Development Keyboard Encoder Board 104 Keys DIY Controller - DIY Kit

In this review of the Development Keyboard Encoder Board, the reviewer evaluates a niche DIY kit for people building custom keyboards, arcade sticks, or media controllers. The bottom line: this board is a practical, affordable way to add a full 104 keys keyboard matrix and extensive media controls to a project, provided you are comfortable with assembly and basic wiring. It is aimed at makers who want a ready encoder with LED support and many media functions rather than a finished plug-and-play peripheral.

Key Features

• 104 keys keyboard: Provides a full key matrix so builders can create a standard layout or map custom inputs for games and macros.
• Media and system controls: Includes dedicated media, mail, calculator, web, search and my computer controls so a custom controller can handle shortcuts and multimedia functions.
• Extended circuit board: The included additional board and 26-pin cable simplify routing and let builders extend the encoder into larger control panels.
• LED support with 5V rail: Built-in 5V power and a red plug make it straightforward to connect LEDs for backlighting or status indicators.
• Cross-platform compatibility: Works with Windows 10/8/7/Vista/XP and Mac OS, allowing the finished device to act as a standard USB HID keyboard or media controller.

Who It's For

This board is best for hobbyists, makers, and small-scale developers who want to assemble a custom keyboard or arcade-style controller and need a full key matrix plus media keys. It suits projects where space for wiring and a separate encoder board is available and the builder prefers to solder or use included cables.

It is less suitable for users who expect a ready-made, out-of-the-box keyboard with polished casing and customer support. If you need plug-and-play reliability without any assembly or occasional button mapping issues, a finished commercial keyboard will be a better choice.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Full 104-key matrix delivers a complete keyboard mapping for standard layouts and complex controllers.
• Extensive media controls add value for multimedia and workstation builds without extra components.
• LED 5V power and connector make it easy to integrate lighting into your project.
• Cross-platform USB compatibility reduces driver issues on common desktop systems.

Cons

• Some customers report mixed functionality, so builders should be prepared to troubleshoot wiring or button mapping.
• Being a development kit, it requires assembly and basic electronics skills, which may deter casual users.

Specifications

Product type	Development keyboard encoder board
Key count	104 keys
Included items	Encoder board, USB cable, 26-pin cable, 104 keys additional board, assorted cables
Power	5V supply for LEDs (red plug)
Compatibility	Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, XP and Mac OS
Designed for	DIY game controllers and keyboard projects

Our Verdict

The Development Keyboard Encoder Board is a sensible buy for makers who need a complete DIY keyboard encoder with media keys and LED support at a modest price. It gives a lot of functionality for builders willing to assemble and test their wiring; those expecting rock-solid plug-and-play behavior without setup may find it less reliable. For custom controller projects it represents good value when time and basic skills are available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the kit include cables?
Yes. The package includes a USB cable, a 26-pin cable and several smaller cables for connecting the board and additional PCB.

Can it control media functions?
Yes. The encoder contains keys for media, mail, calculator, web, search and My Computer, plus music control and web control.

Which operating systems are supported?
It is compatible with Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP and Mac OS as a USB HID device.