Compare KEEBD Narfpad vs sam Sesame Kit Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for hobbyists deciding between two distinct DIY keyboard kits. The choice is difficult because they serve fundamentally different purposes. The Narfpad is a compact macropad for adding extra keys, while the Sesame is a complete, split-spacebar Alice-layout keyboard. Your decision hinges on whether you need a supplementary tool or a primary typing device.

Model
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Rating	0.0 stars (0 reviews)	0.0 stars (0 reviews)
Purchase Options
Main differences	Released in 2024 Available in a Macropad layout Offers Normal ergonomics Comes with a knob Made with a Acrylic case	Released in 2021 Offers Alice ergonomics Made with a Acrylic, Plastic case
Score	Scores Performance: 38.5 Build Quality: 39.9 Productivity: 43.8 Customizability: 53.3 Portability: 61.4	Scores Performance: 42.1 Build Quality: 52.5 Productivity: 44.5 Customizability: 49 Portability: 40.8
Name	Name KEEBD Narfpad	Name sam Sesame Kit
Release year	Release year 2024	Release year 2021
Switch Options	Switch Options -	Switch Options -
Profile	Profile Normal Profile	Profile Normal Profile
Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable
Layout Size	Layout Size Macropad	Layout Size Unknown
Layout Standard	Layout Standard ANSI	Layout Standard ANSI
Layout Ergonomics	Layout Ergonomics Normal	Layout Ergonomics Alice
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	Connection
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 -	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	Case Material Acrylic, Plastic
Keycaps Material	Keycaps Material -	Keycaps Material -
Dimensions	Dimensions -	Dimensions -
Weight	Weight -	Weight -

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Pros and Trade-offs

Select the KEEBD Narfpad if you want an inexpensive, fun project to create a dedicated macro controller for gaming or creative software. Opt for the sam Sesame Kit if your goal is to build a unique, ergonomic primary keyboard from the ground up. The core decision is between a supplementary tool and a main keyboard.

KEEBD Narfpad

+Includes a rotary encoder for knob functionality.
+Kit comes with Kailh Choc sockets for low-profile switches.
+Very affordable entry point for a DIY macropad project.
+Compact 3x3 layout is simple and space-efficient.

−Requires a separate XIAO microcontroller, encoder knob, switches, and keycaps to complete.
−A user review notes the QMK firmware is not in the main branch, complicating software setup.
−Is only a macropad, not a functional standalone keyboard.

sam Sesame Kit

+Builds into a complete ergonomic Alice-layout keyboard with a split spacebar.
+Kit includes FR4 switch and bottom plates for a firm typing feel.
+Controller comes pre-flashed with a USBaspLoader bootloader.
+Includes all necessary electronic components, such as resistors and capacitors.

−Requires careful soldering of through-hole components, including specific capacitor placement.
−Is a more expensive and complex build than a simple macropad.
−The acrylic cover is a separate piece, not a full case.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Sesame Kit is the clear choice for any use requiring a full, ergonomic typing keyboard, such as office work or programming. The Narfpad excels as a specialized, portable tool for gaming macros or content creation controls. For modding, both offer a soldering project, but with different end goals. Your primary need dictates the winner.

GamingKEEBD Narfpad

•The Narfpad's 3x3 layout with rotary encoder is designed for assigning macros and quick commands.
•Its smaller footprint leaves more desk space for mouse movement.
•The Sesame is a full keyboard, not optimized for dedicated gaming macros.

Officesam Sesame Kit

•The Sesame Kit builds into a full Alice-layout keyboard suitable for all-day typing.
•Its ergonomic Alice layout with a split spacebar may reduce strain during long sessions.
•The Narfpad is only a supplemental macropad and cannot function as a standalone office keyboard.

Programmingsam Sesame Kit

•The Sesame provides a complete keyboard necessary for coding, with an Alice layout for ergonomics.
•A review mentions easy remapping using VIA software, which is useful for programming shortcuts.
•The Narfpad can only serve as an auxiliary device for a few extra keys.

TravelKEEBD Narfpad

•The Narfpad's macropad size is inherently more portable than a full keyboard.
•Its simpler acrylic and PCB construction likely results in a lighter package.
•The Sesame Kit builds into a larger, full-size Alice keyboard.

ModdingTie

•Both are DIY kits requiring soldering of through-hole components.
•The Narfpad includes specific components like Kailh Choc sockets and a rotary encoder.
•The Sesame includes an FR4 switch plate and bottom plate, and a controller pre-flashed with a bootloader.

Content CreationKEEBD Narfpad

•The Narfpad's rotary encoder and macro keys are ideal for controlling timelines, brush sizes, or volume.
•It can be dedicated to application-specific shortcuts without interfering with a main keyboard.
•The Sesame functions as a primary keyboard, not a dedicated control surface.