If youre in search of a barebones keyboard then youve come to the right place.
What is the best barebones keyboard?
It has a TKL, ANSI layout with 87 Keys.
Additionally, it features a hot-swappable PCB, RGB backlighting, and its own intuitive native software.
The board consists of an aluminum top plate and a matt plastic bottom.
Aesthetically, the bottom case has a large bevel, which gives the keyboard a slim impression.
Moreover, while the case sides are cloudy, the bottom of the case is completely translucent.
As a result, the PCB is clearly visible.
Stuck/ molded into the bottom of the case are four rubber comer pads and a pair of flip-out feet.
Then, on the back (towards the left-center) is a USB punch in-C port.
Although this is a budget board, the quality is quite impressive.
The top plate has a lovely diamond cut edge and the overall build feels solid.
The PCB itself has north-facing LEDs and supports both three/ 5-pin switches.
With both the keys and Pulsar logo illuminated, the RGB backlighting looks beautiful.
The software is user-friendly and full of customization options.
Overall, the PCMK is an amazing gateway into custom mechanical keyboards.
Glorious GMMK Full-size Barebones
The GMMKFull-size Barebonesis a 108-socket mechanical keyboard chassis with a sleek and minimalistic design.
Built with a strong, sandblasted aluminum faceplate, the GMMK lacks no quality.
Although the top half of the chassis is entirely aluminum, this clips into a plastic bottom shell.
The shell has four rubber feet, plus two adjustable flip-up feet.
Sandwiched between both parts is the boards hot-swappable PCB.
This is compatible with plate-mounted switches (3-pin) and features north-facing SMD LEDs.
All RGB backlighting is controllable on board or with the downloadable GMMK software.
All in all, its a fantastic entry-level, full-size barebones keyboard.
Similarly, it works with any three-pin switch under the sun.
In terms of the build, the aluminum top frame attaches to a plastic bottom shell.
Even so, the board is sturdy, does not flex, or produce any squeaky plastic noises.
Just like the full-size, the Compact is hot-swappable with 3-pin mechanical switches and features north-facing LEDs.
Being able to hot-swap between the switches without having to do any soldering is a game-changer.
Unfortunately, though, it does mean youll have to clip any 5-pin switches.
Thanks to the PCBs per-key LED lighting, RGB backlighting is another standout feature.
The backlighting provides up to 16.8 million color combinations and is nice and bright.
All brightness options, lighting effects, and colorways are all fully controllable onboard or with the native software.
Lastly, youll appreciate the extra accessories you get in the box.
As a streamlined version of the CTRL model, it packs 67 keys into a tight, compact space.
This includes a full set of arrow keys and numerals that so many gamers prefer.
Apart from the noticeable size difference, the design of the ALT is almost identical to the CTRL.
Underneath are four rubber feet, plus two magnetic raisers.
Just like the CTRL, the frame also acts as a built-in switch plate.
This supports the majority of 3-pin mechanical switches as well as the plate-mounted stabilizers that come with the deal.
Both sets of LEDs are incredibly vibrant, syncs together beautifully, and produce an excessive amount of light.
Until you see it with your own eyes, you wont realize how nice it really is.
All RGB effects are controllable onboard or via the software.
The onboard controls let you perform quick and simple actions like changing the brightness or customizing the colors.
Alternatively, more complex customizations can be programmed using the QMK software.
Glorious GMMK TKL Barebones
TheGMMK TKLis the tenkeyless version of the popular full-size Glorious GMMK.
This board stands out for its minimalistic, raised key-cap design with almost no visible branding.
It also happens to be one of the best hot-swappable mechanical keyboards that money can buy.
The large, steady, frame provides a superb modding platform.
Furthermore, the stock keycaps only use thin ABS plastic.
Customizing the RGB backlight is possible onboard or via the software.
The software is super basic but still good enough to get the job done.
To sum up, the TKL is an all-round, outstanding barebones keyboard.
Akko MOD007
TheMOD007is an entry-level, 75% gasket-mounted barebones keyboard from Chinese manufacturer Akko.
Unlike the GMMK Pro, the MOD007 is available in four charming color options.
These include Ocean Blue, Sakura Pink, and Space Grey.
You might also like that the chassis has larger bezels on the north and south sides.
This gives the overall aesthetic a simpler, more playful look.
As for the build quality, the 007 has its pros and cons.
Nevertheless, theres still the potential to fix this with some mods.
For instance, inserting a thicker layer of foam or adding some tape between the top/ bottom case.
In addition to its aluminum plate, the MOD007 comes with an FR4 plate.
Surprisingly, these sound really good out of the box so its not entirely necessary to replace them.
Like its name, youll probably going to want to mod it to get it sounding spot-on.
Drop CTRL Barebones
TheDrop CTRL Barebonesis a premium mechanical keyboard chassis that simply has it all.
As a scaled-down version of a full-size board, it packs 87 keys into a compact TKL design.
When compared to the Drop Shift, the sleek, low-profile design of the CTRL is practically the same.
This consists of an aluminum top and bottom frame that has plenty of strength and rigidity.
Wedged in between is an acrylic diffuser that provides LED illumination from all four sides of the board.
Underneath are six rubber feet that allow the CTRL to sit completely flat.
These simply clip into the holes in the bottom and provide a 6-degree typing angle.
Similar to the Drop Shift, the aluminum frame also acts as a built-in switch plate for the PCB.
The PCB is completely hot-swappable and can house a large selection of plate-mounted (3-pin) switches.
