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Compare KBDFans KBD67 Lite R4 vs KBD67 Lite R3 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for builders deciding between two generations of a popular DIY 65% keyboard kit. The choice is difficult because both share core features like hot-swap PCBs, VIA/QMK support, and a similar form factor, but diverge on key modern amenities. The R4 introduces potential wireless connectivity, while the R3 offers per-key RGB backlighting as a standard feature.

83
KBD67 Lite R4 Kit (ANSI)
83
KBDFans KBD67 Lite R3 Mechanical Keyboard DIY Kit

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  • Released in 2025
  • Available in a Unknown layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO layout standard
  • Supports Wired, Wired only, Bluetooth, Wireless connectivity
  • Made with a ABS case
  • Offers No RGB lighting
  • Released in 2023
  • Available in a 60% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Uses a Plate Mount mounting style
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Made with a Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 49.3
  • Build Quality: 80.6
  • Productivity: 91.6
  • Customizability: 90.3
  • Portability: 52.5
Scores
  • Performance: 62.7
  • Build Quality: 78.6
  • Productivity: 91.5
  • Customizability: 90.2
  • Portability: 71.4
Name
KBDFans KBD67 Lite R4
Name
KBDFans KBD67 Lite R3
Release year
2025
Release year
2023
Switch Options
-
Switch Options
-
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
Unknown
Layout Size
60%
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO
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
Wired, Wired only, Bluetooth, Wireless
Connection
Wired, Wired only
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
-
Mount Style
Plate Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS
Case Material
Plastic
Keycaps Material
-
Keycaps Material
-
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
-
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your priority dictates the choice. If you need to connect to devices without a cable, the KBD67 Lite R4 is the clear option, despite its lack of RGB. If you want built-in lighting and a potentially quicker start with a pre-built option, the KBD67 Lite R3 remains a compelling kit. For all other aspects of the DIY building experience, both keyboards are functionally equivalent.

KBDFans KBD67 Lite R4

  • +Lists Bluetooth connectivity for wireless use.
  • +Kit includes foam damping elements for sound customization.
  • +Offers both ANSI and ISO layout support.
  • +Uses an ABS case and polycarbonate plate.

  • Lacks any form of RGB backlighting.
  • Is only available as a DIY kit, requiring switches and keycaps.
  • Connectivity is listed as both wired-only and Bluetooth, creating ambiguity.

KBDFans KBD67 Lite R3

  • +Includes an RGB hot-swap PCB for per-key lighting.
  • +Vendor lists it as available in a pre-built configuration.
  • +Comes with mute silicone internal dampeners.
  • +Offers numerous transparent and opaque color case options.

  • Lacks wireless connectivity, being wired-only.
  • Only supports the ANSI layout standard.
  • Mount style is specified as plate mount, which may limit some mods.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The R4 takes the lead for office and travel use due to its wireless capability, while the R3 is the pick for content creation because of its integrated RGB lighting. For gaming, programming, and modding, the keyboards are evenly matched, sharing their core DIY, programmable nature. The final decision hinges on whether wireless freedom or ready-made RGB is a higher priority.

GamingTie
  • Both have hot-swap PCBs for switch experimentation.
  • Both support VIA/QMK for key remapping.
  • The R3 includes RGB backlighting for visual customization.
  • The R4's potential wireless mode offers cable-free desk setup.
OfficeKBDFans KBD67 Lite R4
  • The R4 lists Bluetooth connectivity, allowing pairing with multiple devices.
  • Both support Mac and Windows operating systems.
  • The 65% layout saves desk space in shared environments.
ProgrammingTie
  • Both offer full programmability via VIA and QMK firmware.
  • The compact layout requires layers for missing keys, which both can handle.
  • Hot-swap capability allows for tuning switch feel for long typing sessions.
TravelKBDFans KBD67 Lite R4
  • The R4's listed Bluetooth connectivity enables use without a cable.
  • Both are compact 65% sized keyboards.
  • Both are DIY kits, so final weight depends on chosen switches and keycaps.
ModdingTie
  • Both are hot-swappable and support screw-in stabilizers.
  • Both include sound dampening materials (silicone dampeners in R3, foam elements in R4).
  • Both use a polycarbonate plate and support VIA/QMK for firmware mods.
  • Both are sold as kits, requiring user assembly.
Content CreationKBDFans KBD67 Lite R3
  • The R3 features RGB backlighting, which can be useful for low-light streaming or recording.
  • Programmable layers via VIA/QMK can be mapped to shortcuts.
  • The vendor description for the R3 lists it as a pre-built option, offering a quicker setup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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