching.
  • −Supports only 4 programmable layers, fewer than the KB16B02.
  • −Lacks the wireless flexibility of the updated model.

DOIO KB16B 02

  • +Dual-mode connectivity with both wired USB-C and wireless Bluetooth.
  • +Supports up to 9 programmable layers, more than double the KB1601.
  • +Maintains all core features: 3 aluminum knobs, OLED screen, and hot-swappable PCB.
  • +Offers freedom from cables for a cleaner desk setup.
  • −Higher price point compared to the wired model.
  • −Heavier at 490 grams, which may affect portability slightly.
  • −Wireless functionality adds complexity, with some user reviews noting initial setup challenges.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The DOIO KB16B02 is the more versatile choice, winning in office, programming, travel, and content creation scenarios due to its wireless connectivity and expanded 9-layer programmability. For gaming and modding, the two pads are effectively tied, offering identical physical controls and modding potential. The core decision point is whether you value the wireless freedom and extra layers enough to choose the KB16B02 over the simpler, wired KB1601.

GamingTie
  • •Both offer identical wired connectivity for consistent latency.
  • •Both feature the same 16 hot-swappable keys and three knobs for mapping game commands.
  • •Both are programmable via VIA/QMK for creating game-specific profiles.
OfficeDOIO KB16B 02
  • •The KB16B02 offers Bluetooth connectivity for easier switching between multiple devices like a laptop and desktop.
  • •Its support for up to 9 programmable layers, versus 4 on the KB1601, allows for more complex office automation setups.
  • •Wireless operation reduces cable clutter on a desk.
ProgrammingDOIO KB16B 02
  • •The KB16B02's 9 programmable layers provide vastly more space for coding shortcuts, IDE commands, and terminal functions.
  • •Bluetooth connectivity allows it to be paired with a secondary machine or tablet for reference material without cable swapping.
  • •Both share the same core programmability via VIA/QMK for customization.
TravelDOIO KB16B 02
  • •The KB16B02's wireless capability means one less cable to carry and manage.
  • •It can connect to a laptop via Bluetooth, preserving the laptop's USB port for other uses.
  • •Both share the same compact footprint, but the KB16B02 is heavier at 490g versus 320g.
ModdingTie
  • •Both have hot-swappable sockets compatible with 3-pin and 5-pin MX-style switches.
  • •Both use the same XDA profile keycaps and Gateron G Yellow Pro switches as a starting point.
  • •Both feature an identical case construction of 6063 anodized aluminum and a translucent acrylic base.
Content CreationDOIO KB16B 02
  • •The three knobs on both are ideal for timeline scrubbing, brush adjustments, or volume control.
  • •The KB16B02's 9 layers allow for separate profiles for different creative apps like Photoshop, Premiere, and DaVinci Resolve.
  • •Wireless connectivity offers a cleaner setup for filming or streaming.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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