Mechboards Lily58 vs Sofle V2
Choose the Lily58 for a more compact split layout with RGB, or the Sofle V2 for a larger layout with dedicated encoder support.
Which one should you get?
Get the
Mechboards Lily58
- Includes per-key and underglow RGB lighting.
- Compact 4-key thumb cluster design.
- Kit includes components for RGB and OLED screens.
- Lacks dedicated encoder support mentioned for the Sofle V2.
- Requires soldering for the standard hotswap kit (though R2G version exists).
Get the
Mechboards Sofle V2
Knob
- Includes dedicated encoder and knob support.
- Described as a low-profile layout in its metadata.
- Acrylic case material, as per metadata.
- No RGB lighting according to its metadata.
- Requires soldering for the standard hotswap kit.
Your primary need dictates the choice. If you want lighting effects and a slightly more compact split, the Lily58 is the clear pick. If you prioritize having a physical encoder for media control or creative work and prefer a low-profile design, the Sofle V2 is the better option. Both are excellent entry points into ergonomic split keyboards.
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 Lily58
Mechboards Sofle V2
Low profile
No
Yes
Case material
Plastic, Steel
Acrylic, Plastic
Knob
No
Yes
Display
OLED
Yes
Backlight
RGB
None
- Mechboards Lily58
- Mechboards Sofle V2
- Performance
- 5546
- Build quality
- 6659
- Productivity
- 5358
- Customizability
- 7265
- Portability
- 6767
- Connection: Wired
- Hot-swappable
- Ergonomics: Split
- Plate material: FR4
- Keycaps: ABS
What will you mostly use it for?
The Sofle V2 takes a slight edge for productivity-focused tasks like office work and content creation due to its encoder. The Lily58 is favored for gaming and travel, benefiting from its RGB and slightly more compact layout. For programming and modding, the keyboards are closely matched, offering similar core ergonomic and customization features.
Pick the Mechboards Lily58
- The Lily58 includes per-key and underglow RGB lighting.
- Its slightly more compact layout may allow for more mouse space.
- Both share the same hot-swap capability for switch experimentation.
Mechboards Lily58 vs Sofle V2 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
5 of 13 specs differ
Mechboards Lily58
Mechboards Sofle V2
Hot-swappable
Low profile
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Knob
Display
Connection
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Backlight
Released
Compare prices
Live prices from the stores we track, cheapest in-stock offer first.
Lowest price across stores, Amazon excluded.
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.
Mechboards Lily58 vs Sofle V2: your questions
The main differences are layout and features. The Lily58 has a 4-key thumb cluster and includes RGB lighting. The Sofle V2 has encoder support and is described with a low-profile layout, but lacks RGB.
The standard offering is a DIY kit requiring soldering. However, Mechboards offers 'Ready2Go' (R2G) pre-soldered PCB versions and fully assembled 'Pre-Build' options for both models, though these may be subject to pre-order or stock levels.
Yes. The vendor, Mechboards, sells both wired and wireless kit versions for the Lily58 and Sofle V2. The wireless kits include nRF52840 BLE controllers and batteries.
You need a specific set for split column-staggered layouts. For MX switches, the vendor recommends their DSA split blank set or similar. For Choc V1 switches, they recommend MBK Glow or MBK Ergo keycaps.
Both the Lily58 and Sofle V2 require 58 switches. The vendor notes that their switches are sold in packs of 10, so you would need to purchase 6 packs.
The standard DIY kits include Mill Max socket pins to allow you to socket the controllers, making them removable. The R2G versions have controllers baked onto the PCB and cannot be upgraded or removed.
Both keyboards support QMK and VIA firmware for remapping. The vendor's R2G and Pre-Build versions come pre-flashed with VIA-compatible firmware.
No. According to the provided specifications, the Mechboards Sofle V2 does not have RGB lighting. The Lily58 does include per-key and underglow RGB.
Both kits include hotswap PCBs, FR4 switch plates, frosted acrylic bottom plates, diodes, hotswap sockets, reset buttons, standoffs, and feet. The wired kits add RP2040 controllers, OLED screens and sockets, TRRS jacks, and a basic TRRS cable.
Yes. Both the Lily58 and Sofle V2 are available in specific 'Choc' variants designed for Kailh Choc V1 low-profile switches. You must purchase the correct kit version.
Yes, for the wired DIY kits. The vendor's parts list for the wired Lily58 and Sofle V2 includes OLED screens and sockets. The wireless kits include MiP displays instead.
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.