Piantor 42 Keys Low Profile Split Keyboard DIY Kit
Best entry-level split keyboard for DIY enthusiasts seeking ergonomic customization.
Discover the Piantor 42 Keys Low Profile Split Keyboard DIY Kit by beekeeb, an open-source ergonomic keyboard inspired by the Cantor design. This kit is perfect for beginners, offering a minimalist, diodeless build with hotswappable sockets for Kailh Choc v1 switches. Customize your typing experience with a convertible 42-key to 36-key layout and extensive programmability via QMK/KMK firmware powered by an RP2040 MCU. Please note that switches, keycaps, and a case are sold separately, making this an ideal project for enthusiasts to build their own unique keyboard.
$58.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
74
/ 3654
#74 in Keyboards
Price vs Category Average
-59%
Below average
Key Type
1
/ Choc v
Who it's for
- Commuters and minimalists prioritizing desk space and portability
- Typists seeking relief from wrist strain and discomfort
- Power users needing personalized workflows and complex macros
Who should skip it
- Enthusiasts wanting access to the broader MX-compatible switch market
- Beginners lacking experience with precision soldering tools
- Traditionalists accustomed to full-sized layouts and dedicated keys
Performance breakdown
Ergonomic Customization
Split layout and flexible key mapping provide superior wrist and hand comfort.
Assembly Accessibility
Diodeless design makes this an approachable entry point for soldering beginners.
Firmware Versatility
RP2040 power and QMK/VIAL support offer limitless potential for advanced key remapping.
Switch Compatibility
Hotswappable sockets allow for quick, solder-free experimentation with Choc v1 switches.
Form Factor Efficiency
Minimalist footprint maximizes desk space while maintaining essential typing functionality.
Component Flexibility
DIY nature requires sourcing extra parts, adding effort but ensuring total personalization.
Key Specs
Key Type
Choc v1
Number of Keys
42 (convertible)
Hotswappable
Yes
Firmware Support
QMK / VIAL
MCU Options
Raspberry Pi Pico or WeAct RP2040
Connection Type
Wired
Key Switch Type
Mechanical, Low Profile
Ergonomic
Yes
Features
- Ergonomic split design for comfort
- Hotswappable sockets for easy switch changes
- Convertible 42-key to 36-key layout
- Minimalist, diodeless design
- Supports QMK and KMK firmware
- RP2040 MCU for advanced customization
- Ideal for first soldering project
- Low profile Choc v1 switch compatibility
What customers say
This compact, low profile split keyboard kit earns high praise, especially for its advanced ergonomics. Users report immediate comfort improvements for wrists and shoulders due to the split design. The DIY aspect strongly appeals to hobbyists who value the deep customization offered by QMK/ZMK firmware. Reviewers consistently note the clear documentation and high quality PCBs, which aid the complex build process. While sourcing components separately adds to the overall expense and the minimalist layout requires adjustment, experienced users view the final robust keyboard as a premium, high value upgrade to their daily workflow.
Know before you buy
The DIY kit includes the PCB and essential components, but you will need to purchase Kailh Choc v1 switches, keycaps, and a case separately. You will also need a USB-C cable to connect the keyboard to your computer.
Yes, the Piantor is an excellent entry point for beginners. Its diodeless design significantly reduces the number of components to solder, making the assembly process much more approachable for first-time builders.
No, this board is specifically designed for Kailh Choc v1 low-profile switches. Standard MX-style mechanical switches are not compatible with the PCB's footprint or the low-profile layout.
The layout is physically convertible, meaning you can choose to omit the outer keys during assembly to achieve a 36-key configuration. Once built, you can further customize your key mapping and layers using QMK or KMK firmware.
Yes, the Piantor supports QMK and VIAL, which allows you to remap keys and manage layers through a user-friendly graphical interface without needing to recompile firmware every time you make a change.
The Piantor is a standard HID device, meaning it is fully compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux. Once programmed, the keymap is stored on the keyboard itself, so it will work consistently across all your devices.
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Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
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$58