# Low-Profile Split Keyboards: Six Models Compared in Depth > For anyone who wants thin switches and a split layout to ease shoulders and wrists. Six standout models compared on specs, daily use, and how to choose. - URL: https://www.keylabdb.com/en/blog/low-profile-split-keyboards-compared - Published: 2026-03-28 - Category: Comparison - Source: KeyLab DB (https://www.keylabdb.com) ## Why low-profile split keyboards? A full-height keyboard on the desk often leaves your wrists extended and draws your shoulders inward. Split boards let you place each half at shoulder width, which helps posture—but a thick case still raises your hands and keeps wrist angle a problem. Low-profile (thin) switches on a split layout aim to address both issues at once, which is why the category has gained traction. Here we compare **six models listed on [KeyLab DB](https://www.keylabdb.com/en/keyboards?layout=Split&switchProfile=LowProfile)** on specs and real-world fit. **All numbers in the spec table are taken straight from KeyLab DB** (missing fields show as “—”). All six are hot-swappable in the database, so that column is omitted. > Looking for a split keyboard that takes normal-height switches instead? See our companion article, [Standard-Profile Split Keyboards: Six Models Compared](https://www.keylabdb.com/en/blog/standard-profile-split-keyboards-compared). ## Spec table | Model | Keys | Connectivity | Switch compatibility | Battery | RGB | Weight | Notes | | ------------------ | ---- | --------------------------- | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | -------- | --- | ------- | ------------------------------------------------------------- | | NocFree & | 105 | USB-C + Bluetooth + 2.4 GHz | — | 2850 mAh | Yes | — | Availability: Moderate (DB) | | Elytra | 63 | USB-C + Bluetooth | Kailh | — | No | 0.42 kg | Availability: Difficult (DB); depth 101.25 mm, height 11.8 mm | | Jiffy75 | 75 | USB-C + Bluetooth + 2.4 GHz | Kailth Choc V2 | 2800 mAh | No | 0.87 kg | Width 332.5 mm, depth 127.7 mm | | Cornix LP | 48 | USB-C + Bluetooth | Kailh choc V2 | 1300 mAh | No | 0.56 kg | 280 × 95 × 25 mm; 6063 aluminum case, FR4 plate | | Iris LM | — | USB-C | Connector type: Kailh Choc V2 / Switch profile: Kailh Choc V1 & Kailh Choc V2 (with Iris LM-K PCB), or Gateron LP KS-33 (with Iris LM-G PCB) | — | Yes | — | Per half: 146 × 123 × 19.6 mm; case Black Aluminum | | VORTEX M50 (bonus) | 55 | Bluetooth | Kailh Choc v2/Gateron LP 3.0 | 2000 mAh | No | — | — | --- ## NocFree & Split keyboard In this set, **NocFree & feels the most polished as a finished product**. KeyLab DB lists **105 keys** with the matching numpad; **the main keyboard alone is 84 keys**, in a layout close to a standard **75%**. A **dedicated Delete key** makes the move from a traditional board much easier. Connectivity is **tri-mode: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, and USB-C**. You can add a wireless numpad in the same design language, and the optional tenting stand **charges the board while it sits in the dock**—a nice touch. Overall fit and finish is strong enough that it looks at home on a desk full-time. **Price is the main downside**, but you get **ANSI, ISO, and JIS** layouts, plus **silent (Mist) or standard (Rime) switches** at purchase time. Remapping is **vendor software only (NocFree Link)**—if you want QMK or VIA, that will feel limiting. Among 75%-style split low-profile boards, this is the **most complete package today** if the cost works for you. - **NocFree & Split keyboard** — Split, 68 keys, Tray mount, hot-swappable, USB-C / Bluetooth / 2.4GHz, from 299 USD ([Details](https://www.keylabdb.com/en/keyboard/4ada0c61-616b-4fa4-abdf-4a465ddad459)) --- ## Elytra: Ultralight Wireless Split Keyboard This board **chases low weight everywhere**. The **honeycomb-style cutout on the back** looks distinctive and signals design choices beyond “just make it thin.” Per KeyLab DB it weighs **0.42 kg** with **11.8 mm** height—the lightest and thinnest entry here by a wide margin. Firmware is **Vial-capable**, so remapping is flexible. You get **USB-C and Bluetooth only**—no 2.4 GHz dongle—and **no RGB**, a clear tradeoff for weight and simplicity. Some users report **noticeable bottom-out feel**. Short-travel low-profile switches already transmit impact more directly, and a light chassis like Elytra’s can accentuate that. If you type for hours every day, plan on **switch choice or lubing** as part of the setup. For a **truly portable split**, Elytra is a top contender—but **availability is “Difficult” in the DB**, so watch restocks and regional sellers. - **Elytra: Ultralight Wireless Split Keyboard for Any Setup** — Split, 63 keys, Tray