Have you ever felt like your keyboard just isn’t quite *you*? Maybe the keys feel too mushy, or the clicking sound is a little too much. You’re not alone! Many people want a keyboard that feels perfect, but choosing the right one can be tricky. There are so many choices, and it’s hard to know where to start.
This is where barebones keyboards come in. Think of them as a blank canvas for your perfect typing experience. But with all the different parts you can pick, it can still feel a bit overwhelming. What switches should you choose? What kind of case will sound and feel the best? It’s a lot to consider!
Don’t worry, we’re here to help! In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about barebones keyboards. We’ll explore why they’re so cool and guide you through the choices. By the end, you’ll have a much clearer idea of how to build a keyboard that’s just right for you, making typing fun and satisfying. Let’s dive in and build your dream keyboard!
Our Top 5 Barebones Keyboards Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Barebones Keyboards Detailed Reviews
1. Glorious Gaming – GMMK 3 Barebones Custom Gaming Keyboard Kit with Knob
Rating: 8.5/10
The Glorious Gaming GMMK 3 Barebones Custom Gaming Keyboard Kit is a fantastic choice for gamers and typists who want to build their dream keyboard. This 75% mechanical keyboard comes in a sleek black aluminum finish and offers a lot of ways to make it your own. It has a cool programmable knob that you can use for volume or to control your music. Plus, you can easily swap out the switches without needing to solder anything, making it super customizable.
What We Like:
- You can change almost everything about this keyboard. It has 9 points of customization!
- The Modular Gasket System lets you pick how bouncy or firm you want your typing to feel.
- The programmable knob is really handy for adjusting volume or controlling media.
- It’s hotswappable with 5-pin MX switches, so you can easily try out different switch types.
- The sound-dampening foam makes typing sound nice and clean, without extra noise.
- The aluminum switch plate adds a sturdy and premium feel.
What Could Be Improved:
- As a barebones kit, it doesn’t come with switches or keycaps, so you’ll need to buy those separately.
- Some users might find the initial setup and customization process a bit overwhelming if they’re new to building keyboards.
The GMMK 3 offers a great platform for building a personalized mechanical keyboard. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to dive into the world of keyboard customization.
2. BOYI GMK67Pro Keyboard Barebones Kit
Rating: 8.6/10
The BOYI GMK67Pro Keyboard Barebones Kit is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves to customize their tech. This white, 65% compact keyboard gives you the freedom to build your dream mechanical keyboard. It’s packed with features for both gamers and everyday users.
What We Like:
- You can program every key with QMK/VIA to make it work just for you.
- Easily swap out switches without soldering, thanks to the hot-swappable design. It works with many popular mechanical switches.
- Connect in three ways: Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4G wireless, or wired Type-C.
- A long-lasting 4000mAh battery keeps you powered up for hours.
- Enjoy vibrant RGB lighting with millions of colors and customizable presets.
- The gasket-mounted design provides a satisfying and quiet typing experience.
- A handy multi-function knob makes controlling media super easy.
- The keyboard is built solid, with pre-installed foam and a polycarbonate plate for a great feel.
- It’s perfect for DIY enthusiasts who want to create a unique keyboard.
What Could Be Improved:
- This kit is only compatible with mechanical switches, not optical switches.
This kit is a great way to build a keyboard that perfectly suits your style and needs. Get ready to enjoy a truly personalized typing experience!
3. GTSP 75% Custom Barebones Keyboard kit Gasket Mouted，Blank DIY Silent TKL Mechanical Gaming Keyboard PCB Hot Swappable 3pin/5pin Switch with South-Facing RGB for Win/Mac (M87 Kit-White)
Rating: 8.7/10
The GTSP 75% Custom Barebones Keyboard kit, the M87pro, is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to build their own silent mechanical keyboard. This white TKL (Tenkeyless) kit lets you customize your typing experience with hot-swappable switches and cool RGB lighting. It’s designed for both gamers and everyday users, offering a blend of style and function.
What We Like:
- It’s a fun kit to build your own keyboard.
- The sound-absorbing foam makes typing quiet and pleasant.
- You can easily swap out switches without soldering, fitting 3-pin and 5-pin types.
- The RGB lights can be set to cool effects or even react to music.
- It works with both Windows and Mac computers.
- The USB-C cable detaches, making it easy to carry around.
- The gasket mount design offers a comfortable typing feel.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “blank DIY” aspect means you need to buy keycaps separately if you want legends.
