Pre-soldered Blank Split Keyboard with Trackpad & Rotary
Best ergonomic split keyboard for enthusiasts seeking a pre-built custom experience.
Discover the Explorer Keyboard Blank, a unique split keyboard inspired by the Planck layout. This pre-soldered version simplifies your build with essential components already installed, including an RP2040 controller and hotswappable sockets for Choc v1 low-profile switches. It features an integrated trackpad and rotary encoder for enhanced control. The package includes all case parts and is pre-flashed with VIAL firmware, allowing for easy customization once you add your preferred switches and keycaps.
$296.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
1053
/ 3677
#1053 in Keyboards
Price vs Category Average
+112%
Above average
Key Type
1
/ Choc v (Low Profile)
Who it's for
- Typists prioritizing long-term wrist and shoulder health
- Keyboard enthusiasts lacking soldering skills or equipment
- Power users seeking efficient, hands-on workflow control
Who should skip it
- Customizers who frequently swap switches for different feels
- Beginners intimidated by blank keys and non-standard layouts
- Budget-conscious shoppers preferring mass-market pricing
Performance breakdown
Assembly Accessibility
Pre-soldered components remove the most daunting barriers for custom keyboard enthusiasts.
Ergonomic Versatility
Split design offers superior wrist alignment compared to traditional monolithic layouts.
Customization Depth
VIAL firmware integration provides seamless, real-time keymap adjustments for power users.
Input Efficiency
Integrated trackpad and rotary encoder consolidate navigation without leaving the home row.
Switch Compatibility
Limited to Choc v1 switches, restricting options for standard mechanical switch fans.
Compact Footprint
The 48-key layout maximizes desk space while maintaining essential functionality.
Key Specs
Key Type
Choc v1 (Low Profile)
Number of Keys
48
Hotswappable
Yes
Firmware
QMK / VIAL
Controller
RP2040 Sea Picro
Flash Memory
16MB
Connection Interface
USB-C
Keyboard Layout Size
Compact (75 Percent)
Features
- Ergonomic split keyboard design
- Integrated trackpad and rotary encoder
- Hotswappable Choc low-profile sockets
- Pre-flashed with VIAL firmware
- RP2040 controller with 16MB flash
- Includes full case components
- No soldering required for setup
- 48-key compact layout
What customers say
This premium split keyboard is highly praised for its convenience and ergonomic design. The pre-soldered nature significantly lowers the barrier to entry, letting users focus immediately on assembly and customization. Enthusiasts value the integrated trackpad and rotary encoder as major productivity enhancers that keep hands near the home row. The split layout offers substantial ergonomic benefits for extended typing. While the initial firmware configuration presents a learning curve, the overall quality and unique feature set justify the investment. Users find the combination of thoughtful integration and build quality makes this a standout choice in the custom keyboard market.
Know before you buy
No, the Explorer Keyboard comes pre-soldered with the controller and hotswappable sockets already installed. You only need to snap in your preferred Choc v1 switches and attach your keycaps to complete the build.
This keyboard is designed exclusively for Choc v1 low-profile mechanical switches. Standard MX-style switches will not fit the hotswap sockets on this PCB.
The keyboard comes pre-flashed with VIAL firmware, which provides a user-friendly interface for remapping keys, creating macros, and adjusting trackpad sensitivity. You can simply open the VIAL app on your computer to make real-time changes without needing to recompile firmware.
The trackpad allows you to navigate your cursor directly from the keyboard, reducing the need to reach for an external mouse. The rotary encoder can be programmed for common tasks like volume control, scrolling, or zooming, adding a layer of tactile efficiency to your workflow.
Yes, because it uses standard QMK/VIAL firmware and a USB-C connection, it is compatible with Linux, macOS, and Windows. It functions as a standard HID device, so no special drivers are required.
The package includes the pre-soldered PCB, the RP2040 controller, and all necessary case components. You will need to purchase Choc v1 switches and keycaps separately to finish the keyboard.
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$296