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Compare sam Notfromsam S46 R3 vs Notfromsam S46 R2 Differences Side by Side

This comparison helps buyers decide between the Notfromsam S46 Revision 3 and Revision 2, two 40% top-mount barebones kits from sam. The decision is difficult because both share a nearly identical layout, dimensions, and top-mount design, but differ in connectivity, materials, and included accessories. The R3 introduces 2.4 GHz wireless, a full-perimeter RGB strip, and added switch foam for improved acoustics. The R2 offers a brass bottom case option and a POM plate, and is stocked and ready to ship from vendors.

76
[Group-Buy] Notfromsam S46 R3 - Barebones Keyboard Kit
75
Notfromsam S46 R2 - Barebones Keyboard Kit

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  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Weighs about 600 g
  • Made with a Aluminum, Polycarbonate, Copper case
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Made with a Aluminum, Polycarbonate, Brass case
Scores
  • Performance: 62.2
  • Build Quality: 81.2
  • Productivity: 60
  • Customizability: 80.2
  • Portability: 80.1
Scores
  • Performance: 61.2
  • Build Quality: 82.3
  • Productivity: 53.3
  • Customizability: 79.3
  • Portability: 84.2
Name
sam Notfromsam S46 R3
Name
sam Notfromsam S46 R2
Release year
2026
Release year
2026
Switch Options
-
Switch Options
-
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
40%
Layout Size
40%
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, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
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
Top Mount
Mount Style
Top Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum, Polycarbonate, Copper
Case Material
Aluminum, Polycarbonate, Brass
Keycaps Material
-
Keycaps Material
-
Dimensions
28 x 264 x 98 mm
Dimensions
28 x 264 x 98 mm
Weight
600g
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

The Notfromsam S46 R3 is the better choice if you want the latest features: 2.4 GHz wireless, a full-perimeter RGB strip, and improved sound dampening. The trade-off is a long group-buy wait and no brass weight option. The R2 is ideal if you want a brass bottom case or need a keyboard immediately, as it is in stock and ready to ship.

sam Notfromsam S46 R3

  • +Tri-mode connectivity includes 2.4 GHz for lower-latency wireless performance
  • +Full-perimeter RGB strip provides a more even and immersive underglow
  • +Includes custom carrying case and switch foam for improved portability and acoustics
  • +Carbon fiber battery plate included for cleaner internal cable management
  • +Multiple new color options for the anodized and coated top cases
  • −Group-buy model with estimated shipping in Q3 2026, which requires a long wait
  • −Excluded from free shipping on the vendor's site, adding to the effective cost
  • −No brass bottom case option available like the R2's brass variant

sam Notfromsam S46 R2

  • +Brass bottom case option available, increasing the total weight to around 1kg for a more premium feel
  • +Includes a POM plate in addition to the PC plate, providing two plate material choices
  • +Immediately available to ship within 1-3 business days from the vendor
  • +30-day return policy gives buyers more purchase confidence
  • −Limited to Bluetooth and wired connectivity, no 2.4 GHz wireless mode
  • −No full-perimeter RGB strip, only RGB underglow
  • −Higher starting price point for the base kit compared to the R3 group-buy price

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The R3 wins for gaming, office, travel, and modding due to its 2.4 GHz mode, full-perimeter RGB, included carrying case, and acoustic foam upgrades. Both keyboards tie for programming and content creation, as the 40% layout is a significant constraint regardless of revision, but both offer full remapping via VIA. The R2 remains competitive for modding only if a brass bottom or POM plate is preferred.

Gamingsam Notfromsam S46 R3
  • •Offers a 2.4 GHz wireless mode, which can provide a more stable low-latency connection compared to Bluetooth alone
  • •Includes a full-perimeter RGB strip for customizable lighting effects
  • •Features a tri-mode hot-swappable PCB for flexible connectivity
Officesam Notfromsam S46 R3
  • •2.4 GHz connectivity offers a reliable wireless option for a clutter-free desk without Bluetooth pairing issues
  • •Improved battery layout and low-power components may lead to longer battery life between charges
  • •Added switch foam helps dampen typing noise, which is beneficial in shared workspaces
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both keyboards feature a 40% ANSI layout, which requires heavy reliance on layers and may not suit all programmers
  • •Both offer VIA support, allowing users to fully remap keys and create custom layers
  • •Both share the same 7 degree typing angle and front height of 18 mm
Travelsam Notfromsam S46 R3
  • •The R3 includes a custom carrying case in the box, making it easier to transport safely
  • •Tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, wired) provides more options for use with laptops and tablets while mobile
  • •Weighs approximately 600g with the standard PC bottom case, similar to the R2, but the R3's carrying case adds protection
Moddingsam Notfromsam S46 R3
  • •The barebones kit includes a tri-mode flex-cut PCB, allowing for more flexible gasket-like feel experiments
  • •Comes with a carbon fiber battery plate and an additional switch foam layer for sound tuning
  • •Includes a detachable brass badge that can be swapped or customized
  • •Offers more color choices for the top case, including Glacier Blue and Ember Orange
Content CreationTie
  • •Both are a 40% layout, which may be too compact for efficient editing workflows without external numpads or macro pads
  • •Both support VIA remapping, allowing creators to assign shortcuts to layers if they can adapt to the small form factor
  • •Neither vendor description mentions a scroll wheel, encoder, or macro column that would benefit content creation

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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