The Gherkin is a compact ortholinear 30-key mechanical keyboard that’s 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 it’s so small, you’ll typically use a function layer to access extra keys (numbers, symbols, arrows, etc.). What’s 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 you’ll need Soldering iron + solder Flush cutters (for trimming legs) Small screwdriver (for the case hardware) Build overview (what you’ll do) Solder the diodes onto the PCB Install the pins and mount the controller Solder in your switches Assemble the case with the included standoffs & screws 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 you’re new to small keyboards: layers are normal — once you get used to them, they’re fast. Open-source design The Gherkin was designed by 40percent.club and released on GitHub under the appropriate licence.
