Sofle Choc V3 Low-profile Hotswap Split Ergo 50% Keyboard Kit
Designed by Josef Adamcik (GitHub repository). Build guide here.
This is version V3.3 modified by 42. Keebs to include native nice!view support, a power switch and a battery connector next to the Pro Micro header, and also to increase the stagger (offset) of the outer two columns to match Sofle V2/Sofle RGB V3.
Build your very own split custom keyboard from scratch!
- Split 12×4 + 10 (50%-ish) ortho/ergo layout
- Uses Kailh hotswap sockets for Kailh Choc V1 switches
- Uses standard switch pitch of 19.05 mm (not the narrower Choc spacing)
- Supports 2x EC11 rotary encoder (one per side) – available as an add-on due to several options being available
- Native support for the power-efficient nice!view screens (new in V3.3) or the classic 0.91″ 128×32 OLED screens
- Increased stagger (vertical offset) of the two outer column for improved ergonomics
- Quite easy to build – based on Pro Micro controllers. Uses SMD diodes though.
- Includes acrylic switch and bottom plates – either standard or tenting ones
- Tinned lead-free finish, black solder mask
⚠️💀 Warning: Never plug/unplug the TRRS cable while the keyboard is powered! It could damage the data pin of the controller. 💀⚠️
Kit includes:
- 2x main PCBs
- 2x 2 mm acrylic switch plates
- 2x acrylic bottom plates (standard or tenting)
- 58x Kailh Choc hotswap sockets
- 64x SMD diodes
- 2x TRRS sockets
- 2x SMD power switches
- 2x reset switches
- Brass standoffs and screws
- 8x silicone feet
Parts required to finish the build not included in the kit:
- 2x Pro Micro-compatible controllers (Frood, nice!nano etc.)
- 58x Kailh Choc V1 switches (NOT compatible with Choc V2)
- 56x 1u + 2x 1.5u Choc keycaps
- TRRS cable (not needed when using nice!nanos)
Other optional parts not included in the kit:
- 2x EC11 rotary encoders
- OLED screens
- 58x SK6812 MINI-E RGB LED modules for in-switch lighting
- Encoder knobs
42keebs@yunko.se (verified owner) –
This was my first custom build and it went very smooth thanks to the build instructions. My only regret is that i didnt get the hotswap sockets for the controller and oled.
Superb service and very nice persons behind this shop!
Best wishes from Sweden!
yoran098@gmail.com (verified owner) –
This was my first build and also my first split kb. The layout and choc keys are perfect. I also use the rotary encoders a lot for media controls and scrolling.
The build was fun, but requires some detailed soldering.
Took a while to set everything up to my likings, but I really can’t live without this keyboard anymore!
Richard Podkolinski (verified owner) –
Wonderful kit for a first timer. Took a couple of days to put together, but worked perfectly. Almost all the parts you need are included in the package.
The changes 42Keebs made to the Sofle Choc PCB are good, especially the reset switch is a godsend. The acrylic base gives the whole thing a clean finish.
Would buy from again.
tfdidden@gmail.com (verified owner) –
Also first time build here. Very good experience all around — would highly recommend if you are up to some straightforward soldering and assembly. I would highly recommend going through the trouble of getting microcontroller sockets for ease of troubleshooting — if you have limited soldering experience (as I do), you definitely do NOT want to attempt desoldering a microcontroller.
Wonderful keyboard, and I look forward to more split ergo kits in my future. Thanks Petr!
kvnthomer@gmail.com (verified owner) –
I got my board a little over a week ago and everything is perfect with it! Its my first split ergo board and I didn’t have any soldering equipment so was looking for someone to do the soldering for me and I couldn’t be happier with the results.
Pete not only soldered and thoroughly tested everything for me, he even flashed the froods with vial so it was ready to go out of the box (something he says he does as part of testing). A++ customer service and quality!