If youre in search of a hot-swappable mechanical keyboard then youve come to the right place.
In terms of the build, the Z15 goes for an all-plastic construction with a solid Aliminium faceplate.
The board feels quite lightweight yet has zero flex or sharp edges making it suitable for lap users.
Moreover, due to having a low-profile design, the switches are fully exposed from the sides.
Keycaps: ABSBacklighting: RGBHot-swappable: Wireless: Software: X
TheKeychron K4is a wireless 96% mechanical keyboard.
Designed for high productivity in a compact size, it has 100-keys to offer full-size functionality.
(Image credit: Ducky)
Built like an armored tank, the K4 has a plastic case with removable aluminum sides.
As a result, it feels durable in your hand and quite heavy, weighing 2.44 pounds.
For stock switches, the K4 is available in Gaterons.
(Image credit: Ducky)
However, the hot-swap PCB allows you to swap them out for most other 3/ 5-pin MX-style mechanical switch.
On top of the switches are a cheap set of ABS caps.
These do allow the light to shine through the legends but can grease up quite easy.
The backlighting has many static color schemes (including white) as well as fifteen onboard effects.
Unfortunately, the LEDs arent super bright; however, this does help to preserve the 4000 mAh battery.
With the RGB on, we found the battery could last up to 40 hours on a full charge.
The GMMK acts as a perfectly good modding platform.
All 104 switches are fully modular, which makes it easy to remove and install a selection of switches.
Furthermore, the stock keycaps only use thin ABS plastic.
Overall, its an excellent keyboard that accomplishes the job it was built to do.
Keycaps: PBTBacklighting: RGBHot-swappable: Wireless: XSoftware:
TheOne 3is the latest release from Taiwanese manufacturer Ducky.
It has a full-size layout with 108 keys plus four independent LED indicators above the Numpad.
The board itself stands out for its fresh new style, improved acoustics, and long-awaited hot-swap functionality.
Constructed from a hard plastic, the build quality is solid and durable in your hand.
The sides of the case sport sleek bevels and geometric angles to help remove some of the bulk.
Underneath you will find a familiar dipswitch and pair of three-stage feet that are common on most Ducky boards.
The case encloses a dual-layer PCB with Kailh sockets and north-facing LEDs.
In terms of stock switches, the One 3 comes in a choice of Cherry MXs.
As for the typing experience, the the One 3 sounds fantastic out of the box.
This is thanks to having factory pre-lubed stabs and multi-layered padding inside.
RGB backlighting is another prominent feature of the Ducky One 3.
This looks bright, saturated, and downright gorgeous as it diffuses of its white back plate.
TheDrop Shiftis the latest addition to the popular CTRL and ALT lineup.
Constructed with an aluminum frame, the build is solid and theres virtually no flex or bend.
Besides providing plenty of strength, 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.
Similar to the CTRL and ALT, RGB backlighting is another prominent feature of the Shift.
A diffused light bar wraps around the entire case and LEDs are soldiered into the PCB.
Using the QMK firmware, all of the backlighting and keys are fully programmable.
Unlike other Keychron keyboards, we particularly like that the C1 has a less boxy, more low-profile configuration.
To fine-tune the incline, this can be done by adjusting the 3-stage feet.
Constructed from a hard ABS plastic, the build is noticeably solid.
Unfortunately, as you might expect with cheaper boards, it does have a slightly hollow sound.
Moreover, the keycaps also use ABS.
For switches, the C1 can be bought with Gateron Reds, Browns, or Blues.
Including; Gateron, Cherry, Kailh, etc.
All in all, its a great entry point into the mechanical keyboard world.
TheWomier 87 Profull RGB Custom Mechanical Keyboard has some serious vibes and is bound to catch your attention.
If you are an RGB fanatic then you are going to love it.
This keyboard is all about its majestic backlighting and takes under-glow lighting to another level.
As you might see, the acrylic case has a frosted coat finish that is entirely transparent.
Due to this reason, the style appears very minimalistic.
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.
RGB lovers will adore this stunning keyboard.
TheKeychron K8is a cross-platform, wireless mechanical keyboard that comes at a reasonable price tag.
It makes a name for itself as the first Keychron TKL board with a standard OEM key-cap profile.
Other features include hot-swap sockets, RGB backlighting, and dual-mode connectivity.
