If youre in search of the best mechanical keyboard kit then youve come to the right place.
What is the best TKL keyboard kit?
If you are an RGB fanatic then you are going to love it.
This custom board is all about its majestic backlighting that takes under-glow illumination to another level.
Noticeably, the acrylic case has a frosted coat finish that is entirely transparent.
Due to this reason, the low-profile design appears very minimalistic.
Of course, another difference is that you will have to buy the switches and keycaps separately.
For switches, the hot-swap sockets accept both 3 and 5-pins.
Although its not widely known, there is now software available for this board.
It allows you to create macros and customize any of the 16.8 million colors.
It has a standard 87 key layout with sockets for both three and five-pin hot-swappable switches.
Constructed from a dense plastic housing, the case feels nice and sturdy while still being lightweight.
Underneath are two adjustable, three-stage feet at the rear.
Centered between both feet is a recessed cable connector port along with the Bluetooth on/ off switch.
On top of the unit is a thick metal plate that does not rattle or ping.
Although it does add stability to the board, unfortunately, this is non-removable from the PCB.
All in all, its a great DIY keyboard kit for beginners.
Some of these features include Khail hot-swap sockets, RGB backlighting, and customizable software.
It also includes a high-density silicone matt between the plate and the PCB.
The board itself has a transparent plastic case.
This has a retro aesthetic and looks stunning when the RGB lights are on.
In between is a white, reflective metal switch plate.
This further helps to diffuse the RGB LEDs and makes them appear even brighter.
Beneath the case are a pair of flip-out feet.
To prevent the accumulation of dust, we like that both the side USB ports have their own plugs.
Unfortunately, though, we did find that the stabilizer plate tolerances were quite tight on the openings.
Therefore, theres a chance some tighter stabs might not fit.
Lastly, the software from the manufacturer is easy to use and features rich.
Its worth noting that like most budget boards, only the native software is supported.
Overall, we highly recommend the FL MK870 for anybody about to get into the custom keyboard hobby.
Its a fantastic starter TKL.
The GMMK acts as a perfectly good modding platform.
All 87 sockets are fully modular, which makes it easy to remove and install a selection of switches.
Including; Kailhs, Gaterons, Cherrys, and clones.
Keep in mind that this board only supports plate-mounted, 3-pin mechanical switches.
Furthermore, although the snap-in stabilizers come pre-lubed, they can be quite noisy.
For this reason, youll probably want to replace them with a quality set of GMK plates.
Overall, its an excellent TKL barebones kit that accomplishes the job it was built to do.
As a scaled-down version of a full-size keyboard, it packs 87 keys into a compact TKL design.
Constructed with a sleek, aluminum frame, the build quality is solid and has some noticeable heft.
In addition to providing strength, the frame also acts as a built-in switch plate.
This makes it compatible with a large selection of plate-mounted (3-pin) switches.
RGB backlighting is another prominent feature of the CTRL.
Besides the lighting, all of the keys and macros are fully programmable via the QMK firmware.
With so many customizable features, it puts you in full control of your gaming.
What is the best 75% mechanical keyboard kit?
This is preferential to those looking to increase efficiency.
The acrylic diffuser sheet insert emphasizes the lighting through the edges of the board.
However, if you prefer a slab aluminum look, it is possible to unscrew and remove this.
Additionally, it supports both RGB and LED backlighting.
The case comes in five attractive colors including; Blue, Silver, and Purple.
CNC crafted from acrylic with a frosted coat finish, the casing is entirely transparent.
This allows the under glow LEDs to illuminate beautifully through the casing without being hindered by the material.
In terms of the build, its not exactly the easiest kit to assemble.
Still, dont let that put you off, as it looks excellent when everything comes together.
Once built, the PCB is fully programmable via the Bootmapper software.
Here you could set the brightness, seven color zones, and the various effects that you want.
As well as access to macros.
The aluminum top plate is available in three anodized colors including; Black, Grey, and Silver.
Similarly, it has 83 keys including a clickable rotary encoder at the top right corner of the board.
It also features a gasket mount design, a hot-swap PCB, and RGB backlighting.
Compared to the GMMK PRO, the plastic chassis is one of the major differences over the IK75.
As you might expect, the RGB looks fabulous when its on.
Another big difference is the Fekers wireless functionality.
That gives it one of the largest power sources we have seen in a mechanical keyboard.
As for connectivity, the IK75 lets you choose from three different modes.
These include Bluetooth 5.0, wired, or 2.4 GHz.
The 2.4 GHz dongle conveniently lives in the bottom of the case.
Unfortunately, the gasket implementation on this board is also quite stiff.
This is due to the top and bottom case clipping together tightly and the board using a steel plate.
All in all, those after a pretty, 75% keyboard kit might like the Feker IK75.
CNC crafted from aluminum, the quality of the case is extremely high.
To further reduce vibration and naturally dampen keystrokes, the GMMK Pro opts for a gasket-mounted plate design.
