NextTime NT19 Numpad vs Mechboards TIDBITWireless vs Custom Numpad
Choose the NextTime NT19 for wireless flexibility or the Mechboards TIDBIT for deep customization and a unique layout.
Which one should you get?
Get the
NextTime NT19 Numpad
Wireless
- Triple-mode connectivity: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless, and wired.
- Standard ANSI numpad layout for immediate familiarity.
- Gasket mount design, which may offer a softer typing feel.
- No RGB lighting or screen, limiting visual customization.
- Lacks explicit support for rotary encoders or displays.
- Vendor description does not detail included plates or case materials.
Get the
Mechboards TIDBIT
Custom Numpad
- Ortholinear layout with 19 keys, offering more programmable keys than a standard numpad.
- Extensive modding support: multiple rotary encoders, OLED/LED displays, and RGB underglow.
- Uses a socketed RP2040 or Pro Micro controller for easier assembly.
- Wired-only connectivity, with no wireless option mentioned.
- Ortholinear layout requires adjustment for users used to staggered keys.
- Requires 5-pin switches for 2u keys as it lacks stabilizers, according to a customer review.
Your priority dictates the choice. If you need a numpad to use wirelessly across devices at a desk or on the move, the NextTime NT19 is the practical option. If you enjoy tinkering and want a unique, highly customizable input device for macros, media control, or a specialized workflow, the Mechboards TIDBIT offers far greater potential. Consider your willingness to adapt to an ortholinear layout if choosing the TIDBIT.
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.
NextTime NT19 Numpad
Mechboards TIDBIT
Ergonomics
Standard
Ortholinear
Knob
No
Yes
Display
None
Yes
Backlight
None
RGB
Released
2023
2022
- NextTime NT19 Numpad
- Mechboards TIDBIT
- Performance
- 4054
- Build quality
- 4963
- Productivity
- 4751
- Customizability
- 5076
- Portability
- 7962
- Layout size: Numpad
What will you mostly use it for?
The NextTime NT19 is the clear choice for office and travel use due to its wireless connectivity and standard layout. The Mechboards TIDBIT dominates for programming, modding, and content creation, leveraging its ortholinear design, programmable keys, and hardware expansion like encoders and screens. For gaming, neither kit has a distinct advantage as performance hinges on the builder's component choices.
It's a tie
- Both are barebones kits, so final performance depends on user-selected switches.
- Neither product listing specifies gaming-oriented features like high polling rates or anti-ghosting.
NextTime NT19 Numpad vs Mechboards TIDBIT specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
5 of 9 specs differ
NextTime NT19 Numpad
Mechboards TIDBIT
Mount style
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Knob
Display
Connection
Backlight
Released
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NextTime NT19 Numpad vs Mechboards TIDBIT: your questions
The NextTime NT19 offers Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, and wired connectivity. The Mechboards TIDBIT, according to its listing, is a wired-only device that connects via a USB cable from its controller.
The Mechboards TIDBIT uses an ortholinear layout, meaning its keys are arranged in a perfect grid without the staggered rows found on standard keyboards like the NextTime NT19. This layout can be more efficient for some users but requires an adjustment period.
No, both the NextTime NT19 and Mechboards TIDBIT are sold as DIY barebones kits. You must purchase mechanical switches and keycaps separately to complete the build.
The Mechboards TIDBIT kit explicitly supports multiple rotary encoders and includes one encoder and knob in the box. The NextTime NT19 product description does not mention any support for rotary encoders.
The Mechboards TIDBIT may have an advantage for beginners in one aspect, as its vendor notes the socketed controller saves assembly time and avoids the difficulty of soldering a USB connector. Both kits require soldering diodes and switches unless a hot-swap PCB variant is offered, which is not stated for either.
Yes, the Mechboards TIDBIT features RGB underglow, as stated in its product description. The NextTime NT19 does not have RGB lighting.
The NextTime NT19 uses a gasket mount design, where the plate holding the switches is suspended on rubber or silicone gaskets within the case. This is often used to create a softer, more cushioned typing feel and reduce case vibrations.
The Mechboards TIDBIT kit uses a socketed Pro Micro or equivalent controller. The specific kit described includes an RP2040 wired controller, which is pre-soldered to the main PCB, simplifying assembly.
Yes, the NextTime NT19's Bluetooth connectivity allows it to pair with mobile devices like phones and tablets, as outlined in its connection tutorial. You must ensure the device has Bluetooth support.
The Mechboards TIDBIT supports an OLED and LED displays, as noted in its features list. The NextTime NT19 does not have a screen.
According to a customer review for the Mechboards TIDBIT, the 2u keys do not have stabilizers. The reviewer recommends using 5-pin switches to minimize key wobble on these larger keys.
The Mechboards TIDBIT kit includes an FR4 fiberglass bottom plate and switch plate, along with an acrylic middle layer to create a layered case design. The NextTime NT19's case materials are not detailed in the provided description.
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