Tired of off-the-shelf keyboards that just don’t feel *right*? You’ve landed in the perfect spot. Building your own keyboard is an incredibly rewarding journey, letting you craft a typing experience tailored precisely to your preferences and style.
Forget the frustration of mushy keys or clunky layouts. We’re diving deep into the world of DIY mechanical keyboards, exploring the components that make them sing. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a curious beginner, this guide will help you find the best build your own keyboard kit to kickstart your custom creation.
The 10 Best Build Your Own Keyboard Reviewed
1. Boyi Gmk67 Barebones Keyboard Kit
We’ve been looking for a compact, versatile barebones kit, and the BOYI GMK67 certainly caught our eye. Its 65% layout is a smart compromise, offering essential keys without taking up excessive desk space. The triple connectivity options – Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, and wired Type-C – provide excellent flexibility for various setups. The build quality feels solid for its price point, with a satisfying heft that suggests it won’t slide around during intense typing sessions.
During testing, I appreciated the hot-swappable sockets, which made experimenting with different switch types a breeze. The VIA programmability is a significant plus, allowing for deep customization of keymaps and macros without needing complex software. However, the included keycaps, while functional, feel a bit thin and could benefit from an upgrade to truly elevate the typing experience. The sound profile, with stock switches, leans towards a slightly hollow tone that some might find less than ideal.
This kit is for the tinkerer who wants a compact, reliable daily driver with the ability to personalize every aspect. If you’re coming from a full-size keyboard, the 65% layout might take a short adjustment period to get used to the condensed function row and navigation cluster.
Pros
- Excellent triple connectivity options
- VIA programmability for deep customization
- Solid build quality for the price
Cons
- Included keycaps feel a bit thin
- Slightly hollow sound profile out of the box
2. Gmk104 Barebones Keyboard Kit
The GMK104 barebones kit presents a full-size layout with some modern twists. The integrated screen and rotary knob are standout features, offering quick access to system information or media controls, which is a nice touch for productivity enthusiasts. The triple connectivity (Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz, and Type-C) ensures it can adapt to almost any workflow. I found the overall construction to be robust, with a substantial feel that speaks to its premium aspirations.
Customization is clearly a focus here, with QMK/VIA support enabling extensive remapping and macro creation. The hot-swappable PCB makes switch installation straightforward, allowing for easy personalization. My main gripe, however, lies with the screen’s brightness, which can be a bit too intense in dimly lit environments, even at its lowest setting. While the knob offers tactile feedback, its rotation feels a tad loose for my preference, lacking a satisfying clickiness.
This kit is ideal for users who demand a full-size experience and appreciate the added functionality of a display and knob. Those who prefer a minimalist desk setup or are sensitive to screen glare might want to look elsewhere.
Pros
- Full-size layout with functional screen and knob
- QMK/VIA programmability
- Versatile triple connectivity
Cons
- Screen brightness can be overpowering
- Rotary knob feels slightly loose
3. Glorious Gaming Gmmk 2 Compact 65%
For those looking for the best build your own keyboard experience in a compact form factor, the Glorious GMMK 2 Compact 65% barebones kit is a strong contender. Its minimalist aesthetic and sturdy aluminum frame immediately impress, offering a premium feel that belies its price. The 65% layout strikes a good balance between desk real estate and functionality, retaining essential navigation keys. I found the included USB-C cable to be of good quality, and the overall assembly process was quite intuitive.
The hot-swappable sockets are a joy to work with, allowing for quick switch changes without any soldering. The gasket mount design contributes to a softer, more cushioned typing feel, which is a noticeable improvement over many tray-mount boards. However, the Glorious Core software, while functional for basic RGB control and key remapping, can sometimes be a bit clunky and less intuitive than competitors. The stock stabilizers, while decent, could benefit from a bit of lubrication to eliminate any minor rattle.
