A barebones chassis, which is devoid of any switches or keycaps, is one of the most cost-effective options for keyboard aficionados who already have their own parts.
Most come with a set of stock stabs, although they’ll almost certainly need to be replaced in the future… We’ll go through the top mechanical keyboards that are completely customizable in the section below.
Top 10 Barebones Keyboards
1. Drop CTRL High-Profile Mechanical Keyboard
Features:
- 67 keys
- CNC machined anodized aluminum frame
- Custom PCB
- Hot-swap switch sockets
- QMK software
- Plate-mounted Cherry-style stabilizers
- Floating key design
- Dual USB-C ports
- PCB compatible only with 3-pin plate-mount switches
Drop CTRL High-Profile TKL Barebone Keyboard is one of the greatest solutions for building a bespoke TKL Layout quality keyboard. This Barebone keyboard features a stylish design and a durable and solid build quality.
Drop CTRL High-Profile TKL Barebone Keyboard features a design similar to TKL keyboards in general, and the build quality is excellent, with strong and thick aluminum.
Because the PCB on the Drop CTRL High-Profile TKL Barebone Keyboard only supports switches with three pins, the number of switches must be considered when purchasing this barebone keyboard. This keyboard barebone also includes a high-quality screw-in stabilizer.
The Drop CTRL High-Profile TKL Barebone Keyboard already features RGB backlighting that lights up independently on each key, and you can pick from a variety of RGB animations.
Just one way to integrate to this barebone keyboard is via a disconnected USB Type C Cable, and it’s compatible with Windows, Mac OS, and Linux.
The QMK and VIA firmware may be used to tweak the Drop CTRL High-Profile TKL Barebone Keyboard’s software, allowing you to quickly reprogram key and layer functionalities.
Pros:
- Reasonably priced for a full custom keyboard
- QMK-powered programming
- Barebones version available for a lower price
- Full-aluminum housing • Backlit PBT keycaps
Cons:
- The stabilizers are poor;
- There is no support for 5-pin switches;
- Programming is difficult.
Verdict
It is a hot-swap board, and the ability to change out all of the various parts is definitely part of the draw, but considering the poor build quality and the fact that you would need to replace every single part, I refuse to see how it makes sense at this price range.
2. Drop Shift Mechanical Keyboard
Features:
- CNC-machined aluminum frame with anodized finish.
- QMK firmware on a custom PCB
- Switch sockets that can be swapped out quickly.
- Cherry-style stabilizers that are installed on the plate.
- Keys that float.
- There are two USB-C ports.
- Capslock, Numlock, and Scroll Lock LED indication lights in RGB.
- Only plate-mount switches are compatible with the PCB.
The mechanical keyboard Drop Shift is a really interesting concept. Drop, formerly known as Massdrop, specializes in keyboard parts and custom keycaps, although it also produces a few keyboards.
The Drop Shift, for example, is a clever take on the full-size keyboard that condenses the usual 104-key layout into a more manageable 99-key configuration while maintaining full functionality.
The Shift, like the Drop ENTR we reviewed last year, is a keyboard for keyboard enthusiasts. It lacks the bells and frills of productivity or gaming keyboards in the same price range, but it makes up for it with pure typing sensation.
Pros:-
- Incredible build quality
- Halo True Switches
- Magnetic feet that enable conventional and reverse tilt
Cons:-
- Web-based setup software is difficult to use
- Expensive
Verdict:
The quality is incredible, with strong aluminum construction and a Halo effect. True keys feel great in your hands. You may easily switch them out if you don’t like them.
The key and color customization software is mediocre, but I’ve never been into that sort of stuff. Several built-in functionalities are included with the keyboard.
My favorite of the RGB lights is the rainbow wave one. Others, such as a “breath” feature that makes it appear as though the keyboard is breathing, are available.
3. Glorious GMMK Modular Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Features:
- Choose your own combination of switches and keycaps.