- While silent, some users might prefer a louder, more tactile sound.
This keyboard kit offers a great way to personalize your setup and enjoy a premium typing experience. It’s a solid foundation for creating a keyboard that’s truly yours.
4. ZMX GMK87 Keyboard Barebones Kit
Rating: 9.1/10
The ZMX GMK87 Keyboard Barebones Kit is a fantastic option for anyone who loves to build and customize their own mechanical keyboard. This black 80% TKL kit comes with a cool TFT-LCD screen and a handy knob, making it both functional and fun. You can change what the screen shows, like the time or your own pictures. The knob is great for adjusting the volume.
What We Like:
- The 80% compact size saves desk space while still giving you most of the keys you need.
- You can connect it in three ways: Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, or wired with a USB-C cable.
- It works with lots of different devices like PCs, laptops, and phones.
- The hot-swappable PCB means you can easily change switches without soldering.
- It has dynamic RGB lighting with millions of colors and south-facing LEDs.
- VIA software lets you program macros and customize your RGB.
- Gasket mounting provides a satisfying and quiet typing feel.
- The ergonomic design with foldable kickstands and a USB storage compartment adds convenience.
- It’s a great kit for beginners and experienced builders who want to create a unique keyboard.
What Could Be Improved:
- The TFT-LCD screen, while customizable, might require some learning to set up complex displays.
- The battery life for wireless use, though 3000mAh, can vary depending on RGB usage and connection mode.
This kit offers a lot of freedom for personalization, allowing you to build a keyboard that truly reflects your style and needs.
5. BOYI GMK67Pro Keyboard Barebones Kit
Rating: 9.1/10
The BOYI GMK67Pro Keyboard Barebones Kit in black is a fantastic starting point for anyone wanting to build their own mechanical keyboard. It’s a 65% mini keyboard that comes with a knob and supports wireless and wired connections. This kit lets you customize everything from the key layout to the RGB lighting, making it perfect for both gamers and people who just want a cool, personalized typing experience.
What We Like:
- QMK/VIA Customization: You can easily program every single key to do exactly what you want. This is great for making your workflow faster or setting up special gaming commands.
- Hot-Swappable Switches: You can plug in your favorite mechanical switches without any soldering. It works with many popular brands, so you can change them whenever you want.
- Triple Mode Connection: Connect via Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4G wireless, or a wired USB-C cable. The long-lasting battery means you won’t run out of power during long sessions.
- Vibrant RGB Lighting: The keyboard has over 16.8 million colors for its RGB lights. You can also customize the lighting effects.
- Satisfying Typing Feel: The gasket-mounted design and PORON gaskets make typing feel really good. It also helps create a pleasing sound when you type.
- Multifunction Knob: The rotary knob makes controlling media and other functions super easy and convenient.
- Solid Build Quality: This keyboard feels sturdy. It comes with pre-installed foam and a polycarbonate plate, which adds to its solid construction.
- Great for DIY: This kit is ideal if you want to build your dream mechanical keyboard from scratch. You get to choose how it looks, feels, and sounds.
What Could Be Improved:
- Optical Switch Compatibility: Currently, this kit only works with mechanical switches, not optical ones.
If you’re looking to dive into the world of custom mechanical keyboards, the BOYI GMK67Pro kit offers a lot of flexibility and a great foundation. It’s a solid choice for creating a keyboard that’s uniquely yours.
Your Guide to Building the Perfect Barebones Keyboard
What’s a Barebones Keyboard?
A barebones keyboard is like a half-finished puzzle. You get the main parts: the case, the PCB (the circuit board that makes it work), and the plate (which holds everything together). You still need to add the most important pieces: the switches and the keycaps. This lets you customize your keyboard exactly how you like it. It’s a fun project for people who love keyboards and want something unique.
Key Features to Look For
Size and Layout
Keyboards come in different sizes. Think about how much space you have on your desk and what keys you use most. Here are some common sizes:
- Full-size: Has all the keys, including a number pad.
- Tenkeyless (TKL): Like full-size but without the number pad.
- 75%: A compact version with function keys and arrow keys.
- 60%: Very small, usually just the main typing keys.
Connectivity
Most barebones keyboards connect with a USB cable. Some offer wireless options like Bluetooth, which is handy for a cleaner desk.