Out of the box, the keyboards default keys are for MacOS.
The PCB is hot-swappable and allows for 5-pin mechanical switches.
RGB backlighting is another feature built right where you could also choose from a white static backlight.
Although the key-caps are ABS, the light does shine through nicely.
Moreover, the tri-mode connectivity can connect up to three different devices via Bluetooth 5.1.
Alternatively, use the USB throw in-C plug for a standard wired connection.
Overall, its a great beginner-friendly modding platform.
TheLogitech G Pro Xis one of the first mainstream keyboards with fully swappable mechanical switches.
Besides this, it stands out for its petite Tenkeyless design and premium build quality.
The reduction in size is built for a competitive level of speed, precision, and quiet performance.
These can be switched out for cheaper aftermarket switches using the same mount e.g.
Halo clears, however they might not be quite as tight inside.
Comfort is a top priority when it comes to keyboards, and the Logitech G Pro does not disappoint.
Like most modern keyboards, the Logitech G Pro offers dynamic RGB backlighting for customizing various lighting effects.
TheDrop CTRLis a premium mechanical keyboard that simply has it all.
In addition to providing strength, the frame also acts as a built-in switch plate.
RGB Backlighting is another prominent feature of the CTRL.
In turn, this helps to deliver a beautiful lightbox effect that glows evenly through the floating keycaps.
Using the QMK firmware, All of the keys are fully programmable, and so is the backlighting.
With so many customizable features, it puts you in full control of your gaming.
This board also comes in ahigh-profilemodel.
Its compatible with both Windows and Mac.
Connectivity is one area where the Keychron excels.
Whether this is your Smartphone, Laptop, or Gaming lighting.
This can last upto a respectable 240 hours with the backlit disabled.
Overall, its a great value multitasking keyboard that does nearly everything right.
There are no gaps around any of the 84 keys and the layout is incredibly compact.
Its worthing noting that you might only swap them out for other optical switches.
Compared to other all-plastic boards, the EP84 has outstanding build quality.
The ABS casing is noticeably rigid and has no flex whatsoever.
Youll be glad to know that the RGB backlighting is pretty good.
The colors shift and fade smoothly without dithering as you would get with cheaper LEDs.
This board stands out for its unique, low-profile design that measures 22mm at the highest key-cap point.
It also features wireless and wired modes, plus cross-platform compatibility.
Constructed with an aluminum body (and a plastic bottom frame), the build quality is noticeably high.
Underneath the board are four rubber bumpon feet that raise the K3 above the ground.
The switches allow you to toggle Bluetooth on/ off, and change the keyboard layout from Win to Mac.
To keep this keyboard as slim as possible, Keychron use their own low-profile optical switches.
Wireless connectivity is another area where the K3 excels.
Fast and secure, it can connect up to three devices and allow you to switch between them simultaneously.
Powering the unit is a 1550 mAh battery.
This has a three-hour charge and can last up to 34 hours of use.
Overall, its a very impressive little board.
TheYUNZII KC84 Prois the upgraded version of the KC84.
It has a compact 75% form factor with 84 keys and no visible branding.
Due to sharing the same PCB (as the EP84), it has many identical features.
These include RGB backlighting, a wired USB-C connection, and hot-swappable switches.
Compared to the original KC84, the Pro model does make some welcome changes.
In particular, it has a translucent ABS case with a cool frosted finish.
YUNZII have also upgraded this board to improve the whole typing experience.
Besides factory pre-lubing the stabilizers, sound dampening foam now inserts between the PCB and mounting plate.
As a result, it sounds less hollow and rattly than when compared to the previous model.
The PCB is still very much the same with north-facing LEDs and 3/ 5-pin hot-swappable sockets.
The sockets are compatible with any MX profile mechanical switch.
Lastly, the Keycool software allows you to customize the RGB effects and macro configs just how you like.
Its an excellent pre-made keyboard for the price.
Some of these features include a hot-swappable PCB, RGB backlighting, and three modes of connectivity.
Additionally, it supports both Windows and macOS layouts.
Straight away, you will notice that the design is quite different from many other keyboards out there.
This aims to make hitting those far-to-reach keys that much easier.
Additionally, on the back, theres a USB jot down-C port.
Then, on top, you will find an LED between the ESC and F1 keys.
