Pre-soldered Wireless Chocotako44 Keyboard
Best compact mechanical keyboard for enthusiasts seeking a custom wireless experience.
Discover the Pre-soldered Wireless Chocotako44 Keyboard, a compact 44-key mechanical keyboard built for a streamlined typing experience. This keyboard, a modification of the Choctopus44, features a unique column-staggered layout and comes with essential components like the nice!nano controller and Kailh Choc hotswap sockets pre-soldered. It offers both wireless ZMK and wired USB-C connectivity. While the case and keycaps require manual assembly, the pre-soldered nature significantly speeds up setup. Enjoy a low-profile design with the convenience of a rotary encoder and the flexibility of ZMK firmware.
$158.50
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
559
/ 3654
#559 in Keyboards
Price vs Category Average
+13%
Above average
Layout
Column Staggered and Unibody
/ Column Staggered and Unibody
Who it's for
- Beginners avoiding complex soldering projects
- Commuters needing a lightweight, travel-friendly typing solution
- Minimalists wanting a clean, cable-free desk setup
Who should skip it
- Keyboard hobbyists wanting standard MX switch compatibility
- Typists transitioning from traditional full-sized layouts
- Customization enthusiasts who prefer easy switch swapping
Performance breakdown
Assembly Efficiency
Pre-soldered components eliminate the most tedious steps of custom keyboard building.
Ergonomic Alignment
Column-staggered layout promotes natural hand posture for extended typing sessions.
Connectivity Versatility
Seamless switching between ZMK wireless and wired USB-C provides maximum flexibility.
Firmware Accessibility
ZMK requires custom compilation, presenting a learning curve for casual users.
Switch Compatibility
Strictly limited to Kailh Choc v1 switches, narrowing your customization options.
Compact Portability
Low-profile design and 44-key footprint make this an ideal travel companion.
Key Specs
Layout
Column Staggered and Unibody
Key Count
44 Keys plus 1 Rotary Encoder
Switch Compatibility
Kailh Choc v1 only
Firmware
ZMK (Requires custom compilation)
Connection Type
Wireless (Battery required) or Wired (USB-C)
Controller
nice!nano (Socketed)
Hotswappable
Yes (Choc v1 sockets)
Backlighting Type
None
Features
- Pre-soldered components for quick setup
- Wireless ZMK and wired USB-C support
- Socketed nice!nano controller included
- Low-profile design with Choc v1 hotswap
- Integrated on-board power switch
- Column staggered, unibody layout
- Includes aluminum rotary knob
- 44 keys plus rotary encoder
What customers say
Enthusiasts overwhelmingly praise the Pre-soldered Wireless Chocotako44 Keyboard for its exceptional quality and convenience. The pre-soldered assembly removes a major hurdle for split keyboard users, delivering flawless build quality and professional finishing right away. Reviewers consistently highlight the reliable wireless performance and impressive battery life, supporting a clean, portable workspace. While the price is premium, customers feel the cost is justified by the expert assembly and high-grade components. The ergonomic design enhances typing comfort and efficiency. Although the 40 percent layout requires adaptation, the overall execution makes this a highly recommended, top-tier solution for ready-to-use wireless ergonomics.
Know before you buy
To complete the build, you will need to source your own Kailh Choc v1 switches, keycaps, and a compatible battery for wireless functionality. You will also need to assemble the case yourself.
No, this keyboard is specifically designed for Kailh Choc v1 low-profile switches. It will not accommodate standard MX-style mechanical switches.
The Chocotako44 runs on ZMK firmware, which requires you to compile your own firmware files via GitHub. You can then flash these files to the nice!nano controller to customize your key layers and encoder behavior.
No, the battery is not included. You will need to purchase a compatible LiPo battery separately to utilize the wireless Bluetooth features.
The column-staggered layout aligns the keys with the natural movement of your fingers, which can reduce wrist strain and improve typing comfort compared to traditional row-staggered keyboards.
The nice!nano is socketed, meaning it is not permanently soldered to the PCB. This makes it easier to replace or upgrade the controller if necessary in the future.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$158