This results in a more cushioned and quieter clamp.
The south-facing PCB is hot-swappable and supports both plate and PCB mounted switches.
In addition to this, it supports both clip-In or screw-In stabilizers.
For software, the GMMK Pro gives you a few different choices.
Its compatible with the native Glorious Core software, along with QMK and VIA open-source firmware.
What is the best 65% mechanical keyboard kit?
TheGamaKay LK67is a budget, 65% mechanical keyboard kit that offers great value.
It has 67 keys including a dedicated set of arrows, three modifiers, and a multi-function volume knob.
Moreover, it supports three modes of connectivity (Bluetooth 5.0, wired, and 2.4 GHz).
Constructed entirely from plastic, the case consists of a transparent upper cover and an opaque lower cover.
In terms of the build, the plate attaches to the upper cover similar to a top mount.
Then, beneath theres a layer of dampening foam between the PCB and the plate.
In terms of ergonomics, the bottom case has a 4.8 gradient.
The PCB supports both 3/ 5-pin switches and has north-facing LEDs.
As for the stabilizers, these are pre-lubed and have very little rattle.
We also like that the LK67 has a decent 2400 mAh battery and controllable software.
The software lets you define up to ten layers of key mappings and layouts.
ThisDNA65provides speed and style while featuring a layout that remains relatively compact.
The four-layer, acrylic case is a sandwich mount with a dense metal plate in the middle.
Durable and drop-dead gorgeous, the split design allows the RGB to illuminate individually through both halves.
Supporting the case is a large acrylic foot, but you may have to replace this for greater stability.
Surprisingly, this barebones keyboard kit does include its own Gateron switches.
The hot-swappable Kailh sockets (3-pin compatible) make tinkering with your Gaterons really easy, too.
Youll be able to get the custom mechanical feedback youre after without any headache or hassle.
TheGK68XSis one of the most advanced 65% mechanical keyboard kits on the market today.
Although the case is plastic, it feels nice and rigid with little to no flex whatsoever.
Moreover, the plate-mounted stabs on the PCB come factory pre-lubed and are relatively quiet.
A unique highlight of this chassis plate is its interchangeable spacebar.
For this reason, you’re free to quickly adapt your typing preference.
Both the RGB backlighting and 3-layer macro customization is software-driven and fully programmable.
Its a great dive into the world of DIY keyboards.
TheDrop ALT Barebonesis one of the best 65% mechanical keyboards on the market right now.
Due to being constructed with an aluminum frame, the build quality is solid and theres virtually no bend.
In addition to providing strength, the frame also acts as a built-in switch plate.
RGB backlighting is another prominent feature of the ALT.
Using the QMK software, the RGB backlighting/ under-lighting, and macros are fully customizable.
With so many stand-out features, it might be the last keyboard you ever need to buy!
What is the best 60% mechanical keyboard kit?
Designed to brighten up any space, theCarinais a gorgeous small form factor kit.
Much like the YMDK 84, it has an acrylic case thats lit up by a ring of LEDs.
All LEDs are fully programmable, allowing you to select per-key colors or even clusters from the entire spectrum.
If switch flexibility is a priority for your new barebones keyboard kit, then you will appreciate this option.
Of course, these are sold separately along with the keycaps.
Besides affecting the boards aesthetics qualities, the plate material will subtlety accentuate the tactility of the switches.
Furthermore, its fully compatible with both Windows and Mac devices.
Capable of accepting all kinds of switches, the hot-swappable ability of these sockets is another big selling point.
It accepts Cherrys, Gaterons, and Kailhs, etc.
without having to do any soldering.
To save you even more time, the plate mount stabs come pre-lubed straight out of the box.
Even though the case is made from plastic, the quality is somewhat high.
Theres little flex to the board which is a big plus.
The lighting effects are also pretty good with plenty of pre-set modes.
The built-in GK61 software gives you total control over the performance of this keyboard, too.
Featuring legendary Japanese engineering, TheTokyo60is an elegant 60% barebones keyboard kit with a compact HHKB layout.
It includes the top/ bottom case, PCB, stabilizers, and feet.
The case is available in four anodized color finishes; including Black, Silver, and Coyote.
We particularly like that this kit doesnt require any soldering and can be put together with just a screwdriver.
This is in part thanks to the hot-swappable sockets and PCB screw-in stabs.
It also supports QMK.
Similarly, it works with any three-pin switch under the sun.
Being able to hot-swap between these switches without having to do any soldering is a game-changer.
Thanks to the PCBs built-in RGB lighting, 16.8 million color combinations are possible too.
Moreover, per-key lighting is a feature with each key having its own LED.
Lastly, the warranty on this unit is another big pro.
You get 12 months of protection with a no-hassle refund or replacement program in place.
Thats a huge bonus or any 60% bare-bones keyboard kit.
Overall, its a superb entry-level DIY chassis thats easy to customize and tailor.
