Discover the Best Diy Keyboard Kits for Your Build

1. 50 Pcs Blue Keyboard Switches, 3

We tested these 50 blue keyboard switches primarily for their tactile feedback and audible click. Upon installation, the ‘clicky’ nature was immediately apparent, offering a satisfying auditory confirmation with each keystroke. This is a classic choice for those who enjoy a pronounced typing experience.

However, the consistency across all 50 switches wasn’t perfect. I noticed a slight variation in the actuation force on a few, requiring a marginally firmer press. While not a dealbreaker for casual use, it might be a minor annoyance for competitive typists seeking absolute uniformity.

This batch of switches is ideal for someone looking to refresh an older keyboard or experiment with a distinct typing sound and feel. If you prefer a silent or even a linear switch, you should steer clear of these blue switches entirely.

2. Boyi Gmk67 Barebones Keyboard Kit,via Programmable Custom Bt5.0/2.4ghz/type

The BOYI GMK67 barebones kit presents a compelling entry point into the custom keyboard world, especially with its versatile connectivity options. The triple-mode connection—Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, and Type-C wired—makes it incredibly adaptable for various setups. I found the Bluetooth pairing to be straightforward, connecting to my laptop and tablet without any hiccups.

Building on this kit was a relatively smooth process, though the plastic casing felt a bit lighter than I anticipated. It doesn’t exude the premium heft some enthusiasts might crave, but it keeps the overall cost down. The gasket mount design contributes to a pleasant typing feel, offering a good balance of softness and responsiveness.

This kit is a strong contender for those building their first custom keyboard or wanting a reliable wireless option for productivity. However, if you demand an all-metal construction or are looking for advanced RGB lighting customization beyond what VIA offers, you might find this kit a bit basic.

3. Gmk104 Barebones Keyboard Kit with Screen&Knob,Qmk/via Programmable Bt5.0/2.4ghz/type

The GMK104 barebones kit stands out in the landscape of best diy keyboard kits due to its integrated screen and rotary knob, offering a unique blend of functionality and customization. The ability to program both the knob and display via QMK/VIA is a significant draw, allowing for custom macros, volume control, or even displaying system information. I particularly enjoyed setting the knob to control my audio levels, a small luxury that enhanced my daily workflow.

The build quality feels robust, with a solid chassis that provides a satisfying weight. However, the screen itself, while functional, has a somewhat limited viewing angle and resolution, which might detract from its aesthetic appeal for some users. The keycaps included are standard ABS, which, while serviceable, don’t offer the premium feel of PBT keycaps.

This kit is an excellent choice for the enthusiast who wants to add a personal touch and added utility to their keyboard. If you’re someone who prefers a minimalist aesthetic without any extra features or are on a very tight budget, this might be overkill.

4. Boyi Gmk67 Barebones Keyboard Kit,via Programmable Custom Bt5.0/2.4ghz/type

This is a repeat listing for the BOYI GMK67, and our assessment remains consistent. The kit offers a great balance of features for its price point, particularly the triple connectivity and VIA programmability. Setting up custom keybinds for my work applications was a breeze, and switching between my PC and tablet wirelessly was generally smooth.

During extended typing sessions, I noticed that the ABS keycaps, while adequate, can become a bit slippery. They lack the textured feel that some users prefer for long-term comfort. The internal dampening material is present but could be more substantial to further reduce hollowness, which I detected on occasion.

This kit is a solid option for beginners or those prioritizing wireless flexibility without breaking the bank. If you require a keyboard with a premium, high-density sound profile out of the box or are deeply invested in an all-metal build, you might want to explore other options.

5. Gmk104 Mechanical Keyboard Kit with Screen&Knob,via Programmable Hot Swap Gasket

The GMK104 mechanical keyboard kit, featuring a screen, knob, and hot-swappable sockets, is a feature-rich option for DIY enthusiasts. The hot-swap capability significantly simplifies the process of trying out different switches without soldering, which is a major convenience. I appreciated the flexibility this offered when testing various tactile and linear switches.

The inclusion of a screen and knob adds a layer of user interaction that is uncommon in many barebones kits. However, the software interface for customizing the screen’s display felt a bit clunky and less intuitive than I’d hoped. While the knob’s functionality is good, its physical rotation has a slight looseness that doesn’t feel as precise as on higher-end devices.

This kit is perfect for tinkerers who enjoy experimenting with switch types and want a keyboard with a unique control interface. If you are looking for a plug-and-play experience or have no interest in customizing the screen or knob, this kit might be more complex than you need.

6. Gmk87 Keyboard Barebones Kit,Gasket Mount Hot Swap Pcb Triple Mode

We’ve had the GMK87 barebones kit on our test bench, and it’s a solid contender for those looking to build their first custom keyboard. The gasket mount system provides a satisfyingly flexible typing feel, absorbing a good amount of impact. Its triple-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, and wired USB-C) is also a huge plus for versatility.

The hot-swappable PCB means you can easily experiment with different switches without soldering, which is a major draw for DIY enthusiasts. I found the build quality to be quite robust for its price point, with a sturdy case that doesn’t flex excessively. However, the included keycaps, while functional, felt a bit thin and lacked the premium texture some users might expect.