- 18 pre-installed RGB LED effects
- 1 slot for user-defined effect Animation rates and brightness may be adjusted.
- Hot-Keys for Quick Access
The Glorious GMMK is available in three different sizes: compact (60 percent), tenkeyless (TKL), and full size. It’s also available in two versions: completely completed with switches and keycaps or barebones, which needs you to add your own switches and keycaps (sold separately).
If you purchase a pre-built GMMK, it will come with Gateron Brown switches and normal black (or white, if the White Ice colorway is available) illuminated keycaps.
I’m using the Glorious GMMK TKL Barebone Edition in Black for this review.
Pros:
- Three sizes are available to suit your needs.
- You may have it complete or barebones (DIY)
- Both versions are fully hot-swappable
- Both models come with a removable USB-C connection.
- Sturdy, substantial construction with a kickstand for a more comfortable typing position
Cons:
- Doesn’t function with 5-pin switches without a lot of work
- MacOS software is not available
Verdict
The stabilizers are good for clipping in, however screwing them in would be preferable, despite the lack of a PCB hole for screws.
The weight and sound of the board are both satisfactory. The software does its job well, and if you utilize onboard controls, you’ll never have to fiddle with it.
Although the RGB is bright and beautiful, it might be brighter. It features a clean, minimalist style that allows you to personalize this board completely.
4. Drop + OLKB Preonic Keyboard MX Kit V3
Features:
- ARM STM32 CPU
- Reprogrammable Matias / MX-compatible PCBA
- 304 brushed stainless steel top plate
- Rubber feet
- Anodized CNC aluminium case
- PBT keycaps
- ARM STM32 CPU
- Installed measurements: 9.1 x 4.1 x 0.9 in (23.1 x 10.4 x 2.3 cm)
The Preonic, designed by OLKB’s Jack Humbert, is built for efficiency. The architecture is similar to that of the OLKB Planck, but with an extra row for faster access to numbers, function keys, and whatever else you choose to program.
The smaller space bar makes it easier to reach extra levels through the “raise” and “lower” keys with your thumbs. Even with the additional row, the keyboard still has a small footprint for mobility.
Pros:
- Sturdy structure. Everything is perfectly in place.
- Switchable switches must be pressed. There will be no soldering.
- USB-C.
- Simple to put together. In this case, place the board.
Cons:
- Expensive.
Verdict:
The metal base is fairly strong, albeit a little weighty, and has a quality feel to it. If you want to show off the inbuilt LEDs that light up the keyboard’s base, an acrylic base could be a better choice.
Because the space bar is so little, the stabilizer may not be essential, but it is a good choice to have. The supplied plate may be fastened or left floating using the provided hardware. It’s always wonderful to have choices.
If you want to use LEDs to light up the keys, you may do so, but it will take an additional set of procedures and supplies not included in this kit.
5. Glorious GMMK Modular Mechanical Gaming Keyboard ISO Layout
Features:
- Choose your own combination of switches and keycaps
- Switches that can be swapped out quickly.
- Any MX-based switch may be easily removed and installed without the need for soldering.
- Personalize it to your liking and use whatever switch combinations you like!
- 18 pre-installed RGB LED effects and 1 slot for user-defined effect
- Animation rates and brightness may be adjusted.
- Hot-Keys for Quick Access
The Glorious GMMK is a straightforward and simplistic board, which some users enjoy. Regardless of size, the GMMK is a solid piece of metal that feels robust and substantial.
It also lacks a high case height or a frame surrounding the switch sockets, making it simpler to clean. To add a sense of elegance, a silver accent runs around the top perimeter.
A wrist rest is not necessary to operate the GMMK comfortably because it does not sit too high.
Pros:
- Three sizes are available to suit your needs.
- You may have it complete or barebones (DIY)
- Both models are fully hot-swappable.
- Come with a removable USB-C connection.
- Sturdy, substantial construction.
