Compare DOIO KB16 vs KB16B 02 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for users deciding between two versions of DOIO's popular 16-key triple-knob macropad. The choice is difficult because both share core features like hot-swap sockets, QMK/VIA programmability, an OLED screen, and three aluminum knobs. The decision primarily hinges on whether you value wireless connectivity and expanded programmability or a potentially more refined typing feel at a lower price point.

Model
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Rating	0.0 stars (0 reviews)	0.0 stars (0 reviews)
Purchase Options
Main differences	Released in 2025 Has built-in sound dampening Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting	Released in 2023 Has Linear switch options Compatible with both Mac and Windows Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity Weighs about 490 g Sized at 30 x 142 x 95 mm Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
Score	Scores Performance: 65.8 Build Quality: 85.7 Productivity: 76.3 Customizability: 89.7 Portability: 67.1	Scores Performance: 67.6 Build Quality: 80.5 Productivity: 80.8 Customizability: 93.4 Portability: 86.8
Name	Name DOIO KB16	Name DOIO KB16B 02
Release year	Release year 2025	Release year 2023
Switch Options	Switch Options -	Switch Options Linear
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 Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless
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 Gasket Mount	Mount Style -
Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers
Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening
Backlight	Backlight Rgb, North-face	Backlight Rgb
Case Colors	Case Colors	Case Colors
Case Material	Case Material Aluminum, Acrylic	Case Material Aluminum, Acrylic
Keycaps Material	Keycaps Material -	Keycaps Material -
Dimensions	Dimensions -	Dimensions 30 x 142 x 95 mm
Weight	Weight -	Weight 490g

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Pros and Trade-offs

Your need for wireless operation is the deciding factor. The DOIO KB16B02 is the superior all-around tool if you want to use the macropad with multiple devices or in a cable-free setup, and its 9 layers offer immense macro capacity. Opt for the original DOIO KB16 if your setup is permanently wired, you prefer the potential acoustic benefits of its gasket mount, and you want to spend less.

DOIO KB16

+Features a silicone gasket mount structure with Poron and shock-absorbing cotton layers for a potentially more refined typing feel.
+Uses a translucent acrylic bottom case that may allow for underglow lighting effects.
+Reportedly available at a lower price point than the KB16B02.
+Includes XDA profile keycaps and Gateron G Pro Yellow switches pre-installed.

−Wired-only connectivity (USB-C) limits placement and device switching flexibility.
−Supports only 4 programmable layers, fewer than the KB16B02's 9.
−The vendor listing indicates limited stock availability for many color options.

DOIO KB16B 02

+Offers dual-mode connectivity with both wired USB-C and wireless Bluetooth.
+Supports up to 9 programmable layers, more than double the KB16's capacity.
+Wireless operation and a 490g weight make it suitable for portable use.
+Vendor description lists a wide range of available color options.

−Vendor listings show it is frequently out of stock.
−Lacks the specific gasket mount with sound-dampening foams described for the KB16.
−Some user reviews mention a learning curve for initial setup and Bluetooth pairing.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The KB16B02 is the clear choice for mobile and multi-device workflows like office use, programming, travel, and content creation, thanks to its wireless Bluetooth mode and expanded 9-layer programmability. For stationary setups focused purely on modding or gaming, the keyboards are closely matched, with the KB16 offering a potentially more premium typing experience due to its gasket mount design at a lower cost. The core programmability and triple-knob layout are strengths shared by both.

GamingTie

•Both have 16 hot-swappable keys and three programmable knobs for mapping controls.
•Both support QMK/VIA for low-latency key remapping.
•The wired-only KB16 offers a consistent connection, while the KB16B02's wireless mode offers desk clutter reduction.

OfficeDOIO KB16B 02

•KB16B02 offers Bluetooth and wired connectivity for easy switching between devices.
•It supports up to 9 programmable layers versus the KB16's 4, allowing for more complex shortcuts.
•Wireless operation reduces cable clutter on a desk.

ProgrammingDOIO KB16B 02

•KB16B02's 9 programmable layers provide vastly more space for coding shortcuts and macros.
•Wireless connectivity allows easy pairing with multiple machines or laptops.
•Both share core programmability via QMK and VIA.

TravelDOIO KB16B 02

•KB16B02's Bluetooth mode operates without a cable, ideal for use with laptops on the go.
•It has a specified weight of 490g, giving a sense of its portability.
•The lack of a required cable makes it more convenient for mobile setups.

ModdingTie

•Both feature hot-swappable PCBs for easy switch changes.
•Both are fully programmable with QMK and VIA open-source firmware.
•Both use an FR4 plate and have north-facing RGB LEDs.

Content CreationDOIO KB16B 02

•KB16B02's 9 layers are superior for mapping numerous video/audio editing shortcuts.
•Wireless connectivity offers flexible placement away from the main computer.
•Three aluminum knobs on both models are ideal for timeline scrubbing or parameter adjustment.