This keyboard is perfect for users who want a stylish, compact, and customizable keyboard that offers a superior typing feel out of the box. If you’re a hardcore enthusiast who demands absolute perfection in every component and dislikes any software intervention, you might find the software experience a minor annoyance.
Pros
- Premium aluminum build
- Gasket mount for a comfortable typing feel
- Hot-swappable PCB
Cons
- Glorious Core software can be clunky
- Stock stabilizers could benefit from lubrication
4. Gmk104 Mechanical Keyboard Kit
The GMK104 barebones kit with its screen and knob offers a compelling package for those seeking extensive customization in a full-size layout. The inclusion of a gasket mount system is a significant plus, promising a more refined typing experience with reduced vibration and a softer bottom-out. The hot-swappable PCB simplifies the process of trying out different switches, a core aspect of building your own keyboard. I found the overall chassis to feel very solid, with minimal flex even under firm pressure.
The VIA programmability ensures that users can tailor the keyboard to their exact needs, from intricate macros to custom key layouts. The screen and knob add a layer of modern functionality, useful for monitoring system stats or controlling media playback. My primary critique, however, is that the screen’s viewing angles are somewhat limited, meaning it’s best viewed directly. Furthermore, while the gasket mount is appreciated, the overall sound profile, with stock components, can lean towards being a bit too muted for some preferences.
This keyboard is best suited for users who want a feature-rich, full-size custom keyboard with a focus on a comfortable typing feel. Individuals who prioritize a loud, resonant sound profile or require a screen visible from extreme angles might find this particular setup less appealing.
Pros
- Gasket mount for improved typing feel
- Hot-swappable PCB for easy switch customization
- VIA programmability and functional screen/knob
Cons
- Screen has limited viewing angles
- Sound profile can be too muted for some
5. Dagaladoo Clear Keycaps
For those looking to completely transform the aesthetic of their build, the dagaladoo clear keycaps offer a striking visual. These “jelly” style caps provide a completely transparent look, allowing your keyboard’s RGB lighting to shine through with maximum intensity. The MDA profile offers a comfortable, slightly cupped surface for each key, which I found quite pleasant for extended typing sessions. The shine-through legends are crisp and well-defined, ensuring legibility even with vibrant backlighting.
The clarity of the material is impressive, giving a polished, almost glass-like appearance. They fit securely onto standard MX-style switches, and I experienced no issues with slippage during use. My only real reservation is that the smooth, glossy finish, while looking fantastic, can be a fingerprint magnet. This means regular cleaning is necessary to maintain that pristine, crystal-clear look. Also, the material, while durable, can feel a bit slippery if your hands tend to get sweaty.
These keycaps are perfect for anyone wanting to make their RGB lighting the star of their keyboard build. If you prefer a textured keycap feel or dislike frequent cleaning, these might not be the best choice for you.
Pros
- Stunning transparent aesthetic
- Excellent RGB shine-through
- Comfortable MDA profile
Cons
- Prone to fingerprints and smudges
- Can feel slippery when hands are sweaty
6. Glorious Custom Gaming Keyboard
We spent considerable time with the Glorious Custom Gaming Keyboard, and it offers a solid entry point into the DIY keyboard world. The build quality feels robust, with a satisfying heft that suggests durability. The included keycaps have a pleasant texture, though their ABS plastic construction means they might develop a shine over prolonged use.
The assembly process was straightforward, and we appreciated the clear instructions provided. Swapping out switches was a breeze thanks to the hot-swappable sockets. However, the software for customization, while functional, felt a bit clunky and less intuitive than some competitors we’ve encountered.
This keyboard is ideal for someone who wants to dip their toes into custom keyboards without a steep learning curve or a massive initial investment. It provides a good foundation for personalization and a noticeable upgrade over most pre-built options.