- There’s a kickstand for a more comfortable typing position
Cons:
- Doesn’t function with 5-pin switches without a lot of work
- MacOS software is not available
Verdict:
LEDs are bright enough for what I want and require, according to customer feedback. The program lacks some customizability, but this is something that AutoHotKey can address.
The structure of the board is rather sturdy. When you’re typing, all switches, regardless of color, have a subtle metallic twang. I believe it is because it is a solid piece of metal with just little vibrations.
It’s a lengthy cable with a strong feeling about it. Although it is MicroUSB, the packaging includes a cord.
6. Glorious GMMK Modular Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Features:
- 104 PBT Keycaps
- Polybutylene Terephthalate substance
- GMMK Barebones come with pre-installed stabilizers.
Pros:-
- 3 types are available to suit your needs.
- You may have it completely completed or barebones (do-it-yourself)
- Both models are fully hot-swappable and come with a removable USB-C connection.
- Sturdy, substantial construction with a kickstand for a more comfortable typing position
Cons:
- Doesn’t function with 5-pin switches without a lot of work
- Software not available on macOS
Verdict:
It’s quite inexpensive and budget-friendly, according to the reviews.
7. Drop Planck Mechanical Keyboard Kit V6
Features:
- Anodized CNC aluminum case
- Kaihua hot-swap switch sockets
- Reprogrammable Matias / MX-compatible PCBA
- Designed by Jack Humbert (OLKB)
- Produced by Drop
- PCBA by OLKB
- A plate of steel (MX-compatible only)
- Weight (assembled): 18 oz
The Ortholinear 40percentage Planck mechanical keyboard is recognized for its innovative design, and the latest version is even better.
This small keyboard decreases finger travel by placing every key within two units of your fingers on the home row. The space bar keys “raise” and “lower” make it simple to access other levels for further functionality.
The CNC aluminum casing is available in six various colors for this round, including the bright new red and yellow colors.
Kaihua hot-swappable switch sockets are included in this edition, allowing you to swap out your switches without ever taking up a soldering iron.
The new Planck also features an improved ARM STM32 CPU that offers greater power to the PCB and USB-C connection, as well as two casing designs.
Pros:-
- Sturdy structure.
- Use swappable switches to keep everything in place. There will be no soldering.
- USB-C.
- Simple to put together. Place the board in the case
- The case is made of aluminum.
Cons:-
- Expensive.
Verdict:
For those concerned about the learning curve for typing on an Ortholinear layout or using multilayers, it took me almost an hour of practice to reach my regular typing speed on a staggered layout, which is around 70 wpm, and a day to get used to multiple layers, which feels even more comfortable.
As a result, rather than using it only for trips as I had planned, I decided to use it on a daily basis. I’m not sure why we’re still employing a staggered pattern. This keyboard comes highly recommended by me and other programmers.
The only flaw I can see is that the stabilizer was a touch rattly, and the casing sounded hollow.
8. EPOMAKER GK61X RGB
Features:
- Split spacebar module
- RGB SMD light, numerous light effects
- 60 percent layout PCB,
- Generally compatible with most 60 percent keyboard cases
- PCB is compatible with many switches (Cherry Switch/Gateron Switch/Kailh BOX Switch, etc.) and has a hot-swap terminal.
The hot-swappable terminals included in the GK61XS custom kit allow you to attach the switches without soldering. It works with Cherry MX, Kailh, Gateron, and other 3 and 5 pin switches. This kit makes it simple to construct your own mechanical keyboard.
Pros:-
- RGB with the Hyper X Pudding Keycaps is a plus.
- Gaterons switches.
- Excellent stabilisers.
- USB Type-C plugs
Cons:-
- Low PCB performance
Verdict:
The stabilizers, on the other hand, are abysmal (which is to be anticipated given the price), and the casing is hollow. Both can be readily fixed with some good plate mount stabilizers and some case foam. This is a superb kit for the price.
