TheGherkin is a compact ortholinear 30-key mechanical keyboard thats great as a first soldering project, a travel board, a dedicated macro/command board or for those who love typing on small ortholinear keyboards. Because its so small, youll typically use a function layer to access extra keys (numbers, symbols, arrows, etc.).

Whats included in this kit

• Gherkin PCB
• Plate Case
• Standoffs & screws
• Diodes
• RP2040 Controller

What you still need (to complete the keyboard)

• 30x MX switches
• 30x keycaps
• A USB cable

Tools youll need

• Soldering iron + solder
• Flush cutters (for trimming legs)
• Small screwdriver (for the case hardware)

Build overview (what youll do)

1. Solder the diodes onto the PCB
2. Install the pins and mount the controller
3. Solder in your switches
4. Assemble the case with the included standoffs & screws
5. Flash/program your controller and start typing

Important notes for beginners

• This is a soldering kit (not hot-swap).
• No stabilisers are required (all keys are single-unit).
• If youre new to small keyboards: layers are normal once you get used to them, theyre fast.

Open-source design

The Gherkin was designed by 40percent.club and released on GitHub under the appropriate licence.