Hot-swappable PCBs
This is a big one! A hot-swappable PCB means you can plug in and pull out switches without needing to solder. This makes it super easy to try different switches or replace one if it breaks. It’s a great feature for beginners.
Important Materials
Case Materials
The case holds everything. It affects how the keyboard sounds and feels. Common materials include:
- Plastic (ABS or Polycarbonate): Lighter and more affordable.
- Aluminum: Heavier, more durable, and gives a more premium feel. It can also change the sound of typing.
Plate Materials
The plate sits between the PCB and the switches. It helps stabilize the switches. Common plate materials are:
- Aluminum: Offers a firmer typing feel and can make keystrokes sound sharper.
- Brass: Heavier and can give a deeper, more satisfying sound.
- Polycarbonate: More flexible, leading to a softer typing experience and a quieter sound.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Build Quality
A well-built barebones keyboard feels solid. There should be no creaking or flexing when you type. Good quality cases and plates make a big difference. The PCB should also be well-made and have clear markings.
Sound Dampening
Some keyboards have foam inside to make them sound better. This foam absorbs extra noise and can make your typing sound more pleasing and less hollow. This is a feature that really improves the user experience.
Stabilizers
Stabilizers are small parts that support the larger keys like the spacebar, shift, and enter keys. Good stabilizers prevent wobbling and rattling, making those keys feel much better to press.
User Experience and Use Cases
Building a barebones keyboard is a rewarding experience. You get to choose every part to match your preferences. Whether you’re a gamer who needs fast, responsive keys, a writer who wants a comfortable typing feel, or someone who just wants a keyboard that looks and sounds amazing, a barebones kit can be perfect.
It’s a journey of customization. You can experiment with different switches to find the perfect click or thock. You can pick keycaps that show off your personality. The end result is a keyboard that is truly yours.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main Key Features to look for in a barebones keyboard?
A: You should look for the keyboard’s size and layout to fit your desk and needs. Also, check if it has hot-swappable PCBs, which let you change switches easily without soldering. Connectivity options like USB or Bluetooth are also important.
Q: What are the most common Case Materials?
A: The most common case materials are plastic, like ABS or polycarbonate, which are lighter and cheaper. Aluminum is another popular choice because it’s stronger, feels more premium, and can change how the keyboard sounds.
Q: How do Plate Materials affect the keyboard?
A: Plate materials change the typing feel and sound. Aluminum plates offer a firm feel and sharp sound. Brass provides a deeper sound. Polycarbonate is flexible, leading to a softer typing experience and quieter sound.
Q: What makes a barebones keyboard “high quality”?
A: High quality comes from good build quality, meaning the keyboard feels solid and doesn’t flex. Features like internal sound dampening foam and well-made stabilizers that prevent rattling also improve quality.
Q: Is a barebones keyboard good for gaming?
A: Yes, barebones keyboards can be excellent for gaming. You can choose switches that are very sensitive and fast, which gamers often prefer. The customization allows you to tune the keyboard for your specific gaming needs.
Q: Can I use any switches with a barebones keyboard?
A: For hot-swappable PCBs, you can generally use any switches that are compatible with the PCB’s switch type (usually 3-pin or 5-pin mechanical switches). If the PCB is not hot-swappable, you will need to solder the switches.
Q: Do barebones keyboards come with keycaps?
A: No, barebones keyboards do not come with keycaps. You need to buy those separately to complete your keyboard build.
Q: Is building a barebones keyboard difficult for beginners?
A: Building a barebones keyboard is generally not too difficult, especially if you choose a kit with a hot-swappable PCB. It’s like putting together a puzzle, and there are many online guides to help you.
Q: How much does a barebones keyboard typically cost?
A: Prices vary widely. Basic plastic kits can start around $50-$100, while premium aluminum kits with advanced features can cost $200 or more. The cost of switches and keycaps will be added to this.
Q: What is the main advantage of a barebones keyboard over a pre-built one?
A: The biggest advantage is customization. You get to choose every component to create a keyboard that perfectly matches your typing feel, sound preference, and aesthetic style. It’s a more personal and often higher-quality end product.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Florence Disha, the creator behind HomesMend.com. With a passion for making every house a home, I share my personal experiences, tips, and expertise to help you transform your living spaces. Whether it’s practical advice, creative ideas, or tried-and-true solutions, my goal is to inspire and guide you in creating a home that feels just right. Let’s make every corner of your space truly yours!