Do you ever feel like your keyboard just isn’t *you*? Maybe it’s too noisy, too quiet, or just plain boring. You’ve heard about “Barebones Keyboards,” and they sound cool, but you’re not sure where to start. It’s like standing in a candy store with a million choices – exciting, but a little overwhelming!
Choosing a barebones keyboard can be tricky because there are so many parts to think about. You have to pick the right case, the perfect switches, and even the keycaps! It’s easy to get lost in all the jargon and feel like you’re making a mistake. But what if there was a way to make this process easy and fun?
This post is your friendly guide to understanding barebones keyboards. We’ll break down all the confusing bits so you can build a keyboard that feels amazing to type on and looks exactly how you want it to. Get ready to discover how to create your dream keyboard, one piece at a time!
Our Top 5 Barebones Keyboard Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Barebones Keyboard Detailed Reviews
1. Glorious Modular Mechanical Gaming Keyboard – 75% / Barebones/Pre Built/Black and White (Barebones (Black)) (Renewed)
Rating: 8.8/10
This Glorious Modular Mechanical Gaming Keyboard – 75% / Barebones (Black) (Renewed) offers a customizable and satisfying typing experience. Its 75% layout means it packs a lot of function into a smaller space, perfect for gamers and typists who want more desk room. Being a barebones model, it’s ready for you to add your favorite keycaps and switches to make it truly yours. This keyboard is a great way to build your dream setup.
What We Like:
- Modular design lets you swap switches and keycaps easily.
- Compact 75% layout saves desk space.
- Renewed condition offers a great value.
- Solid build quality feels durable.
- The black and white color scheme looks sleek.
What Could Be Improved:
- Barebones means you need to buy switches and keycaps separately.
- Some users might miss the full number pad.
- Availability of renewed items can be limited.
This keyboard is a fantastic option for anyone looking to create a personalized mechanical keyboard. It’s a smart buy for gamers and enthusiasts.
2. 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: 8.5/10
The GTSP M87 Kit-White is a fantastic custom keyboard kit. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to build their own mechanical keyboard. This kit offers a great starting point for creating a personalized typing experience. It’s designed for both gamers and everyday users who appreciate a quality build.
What We Like:
- It’s an easy-to-use kit for building your own keyboard.
- The keyboard has sound-absorbing foam. This makes typing much quieter.
- You can swap out switches without soldering. It works with many types of switches.
- It has south-facing RGB lights. You can customize colors and effects.
- The software lets you create your own lighting. You can also set up macros.
- It works with both Windows and Mac computers.
- The keyboard has anti-ghosting for smooth gaming.
- The USB-C cable is detachable, making it easy to carry.
What Could Be Improved:
- The blank keycaps might not be for everyone. Some users prefer legends.
- While it’s a kit, some advanced customization might require more technical knowledge.
This GTSP M87 Kit-White offers a lot of fun and customization. It’s a solid choice for building your dream keyboard.
3. ZMX GMK87 Keyboard Barebones Kit
Rating: 9.4/10
The ZMX GMK87 Keyboard Barebones Kit is a cool, customizable keyboard that lets you build your dream setup. It’s an 80% TKL (tenkeyless) keyboard, meaning it’s compact but still has all the important keys. It even has a smart TFT screen and a handy knob for volume control!
What We Like:
- It has a cool TFT-LCD screen you can customize with your own pictures, the date, and time.
- You can connect it in three ways: Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, or wired with a Type-C cable.
- It works with many devices like PCs, laptops, tablets, and phones.
- The PCB is hot-swappable, so you can change switches easily without soldering.
- It supports most 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches.
- You can create awesome RGB lighting effects with 16 million colors.
- The keyboard uses VIA software, which means you can program macros and customize keys.
- The gasket mount design makes typing feel really good and reduces vibration.
- It has an ergonomic design with adjustable kickstands and a place to store your cable.
- It’s a great kit for anyone who loves to build and customize their own keyboards.
What Could Be Improved:
- The TFT screen customization might be a little tricky for beginners.
- The instruction manual could be clearer for some users.
This kit is a fantastic way to build a unique mechanical keyboard that perfectly fits your style and needs.
4. Glorious Gaming – GMMK 3 Barebones Custom Gaming Keyboard Kit with Knob
Rating: 8.7/10
The Glorious Gaming GMMK 3 Barebones Custom Gaming Keyboard Kit is a fantastic option for anyone who wants to build their dream keyboard. This 75% mechanical keyboard comes in a sleek black aluminum finish and offers a ton of ways to make it your own. You can easily swap out parts to change how it looks, sounds, and feels. The special knob lets you control volume and media with a simple twist or press.
What We Like:
- It has 9 points of customization, so you can truly make it yours.
- The Modular Gasket System lets you pick a firmer or softer typing feel.
- The programmable knob is super handy for controlling volume and media.
- You can easily swap out switches with the 5-pin MX hotswap support – no soldering needed!
- The sound-dampening foam makes typing sound really clean and satisfying.
- The aluminum switch plate adds a premium feel and durability.
What Could Be Improved:
- As a barebones kit, you need to buy switches and keycaps separately, which adds to the overall cost.
- Some users might find the initial setup a bit more involved than a pre-built keyboard.
This kit gives you the freedom to create a keyboard that’s perfect for your gaming and typing needs. It’s a great way to dive into the world of custom mechanical keyboards.
5. BOYI GMK67Pro Keyboard Barebones Kit
Rating: 9.4/10
The BOYI GMK67Pro Keyboard Barebones Kit is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves to customize their tech. This white, 65% compact keyboard comes as a DIY kit, meaning you get to build and personalize it to your exact liking. It’s packed with features for both gamers and productivity enthusiasts.
