Mechboards MBUK Macro Pad Kit vs kingly keys RoMacOLED and Knob vs Simple Practice

The RoMac, especially the 'Fauxmac' version, is a feature-rich macropad with an OLED screen, rotary encoder support, and underglow LEDs. The MBUK is a simpler, 4-key kit designed primarily as an affordable soldering practice project with fewer components and no advanced features.

No. The MBUK kit includes the PCB, diodes, and four switches, but requires you to separately source a controller like a Pro Micro. The RoMac kit includes the PCB, RP2040 controller, and components like diodes and the OLED, but requires you to purchase 20 switches separately. Both require keycaps, solder, and tools.

The MBUK is often cited in reviews as a great first soldering project due to its low part count and cost. The vendor also promises to send extras if you make mistakes. The RoMac involves soldering more components like an OLED screen, which may be better suited as a second project after some practice.

Yes, both product listings and vendor descriptions confirm QMK support. The MBUK vendor page links directly to the QMK Configurator, and a RoMac reviewer mentions getting VIA (a QMK-based tool) working with their build.

No. Both the MBUK and RoMac are DIY soldering kits. The product metadata lists them as 'Diy Kit/Barebones', and the RoMac description states it is compatible with PCB mount switches, which require soldering.

For these kits, an ortholinear layout means the keys are arranged in a straight grid, rather than the staggered rows found on a standard keyboard. This is common for small macro pads and can make key locations easier to memorize for muscle memory.

It depends on the version. The 'Fauxmac' (RoMac+) version includes an FR4 switch plate. The standard 'RoMac' version does not include a plate, which according to a review, means you should use 5-pin PCB mount switches for stability.

The vendor description for the RoMac states the kit includes a 'wired RP2040 controller'. This is a popular modern microcontroller compatible with QMK. The MBUK kit does not include a controller.

It is possible but may require modification. An MBUK reviewer recommends socketing the controller to avoid soldering it directly. A RoMac reviewer notes that using sockets might prevent the acrylic middle piece from fitting properly, so planning is required.

The MBUK is significantly more portable due to its tiny 4-key footprint. The RoMac is a larger 20-key pad with additional height from its acrylic middle layer and OLED screen, making it more of a permanent desktop accessory.

The MBUK includes '4 random switches' but no keycaps. The RoMac requires you to purchase 20 switches separately and does not include keycaps. You must buy keycaps for both to have a usable macropad.