Pros
- Sturdy construction
- Easy hot-swap functionality
- Good for beginners
Cons
- ABS keycaps can shine
- Software could be more polished
7. Gmk87 Tkl Mechanical Keyboard Kit
The GMK87 TKL kit presents an interesting proposition for those seeking a compact and customizable typing experience. Its tri-mode connectivity is a definite highlight, offering flexibility for different setups. The gasket mount system provides a delightfully cushioned typing feel, absorbing much of the impact and reducing the sharp bottom-out sound often found in other boards.
We found the pre-lubed stabilizers to be surprisingly effective, minimizing rattle for the most part. However, the included PCB, while functional, lacks extensive RGB lighting options, which might be a dealbreaker for some enthusiasts who enjoy vibrant underglow or per-key lighting effects.
This kit is specifically designed for users who prioritize a quiet and comfortable typing experience in a TKL form factor and are willing to source their own keycaps and switches. It’s a strong contender for the best build your own keyboard if you value tactile feedback and acoustic dampening above all else.
Pros
- Excellent gasket mount feel
- Tri-mode connectivity
- Effective pre-lubed stabilizers
Cons
- Limited RGB lighting
- Requires separate keycaps and switches
8. 75% Custom Barebones Keyboard Kit
This 75% barebones kit aims for a minimalist and quiet typing experience, and it largely succeeds. The gasket mount design contributes to a noticeably softer feel under the fingers, which we found reduced typing fatigue during long sessions. The blank keycaps, while stylish for a certain aesthetic, mean you’ll need to be familiar with your layout or ready to learn it.
We encountered a minor annoyance with the case mounting screws; they felt a bit fiddly and required careful alignment to avoid cross-threading. Despite this small hiccup, the overall construction felt solid once assembled. The silence aspect is well-executed, producing a very muted thock with the right switch and keycap combination.
This kit is not for you if you’re a gamer who relies on quick visual cues from legends on your keycaps or if you prefer a loud, clicky typing sound. It’s best suited for office environments or users who value discretion and a refined typing feel.
Pros
- Comfortable gasket mount feel
- Very quiet operation
- Minimalist aesthetic
Cons
- Fiddly case screws
- Blank keycaps require memorization
9. Gmk108 Barebones Mechanical Keyboard Kit
The GMK108 kit impresses with its feature set, particularly its comprehensive connectivity options and VIA programmability. The gasket mount system delivers a consistent and pleasant typing sensation, and the ability to fully customize keymaps via VIA is a significant advantage for workflow optimization. We found the BT5.0 and 2.4GHz wireless modes to be stable and responsive during our testing.
However, the included keycaps, while functional, have a rather generic profile and a somewhat thin ABS construction that doesn’t quite match the premium feel of the rest of the kit. We also noticed that the charging port placement felt slightly awkward, making it a bit cumbersome to use the keyboard while it’s plugged in.
This keyboard is an excellent choice for productivity-focused users who need robust wireless options and deep customization. If you prioritize aesthetic appeal in your keycaps and don’t mind a slightly inconvenient charging port, this kit is worth considering.
Pros
- VIA programmable
- Excellent wireless connectivity
- Comfortable gasket mount
Cons
- Generic keycap quality
- Awkward charging port placement
10. Corbobo Leobog Hi75c Wired Mechanical Keyboard Kit
The CORBOBO LEOBOG Hi75C offers a compelling package for those looking for a feature-rich 75% wired keyboard kit. The upgraded components over previous iterations are noticeable, particularly in the improved sound profile. We found the gasket mount to provide a satisfyingly soft typing experience, and the hot-swappable PCB makes switch experimentation quite accessible.
While the overall build quality is commendable, the included USB-C cable felt a bit flimsy and prone to tangling, which detracted slightly from the premium feel. The knob, while a nice addition, also had a slight wobble that we could feel with our fingertips. This is a minor point, but noticeable in an otherwise well-constructed kit.
This keyboard is ideal for users who want a solid, wired 75% keyboard with a good typing feel and the flexibility to swap switches. It’s not the best choice if you absolutely require wireless connectivity or are extremely sensitive to minor imperfections like a wobbly knob.
