KBDFans TOFU vs TOFU65 V3TKL vs 65% Layout Showdown
Choose the TOFU for a full TKL layout with 2.4 GHz wireless, or the TOFU65 V3 for a more compact 65% form factor with higher polling rate and advanced firmware support.
Which one should you get?
Get the
KBDFans TOFU
TKL
- TKL layout includes function row and navigation cluster for productivity.
- Offers 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity in addition to Bluetooth and wired modes.
- Includes an integrated wrist rest option for ergonomic typing.
- Lower 1000 Hz polling rate compared to the TOFU65 V3's 8000 Hz.
- Heavier build, with a listed weight of 5000g, which reduces portability.
- Firmware support (VIA/VIAL) is mentioned in the vendor description but not explicitly listed in its core metadata.
Get the
KBDFans TOFU65 V3
65% Layout Showdown
- Higher 8000 Hz polling rate for potentially lower input latency.
- Compact 65% layout saves desk space and is more portable.
- Explicit metadata listing for VIA and VIAL support ensures broad firmware compatibility.
- Lacks 2.4 GHz wireless, offering only Bluetooth and wired connectivity.
- 65% layout requires using layers or key combinations for function keys and some navigation.
- No integrated wrist rest is mentioned as a standard inclusion or option.
Your primary need dictates the choice. If you require a full TKL layout with the most stable wireless option (2.4 GHz) for an office or home setup, the original TOFU is the clear pick. If you prefer a smaller, desk-saving footprint, want the highest polling rate for gaming, and value extensive firmware customization out of the box, the newer TOFU65 V3 is the better kit. Both represent excellent starting points for a high-quality custom build.
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.
KBDFans TOFU
KBDFans TOFU65 V3
Layout size
80%
65%
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
Bluetooth, Wired
Max polling rate
1,000 Hz
8,000 Hz
Case material
Aluminum
Aluminum, Copper, Steel
Mount style
Top Mount
Gasket Mount, Top Mount
- KBDFans TOFU
- KBDFans TOFU65 V3
- Performance
- 8481
- Build quality
- 7592
- Productivity
- 6682
- Customizability
- 7982
- Portability
- 6885
- Hall effect (magnetic)
- Hot-swappable
- Battery: 1,000 mAh
- Sound dampening
What will you mostly use it for?
The TOFU TKL wins for office work and programming due to its larger layout and 2.4 GHz wireless. The TOFU65 V3 is better for gaming and travel, thanks to its higher polling rate and compact size. For modding, the V3 has a slight edge with its explicitly stated firmware support and included foam kits. Content creation is a tie, as benefits depend on whether you prioritize dedicated keys or high-performance polling.
Pick the KBDFans TOFU65 V3
- The TOFU65 V3 lists an 8000 Hz polling rate, which is higher than the TOFU's 1000 Hz.
- Both support Hall Effect PCBs for ultra-low latency, but the V3's higher polling rate may offer a technical edge for competitive gaming.
What owners say
Ratings and quotes collected from verified store reviews, including the critical ones.
KBDFans TOFU
4 owner reviews
“This is the first custom mechanical keyboard I've bought, and I could not be happier!”
KBDFans TOFU65 V3
No owner reviews collected yet.
KBDFans TOFU vs TOFU65 V3 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
13 of 24 specs differ
KBDFans TOFU
KBDFans TOFU65 V3
Hall effect (magnetic)
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Display
Connection
Max polling rate
Battery
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Typing angle
Backlight
VIA
VIAL
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
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KBDFans TOFU vs TOFU65 V3: your questions
The KBDFans TOFU is a Tenkeyless (TKL or 80%) keyboard, which includes a function row, navigation cluster, and arrow keys. The TOFU65 V3 is a 65% keyboard, which omits the function row and several navigation keys for a more compact footprint.
The TOFU offers more wireless options. According to its metadata, it supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, and wired connections. The TOFU65 V3 supports Bluetooth and wired modes, but its manufacturer states it does not include a 2.4 GHz wireless component.
The TOFU65 V3 explicitly lists VIA and VIAL support in its metadata. For the TOFU, the vendor description mentions support for AVA, VIAL, and VIA on its wired PCBs, but this is not guaranteed for all PCB options within the kit.
The TOFU65 V3 lists an 8000 Hz polling rate, which is higher than the TOFU's 1000 Hz. Both kits offer Hall Effect PCB options, which are designed for ultra-low latency. The V3's higher polling rate may provide a technical advantage for competitive gaming.
No. Both the KBDFans TOFU and TOFU65 V3 are sold as DIY kits or barebones. This means they include the case, PCB, plate, and necessary mounting hardware, but you must purchase switches and keycaps separately to complete the build.
Both keyboards offer multiple mounting styles. The TOFU supports Top Mount and PCB Gasket Mount (including a plateless option). The TOFU65 V3 supports Top Mount and PCB Gasket Mount, with the vendor page noting the gasket mount is designed for a soft, bouncy typing feel.
Both have aluminum top cases. The TOFU's bottom case is aluminum, but it offers optional weight bars in aluminum, stainless steel, or copper. The TOFU65 V3 offers bottom cases in aluminum, copper, or stainless steel, providing more material variety for the main chassis.
Yes, both focus on sound dampening. The TOFU features an Integrated Force Break system with custom silicone pads. The TOFU65 V3 also has an Integrated Force Break system with Teflon pads and includes an optional foam kit and a battery compartment foam kit in the package.
Both the TOFU and TOFU65 V3 are listed with a 1000mAh battery capacity for their wireless PCB options. The TOFU vendor page claims its wireless ZMK PCB can last over six months on this battery.
Yes. The metadata for the TOFU65 V3 lists Hall Effect as an extra feature. Its vendor configurator also lists a Hall Effect (HE) PCB as one of the available options to select during purchase.
The original TOFU is significantly heavier. Its metadata lists a weight of 5000g (approximately 4.9kg), while a weight is not specified for the TOFU65 V3. The TOFU's vendor description confirms it can weigh up to 4.9kg after being built.
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