9. Galaxy 75 Modular Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Features:
- The Galaxy 75% includes a Low Profile Aluminium Chassis
- Hot-Swap 5 pins PCB (Plate & PCB Mounted switches), and per-key RGB lighting.
- RGB Backlit: 16.8 million color possibilities
- no drivers are required. Plug-and-play keyboard with a tiny form factor
- DURGOD Hera Engine software is supported
- Two distinct cables: 3.3FT (1M) Type C to Type C USB Cable and 5.9FT/1M Type C to Type A USB Cable (1.8M)
- Mac and Windows compatibility.
Pros:-
- Supports DURGOD Hera Engine software
- Two different cables: Type C to Type C USB Cable-3.3FT (1M) and Type C to Type A USB Cable 5.9FT/ (1.8M)
- Mac and Windows compatibility
Cons:-
- Freezing
Verdict:
Although this is a well-built small keyboard, reading the reviews here and in other places gives the impression that the QC is a bit of a gamble.
The aluminum plate holds the switches firmly but not so tightly that you have to use any force to remove a switch while hot-swapping 3-pin or 5-pin switches. The LEDs are facing north and are extremely bright.
10. DNA65 65% Kit Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Features:
- DNA65
- 65-key layout
- 4-layer acrylic case
- USB-C connectivity
- Gateron switches
- Kailh Hotswap Sockets
- Full RGB LEDs
- Full anti-ghosting
- Fn combination key
- Included software allows you to customize key settings, light effects, and macros.
The DNA65 Stacked Acrylic mechanical keyboard excels when a small layout is required—and light dispersion is a requirement.
It has a 65-key layout with an Fn combo key to handle intense typing programs and is small enough to fit on practically any desktop.
To improve efficiency, it comes with Kailh hot-swap sockets, comprehensive anti-ghosting, and full RGB LEDs. The four-layer acrylic casing, which is strong and entirely opaque to disperse RGB light from all sides, is the show-stopper.
This small keyboard boasts a USB-C connector for a quick and robust connection and comes with your choice of Gateron switches or a barebones alternative with no keycaps or switches. With the supplied software, you may customize your key commands and light colors.
Pros:
- USB-C connectivity
- Switch Hotswap Sockets
- Full RGB LEDS
- Full anti-ghosting
- Fn combination key
Cons:
- Poor construction quality.
Verdict:
While the typing experience is satisfactory, this keyboard has a number of flaws.
To begin with, the stacked acrylic is a bit shoddy, with the acrylic stacks wobbling, so I had to add a thin layer of foam to make the case more “solid.”
FAQs
Q. What is a barebone keyboard, exactly?
Users may create their own customized mechanical keyboards with minimum effort and technical knowledge using barebones mechanical keyboards. Barebones keyboards are offered without switches or keycaps, so you’ll have to source them separately.
Q. What is the TKL keyboard?
(Keyboard with TenKeyLess) A computer keyboard that lacks a 10-key numeric keypad on the right-hand side. Keyboards are available in a variety of forms, including gaming keyboards.
See also gaming keyboard and mechanical keyboard. Less than ten keys and ten keys Because it takes up less space on the desk, many users prefer the smaller TKL keyboard.
Q. What do you mean by barebones keyboards?
The barebone keyboard is a combination of mechanical keyboard components that have been built and marketed together, such as the keyboard case, PCB, Plate, and Stabilizer.
You don’t need to solder the switch to the PCB because the barebone keyboard’s PCB supports the hot-swappable capability. All you have to do now is install the switch and keycap set to complete your personalized keyboard.
Conclusion:
Using the Barebone Keyboard is the simplest way to create a bespoke mechanical keyboard without having to purchase individual components. All you have to do now is add the Switch and keycap set to complete your personalized keyboard.
The GMMK Pro barebone and Keychron Q1 barebone are two barebone keyboards with a 75 percent layout that we particularly enjoy. If you want to design a bespoke keyboard that looks excellent and is of decent quality, these two barebone keyboards are our top picks.