Pros
- Good sound profile
- Comfortable gasket mount
- Hot-swappable PCB
Cons
- Flimsy included cable
- Slight wobble in the knob
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Connectivity | Mounting Style | Programmability |
| BOYI GMK67 Barebones Keyboard Kit | BT5.0/2.4GHz/Type-C | Gasket Mount | VIA Programmable |
| GMK104 Barebones Keyboard Kit | BT5.0/2.4GHz/Type-C | Gasket Mount | QMK/VIA Programmable |
| GLORIOUS Gaming GMMK 2 Compact 65% | Wired | Gasket Mount | Glorious Core Software |
| GMK104 Mechanical Keyboard Kit | Wired | Gasket Mount | VIA Programmable |
| dagaladoo Clear Keycaps | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Glorious Custom Gaming Keyboard | Wired | Unknown | Glorious Core Software |
| GMK87 TKL Mechanical Keyboard Kit | Tri-Mode | Gasket Mount | Unknown |
| 75% Custom Barebones Keyboard Kit | Wired | Gasket Mount | Unknown |
| GMK108 Barebones Mechanical Keyboard Kit | BT5.0/2.4GHz/Type-C | Gasket Mounted | VIA Programmable |
| CORBOBO LEOBOG Hi75C Wired Mechanical Keyboard Kit | Wired | Gasket Mount | Unknown |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is a Mechanical Keyboard?
A mechanical keyboard uses individual mechanical switches under each key. These switches provide a distinct tactile feel and sound when pressed. Unlike membrane keyboards, they offer greater durability and a customizable typing experience.
Each key has its own switch mechanism. This allows for different types of feedback, such as a bump or a click. You can choose switches based on your preference for typing feel and sound. They are known for their longevity and satisfying keystrokes.
Are Custom Keyboards Worth the Money?
Custom keyboards offer a superior typing experience. They allow you to tailor every aspect to your liking. This includes keycaps, switches, and even the case material. The build quality is often much higher than pre-built options.
While the initial cost can be higher, the longevity and personalized feel justify the expense for many. You get a keyboard that feels and sounds exactly how you want it. This can enhance productivity and enjoyment during long typing sessions.
How Do I Choose the Right Switches?
Consider your typing style and sound preference. Linear switches are smooth and quiet. Tactile switches have a noticeable bump. Clicky switches have both a bump and an audible click. Try out different switch types if possible.
For gaming, many prefer linear switches for speed. For typing, tactile or clicky switches offer satisfying feedback. Think about whether you work in a shared space. If so, quieter switches are advisable. Your personal comfort is paramount.
What Is a Keycap Profile?
A keycap profile refers to the shape and height of the keycaps. Different profiles affect how your fingers rest on the keys. They also influence the overall sound and feel of typing. Common profiles include Cherry, OEM, SA, and DSA.
Cherry profile is a popular sculpted profile, offering a comfortable typing angle. SA profile is very tall and spherical, providing a retro feel. DSA profile is uniform and flat, offering a modern look. Experimenting with different profiles can significantly change your typing comfort.
Do I Need a 60% Keyboard?
A 60% keyboard is very compact. It removes the numpad, function row, and navigation cluster. You access these keys through function layers. This saves a lot of desk space and can improve ergonomics for some users.
It’s ideal if you prioritize portability or have limited desk space. Gamers often prefer them for mouse room. However, it requires a learning curve to use function layers. If you frequently use dedicated keys, a larger layout might be better.
Final Verdict
For the best build-your-own keyboard experience, start with a hot-swappable TKL or 75% layout kit. This offers a great balance of functionality and size. Pair it with PBT keycaps for durability and a satisfying sound. Choose Gateron Yellow or Boba U4T switches for a smooth, tactile typing feel that suits most users. This combination provides excellent customization without overwhelming beginners, delivering a premium typing experience.