> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.minimalmacropad.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.
# Choose Your MinimalPad: DIY Kit or Fully Assembled
> Compare the MinimalPad DIY kit and fully assembled options, and choose between the NRF52840 clone and Nice!Nano V2 controller before you buy.
Every MinimalPad uses the same PCB, the same 4×4 key layout, the same rotary encoder, and runs the same ZMK firmware. The differences come down to how much of the build you want to do yourself, and which controller you choose. Both paths end up at the same desk experience — 16 programmable keys, wireless operation, and browser-based configuration through MinimalPad Studio.
## Kit vs. assembled
| | DIY Kit | Fully Assembled |
| --------------------------- | -------------------------------------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------- |
| Assembly required | Yes — you solder switches, encoder, and controller | No — soldered, flashed, and tested |
| SMD components pre-soldered | Yes | Yes |
| Soldering iron needed | Yes | No |
| Switch choice | Your choice | Kailh Choc Navy (standard configuration) |
| Keycap choice | Your choice | White ABS keycaps (standard configuration) |
| Case choice | Your choice | Your choice |
| Controller choice | Your choice (NRF52840 clone or Nice!Nano V2) | Your choice (NRF52840 clone or Nice!Nano V2) |
| Firmware pre-flashed | No — you flash after assembly | Yes |
| Tested before shipping | No — you verify after building | Yes — every key and the encoder are checked |
| Ship time | Standard | Built to order, typically around one week |
| Best for | Makers, tinkerers, budget-conscious builders | Plug-and-play users, anyone without a soldering iron |
## DIY kit
The MinimalPad Kit includes the PCB, rotary encoder, push button, Kailh Choc hot-swap sockets, and diodes — everything you need on the PCB side. You choose the controller, switches, keycaps, and case. The SMD components are pre-soldered, so your job is to complete the through-hole assembly with a soldering iron.
**Good choice if you:**
* Enjoy building keyboards or electronics as part of the hobby
* Want to choose your own switches, keycaps, and case
* Are looking for the most affordable entry point
* Want to learn basic keyboard assembly
**Be aware:** soldering always carries some risk of cold joints or bridged connections. The MinimalPad's 16-key layout is intentionally approachable — it's a manageable first soldering project — but you verify the build yourself. If something doesn't work, the build guide and support team are there to help you troubleshoot.
Visit [minimalmacropad.com](https://www.minimalmacropad.com/) for current pricing, available configurations, and optional add-ons.
## Fully assembled
Every assembled MinimalPad is hand-built, soldered, flashed with firmware, and individually tested before it ships. Every key is verified, the encoder is checked, and the board is inspected. When it arrives, plug it in and open Studio — it's ready to customise.
Because each unit is built to order from Amsterdam, shipping typically takes around one week.
**Good choice if you:**
* Want a finished, tested device with no assembly required
* Don't own a soldering iron or prefer not to solder
* Need something reliable for a professional setup on day one
Visit [minimalmacropad.com](https://www.minimalmacropad.com/) for current pricing, available configurations, and estimated ship times.
## NRF52840 clone vs. Nice!Nano V2
Both controller options are built around the same Nordic nRF52840 chip and run the exact same ZMK firmware. You'll get identical Bluetooth connectivity, wireless operation, battery monitoring, and Studio compatibility either way. The practical differences are about manufacturing quality and long-term confidence.
| | NRF52840 Clone | Nice!Nano V2 |
| ---------------------- | ----------------------------------- | ----------------------------------------------- |
| Chip | nRF52840 | nRF52840 |
| ZMK compatibility | Full | Full |
| Bluetooth + wireless | Yes | Yes |
| Battery monitoring | Yes | Yes |
| Manufacturing standard | Cost-effective | Higher — the original community reference board |
| Community support | General ZMK community | Large, dedicated Nice!Nano community |
| Best for | First builds, cost-conscious buyers | Anyone wanting the reference-grade controller |
Day to day, you won't notice a functional difference. Start with the clone if you're building your first macropad or keeping costs down. Choose the Nice!Nano V2 if you want the original board that the wider ZMK community is built around.
The controller does not affect how MinimalPad Studio works. Both options connect and configure identically through the browser.
## Ready to order?
Check current prices, in-stock configurations, available colours, and optional add-ons on the product website.
View both the DIY kit and fully assembled options with current pricing and available configurations.