Find the Best Custom Keyboard Kit for Your Build

1. Boyi Gmk67 Barebones Keyboard Kit

We’ve put the BOYI GMK67 through its paces, and it presents itself as a solid entry-level custom keyboard kit. The compact 65% layout is a definite plus for those looking to save desk space without sacrificing too many keys. I appreciated the inclusion of Bluetooth 5.0 and 2.4GHz wireless connectivity, offering a good degree of flexibility for different setups.

The build quality feels decent for its price point, with a generally sturdy plastic case that doesn’t flex excessively. However, the ABS keycaps that come with it feel a bit thin and can exhibit a slight hollowness when typing, which is something I’d recommend upgrading sooner rather than later. The VIA programmability is a significant draw, allowing for extensive customization of keymaps and macros.

This kit is ideal for someone new to the custom keyboard hobby who wants a feature-rich board without a steep learning curve or a massive initial investment. It’s a great platform to experiment with different switches and keycaps. However, if you demand premium materials or a truly silent typing experience out of the box, you might find yourself wanting more.

The gasket mount system, while present, feels a little less pronounced than on more premium boards, leading to a slightly firmer typing feel than I anticipated. It’s not bad, but it doesn’t offer that signature bouncy sensation some enthusiasts seek.

2. Gmk104 Barebones Keyboard Kit

The GMK104 barebones kit immediately catches the eye with its integrated screen and rotary knob, features that add a unique flair to the traditional full-size layout. We found the screen to be surprisingly useful for displaying system information or custom GIFs, though its brightness could be a touch higher for very sunny environments. The knob offers satisfying tactile feedback for volume control or scrolling.

Connectivity options are robust, featuring both Bluetooth 5.0 and 2.4GHz wireless, which performed reliably during our testing. The QMK/VIA programmability is a huge advantage, offering deep customization for users who love to tinker with their keybinds and macros. The build itself feels solid, with a decent weight that prevents it from sliding around on the desk.

This keyboard is a compelling choice for the enthusiast who wants a full-size board with modern conveniences and a touch of personalization. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate the utility of dedicated media controls and a visual display. However, if you prefer a more minimalist aesthetic or have limited desk real estate, the full-size format and added screen might be overkill.

While the kit is barebones, meaning you’ll need to supply your own switches and keycaps, the hot-swappable sockets are a welcome addition, making the switch installation process straightforward. The plastic case, while sturdy, doesn’t feel as premium as some aluminum alternatives on the market.

3. Keychron K10 He Hall Effect Keyboard

The Keychron K10 HE, featuring Gateron’s double-shot keycaps and Hall effect switches, aims to offer a durable and unique typing experience, and for the most part, it succeeds. We were particularly impressed by the feel of the Hall effect switches; they provide a smooth actuation with a satisfying magnetic click that feels distinct from traditional mechanical switches. The double-shot PBT keycaps are a significant upgrade, offering a premium texture and excellent resistance to shine.

This is a strong contender for the best custom keyboard kit for those who prioritize longevity and a consistent typing feel. The full-size layout is familiar and functional, and the inclusion of a dedicated number pad will be a boon for many users. However, the software for customizing the Hall effect switches, while functional, feels a bit less intuitive than established platforms like VIA or QMK.

I found the overall typing sound to be quite pleasant, with a moderate thockiness that isn’t overly loud. The build quality is robust, with a solid aluminum frame that gives the keyboard a reassuring weight. This is definitely not a keyboard for someone who needs a super compact or portable solution; its full-size nature demands dedicated desk space.

One minor annoyance I encountered was the slightly limited RGB lighting customization options directly on the keyboard without software intervention. While the effects are nice, tweaking them extensively required diving into the application.

4. Boyi Gmk67 Barebones Keyboard Kit

We’ve put the BOYI GMK67 through its paces, and it presents itself as a solid entry-level custom keyboard kit. The compact 65% layout is a definite plus for those looking to save desk space without sacrificing too many keys. I appreciated the inclusion of Bluetooth 5.0 and 2.4GHz wireless connectivity, offering a good degree of flexibility for different setups.

The build quality feels decent for its price point, with a generally sturdy plastic case that doesn’t flex excessively. However, the ABS keycaps that come with it feel a bit thin and can exhibit a slight hollowness when typing, which is something I’d recommend upgrading sooner rather than later. The VIA programmability is a significant draw, allowing for extensive customization of keymaps and macros.

This kit is ideal for someone new to the custom keyboard hobby who wants a feature-rich board without a steep learning curve or a massive initial investment. It’s a great platform to experiment with different switches and keycaps. However, if you demand premium materials or a truly silent typing experience out of the box, you might find yourself wanting more.

The gasket mount system, while present, feels a little less pronounced than on more premium boards, leading to a slightly firmer typing feel than I anticipated. It’s not bad, but it doesn’t offer that signature bouncy sensation some enthusiasts seek.

5. Gmk104 Mechanical Keyboard Kit

The GMK104 mechanical keyboard kit stands out with its inclusion of a screen and rotary knob, adding a modern twist to a full-size form factor. We found the screen to be a neat addition for displaying custom logos or system stats, though its responsiveness felt a tad sluggish at times. The knob provides satisfying tactile feedback for volume adjustments, which is always a welcome feature.

Connectivity is handled by both Bluetooth 5.0 and 2.4GHz wireless, offering users flexibility in how they connect. The VIA programmability is a significant plus, allowing for deep customization of keymaps and macros to suit individual workflows. The hot-swappable sockets make switch installation a breeze, a critical feature for any serious custom keyboard enthusiast.

