ptdc Cheerz vs zFrontier Zan 40Layout Flexibility vs Custom Plates

The core difference is in their customization philosophy. The Cheerz focuses on physical layout flexibility, offering Alice, ortholinear, and staggered layouts in one kit. The Zan 40 focuses on aesthetic customization, offering a variety of decorative titanium and PVD backplates for a traditional 40% split spacebar layout.

No, according to the vendor listing, the 2.4 GHz dongle for the Cheerz is a separate purchase. The kit supports tri-mode connectivity, but you must buy the dongle to enable the 2.4 GHz wireless function.

The specifications for the Zan 40 list only ANSI as the layout standard. The vendor description does not mention ISO support, so it is designed for ANSI keycap sets.

The zFrontier Zan 40 might be slightly more approachable due to its more standard 40% layout. The ptdc Cheerz offers incredible flexibility but requires more decision-making regarding layout, top case style, and bottom housing, which could be overwhelming for a novice.

Yes, both the ptdc Cheerz and the zFrontier Zan 40 list VIAL support in their features. This means you can remap keys and adjust settings in real-time through the VIAL graphical interface without compiling firmware.

The zFrontier Zan 40 product listing specifies that it includes screw-in stabilizers. These are generally considered more stable and less prone to rattling than clip-in stabilizers.

The ptdc Cheerz case is made from 6063 aluminum for the top and an acrylic bottom housing, as per the vendor specifications. The bottom housing also comes in themed designs like 'Tipsy (Character)' or 'Hangover (Empty Bottle)'.

The Cheerz is described as having an 'Alice-like' layout with a 7-degree Alice angle. However, its universal plate also supports purely ortholinear or traditional staggered layouts, making it a hybrid design.

The ptdc Cheerz includes a more comprehensive foam set according to its listing. This set includes battery compartment foam, bottom housing foam, a PCB switch film, plate foam, and light blocking foam insets.

Yes, the Zan 40 product listing shows a 'Wire Only' PCB option during configuration. This allows you to build a purely wired keyboard without any wireless components or batteries.

The vendor specifications for the ptdc Cheerz list a typing angle of 9 degrees. It also has a separate Alice angle of 7 degrees for its ergonomic configuration.

No, both the ptdc Cheerz and zFrontier Zan 40 are sold as DIY barebones kits. This means you need to purchase mechanical switches and keycaps separately to complete the build.