mount, hot-swappable, USB-C / Bluetooth, from 249 USD ([Details](https://www.keylabdb.com/en/keyboard/1a97e9d0-9b6a-44be-9b17-9ddd97c19b8b)) --- ## Jiffy75 A **75% split** from the **same maker as Cornix LP (JezailFunder)**—worth cross-shopping the two. “75% split” sounds conventional, but the layout **adds keys along the outer edges** of each half, which can feel unfamiliar at first. That extra width can pay off once you adapt, but **buying expecting a standard 75% feel may disappoint**. Remapping runs on **custom firmware plus VIA**. A **rotary encoder** is uncommon in this class and handy for volume, scrolling, and daily shortcuts. **Wooden palm rests** add warmth in look and feel. Connectivity is **tri-mode (Bluetooth / 2.4 GHz / USB-C)** with a **2800 mAh** battery. A strong pick if you want **value, an encoder, and palm rests** without giving up wireless flexibility. - **Jiffy75** — Split, 75 keys, Gasket mount, hot-swappable, USB-C / Bluetooth / 2.4GHz, from 249 USD ([Details](https://www.keylabdb.com/en/keyboard/2d45b5dc-5977-4a70-9038-95eb15235188)) --- ## Cornix LP Also from **JezailFunder**, but **tilted toward compact use**. KeyLab DB lists **48 keys**—the **fewest in this roundup**. The layout sits close to **40%** territory and assumes **layer-heavy** typing. **A tenting stand is included.** Other models sell tenting separately or skip it; Cornix LP ships ready to tilt, so you can tune angle to desk height and posture **without extra spend**. It still packs a **rotary encoder** despite the small footprint. Materials are spelled out as **6063 aluminum case and FR4 plate**, which helps set expectations for feel. **1300 mAh** is modest—heavy daily wireless use may mean **more frequent charging**. - **Cornix LP** — Split, 48 keys, hot-swappable, USB-C / Bluetooth, from 169 USD ([Details](https://www.keylabdb.com/en/keyboard/9dff52cd-6a52-451b-ae86-c12e1a295003)) --- ## Iris LM The **only wired-only board** in this list. While the other five offer Bluetooth, Iris LM is **USB-C wired only**. Extra cables are a hassle, but if you **do not need wireless**, want to **skip battery management**, or **prioritize wired stability**, that becomes a strength. **QMK/VIA** support delivers **among the highest remapping freedom** in the split keyboard world—ideal if you care about layers and macros. **Switch support depends on the PCB you buy:** **LM-K** covers **Kailh Choc V1/V2**; **LM-G** covers **Gateron LP KS-33**. Choose the PCB before you commit to switches and caps. The aluminum case’s **per-half dimensions in the DB are 146 × 123 × 19.6 mm**. - **Iris LM - Low-Profile Split Ergonomic Keyboard** — Split, 56 keys, Tray mount, hot-swappable, USB-C ([Details](https://www.keylabdb.com/en/keyboard/942aea16-0972-49ec-ba09-d2c2589ec563)) --- ## Bonus: VORTEX M50 A **pre-release low-profile split** from **VORTEX**. Some details are still TBD, so treat this as a **watch list** entry, not a buying guide. **55 keys** sit **between Cornix LP (48) and Elytra (63)**. The headline is a **planned integrated trackball**—rare in this space. Dedicated trackball users may get a big win in **desk cleanup and workflow** once specs firm up. The layout also looks **more idiosyncratic than typical 60% / 65%** boards, so expect a **learning curve**. Connectivity is **Bluetooth**; switch compatibility per the DB is **Kailh Choc v2 / Gateron LP 3.0**. Confirm everything against official launch materials. - **VORTEX M50** — Split, 55 keys, Tray mount, hot-swappable, Bluetooth ([Details](https://www.keylabdb.com/en/keyboard/9affe15b-101a-49aa-9bed-ff904431d05d)) --- ## Which one to pick Split low-profile boards diverge sharply by design goal. Match the board to **your priorities** and you are less likely to regret the purchase. - **Finish and layout first, numpad expansion in mind** → **NocFree &**. Pricey, but overall polish leads the pack; **ISO/JIS** support is a major plus. - **Maximum portability** → **Elytra**. Budget for **bottom-out feel** (switching or tuning). - **75% split plus encoder and palm rests** → **Jiffy75**. Whether you **gel with the outer-edge layout** is the deciding factor. - **Smallest footprint, tenting in the box** → **Cornix LP**. Best for people already comfortable with **layers**. - **Wired + full QMK/VIA freedom** → **Iris LM**. Fits **no-wireless, customization-first** users. - **Trackball inside the keyboard (when it ships)** → **VORTEX M50**. You trade **layout quirks** for **integrated pointing**—only you can say if that trade is worth it. For more candidates and live specs, use the [Split × Low Profile filter on KeyLab DB](https://www.keylabdb.com/en/keyboards?layout=Split&switchProfile=LowProfile).