Mechboards MakotoKurauchi Helix Split vs Plaid KitSplit vs Compact 40% Ortho
The Helix Split is the choice if you want a hot-swappable split ortholinear layout, while the Plaid Kit is for purists who enjoy a compact through-hole soldering project.
KeebFinder may earn a commission when you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Which one should you get?
Get the
Mechboards MakotoKurauchi Helix Split
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.
Get the
Mechboards Plaid Kit
Compact 40% Ortho
Build quality in the bottom 40% of 40% boards under $150.
- 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.
- Switches are soldered. Swapping them means soldering.
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.
The differences that matter
Skip the 40-row spec sheet. These are the specs that change how each board feels, sounds, and fits your desk.
Mechboards MakotoKurauchi Helix Split
Mechboards Plaid Kit
Hot-swappable
Yes
No
Switch changes without soldering
Ergonomics
Ortholinear, Split
Ortholinear
QMK
No
Yes
The deep option when you want to remap every key
- Mechboards MakotoKurauchi Helix Split
- Mechboards Plaid Kit
- Performance
- 4542
- Build quality
- 5958
- Productivity
- 5747
- Customizability
- 5754
- Portability
- 4361
What will you mostly use it for?
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.
Pick the Mechboards 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.
Mechboards MakotoKurauchi Helix Split vs Plaid Kit specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
3 of 10 specs differ
Mechboards MakotoKurauchi Helix Split
Mechboards Plaid Kit
Hot-swappable
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Display
Case material
Plate material
Backlight
QMK
Released
Compare prices
Live prices from the stores we track, cheapest in-stock offer first.
Prices in USD are converted to your currency and can change at any time. KeebFinder may earn a commission when you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Lowest price across stores, Amazon excluded.
- Check on Amazon
Amazon
Check price
Mechboards MakotoKurauchi Helix Split vs Plaid Kit: your questions
The Helix Split with the hotswap option is more beginner-friendly because it avoids soldering switches. The Plaid Kit requires through-hole soldering of all components, and a reviewer noted it was challenging to complete, especially the firmware side.
No, both are barebones kits. The Helix Split requires you to buy 70 switches, 2 controllers, and keycaps separately. The Plaid Kit requires you to purchase 50 switches, and a reviewer mentioned receiving an incorrect number of diodes and missing nuts.
The Plaid Kit has QMK firmware support, allowing deep keymap and macro customization. The Helix Split does not list QMK support in its specifications or vendor description.
The vendor states that the Helix Hotswap version is currently not Choc compatible, so low-profile switches will not work with the hotswap variant.
According to the vendor descriptions, the Helix Split needs 70 switches, and the Plaid Kit needs 50 switches. These are not included in the kit.
The Plaid Kit is more portable due to its compact 40% size and use of only 50 switches. The Helix Split is larger as it has two separate halves.
No, neither keyboard has RGB lighting. Both the Helix Split and Plaid Kit specifications list RGB as absent.
The Plaid Kit has a higher build quality score based on the provided data, and it uses through-hole components with a PCB. The Helix Split uses a combination of plastic and metal case material with an FR4 plate.
Only the Helix Split offers a hotswap version that allows switch changes without soldering. The Plaid Kit requires desoldering and resoldering to change switches.
The Helix Split is priced between $50-$60, while the Plaid Kit is priced at $55. However, the Helix Split requires 70 switches and 2 controllers, while the Plaid Kit needs 50 switches, making the Plaid Kit potentially cheaper to complete.
Yes, the Helix Split has 1 review on the vendor site, and the Plaid Kit has 2 reviews. The Helix review is positive, while Plaid Kit reviews mention it is a fun but challenging build with potential inventory issues.
The Plaid Kit is a good choice for learning through-hole soldering, as it uses through-hole components and has a build guide. However, reviewers note it is not for the faint-hearted and requires troubleshooting. The Helix Split basic version also requires soldering but offers a hotswap option.
Not sold on either?
Still torn?
Answer a few quick questions and the keyboard finder ranks 2,000+ boards by how you will actually use yours.