What is the best 40% keyboard kit?
That ortholinear layout significantly reduces travel time and helps improve writing speeds in a major way.
You may even see your typing speeds double overnight.
Kailh hot-swappable sockets are the star of the show here.
Conveniently, you wont ever have to pick up a soldering iron.
Unusually, a small speaker is soldiered on the PCB too.
To achieve this, the PCB is fully programmable.
It comes pre-programmed with a standard keyboard layout, though all of that can be changed with QMK software.
The aluminum casing comes in two heights mid-pro and high-pro, and is available in three different colors.
In short, its a great little kit that provides lots of flexibility.
What is the best full-size keyboard kit?
Just install your favorite switches into the 108 sockets, add keycaps, and youre ready to go.
While the enclosure is only ABS plastic, this has a lovely, high-quality matte texture.
In between is a steel plate, which brings the total weight up to 2 lbs.
The feet have two levels of adjustment, which make it easy to find the right height.
Theres also a recessed Skyloong sticker on the front right of the chassis.
It is however possible to remove this.
The hot-swap terminals support both 3 and 5 pin switches, and the stabilizers are plate-mounted Gaterons.
You will appreciate that the stabs come pre-lubed and have a secure fit.
To help dampen the stabilizer rattle, Epomaker has added some muffling foam on either side of the spacebar.
Finally, the GK108S has a 1900mAh capacity battery.
We found this lasts approximately 24 hours with the RGB on.
Moreover, connectivity worked without issue and the lighting effects are very customizable.
Overall, the GK108S is a great choice for either a beginner or an advanced user.
Constructed with an aluminum case and frame, the build is extremely solid and theres very little flex.
Besides providing plenty of rigidity, the frame also acts as a built-in switch plate for the PCB.
The PCB itself is fully hot-swappable and can house a selection of 3-pin switches.
RGB backlighting is another prominent feature of the Shift Barebones.
A diffused light bar wraps around the entire case and per-key LEDs mount into the base of each switch.
Together, they produce a beautiful light box effect that glows evenly in/ around the edge of the board.
Using the QMK firmware, the backlighting and keys are fully programmable.
What is the best split mechanical keyboard kit?
It has a compact 60% form factor with 64-keys in total.
Wedged between the top and bottom of the aluminum case is an acrylic diffuser.
This is visible from all sides of the board and produces a beautiful RGB under glow.
To provide a stable typing surface, each half of the keyboard has four rubber feet.
Unlike some of the other options on this list, it does mean that the board is dead flat.
The YMDK Split 64 draws its power through a mini-USB port on the left half side.
It then uses another mini-USB to mini-USB cable to connect the left and the right side together.
Uncommon to most split keyboards, Kailh hot-swap sockets are another top feature of the Split 64.
Lastly, the PCB is fully programmable via the Bootmapper software.
Click herefor the best Split keyboards!
What is a Mechanical Keyboard Kit?
This takes the guesswork out of finding compatible parts.
you’ve got the option to source the additional components as you like.
Beyond that, mechanical keyboard kits vary in the number of extra parts they offer.
Some will come with everything you need, while others leave you to find your own switches and keycaps.
They are tried and true products known to interact and fit together properly.
While this is not starting from scratch, you sacrifice some of the decisions for an easier building process.
Mechanical keyboard kits usually lead to higher-quality keyboards.
This also paves the road for a more expressive build.
Sometimes using a kit is cheaper than buying a pre-built keyboard.
This is particularly the case for enthusiasts who already have their own parts from previous builds.
It is not difficult to use a kit.
check that you choose a keyboard size and layout that works out for you.
Decide whether you want/ need the number pad and if you would prefer a compact layout over standard spacing.
Build Quality
Do your research to pick a kit company offering high-quality products.
You should choose a keyboard made from high-quality materials.
The most common materials you see include polycarbonate, brass, and carbon fiber.
On top of ensuring the reliability of the board, consider how you want it to feel and sound.
Hot-Swappable or No
Decide whether you want the kit to be hot-swappable or not.
This adds to the manufacturing cost and process for the kit developer.
Connectivity Option
Choose a mechanical keyboard kit compatible with the connectivity option you desire.
If you want a wireless keyboard, your kit should offer Bluetooth, or 2.4 GHz connectivity.
you might usually save money with a wired connection.
Paying more for these features usually pays off, but this requires more assembly and programming on your part.
Software Support
Pay close attention to the software used by the keyboard kit.
This changes up often from board to board, and you want highly rated software youre comfortable using.
Popular programs keyboards use include QMK and VIA.
Due to offering an extensive level of programmability, QMK is a popular open-source software that many kits use.
Furthermore, if the manufacturer has their own software, it should provide clear instructions.
We hope you found a DIY Mechanical Keyboard Kit on this list.
Click herefor the 11 best Barebones Keyboards!
Click herefor the best 65% Mechanical Keyboards!