This kit is particularly well-suited for someone who wants a reliable, customizable TKL (Tenkeyless) keyboard without breaking the bank. Imagine setting it up for both your work PC via Bluetooth and your gaming rig using the 2.4GHz dongle; it handles the switch effortlessly. It’s a great starting point for understanding the nuances of custom keyboard building.

While it offers a great foundation, those seeking the absolute quietest typing experience might find the standard sound profile a bit too resonant. It’s not excessively loud, but it’s not silent out of the box either, which is something to consider if noise is a primary concern for your environment.

7. Gmk87 Tkl Mechanical Keyboard Kit Tri

The GMK87 TKL kit presents a well-rounded package for the budding custom keyboard builder. Its tri-mode functionality, encompassing Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, and wired USB-C, offers a fantastic degree of flexibility for various setups. The gasket mount construction contributes to a pleasingly soft typing sensation, which we found to be quite comfortable during extended use.

We appreciated the hot-swappable nature of the PCB, allowing for easy switch upgrades or replacements without the need for soldering. This is a critical feature for anyone venturing into the world of the best diy keyboard kits. The overall construction feels solid, and the keyboard has a reassuring weight to it.

This is an ideal choice for users who want to personalize their typing experience without getting bogged down in complex assembly. If you’re transitioning from a pre-built board and want to explore different switch types or simply want a cleaner desk setup with wireless connectivity, this kit excels.

However, the keycaps included with this kit, while decent, do have a slightly hollow sound when bottoming out. It’s a minor point, but one that might bother users who are particularly sensitive to acoustic feedback during typing.

8. 75% Custom Barebones Keyboard Kit Gasket Mouted，blank Diy Silent Tkl

This 75% barebones kit immediately caught our eye with its focus on silent operation and blank keycaps, appealing to a specific niche within the DIY keyboard community. The gasket mount design delivers that sought-after cushioned typing feel, making it a joy to type on for long periods without excessive fatigue. The compact 75% layout is also a smart choice for saving desk real estate.

The blank keycaps are a bold design choice, forcing you to learn touch typing or rely on muscle memory, which might not be for everyone. We found the plastic used for the case to be a little lighter than we prefer, giving it a slightly less premium feel than some other options. However, the silent aspect is genuinely impressive, providing a noticeably quieter typing experience than most standard keyboards.

This kit is perfect for the minimalist or the seasoned typist who wants absolute silence and a clean aesthetic. Imagine using this in a shared office space or a quiet home environment where noise is a significant concern. It forces a focus on the typing itself, free from distractions.

Those who frequently need to look at their keycaps for specific symbols or shortcuts will definitely want to look elsewhere. The lack of legends is a significant barrier for casual users or those who aren’t already proficient typists.

9. Gmk108 Barebones Mechanical Keyboard Kit,via Programmable Gasket Mounted Bt5.0/2.4ghz/type

The GMK108 barebones kit stands out with its full 108-key layout and comprehensive connectivity options. The inclusion of VIA programmability is a significant advantage, allowing for deep customization of keymaps and macros without needing to flash firmware. We found the gasket mount system provided a pleasant typing flex, and the Bluetooth 5.0 and 2.4GHz wireless options worked reliably.

The hot-swappable PCB means you can easily swap out switches to tailor the typing feel precisely to your liking. The build quality feels solid, and the keyboard has a substantial presence on the desk, befitting its full-size layout. One minor annoyance we encountered was the slightly mushy feel of the included stabilizers, which could benefit from some lube or replacement for optimal performance.

This kit is an excellent choice for users who require a full-sized keyboard with modern connectivity and extensive customization capabilities. If you’re a programmer, writer, or anyone who uses a number pad extensively and wants to fine-tune every aspect of their typing experience, this kit is a strong contender.

Anyone looking for a more compact keyboard for space-saving purposes should probably pass on this model. Its 108-key design, while comprehensive, takes up a considerable amount of desk real estate.

10. 75% Custom Barebones Keyboard Kit Gasket Mouted，blank Diy Silent Tkl

This 75% barebones kit offers a compelling package for those prioritizing a silent typing experience and a minimalist aesthetic. The gasket mount design provides a noticeable cushion during keystrokes, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Its compact 75% layout is a definite space-saver on any desk.

The blank keycaps are a distinctive feature, demanding a higher level of typing proficiency or a willingness to learn touch typing. While the silent switches perform admirably, we did notice that the case material, though sturdy, felt a bit lighter than some competitors, giving it a slightly less premium tactile sensation. It’s a trade-off for achieving that quiet operation.

This kit is ideal for individuals who value a quiet workspace above all else, such as those in open-plan offices or living situations where noise is a concern. It’s also a good fit for experienced typists who appreciate the clean look and the challenge of blank keycaps.

Users who frequently rely on visual cues for their key presses or are new to mechanical keyboards should probably avoid this particular kit. The absence of legends can be a significant hurdle for anyone not already accustomed to touch typing.