Pimoroni Keybow 2040 - Clicky Keys - PIM565
A luxe all-in-one 16 key mini mechanical keyboard with hot-swap clicky or linear switches and per-key customizable RGB lighting.
Keybow evolves into its final form with a 4x4 grid of keys, low-latency input, high reliability, and a super slim footprint courtesy of the RP2040 chip from Raspberry Pi. The RP2040 microcontroller chip is incorporated neatly into the Keybow 2040 PCB, so it's a tidy all-in-one unit. We've added our favourite Kailh Speed switches and smart transparent DSA keycaps that look incredible when lit up with the fully customisable per-key RGB lighting.
You could use Keybow 2040 as a streaming deck for adjusting in-stream audio settings and switching easily between OBS scenes, as a capable MIDI controller for triggering clips, tracks, or effects in Ableton Live, even as a customisable hotkey pad for programs like Photoshop. It's also handy for pasting frequently-used text or code snippets.
Features
- Powered by RP2040
- 2MB of flash memory.
- 16 (4x4 matrix) of low-profile keys connected directly to GPIOs
- Kailh hot-swap switch sockets (for Cherry MX-compatible switches)
- Per-key RGB LEDs driven by an IS31FL3731 PWM LED matrix driver
- A BOOTSEL button (this can also be used as a user switch)
- A reset button!
- Powered and programmable via USB-C (cable to purchase separately)
- Dimensions: approx. 76mm x 76mm x 30mm (L x W x H, including switches, keycaps and feet)
- Comes with CircuitPython pre-installed - PMK CircuitPython library
- Schematic
Includes
The clicky kit contains everything you need to assemble your own mini mechanical keyboard with high-quality clicky (Gold) Kailh Speed switches and clear DSA-profile key caps. The hot-swap Kailh sockets mean that assembly is super simple and there's absolutely no soldering required!
Getting started
This tutorial shows you how to assemble your Keybow 2040 - assembly is really straightforward, and the only tool you'll need is a small Phillips screwdriver.
Software
Sandy has written a swish CircuitPython library which makes it easy to program and customize your Keybow 2040. There are simple examples to show you how to control the LEDs and buttons, as well as fancy ones to show you how to set it up as a USB input device or even a MIDI controller/sequencer.
