If you are looking for more precise control over your computer beyond the usual mouse and keyboard, the Ploopy Knob offers a simple solution. It’s a small dial that can help you adjust volume, scroll through documents, scrub through media, and do much more with accuracy.
Who’s Behind the Ploopy Knob?
The Ploopy Knob is made by a Canadian company called Ploopy, which started in 2019. Their goal is straightforward: create open-source computer accessories that anyone can customize or build themselves. They share all the design files and software publicly, so users who like tinkering or DIY projects can modify the device as they want.
What Does the Ploopy Knob Actually Do?
At its core, it’s a dial that sends input signals to your computer. Turning it lets you scroll through long documents or web pages smoothly, adjust your system volume, zoom in and out on images, or move through video timelines. The key difference is precision. It tracks your movements finely so you get smooth control rather than jumping or skipping.
How Does It Work Technically?
It uses a Raspberry Pi RP2040 microcontroller paired with a position sensor that measures rotation with 12-bit resolution. This means it can detect very small turns and send input signals at a rate over 1000 times per second. This setup lets it react quickly and accurately, which is handy for video editors, coders, or anyone dealing with detailed work.
Which Systems Does It Support?
The Ploopy Knob works best on Windows and Linux computers. On these platforms, it provides pixel-by-pixel scrolling, which is as smooth as it gets. For Mac users, the experience is a bit different. Because macOS automatically smooths input from devices like this, the scrolling feels more step-by-step rather than fully fluid. It still works fine for basic tasks, but the smoothness isn’t quite the same.
Customizing Your Knob
Since the Ploopy Knob is open-source, you can change how it behaves. The company uploads all the firmware and design files to GitHub. If you want, you can update the software, reprogram the knob for different functions, or even 3D print your own custom knob tops. This makes it great for anyone who likes to tweak their gear or needs a dial tailored to a specific workflow.
Who Should Consider Using It?
This device isn’t for casual users who just surf the web or check emails. But if you’re a graphic designer, video editor, coder, gamer, or anyone who works a lot with long documents or media, the Ploopy Knob offers control that mouse wheels often can’t match. It gives you the ability to make tiny adjustments easily and precisely.
Price and Setup
You can buy the Ploopy Knob fully assembled for about CAD $49.99. It comes ready to use right out of the box, with software preinstalled, so no complicated setup is needed. If you prefer, you can also download the design files and build your own from scratch.
How Does It Compare to Other Devices?
Typical mouse scroll wheels or sliders can feel jumpy or too fast, which is frustrating for detailed tasks. The Ploopy Knob’s high-resolution sensor tracks rotation closely, letting you scroll or adjust volume at your own pace without overshooting. That makes it more useful for tasks that you need fine control in.
Why Open-Source Matters
Being open-source means you get transparency and flexibility. You can see exactly how the device is made and how the software works. Plus, a community of users can contribute improvements, making the device better over time. This openness appeals especially to tech enthusiasts and DIYers who want control over their tools.
Use Cases in Daily Life
You’re adjusting audio levels during a video edit, scrolling through a massive spreadsheet, zooming into high-res images, or controlling video playback, the Ploopy Knob makes these tasks feel more natural and less frustrating. It’s a simple addition but can improve your workflow noticeably.
