Lily Pad

Product Introduction

1. The Lily Pad is a premium aluminum split keyboard designed for the Lily58 layout, offering ergonomic benefits and high build quality for both new builders and existing Lily58 users. It supports easy integration of standard Lily58 PCBs or a fresh build using its solder-free SMT hot-swap RGB PCB.
2. Its core value lies in bridging accessibility and premium ergonomics, enabling users to reduce physical strain through a split, column-staggered design while maintaining compatibility with familiar 60% layouts and open-source customization tools.

Main Features

1. The Lily Pad features a hot-swap SMT PCB with RGB per-key and underglow lighting, eliminating soldering requirements and allowing users to install MX-compatible switches directly into pre-installed sockets.
2. It includes a CNC-machined aluminum case with optional sound-dampening foam and acrylic screen covers, providing durability and customization for acoustics and aesthetics.
3. The keyboard uses an RP2040 microcontroller with 16MB ROM, supporting QMK and Vial firmware for advanced programmability, including layer configurations, macros, and OLED/joystick integration.

Problems Solved

1. The Lily Pad addresses ergonomic discomfort caused by traditional unibody keyboards, such as wrist strain and shoulder tension, through its split design and columnar stagger that aligns keys with natural finger movements.
2. It targets users transitioning from standard keyboards to ergonomic splits, as well as DIY enthusiasts seeking a premium upgrade path for existing Lily58 builds without soldering.
3. Typical use cases include long typing sessions for programmers, writers, or office workers requiring reduced ulnar deviation and customizable tenting angles (5° or 15°) for wrist support.

Unique Advantages

1. Unlike generic split keyboards, the Lily Pad guarantees full compatibility with Lily58 PCBs, allowing users to reuse components from prior builds while offering a pre-built RGB hot-swap PCB for newcomers.
2. Its CNC aluminum case and RP2040 microcontroller provide a rare combination of industrial-grade durability and firmware flexibility in the split keyboard market, outperforming acrylic or plastic alternatives.
3. Competitive advantages include bundled beginner-friendly guides, dual USB-C ports for reliable split connectivity, and optional "Booster Packs" for tenting adjustments, which competitors often sell separately.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Does the Lily Pad require soldering? No soldering is needed; the hot-swap PCB allows switches to be snapped into pre-installed Kailh sockets, and all components (controllers, LEDs, diodes) are factory-soldered.
2. Can I use my existing Lily58 PCB with this case? Yes, the Lily Pad’s case is designed to accommodate standard Lily58 PCBs, enabling seamless upgrades from DIY builds without modifying components.
3. What tenting options are available? Optional Booster Packs provide 15-degree or 5-degree tenting legs, sold separately, to adjust the keyboard’s angle for ergonomic wrist positioning.
4. Is the Lily Pad programmable? Yes, it supports QMK and Vial firmware for creating custom keymaps, layers, and macros, with 16MB ROM storage for complex configurations.
5. What components are included in the base kit? The base kit includes the aluminum case, SMT hot-swap PCB, MX-compatible plate, and necessary hardware; OLED screens, tenting legs, and cables are optional add-ons.