Compare Mechboards MakotoKurauchi Helix Split vs Plaid Kit Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for DIY keyboard enthusiasts choosing between two distinct ortholinear builds from Mechboards. The Helix Split offers a split layout with a hotswap option and an FR4 plate case, making it more approachable for those who want to avoid soldering switches. The Plaid Kit is a 40% keyboard that requires through-hole soldering of all components, appealing to hobbyists who enjoy a hands-on build. The decision is hard because both are barebones kits at a similar price point, but they serve very different preferences for layout, assembly, and customizability.

Model
			Select a keyboard to compare
Rating	0.0 stars (0 reviews)	0.0 stars (0 reviews)
Purchase Options
Main differences	Supports hot-swappable switches Made with a Plastic, Metal case	Available in a 40% layout Supports QMK firmware
Score	Scores Performance: 41.7 Build Quality: 51.8 Productivity: 50.7 Customizability: 52.7 Portability: 41.5	Scores Performance: 41.9 Build Quality: 58.6 Productivity: 46.9 Customizability: 55.3 Portability: 60.4
Name	Name Mechboards MakotoKurauchi Helix Split	Name Mechboards Plaid Kit
Release year	Release year 2021	Release year 2021
Switch Options	Switch Options -	Switch Options -
Profile	Profile Normal Profile	Profile Normal Profile
Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable
Layout Size	Layout Size Unknown	Layout Size 40%
Layout Standard	Layout Standard ANSI	Layout Standard ANSI
Layout Ergonomics	Layout Ergonomics Ortholinear	Layout Ergonomics Ortholinear
Knob Support	Knob Support	Knob Support
Display Support	Display Support	Display Support
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	Connection
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 -	Mount Style -
Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers
Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening
Backlight	Backlight	Backlight
Case Colors	Case Colors	Case Colors
Case Material	Case Material Plastic, Metal	Case Material -
Keycaps Material	Keycaps Material -	Keycaps Material -
Dimensions	Dimensions -	Dimensions -
Weight	Weight -	Weight -

*Something incorrect or missing? Please

let me know

!

Pros and Trade-offs

Choose the Mechboards MakotoKurauchi Helix Split if you want an ergonomic split layout with the option to hot-swap switches, ideal for reducing strain and experimenting. Opt for the Mechboards Plaid Kit if you enjoy a compact, through-hole soldering project and want deep QMK firmware customization in a portable 40% form factor. Your decision comes down to whether split ergonomics or minimalist size matters more for your build.

Mechboards MakotoKurauchi Helix Split

+Split ortholinear layout for improved ergonomics and shoulder-width hand placement.
+Hotswap version available, allowing switch changes without soldering.
+FR4 plate case included in the kit, adding structural rigidity.
+Uses two controllers for independent half operation.

−Requires 70 switches and 2 controllers to complete, adding to total cost.
−Basic version requires soldering of all components.
−Hotswap version is not Choc (low-profile) compatible according to the vendor.
−Plastic case material may feel less premium than all-metal builds.

Mechboards Plaid Kit

+Compact 40% ortholinear layout is highly portable and saves desk space.
+QMK firmware support allows full keymap and macro customization.
+Through-hole soldering kit with Atmega328p, appealing to soldering enthusiasts.
+Uses fewer components (50 switches) than the Helix.

−Requires through-hole soldering of all components, not suitable for beginners.
−Reviews mention inventory issues with missing parts like diodes and nuts.
−No hotswap option, switch changes require desoldering.
−Build is described as tricky by a reviewer, especially the firmware and wiring side.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Helix Split wins in Gaming and Office due to its split layout and hotswap convenience. For Programming and Content Creation, both are tied with the Helix offering ergonomic advantages and the Plaid offering deep QMK customization. Modding favors the Helix for its hotswap ease, while Travel goes to the compact and lightweight Plaid Kit. Overall, the choice depends on whether you prioritize a split ergonomic layout or a minimalist portable design.

GamingMechboards MakotoKurauchi Helix Split

•Split layout allows for a more ergonomic shoulder-width hand placement.
•The Helix supports hot-swappable switches, making it easier to try different switch types for gaming.

OfficeMechboards MakotoKurauchi Helix Split

•Split layout reduces wrist strain during long typing sessions.
•Hotswap capability allows easy switch replacement without soldering.

ProgrammingTie

•Both use ortholinear layouts which can improve typing efficiency.
•The Helix Split provides separate halves for comfortable coding.
•The Plaid Kit offers QMK firmware support for deep keymap customization.
•Both are barebones kits requiring assembly, appealing to technical users.

TravelMechboards Plaid Kit

•The Plaid Kit is a compact 40% keyboard, taking up less desk space.
•It uses only 50 switches, making it lighter and more portable.
•The through-hole construction is durable for transport.

ModdingMechboards MakotoKurauchi Helix Split

•The Helix Split offers a hotswap version, allowing switch swapping without soldering.
•The split design provides two independent PCBs for modular modding.
•The FR4 plate case is a baseline for experimentation.

Content CreationTie

•Both are barebones kits that allow full control over switch and keycap selection.
•The Helix Split offers a larger key layout across two halves.
•The Plaid Kit's QMK firmware allows advanced macro programming for editing workflows.