What We Like:
- You can easily change key mappings and create shortcuts with QMK/VIA programming.
- Swapping out mechanical switches is a breeze thanks to hot-swappable sockets, so no soldering is needed.
- It connects in three ways: Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4G wireless, and wired Type-C, giving you lots of options.
- A large 4000mAh battery means you won’t run out of power quickly.
- It features vibrant RGB lighting with millions of color options and customizable presets.
- The gasket-mounted design provides a satisfying and quiet typing experience.
- A handy multifunction knob makes controlling media and other functions super easy.
- The keyboard feels solid and includes pre-installed foam and a polycarbonate plate for improved sound and feel.
- It’s perfect for anyone who wants to build their dream mechanical keyboard from scratch.
What Could Be Improved:
- This kit is only compatible with mechanical switches, not optical ones.
This kit offers a truly personalized keyboard building experience. It’s a great way to create a keyboard that looks, feels, and sounds exactly how you want it.
The Barebones Keyboard Buying Guide
So, you’re thinking about getting a barebones keyboard? That’s awesome! A barebones keyboard is like a blank canvas for your typing needs. It’s a keyboard kit that usually comes with the case, PCB (the circuit board inside), and stabilizers. You get to pick the switches and keycaps yourself. This means you can build a keyboard that’s totally unique to you!
Why Choose a Barebones Keyboard?
Barebones keyboards let you customize everything. You choose how it feels to type. You choose how it sounds. You can make it look exactly how you want it. This is great for gamers, writers, or anyone who spends a lot of time typing.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a barebones keyboard, keep these things in mind:
- Size and Layout: Do you want a full-size keyboard with a number pad? Or maybe a smaller one like a 60% or 75%? Smaller keyboards save desk space.
- Mounting Style: This affects how the PCB is attached to the case. Popular styles include Gasket Mount, Tray Mount, and Top Mount. Gasket mount often gives a softer typing feel.
- Connectivity: Most barebones keyboards offer both wired (USB-C is common) and wireless (Bluetooth) options. Think about what works best for your setup.
- Hot-Swappable Sockets: This is a big one! Hot-swappable boards let you change switches easily without soldering. This is perfect for trying out different switch types.
- RGB Lighting: Some barebones boards have RGB backlighting. You can usually control the colors and effects.
Important Materials
The materials used in a barebones keyboard affect its feel, sound, and durability.
- Case Material:
- Plastic (ABS or Polycarbonate): These are usually more affordable. They can be lighter.
- Aluminum: This is a premium option. Aluminum cases feel solid and sound great. They are also more durable.
- Wood: Some keyboards use wood cases for a unique, warm aesthetic.
- PCB Material: Most PCBs are made of fiberglass. The thickness and quality can vary.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a barebones keyboard great or not so great.
Improving Quality:
- Solid Case Construction: A sturdy case reduces hollowness and improves sound.
- Good Stabilizers: Stabilizers prevent key wobble. Well-lubed and high-quality stabilizers make a big difference.
- Hot-Swappable Sockets: These offer flexibility and make building easier.
- Well-Designed PCB: A good PCB ensures reliable performance and compatibility.
Reducing Quality:
- Flimsy Case: A weak case can flex and sound bad.
- Poor Stabilizers: Wobbly keys are annoying and affect typing.
- Non-Hot-Swappable PCB (if you want to change switches): If you want to experiment, this can be a limitation.
- Hollow Sound: Some keyboards can sound hollow because of the case design or lack of dampening.
User Experience and Use Cases
The experience of using a barebones keyboard is all about personalization.
- For Gamers: Gamers often look for fast response times and comfortable layouts. They might choose specific switches for gaming.
- For Writers: Writers appreciate tactile feedback and a comfortable typing experience for long sessions.
- For Enthusiasts: Keyboard enthusiasts love the hobby aspect. They enjoy tinkering, experimenting with switches and keycaps, and achieving a specific sound and feel.
- For Beginners: A hot-swappable barebones kit is a great starting point. It lets you learn about keyboards without needing to solder.
Building your own barebones keyboard is a fun and rewarding project. You get a keyboard that’s perfect for you!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What exactly is a barebones keyboard?
A: A barebones keyboard is a keyboard kit. It usually includes the case, PCB, and stabilizers. You buy the switches and keycaps separately.
Q: Do I need to solder to build a barebones keyboard?
A: Not always! Many barebones keyboards have hot-swappable sockets. This means you can push switches in without soldering.
Q: What are switches?
A: Switches are the mechanisms under each keycap. They determine how the key feels and sounds when you press it. There are three main types: linear, tactile, and clicky.
Q: What are keycaps?
A: Keycaps are the plastic covers you press. You choose them for their look, feel, and material.
Q: How do I choose the right size?
A: Think about how much desk space you have and what keys you use most. Full-size is standard. Smaller sizes like 60% or 75% save space.
Q: What is a gasket mount?
A: Gasket mount is a way of attaching the PCB. It uses soft material to cushion it. This often makes typing feel softer and quieter.
Q: Can I change the switches later?
A: Yes, if your keyboard has hot-swappable sockets! This is a big benefit of barebones boards.
Q: Do barebones keyboards come with keycaps?
A: No, usually they don’t. You have to buy the keycaps separately to match your preferences.
Q: Are barebones keyboards more expensive?
A: The initial cost of a barebones kit might seem high. But when you add up the cost of a pre-built custom keyboard, it can sometimes be more affordable. Plus, you get exactly what you want.
Q: Where can I buy barebones keyboards?
A: You can find them on specialized keyboard websites, online marketplaces like Amazon, and from various tech retailers.
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!