Compare KEEBD Lily58 Pro vs Mechboards Sofle V2 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two popular, similarly priced DIY split keyboard kits. Both are column-staggered, low-profile designs with hot-swap sockets, rotary encoder support, and OLED screens. The decision is difficult because they share a core philosophy but differ significantly in what's included in the kit and the potential build complexity. Your choice will hinge on your comfort with sourcing parts and your desire for specific features like per-key RGB.

Model
		64	Select a keyboard to compare
Rating	0.0 stars (0 reviews)	0.0 stars (0 reviews)
Purchase Options
Main differences	Released in 2022 Has Tactile switch options Uses a PCB Mount mounting style	Released in 2021 Connects via USB-C Features ABS keycaps
Score	Scores Performance: 39.7 Build Quality: 52.3 Productivity: 56.3 Customizability: 67.7 Portability: 63.3	Scores Performance: 45.9 Build Quality: 59.9 Productivity: 58.5 Customizability: 66.5 Portability: 67
Name	Name KEEBD Lily58 Pro	Name Mechboards Sofle V2
Release year	Release year 2022	Release year 2021
Switch Options	Switch Options Tactile	Switch Options -
Profile	Profile Low Profile	Profile Low Profile
Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable
Layout Size	Layout Size Other	Layout Size Other
Layout Standard	Layout Standard ANSI	Layout Standard ANSI
Layout Ergonomics	Layout Ergonomics Split	Layout Ergonomics Split
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 Wired, Wired only	Connection Wired, Wired only
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 PCB Mount	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 Acrylic, Plastic	Case Material Acrylic, Plastic
Keycaps Material	Keycaps Material -	Keycaps Material ABS
Dimensions	Dimensions -	Dimensions -
Weight	Weight -	Weight -

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Pros and Trade-offs

For most buyers, the Mechboards Sofle V2 is the more practical choice as its kit includes critical components like controllers and screens, reducing the need to source parts. Choose the KEEBD Lily58 Pro if you prefer its specific 56-key layout or already have controllers you wish to use. Ultimately, your willingness to manage a parts list versus wanting a more all-in-one kit will guide this decision.

KEEBD Lily58 Pro

+Kit includes SMD diodes and tactile switches for reset buttons.
+Includes specific parts for OLED and controller socketing (headers and sockets).
+Based on a well-documented open-source design by Naoki Katahira.

−Requires the user to source Pro Micro controllers separately.
−The included TRRS cable may be short, according to a customer review.
−Kit does not include keycaps, switches, or controllers.

Mechboards Sofle V2

+Kit includes controllers (RP2040), OLED screens, and a TRRS cable for the wired version.
+Supports per-key RGB and underglow lighting, according to the vendor.
+Includes Mill Max socket pins and controller sockets for hot-swapping components.
+Adhesive rubber feet are included in the kit.

−The vendor notes the Choc kit's FR4 plate is modified, which may limit aftermarket plate compatibility.
−Like the Lily58, it does not include switches or keycaps.
−Wireless capability requires purchasing the specific wireless kit variant.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Mechboards Sofle V2 holds a slight edge in more categories due to its extra keys and included features like per-key RGB and rubber feet. It wins for Programming, Office use, Modding, and Content Creation. The kits tie for Gaming and Travel, as both share core wired, split characteristics that present similar trade-offs for those uses. Your preference for a specific key count or lighting will be the deciding factor.

GamingTie

•Both are wired-only, eliminating wireless latency concerns.
•Both use a split, low-profile layout which is non-traditional for gaming.
•Neither kit includes switches or keycaps, leaving performance to user choice.

OfficeMechboards Sofle V2

•The Sofle V2 kit explicitly includes adhesive rubber feet for desk stability.
•Its vendor description mentions a pre-built option is sometimes available for immediate use.
•Both have OLED screens for displaying layer or system information.

ProgrammingMechboards Sofle V2

•The Sofle V2 has 58 keys (6x4+5) versus the Lily58's 56 keys (6x4+4), offering two additional thumb keys.
•Both support extensive firmware customization via QMK/VIA for layers and macros.
•The split design can reduce strain during long coding sessions.

TravelTie

•Both are split designs that can be separated, potentially packing flatter.
•Neither has a built-in battery or wireless capability in their standard wired kit form.
•Both use acrylic and FR4 plates, making them relatively lightweight.

ModdingMechboards Sofle V2

•The Sofle V2 kit includes per-key RGB and underglow lighting support according to its vendor page.
•Its kit includes Mill Max socket pins for controller hot-swapping.
•Both are hot-swappable and support rotary encoders, offering a solid base for customization.

Content CreationMechboards Sofle V2

•The Sofle V2's extra two keys can be mapped to application-specific shortcuts.
•The included rotary encoder is useful for scrubbing timelines or adjusting brush size.
•Per-key RGB support, mentioned for the Sofle V2, can be used for visual layer indication.