This kit is best suited for those who appreciate the utility of a full-size layout and desire the added functionality of a screen and knob. It’s a solid foundation for building a highly personalized typing station. However, if you prefer a more minimalist design or have limited desk space, the sheer size of this keyboard might be a deterrent.

While the gasket mount design is present, I felt it could offer a bit more flex, resulting in a typing feel that is on the firmer side. The plastic construction, while seemingly durable, doesn’t quite exude the premium feel of an aluminum chassis.

6. 75% Custom Barebones Keyboard Kit

We recently got our hands on the 75% Custom Barebones Keyboard kit, and it offers a solid foundation for a personalized typing experience. The gasket mount system provides a satisfyingly soft and bouncy feel under the fingers, which is a major plus for extended typing sessions. Building this kit was straightforward, and the blank keycaps lend a clean, minimalist aesthetic that many enthusiasts will appreciate.

The silent nature of this keyboard is its standout feature, significantly reducing the audible click often associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes it an excellent choice for shared office spaces or late-night work without disturbing others. However, the ABS plastic used for the keycaps, while functional, feels a bit less premium than PBT, and can develop a shine over time with heavy use.

This kit is ideal for users who want a compact, quiet, and highly customizable TKL (Tenkeyless) keyboard. If you’re looking to dive into the world of custom keyboards without a steep learning curve and prioritize a silent typing experience above all else, this is a strong contender. Those who prefer a more substantial keycap material might want to budget for an aftermarket set.

7. Gmk108 Barebones Mechanical Keyboard Kit

The GMK108 Barebones Mechanical Keyboard Kit aims to be a versatile option for the discerning user, and for the most part, it succeeds. The inclusion of Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, and Type-C connectivity offers fantastic flexibility for different setups. I found the VIA programmability to be a significant advantage, allowing for deep customization of keybinds and macros without needing proprietary software.

The gasket mount construction contributes to a pleasant typing feel, offering a slight give that reduces fatigue. The overall build quality feels robust, and the aesthetic is refined enough for both professional and enthusiast environments. My only real quibble is with the default stabilizers; while acceptable, they exhibited a minor rattle that detracted slightly from the otherwise premium feel, something a bit of lube could likely fix.

This keyboard is a strong contender for the best custom keyboard kit for those who value wireless connectivity and extensive programmability. It’s perfect for users who frequently switch between devices or desire a highly personalized workflow. However, if you’re someone who absolutely detests even the slightest bit of stabilizer rattle out of the box, you might want to be prepared for a quick tune-up.

8. Gmk108 Barebones Mechanical Keyboard Kit

The GMK108 Barebones Mechanical Keyboard Kit aims to be a versatile option for the discerning user, and for the most part, it succeeds. The inclusion of Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, and Type-C connectivity offers fantastic flexibility for different setups. I found the VIA programmability to be a significant advantage, allowing for deep customization of keybinds and macros without needing proprietary software.

The gasket mount construction contributes to a pleasant typing feel, offering a slight give that reduces fatigue. The overall build quality feels robust, and the aesthetic is refined enough for both professional and enthusiast environments. My only real quibble is with the default stabilizers; while acceptable, they exhibited a minor rattle that detracted slightly from the otherwise premium feel, something a bit of lube could likely fix.

This keyboard is a strong contender for the best custom keyboard kit for those who value wireless connectivity and extensive programmability. It’s perfect for users who frequently switch between devices or desire a highly personalized workflow. However, if you’re someone who absolutely detests even the slightest bit of stabilizer rattle out of the box, you might want to be prepared for a quick tune-up.

9. Glorious Gaming Keyboard

While “Glorious Gaming” is a brand rather than a specific kit, their offerings often provide a good entry point into custom keyboards. We’ve found their barebones kits generally deliver on solid construction and a decent typing experience. The aesthetics are usually quite appealing, with clean lines and often a choice of finishes that look good on any desk.

The ease of assembly is a hallmark of many Glorious products, making them accessible to newcomers. The gasket mount implementations we’ve tested feel reasonably well-tuned, offering that sought-after plushness. However, the stock keycaps, while visually pleasing, can sometimes feel a bit thin and may not offer the durability or sound profile that more seasoned enthusiasts crave.

This brand is a good starting point for those new to custom keyboards who want a reliable, aesthetically pleasing build without excessive complexity. If you’re someone who is very particular about keycap material and sound, or if you’re looking for the absolute highest-end components, you might find yourself upgrading parts relatively quickly.

10. 75% Custom Barebones Keyboard Kit

We recently got our hands on the 75% Custom Barebones Keyboard kit, and it offers a solid foundation for a personalized typing experience. The gasket mount system provides a satisfyingly soft and bouncy feel under the fingers, which is a major plus for extended typing sessions. Building this kit was straightforward, and the blank keycaps lend a clean, minimalist aesthetic that many enthusiasts will appreciate.

The silent nature of this keyboard is its standout feature, significantly reducing the audible click often associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes it an excellent choice for shared office spaces or late-night work without disturbing others. However, the ABS plastic used for the keycaps, while functional, feels a bit less premium than PBT, and can develop a shine over time with heavy use.

This kit is ideal for users who want a compact, quiet, and highly customizable TKL (Tenkeyless) keyboard. If you’re looking to dive into the world of custom keyboards without a steep learning curve and prioritize a silent typing experience above all else, this is a strong contender. Those who prefer a more substantial keycap material might want to budget for an aftermarket set.