MelGeek Pixel Palette vs Pixel

The primary differences are the layout and included features. The Pixel Palette is an 80% TKL keyboard that comes with a tiles and bricks set for frame customization, dedicated multimedia keys, and side light bands. The standard Pixel is a more compact 75% layout and its vendor description emphasizes its design and color themes over a specific accessory kit.

Yes, both the MelGeek Pixel and Pixel Palette feature hot-swappable PCBs. This allows you to change mechanical switches without soldering. The Pixel Palette's vendor description notes its PCB supports both 3-pin and 5-pin switch types.

Both keyboards offer identical triple-mode connectivity with Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, and wired USB-C. They also share the same 3100mAh battery capacity, suggesting similar wireless battery life. The Pixel's vendor page specifies a 1000Hz polling rate for its 2.4G and wired modes.

Yes. According to MelGeek's FAQ for the Pixel, all their keyboards are hot-swappable and compatible with switches and keycaps from other brands. Both keyboards use standard MX-style stems, ensuring broad compatibility with aftermarket keycap sets.

Both keyboards are compatible with MelGeek Hive software for key remapping and lighting control. The vendor description for the Pixel Palette explicitly mentions customizing with MelGeek Hive. Notably, the Pixel Palette is listed as not compatible with the open-source QMK or VIA firmware.

Both utilize gasket mount designs intended to dampen sound. The Pixel Palette has a specific advantage as its vendor description mentions it includes a combination of Poron and EVA foam padding inside the case, which is aimed at reducing typing noise.

According to its vendor description, the Pixel Palette includes a custom 2.4GHz dongle, a tiles and bricks set for building onto the frame, a custom USB-C to USB-A cable, and a keycap puller.

Both keyboards use plastic cases with gasket mount designs. The Pixel Palette's case is described as ABS + PC (polycarbonate), and it uses a polycarbonate plate. The Pixel is also listed with a plastic case and a gasket mount, with its vendor page mentioning the use of silicone and Poron in the mounting system.

Both are compatible with Windows and Mac. The Pixel's vendor specifications explicitly list support for Linux, iOS, and Android. The Pixel Palette's vendor description states it is not Linux compatible.

The Pixel Palette's metadata lists Tactile, Linear, and Clicky switch types, and its vendor description details Kailh Pixel Linear and Tactile switches. The Pixel's metadata lists Linear and Tactile types, with its vendor page offering Kailh Custom Linear or Tactile switch options.

Both feature per-key RGB backlighting. The Pixel Palette has an additional lighting feature, described as three side light bands, which provides ambient lighting beyond the keys themselves.