Which MinimalPad Should You Buy?
The short answer:
Both versions use the same MinimalPad PCB, 4x4 layout, rotary encoder, and ZMK firmware. The kit is not cheaper because it uses worse parts. It costs less because you do the assembly yourself.
I recently sold the first MinimalPad. That was a small milestone, but a very big one for me. It also reminded me that I should be completely clear about how these are made.
MinimalPad is a one-person project. I work on it from my home office in Amsterdam, where I source the parts, pack every kit, and hand-assemble every finished MinimalPad. There is no factory line or outsourced fulfillment behind it.
All MinimalPad cases are 3D-printed. That keeps production flexible at this scale, and it means small layer lines or slight variations can be part of the finish.
I am also working on open-sourcing the full project. I want to release the complete PCB design files, but preparing and cleaning everything up properly is taking a little time. I would rather publish files that are genuinely useful than rush them out unfinished.
The DIY Kit
The DIY Kit is the most affordable way to get a MinimalPad because I send you the parts and you provide the tools, experience, and assembly time.
The Barebones Kit starts at €29.99. In the configurator, you choose your controller, switches, keycaps, and case, and then solder and assemble the macropad at home.
MinimalPad is a small and relatively straightforward keyboard project, but I recommend having some soldering experience before you begin. You should already be comfortable using a soldering iron, solder, and flux, and know how to recognize and fix a poor solder joint.
You will also need your own soldering tools and consumables. These are not included with the kit, and no MinimalPad ships with a battery.
I would recommend the kit if:
- You already know how to solder and have the tools
- You want to choose your own controller, switches, keycaps, and case
- You enjoy the build as much as the finished macropad
It can be a great first keyboard build, but I would not recommend it as the first time you have ever used a soldering iron.
If you run into trouble, you will not be left on your own. I have written a complete assembly guide, and I am happy to help you troubleshoot problems such as reversed diodes, poor solder joints, unresponsive switches, or firmware issues.
The Assembled MinimalPad
Choose the assembled version if you want to use your MinimalPad without turning it into a soldering project.
I assemble every finished MinimalPad myself in my home office. I solder the components, flash the firmware, test every key, check the rotary encoder, inspect the board, and package it myself.
The additional cost of the assembled version mainly covers the time it takes me to build and test your unit by hand. Because each one is built to order, it normally takes around one week before shipping.
Pricing starts at:
- €99.99 with the Clone controller
- €129.99 with the Nice!Nano V2
I would recommend the assembled version if:
- You have never soldered before, or would need to buy all the tools first
- You want a MinimalPad that is ready to configure and use when it arrives
- You would rather have every key, the encoder, and the firmware tested for you
Nice!Nano V2 or Clone?
Both controllers run ZMK and provide the same core wireless MinimalPad features.
The Nice!Nano V2 is the better-sourced option. It comes from an established maker, with a clearer origin, more consistent documentation, and long-term support from the wireless keyboard community.
The Clone controller is a cheaper compatible replacement. It performs well and gives you the same everyday MinimalPad experience, but its exact manufacturer and supply chain are harder to trace and may vary between batches. I test every controller before it ships.
Even with that trade-off, I recommend the Clone for most people. It keeps the price down without giving up the features that matter day to day. Choose the Nice!Nano V2 if clearer sourcing, original hardware, and stronger community support are worth the extra cost to you.
Keycaps and Switches
I source keycaps and switches myself in small batches, so I cannot guarantee that the same keycap styles and colors will always be available. The order page is always the source of truth: it will show the current options and exactly what is included with each order.
Every assembled MinimalPad currently comes with Kailh Choc White V2 clicky switches. These switches are standard and are not configurable at this time. Keycap options may change depending on availability, and any styles I can source reliably will be added to the configurator.
I am currently looking for a reliable bulk supply of flat white, Kailh Choc V1-compatible keycaps. Until then, the available white keycaps have a slight ergonomic angle. If there is enough demand after the first orders, I will also explore adding black keycaps.
Some photos show Work Louder WRK Dime keycaps and u can purchase those directly from Work louder.
A Note About Batteries
No MinimalPad ships with a battery. Lithium batteries are difficult and expensive to ship internationally, so you will need to source one locally for a wireless build.
You need a 3.7V LiPo battery with a JST 2.0 connector. The battery cutout inside the case is 80 mm wide, 50 mm tall, and 7 mm deep, so make sure the battery fits within all three dimensions.
Battery capacity can vary as long as the physical size fits the cutout. Check the connector polarity before connecting the battery.
My Honest Recommendation
If you already know how to solder and have the tools, get the DIY Kit. It gives you the complete MinimalPad experience for less money, and the build itself can be genuinely satisfying.
If you need to buy all the tools or would be learning to solder from zero, the assembled version will probably be the better value. I will do the bench work, test everything, and send you a MinimalPad that is ready to configure and use.
Whichever version you choose, it comes from the same place: my desk in Amsterdam.
