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Compare Mechboards NIBBLE vs PocketType Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for hobbyists deciding between two DIY keyboard kits from Mechboards. The choice is difficult because both are affordable, require assembly, and support QMK, but they serve fundamentally different purposes. The NIBBLE is a fully-featured 65% keyboard, while the PocketType is a tiny ortholinear device better suited as a macro pad or learning tool. Your decision hinges on whether you need a daily driver or a compact project.

71
NIBBLE 65% Kit
PocketType

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  • Available in a 65% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO layout standard
  • Offers Normal ergonomics
  • Comes with a knob
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Uses a PCB Mount mounting style
  • Made with a Acrylic, Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Offers Ortholinear ergonomics
  • Sized at 18 x 60 x 135 mm
  • Offers No RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 53.1
  • Build Quality: 70.7
  • Productivity: 53.5
  • Customizability: 78
  • Portability: 59.1
Scores
  • Performance: 41.9
  • Build Quality: 50.4
  • Productivity: 42.7
  • Customizability: 44.9
  • Portability: 58
Name
Mechboards NIBBLE
Name
Mechboards PocketType
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
Unknown
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
18 x 60 x 135 mm
Weight
-
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

Select the Mechboards NIBBLE if you are building a serious, customizable primary keyboard. Opt for the PocketType only if you want an affordable soldering practice kit or a uniquely compact macro pad. The NIBBLE's superior layout and expansion capabilities justify its higher price for most users.

Mechboards NIBBLE

  • +Includes components for extensive customization: rotary encoder, FR4 plates, acrylic case pieces, and underglow LEDs.
  • +Supports both ANSI and ISO layouts, offering regional flexibility.
  • +QMK firmware and source code are provided for deep programmability.
  • +PCB and acrylic STEP files are available for advanced modifications.
  • +Uses a wired RP2040 controller, which the vendor states simplifies assembly.
  • −Requires the user to source their own switches, keycaps, stabilizers, and USB cable.
  • −Assembly is mandatory, involving soldering of numerous PCB components.
  • −The acrylic case construction may feel less premium than machined metal alternatives.

Mechboards PocketType

  • +Extremely compact dimensions (135mm x 60mm) make it genuinely pocketable.
  • +The complete kit includes switches and keycaps, reducing the number of extra parts to buy.
  • +Very low cost, making it a low-risk project for learning soldering.
  • +Based on the Planck layout, a known ortholinear design.
  • −Vendor reviews indicate it is not practical as a daily typing keyboard due to its tiny, ortholinear button layout.
  • −Lacks features common in primary keyboards, such as RGB lighting or a standard layout.
  • −Assembly instructions are noted by reviewers as being sparse or hard to find.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The NIBBLE is the clear choice for any use case requiring a primary input device, from gaming to office work. Its traditional 65% layout and greater feature set make it versatile. The PocketType wins only for extreme portability, but its vendor reviews suggest it's better as a macro pad or soldering practice project than a daily typist.

GamingMechboards NIBBLE
  • •The NIBBLE's standard 65% layout includes arrow keys and a dedicated cluster, which are commonly used in games.
  • •Its standard row-staggered layout is more familiar for gaming keybinds compared to the PocketType's ortholinear grid.
  • •The NIBBLE kit includes support for a rotary encoder, which can be mapped to volume or other in-game controls.
OfficeMechboards NIBBLE
  • •The NIBBLE's 65% ANSI/ISO layout provides a more traditional typing experience suitable for long documents.
  • •It has more programmable keys than a standard 65%, allowing for extensive macros and shortcuts for office workflows.
  • •The inclusion of a rotary encoder can be useful for scrolling or adjusting spreadsheet values.
ProgrammingMechboards NIBBLE
  • •The NIBBLE offers a dedicated number row and more keys overall, which are beneficial for coding symbols and shortcuts.
  • •Its support for multiple layouts (ANSI and ISO) provides flexibility for different regional keycap sets.
  • •QMK firmware support allows deep customization of layers for programming-specific macros.
TravelMechboards PocketType
  • •The PocketType's dimensions (135mm x 60mm) are significantly smaller, making it truly pocketable.
  • •Its listing states it includes switches and keycaps in the kit, resulting in a more complete, portable unit.
  • •The vendor description explicitly states it is designed to fit in your pocket.
ModdingMechboards NIBBLE
  • •The NIBBLE kit includes more modding-friendly components like screw-in stabilizer support, an FR4 plate, and multiple acrylic case layers.
  • •It features underglow RGB LEDs and knob support for added customization options.
  • •The vendor provides PCB and acrylic STEP files, allowing for advanced case modifications.
Content CreationMechboards NIBBLE
  • •The NIBBLE's larger key count and layers are better for assigning shortcuts in video or photo editing software.
  • •The rotary encoder provides tactile control for scrubbing timelines or adjusting brush sizes.
  • •Its standard layout allows for easier use alongside other peripherals like graphic tablets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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