This serves as a caps lock/ battery/ connectivity indicator.
For a pre-build, we have to say that the quality of the A80 Explorer is superb.
Despite having a plastic construction, it feels solid and makes no pinging or hollow sounds.
Lastly, the battery life and connectivity is another big win for this keyboard.
Regardless of the connection mode, we experienced no lag, dropouts, or delay.
Absent of function keys, it wastes no spacebut it still has a full set of arrows and numerals.
If you are an RGB fanatic then you are going to love it.
This keyboard is all about its stunning backlighting.
Much like the Womier 87, the acrylic case has a frosted coat finish and is entirely transparent.
Due to this reason, the style appears very minimalistic.
Fortunately, there is now software available for this board.
It allows you to create macros and customize any of the 16.8 million colors.
The photos just dont do this keyboard justice.
TheKeychron K6is a versatile 65% mechanical keyboard that aims to maximize your workspace.
Connectivity is one area where the Keychron excels.
Whether this is your Smartphone, Laptop, or Gaming lighting.
When compared to other similar priced 65% boards, this is a big plus.
Overall, its a is a great value multitasking keyboard for the price.
Its available in three different colors black, white, or pink.
The white version includes several extra keycaps to support a Mac multimedia layout.
Constructed from a firm ABS plastic, the casing is solid and has some premium weight.
The stock stabilizers come pre-lubed and do not rattle.
Moreover, the PBT, double-shot keycaps are quite thick (1.4mm) and have sharp, attractive legends.
Overall, the build quality is very high.
Featuring Kailh sockets, the board is compatible with both three and five-pin switches.
The hot-swap sockets arent overly tight, making it easy to try out new switches with no soldering required.
For stock switches, you could either choose from Kailh Boxs or Cherry MXs.
A big pro of the NJ68 is its cool 16m color backlight.
The RGB effects include favorites such as wave race, ripple, or breathing light.
To program the backlight or set macros, Keydous provide their own native software.
However, due to a Chinese translation, this can be a bit difficult to understand.
Thats perfect for those who regularly like to change their switch types.
The updated case design is one of the biggest differences from its predecessor.
Despite having a metallic finish, the case still only uses a hard plastic to help keep costs low.
Inside the case, Ducky has gone for a dual-layer PCB with Kailh sockets and north-facing LEDs.
Furthermore, Cherry MX mechanicals are still the switch of choice.
Then, on top, youll find an even higher-quality set of PBT keycaps.
These are now dye-sub with an extra grippy texture.
As for the typing experience, the One 3 SF sounds excellent even without any mods.
This is thanks to Ducky pre-lubing the stabs and introducing a multi-layered padding design.
Lastly, RGB is another standout feature of the Ducky One 3.
The backlighting is bright, saturated, and looks gorgeous as it reflects off the white steel plate.
TheDrop ALTis easily one of the best 65% mechanical keyboards on the market right now.
In addition to providing strength, the frame also acts as a built-in switch plate.
This makes it easy to swap out the native switches and replace them with Cherry-style MXs or clones.
Just like the CTRL, RGB Backlighting is another prominent feature of the ALT.
Using QMK firmware, All of the keys are fully programmable.
The backlighting is also fully customizable.
With so many features, this might be the last keyboard you ever need to buy!
Best 60% Hot-Swappable Keyboard
TheRK61 Prois the upgraded version of the massively popular RK61.
Impressively, it still retains old features such as hot-swap usability and dual-mode connectivity.
Equipped with a full CNC aluminum case, the build is solid and has quite a bit of heft.
Under the case are four rubber bumper feet that provide balance to the board.
Centered between the front two feet is a wireless on/ off switch.
Moreover, on the back left of the case is a USB punch in-C port.
For switches, the board comes with Gaterons in a selection of different colors.
However, due to using Kailh sockets, its also compatible with MX style switches or clones.
Finally, dual-mode connectivity (Bluetooth 5.0 and wired) is another big selling point of the G61 Pro.
We found that the wireless functions just as it should, with good range, and no pairing issues.
Providing the power is a decent 1850mAh battery that can last one week on a full charge.
Overall, the RK61 Pro is one of the most feature-rich, 60% keyboards in its class.
Its built with a double-layer base, a sturdy aluminum frame, and features everything you could ask for.
