Pando58 Keyboard
Pando58 is a modern RP2040 Zero-based 58-key column staggered split keyboard. The PCB supports hotswap sockets OR soldered switches. The interconnect uses RJ45 ports as opposed to TRRS, which improves reliability and allows for hotplugging.
🚀 Want to build one? Official PCB sets and full DIY kits are available on Etsy. Your support helps me keep this project open-source and encourages the development of new models!
Design Philosophy
Pando58 was designed to avoid unnecessary complexity and common failure points found in many split keyboards. It features:
- Wired connection only (no wireless)
- No LEDs, encoders, or OLED displays
- Simple, reliable construction
- Focus on core typing experience
For more details on the design and development process, see my blog post.
Inspiration
Pando58 came about through wanting a flat PCB version of my hand-wired Cosmos Dactyl. The key layout was inspired by the Kinesis Advantage2 with a simplified thumb cluster.
While not being directly inspired by other keyboards, it can be seen as similar to other keyboards like the Silakka54, Lily58, Sofle and ErgoDox.
Name
Pando58 is named after the Pando tree. I had found out from a really cool presentation that Pando was the Earth's largest organism by mass.
This idea maps nicely onto split keyboards. At first glance, a split keyboard looks like two separate devices. But electrically and functionally, they operate as one system: two halves connected together to behave as a single keyboard.
The name Pando58 reflects that concept. Like the Pando colony, the keyboard is composed of multiple visible parts that are actually one coherent organism working together. The two halves mirror each other, share firmware architecture, and communicate continuously.
Getting Started
Visit the Build page to learn about the build process.