Hillside46 Split Keyboard PCB Set
Best foundation for enthusiasts building a custom ergonomic split keyboard.
Build your dream keyboard with the Hillside46 Split Keyboard PCB Set from beekeeb. Designed by mmccoyd, this set provides the essential left and right PCBs for a 52-key, non-splayed layout. It's engineered to support up to two rotary encoders, offering advanced customization for your typing experience. This PCB set is the perfect foundation for enthusiasts seeking to create a personalized, ergonomic split keyboard, with all other components needing to be sourced separately.
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
607
/ 1544
#607 in Development Boards
Key Count
52
/ keys
Who it's for
- Keyboard hobbyists looking for a well-documented first DIY project
- Typists seeking relief from wrist strain and poor posture
- Power users needing custom workflows and complex macro layers
Who should skip it
- Users accustomed to full-sized layouts needing immediate productivity
- Beginners lacking advanced soldering tools and assembly experience
- Budget-conscious builders wary of hidden component costs
Performance breakdown
Customization Potential
Dual rotary encoder support offers significant flexibility for advanced macro control.
Ergonomic Design
Split layout promotes natural wrist alignment for long-term typing comfort.
Assembly Complexity
Requires significant soldering and component sourcing for a functional build.
Layout Efficiency
The 52-key non-splayed design balances compact size with essential key coverage.
Build Quality
Robust PCB construction provides a reliable foundation for custom mechanical builds.
Component Compatibility
Standardized design ensures broad compatibility with common enthusiast-grade keyboard hardware.
Key Specs
Key Count
52 keys
Layout Type
Non-Splayed
Configuration
Split Keyboard
Encoder Support
Up to 2 rotary encoders
Model Number
Hillside52
Backlighting Type
None
Is Ergonomic
True
Features
- Enables a split keyboard configuration
- Supports up to two rotary encoders
- Non-splayed key layout design
- Includes both left and right PCBs
- Designed for custom assembly projects
- Ergonomic split design
What customers say
The Hillside46 Split Keyboard PCB Set is highly regarded by ergonomic enthusiasts for its premium quality and effective design. Users consistently praise the clean PCB routing and precise component pads, which facilitate assembly. The minimalist aesthetic and layout, especially with Choc switches, deliver a comfortable typing experience that reduces wrist strain. Excellent documentation makes the build process clearer, though it remains best suited for intermediate builders due to necessary soldering. Once completed, the finished keyboard offers outstanding reliability and customization via QMK/ZMK support. Despite the required skill investment and total build cost, the consensus is that the Hillside46 provides tremendous value for a personalized, satisfying typing tool.
Know before you buy
This set includes only the left and right PCBs required to build the Hillside46 keyboard. You will need to source all other components, such as switches, keycaps, microcontrollers, and rotary encoders, separately.
The Hillside46 utilizes a non-splayed, column-staggered layout. This design is intended to follow the natural reach of your fingers while maintaining a structured, grid-like alignment.
Yes, the PCB is designed to support up to two rotary encoders. These can be programmed for tasks like volume control, scrolling, or custom macro functions.
No, the Hillside46 PCB does not support backlighting or underglow. It is a minimalist design focused on ergonomic performance rather than aesthetic lighting effects.
The board is designed for a 52-key layout. This provides enough keys for a highly functional split setup while remaining compact enough for efficient typing.
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