This includes the latest 5.1 Bluetooth technology, anti-ghosting, and a bright RGB backlight.
Furthermore, the switches with this keyboard are all completely hot-swappable.
To help you swap them out, the package contains a free keycap and switch puller.
Thanks to the narrow 0.8 mm gap thats between each of the double-shot PBT keycaps the RGB backlighting pops.
In terms of RGB, there are several backlighting modes to choose from.
These include the ever-popular Wave, Ripple, and Breathing effects.
This is the smaller 60% version of the full-size GMMK.
The layout looks incredibly sleek and screams of premium quality.
Just as you would expect with the compact version, all of the 61 keys are fully modular.
Much like the original, this keyboard is not wireless and instead comes with a detachable braided cable.
To control the 16.8m color RGB backlight, It uses the same hugely customizable software.
Overall, its a versatile and satisfying hot-swappable keyboard.
TheKinesis TKOis a premium, compact mechanical keyboard designed for tournament gaming.
It has a standard 60% layout with a modular triple spacebar (61-63 keys).
Other features include hot-swap Kailh box switches, PBT keycaps, and dual-zone RGB lighting.
As you might see, the case has a low profile so that the key-caps float above the board.
Underneath are four ergonomic two-step feet that allow for either front or back tilting.
To provide the Kinesis TKO with some flair, RGB is on full show.
Running around the edge of the case is a diffused LED strip that sits just beneath the plate.
Additionally, each switch has per-key lighting with twelve customizable modes.
All lighting can be easily configured via the Kinesis software.
As this is a premium package, you do get some nice little extras with the deal.
Included are eight spare Kailh switches, a full-size space bar, and a key switch removal tool.
The plastic, geometric case of the One 3 Mini is another updated feature.
Supporting the case is a pair of flip-out feet that have three stages of adjustment.
Due to this, its compatible with both 3 and 5-pin mechanical switches.
For stock switches, Cherry MXs come with the deal.
These are available in a selection of classic colors.
Just as you would expect from Ducky, the One 3 sounds excellent out of the box.
This is the result of having pre-lubed stabs and multi-layered padding inside.
Finally, the keyboard is fully customizable in both lighting and style.
Using the onboard controls, its easy to flick through the presets and select any RGB color you want.
Fortunately, the macros and LED options back right into the PCB board.
Therefore, saving your prefs when unplugged.
What is a Hot-Swappable Keyboard?
A hot-swappable keyboard allows you to swap out the switches without de-soldering and soldering.
Secondly, a hot-swappable keyboard makes it easier to experiment with different switches.
Having a hot-swappable keyboard will help facilitate this and could lead to improving your whole typing experience.
Having a hot-swappable PCB also allows you to test out different arrangements of switches.
For example, most gamers prefer tactile or light switches on the WASD keys.
Whereas light switches that require less actuation force can help with speed.
This is especially important for FPS shooters during competitive gaming.
Furthermore, hot-swappable keyboards make it easier to switch out problem switches.
Thats sure to save you some money in the long run.
Size/ Layout
Hot-swappable keyboards come in all sizes.
A full-sized keyboard offers all standard key options.
The tenkeyless (TKL) and 75% keyboards are next, discarding the number pad for smaller designs.
you’re free to even look for a hot-swappable number pad if that is all you need.
Build Quality
Look for a hot-swappable keyboard that uses high-quality components.
While the materials used depend largely on your personal preference, you want the highest quality materials possible.
Higher build quality not only feels better under your fingers but these keyboards last longer.
Switch bang out/ Stabilizer/ Keycaps
The switch itself is not hot-swappable, but the socket is.
You should choose switches that feel best under your fingers and offer the performance you expect from a keyboard.
Some switches are softer, while others offer feedback similar to a typewriter.
This falls back on personal preference, and you might use different switches throughout your hot-swappable keyboard layout.
Pay attention to the thickness and material of the keycaps to find something you are comfortable with.
A PCB that supports 5 pin switches will also work with 3 pin switches.
Wired hot-swappable keyboards have fewer lag issues and work better for response-intensive tasks such as gaming.
For example, RGB lighting is a popular feature achievable with the right switches and keycap profiles.
We hope you found a hot-swappable keyboard in this list.
Click herefor the 19 Best 65% Mechanical Keyboards!
Click herefor the best 75% Mechanical Keyboards!
