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Compare Mechboards Ferris Sweep vs NIBBLE Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for builders deciding between two distinct DIY paths from Mechboards. The Ferris Sweep offers a unique, split, low-profile layout for ergonomic typing, while the NIBBLE provides a more conventional 65% form factor with added features like RGB and encoder support. The decision hinges on whether your priority is ergonomic layout or a fuller feature set in a standard size.

72
The Ferris Sweep
71
NIBBLE 65% Kit

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  • Released in 2022
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Features a low-profile design
  • Supports hot-swappable switches
  • Available in a Unknown layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Supports VIAL configuration
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Made with a Plastic, Metal case
  • Features ABS keycaps
  • Offers No RGB lighting
  • Released in 2021
  • Available in a 65% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Made with a Acrylic, Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 49.2
  • Build Quality: 73.8
  • Productivity: 58.7
  • Customizability: 78.9
  • Portability: 43.6
Scores
  • Performance: 53.1
  • Build Quality: 70.7
  • Productivity: 53.5
  • Customizability: 78
  • Portability: 59.1
Name
Mechboards Ferris Sweep
Name
Mechboards NIBBLE
Release year
2022
Release year
2021
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Switch Options
-
Profile
Low Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
Unknown
Layout Size
65%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO
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
Wired, Wired only
Connection
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
PCB Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Plastic, Metal
Case Material
Acrylic, Plastic
Keycaps Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
-
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
-
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your choice fundamentally comes down to layout philosophy. Opt for the Mechboards Ferris Sweep if you want to explore ergonomic split typing with a minimalist, lightweight kit. Choose the Mechboards NIBBLE if you prefer a traditional 65% keyboard and value added features like RGB, an encoder, and deeper hardware modding support straight from the kit. Consider your willingness to rely on layers versus having more immediate keys.

Mechboards Ferris Sweep

  • +Unique split, low-profile design for ergonomic typing posture.
  • +Extremely simple build with minimal components, according to the vendor description.
  • +Available as a pre-built option with Gateron switches and blank keycaps.
  • +Very lightweight construction, as mentioned in a user review.
  • +Hot-swappable design for easy switch changes.
  • −Very limited number of keys (34) requires heavy reliance on layers.
  • −Build may require sourcing a compatible TRRS cable, as one review noted the included cable was short.
  • −Lacks features like RGB lighting or encoder support.
  • −The lightweight FR4 case may feel less stable, a point noted in a user review.

Mechboards NIBBLE

  • +Versatile 65% layout with support for both ANSI and ISO standards.
  • +Includes underglow RGB LEDs and support for a rotary encoder.
  • +Explicitly supports screw-in PCB mount stabilizers for better modding.
  • +Vendor provides QMK firmware, source code, and PCB/acrylic STEP files for customization.
  • +Comes with more components like diodes, column driver ICs, and decoupling capacitors.
  • −Requires sourcing and installing 72 switches, more than the Ferris Sweep's 34.
  • −Needs separate purchase of stabilizers and an OLED screen if desired.
  • −Assembly involves soldering more components, including the controller and discrete parts.
  • −The acrylic and FR4 case construction may differ in feel from metal or solid plastic.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The NIBBLE wins in more categories, particularly where a standard layout, extra features like a knob and RGB, or more physical keys are beneficial, such as for gaming, office use, and content creation. The Ferris Sweep's primary advantage is for travel due to its split, low-profile form factor, and it ties for programming where ergonomics and custom firmware are equally valued. For modding, the NIBBLE's explicit support for premium stabilizers and provided design files gives it the edge.

GamingMechboards NIBBLE
  • •The NIBBLE's 65% layout provides dedicated arrow keys, which are commonly used in gaming.
  • •It includes support for a rotary encoder, which can be mapped to in-game functions.
  • •The NIBBLE features underglow RGB lighting.
OfficeMechboards NIBBLE
  • •The NIBBLE's standard 65% layout is more familiar for shared or multi-user office environments.
  • •The inclusion of a rotary encoder can be useful for controlling volume or scrolling through documents.
  • •Its ANSI and ISO layout support accommodates different regional keycap sets.
ProgrammingTie
  • •The Ferris Sweep's split design may reduce strain during long coding sessions.
  • •The NIBBLE offers more physical keys in its 65% layout, potentially reducing layer usage for symbols.
  • •Both kits support QMK for deep keymap customization, essential for programmer workflows.
TravelMechboards Ferris Sweep
  • •The Ferris Sweep is a low-profile design, making it potentially slimmer.
  • •Its split halves can be packed separately, conforming to bag shapes more easily.
  • •The kit is noted in reviews as being very light, aiding portability.
ModdingMechboards NIBBLE
  • •The NIBBLE explicitly supports screw-in stabilizers for improved modding.
  • •It includes underglow RGB LEDs and knob support for added customization options.
  • •The vendor provides PCB and acrylic STEP files for further modification.
Content CreationMechboards NIBBLE
  • •The NIBBLE's rotary encoder is advantageous for timeline scrubbing or brush size adjustment in creative software.
  • •The 65% layout with arrow keys is standard for shortcut-heavy workflows.
  • •Underglow RGB can be a visual customization point for streaming setups.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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