The MiniVan Custom Mechanical Keyboard Kit

This is one MiniVan we aren’t embarrassed to love. No, it’s not the oft-disparaged vehicle of soccer moms everywhere. It’s the highly anticipated 40% keyboard that types like a tenkeyless. Designed by community member Evan Sailer, it features a staggered layout that hews closely to QWERTY. It also features two function layers, which can be activated from either side of the keyboard, plus a split space bar and the all-important slash key. We may be biased, but we’re also confident: This is the most user-friendly keyboard of its size.

With a soldering iron and a little help from the video below, you’ll be able to assemble the MiniVan Keyboard in about an hour. It comes with a CNC-machined aluminum case and aluminum plate, PCB, stabilizers, and bumpons. And at checkout, you’ll be able to add switches and keycaps. On your own, you can install LEDs.

With its bright blue contrasted against light and dark grays, the LightCycle keycap set is heavily inspired by the Tron movies. Designed with feedback from the community to provide an array of layout options, the LightCycle keyset is compatible with both Matias and MX stems, and features the DSA profile to further extend layout compatibility. And for added pop, the set includes accent keys.

The MiniVan supports two bottom row layouts. The standard layout is the original bottom row layout, carefully constructed by Evan himself. A large emphasis was placed on making the modifiers easy to reach and identify while still being familiar. The second layout was inspired by a community member who pointed out that changing a couple of key sizes would allow for an arrow cluster in the bottom right.

The MiniVan PCB is fully programmable, meaning you can redefine every single key via the open-source firmware. By compiling your custom layout and flashing it to the PCB, you can completely customize the experience. If that sounds like too much work, don't fret. The MiniVan PCB comes pre-loaded with Evan’s preferred layout. This PCB also supports both the standard and arrow cluster layouts as well as both MX and Alps switches. Want to add a little extra flair? In-switch LEDs are supported.

The circuit board of The MiniVan is compatible with Cherry MX, Matias, and Gateron switches. The most popular switch in the mechanical keyboard community, Cherry MX mechanical switches have a reliable reputation and come in multiple variants. Whether you prefer a linear or tactile feel, clicky or quiet sound, or larger or smaller actuation force, there is a Cherry MX switch for you.