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Compare Mechboards NIBBLE vs Plaid Kit Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for builders deciding between two distinct DIY keyboard kits from Mechboards. The choice hinges on your preferred layout size and ergonomics. The NIBBLE offers a familiar 65% ANSI/ISO form with extra programmable keys and a rotary encoder. The Plaid Kit is a minimalist 40% ortholinear board, presenting a more niche typing experience and a potentially more involved build process. Both support QMK for deep customization but cater to different user preferences.

71
NIBBLE 65% Kit
Plaid Kit

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  • Available in a 65% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO layout standard
  • Offers Normal ergonomics
  • Comes with a knob
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Uses a PCB Mount mounting style
  • Made with a Acrylic, Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
  • Available in a 40% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Offers Ortholinear ergonomics
  • Offers No RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 52.9
  • Build Quality: 70.4
  • Productivity: 53.3
  • Customizability: 77.6
  • Portability: 59.1
Scores
  • Performance: 41.9
  • Build Quality: 58.3
  • Productivity: 46.9
  • Customizability: 55.2
  • Portability: 60.6
Name
Mechboards NIBBLE
Name
Mechboards Plaid Kit
Release year
2021
Release year
2021
Switch Options
-
Switch Options
-
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
65%
Layout Size
40%
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Ortholinear
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
Display Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
Connection
Connection
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
-
Battery capacity
-
Hall Effect Support
 
Hall Effect Support
 
QMK Support
 
QMK Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIAL Support
 
VIAL Support
 
N-Key Rollover
 
N-Key Rollover
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Mount Style
PCB Mount
Mount Style
-
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Acrylic, Plastic
Case Material
-
Keycaps Material
-
Keycaps Material
-
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
-
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your choice depends primarily on layout preference and project goals. Opt for the Mechboards NIBBLE if you want a more familiar 65% keyboard with practical extras like a volume knob and RGB, and are willing to source stabilizers. Choose the Mechboards Plaid Kit if you seek the challenge of building a minimalist, space-saving ortholinear keyboard and prioritize ultimate portability over immediate key access.

Mechboards NIBBLE

  • +Includes a rotary encoder and knob for additional input control.
  • +Supports both ANSI and ISO layouts for broader keycap compatibility.
  • +Comes with components for RGB underglow lighting.
  • +Uses a pre-assembled RP2040 controller, which the vendor states reduces soldering difficulty.
  • +Vendor provides PCB and acrylic STEP files for custom case modifications.
  • −Requires the separate purchase of screw-in stabilizers, which are not included.
  • −The acrylic and FR4 sandwich case construction may feel less rigid than a solid case.
  • −Assembly is still required for all through-hole components besides the controller.

Mechboards Plaid Kit

  • +Extremely compact 40% ortholinear layout maximizes desk space.
  • +Fully through-hole design, as described by the vendor, offers a classic DIY soldering experience.
  • +Generally more affordable than the NIBBLE kit.
  • −The ortholinear layout has a steep learning curve and lacks a number row.
  • −No RGB lighting or encoder options are included or mentioned.
  • −Vendor reviews note potential inaccuracies in the included component inventory (BOM).
  • −Requires heavy use of layers for basic punctuation and numbers due to the small size.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The NIBBLE is the more versatile choice, winning for gaming, office use, and content creation due to its larger layout and included encoder. The Plaid Kit's extreme compactness makes it the clear winner for travel. For programming, the decision is a tie and comes down to personal preference for a standard or ortholinear layout, as both support QMK macros. Modders may prefer the NIBBLE for its included lighting and case design files.

GamingMechboards NIBBLE
  • •The NIBBLE's 65% layout provides dedicated arrow keys, which are commonly used in gaming.
  • •It includes a rotary encoder that can be mapped to in-game functions like volume or zoom.
  • •The standard staggered layout may be more familiar for gamers transitioning from full-size boards.
OfficeMechboards NIBBLE
  • •The NIBBLE's larger 65% size includes a number row and more readily accessible punctuation keys.
  • •Its included rotary encoder offers quick control over system volume or scrolling during meetings.
  • •The ANSI and ISO layout support accommodates more regional keycap sets and typing standards.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both boards support QMK, allowing deep layer programming for symbols and macros essential for coding.
  • •The NIBBLE offers more physical keys, potentially reducing layer usage for common symbols.
  • •The Plaid's ortholinear layout is favored by some programmers for its consistent key spacing, but requires heavy layer reliance.
TravelMechboards Plaid Kit
  • •The Plaid Kit's 40% ortholinear layout is significantly more compact and portable.
  • •Its through-hole design, as described in the vendor listing, may result in a lighter build compared to the NIBBLE's acrylic and FR4 sandwich.
ModdingMechboards NIBBLE
  • •The NIBBLE kit explicitly includes components for RGB underglow LEDs and knob support.
  • •It comes with an FR4 plate and acrylic case pieces, offering a clear aesthetic for lighting mods.
  • •The vendor provides PCB and acrylic STEP files for the NIBBLE, enabling custom case design.
Content CreationMechboards NIBBLE
  • •The NIBBLE's rotary encoder provides tactile control for scrubbing timelines or adjusting brush sizes.
  • •More physical keys allow for dedicated media controls or application shortcuts without leaving the base layer.
  • •RGB underglow, included in the NIBBLE kit, can be used for visual feedback or workspace ambiance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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