Although the switches arent included, you do get a mediocre set of Cherry-style stabs.
Lastly, RGB backlighting is another standout feature of the CTRL.
Each switch on the PCB has an individual LED and LEDs run evenly along the diffuser sides.
Built from aluminum, the quality of the Pro is second to none.
To further reduce vibration and naturally dampen keystrokes, the GMMK Pro goes for a gasket-mounted plate design.
This results in an even more cushioned and quieter clamp.
The south-facing PCB is hot-swappable and supports both plate mount and PCB mounted switches.
In addition to this, it supports both clip-In or screw-In stabs.
For software, the GMMK Pro gives you a few different choices.
Its compatible with its own native Glorious Core, or QMK and VIA open-source firmware.
Drop Shift Barebones
TheDrop Shift Barebonesis a modern and inventive mechanical keyboard.
Significantly shorter than a traditional full-size board, it goes for a space-efficient 1800 layout with 99 keys.
Constructed with a CNC anodized aluminum frame, the build quality is solid and there isnt any flex.
Besides providing plenty of strength, the frame also acts as a built-in switch plate for the PCB.
The PCB is entirely hot-swappable and can house a selection of 3-pin mechanical switches.
The stabs are somewhat decent but can be prone to rattling on some of the larger keys.
As a result, you may want to replace them.
RGB backlighting is another prominent feature of the Drop Shift.
A diffused light bar wraps around the entire case and north-facing LEDs are soldered into the PCB.
Using the QMK firmware, all of the backlighting and keys are fully programmable.
Although we found the software to be a little primitive, it does perform enough functionalities.
Overall, the Shift is a beautiful keyboard for anyone looking to add some flair to their desktop.
Keychron Q1 Barebones
The KeychronQ1 Barebonesis a highly customizable mechanical keyboard chassis that closely rivals the GMMK Pro.
Made from CNC aluminum, the board is solid and has plenty of strength.
Underneath are four rubber feet that help to raise the case just above the ground.
Due to having a gasket mount design, the plate provides up to 2.5mm of generous flex.
This makes it considerably more flexible than the GMMK Pro, which has a reputation for being quite stiff.
The hot-swap PCB is compatible with 5-pin mechanical switches and has south-facing RGB LEDs.
These are silver-plated Gateron stabilizers that are factory lubed and sound decent out of the box.
This is due to having a slightly cheaper entry price and a better-implemented gasket mount.
Keychron Q2 Barebones
TheKeychron Q2 Barebonesis the 65% variant of the Keychron Q1.
Similarly, it has a highly customizable layout and comes packed with premium features.
These include a gasket mount design, a hot-swappable PCB, and programmability via QMK and VIA.
Much like the Q1, the Q2 is built from a solid CNC aluminum case.
Apart from the obvious difference in form factor and weight, the case is pretty much identical.
Underneath are four rubber feet.
Moreover, on the back is a USB-C port, plus a switch for toggling between system layouts.
One way in which the Q2 does differ from the Q1 is with its innovative double gasket design.
As a result, it has less ping and marginally more bounce in the overall structure.
Youll be glad to know that these are lubed, clipped, and feel extra stable and smooth.
They screw into the same PCB that is compatible with both 3/5 pin switches.
Finally, as mentioned, the Q2 is programmable via QMK and VIA.
Here you’re able to program/ remap each key, and configure the backlighting with ease.
We also like the ability to re-assign the functionality of the knob controller.
For example, zooming in/out, adjusting screen brightness, brush size, etc.
Overall, the Keychron Q2 is a real solid board that makes some great refinements to its larger brother.
What is a Barebones Keyboard?
A barebones keyboard is a semi-made mechanical keyboard that ships without any switches or keycaps.
Although they are required to complete the keyboard, they are not included in the deal.
This lowers the cost of the unit and allows the user to complete the build the way they like.
Barebones in general refers to a system with as few components as needed.
The focus of a barebones keyboard is your ability to customize the build.
You pay for a higher quality chassis and PCB and purchase the switches and keycaps separately.
What Are the Advantages of Buying a Barebones Keyboard?
These keyboards offer you more flexibility for keyboard and switch options.
Most serious users outgrow a pre-built keyboard in no time at all, even when just starting out.
A barebones keyboard anticipates this issue and lets you create a keyboard that fits your needs with greater ease.
With a barebones kit, you also are not stuck assembling the basic parts right out of the box.
Instead, you could start installing switches and keycaps as soon as you have everything together.
A standard full-sized keyboard has 104 or 108 keys, including all functions and the number pad.
Keep in mind that it is more difficult to find keycaps for compact and smaller sizes.
Purchase barebones keyboards from reputable sellers with good reviews.
That way you’re free to research prior to purchase about the build quality of a board.
Hot-Swappable or Not
Pay attention to the hot-swappable capability of a barebones keyboard.
This lets you swap out keyboard switches with greater ease, allowing easier installation and customization.
Connectivity Options
Do you prefer a wired or wireless experience from your barebones keyboard?
Connectivity affects the portability of your barebones keyboard.
Software
The software needed to remap keys and monitor your keyboard varies depending on the manufacturer.
Another popular option is VIA, which is based on QMK.
This program offers more control and updates your keyboard in real-time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a barebones keyboard mean?
A barebones keyboard ships without any switches or keycaps.
This allows the buyer to customize the build just as they like.
Does GMMK barebones come with stabilizers?
Yes, all GMMK barebones boards come with pre-lubed stabilizers.
We hope you found a barebones keyboard on this list.
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