Hello, keyboard enthusiasts and tech-savvy individuals! Have you ever contemplated stepping into the intriguing realm of DIY mechanical keyboards? If so, you’ve navigated to the ideal spot. We understand your passion for quality technology and your desire to personalize it. Therefore, we’re here to guide you on this exciting journey with a confident and knowledgeable voice.
We acknowledge that diving into DIY can be daunting, but don’t let that discourage you! It’s a journey filled with opportunities for learning and personal growth. The world of DIY mechanical keyboards is much more than just wires and switches—it’s about creating something uniquely yours.
Whether you’re a gaming aficionado or someone who values ergonomic comfort, building your own mechanical keyboard has its perks. You can customize it based on your preferences—be it the tactile feel of the keys, the sound they make when pressed, or even their layout.
This article is your one-stop guide to diving headfirst into the riveting world of these custom-built marvels. So grab that cup of coffee (or energy drink), sit back, and let’s embark on this exciting journey together!
Glorious GMMK 100% Barebone Keyboard Kit
If you’re someone who appreciates the finer details of technology, then the Glorious GMMK 100% Barebone Keyboard Kit could be your next exciting project. DIY enthusiasts – this one’s for you! This kit has all you need to craft your very own mechanical keyboard, complete with a peace-of-mind 1 year limited Manufacturer Warranty and a 30-day return option via Amazon.
You’ll find it’s designed with top-notch ergonomics in mind, compatible with those fancy OEM sculpted keycaps as well as an impressive array of operating systems. Conveniently, it sports a standard ANSI layout and is compatible with 3-pin plate mounted mechanical switches.
But here’s the cool part – it’s completely modular! That means you’ll be able to switch out components without the headache of soldering or desoldering them. And let’s not forget about the aesthetics – boasting 16.8 million RGB LED lights per key that are fully customizable through the GMMK software, your keyboard will not only be functional but also visually stunning.
The biggest downside of this product is the finicky keycap puller which may mark or damage bottom edge of keycaps when removing them from the board. Additionally, larger keys only feature one LED light underneath each cap, so they aren’t quite as bright as smaller keys on the board. Lastly, you may need to order several times in order to get your desired color combination for the LEDs on your board.
In essence, this keyboard kit presents a great bang for your buck. It makes stepping into the world of custom keyboard building a breeze, with no need for soldering or specialized tools like hot air stations or reflow gear. If you’re on the hunt for a comprehensive solution for DIY builds, we suggest giving this product some serious thought!
keydous NJ80-AP Keyboard Kit
The Keydous NJ80-AP Keyboard Kit is a great choice for those looking to build their own mechanical keyboard. It comes with a hot swappable PCB that makes it easy to assemble, as well as Bluetooth 5.0 and 2.4G modes so you can reduce the amount of cables on your desk. You’ll also be able to customize your typing preference by remapping keys, programming a knob, adding key combinations, setting up and recording Macros, and adjusting or customizing RGB colors with 16 million options.
The keyboard itself is very well built and feels solid when typing; it has a satisfying sound that will make any gaming experience more enjoyable. However, the accompanying software isn’t great – there are some issues with the RGB movement being too fast and the lighting being south facing which means LEDs can be seen from below the keys if you’re not careful.
All in all though this is a good option for anyone looking for an affordable DIY mechanical keyboard kit that offers plenty of customization options and a high quality feel while using it.
YMDK GK61 Mechanical Keyboard DIY ki
The YMDK GK61 Mechanical Keyboard DIY Kit is a great way to get into the world of mechanical keyboards. It comes with all the parts you need including a plastic case, stabilizers, a hotswap Type C PCB, plate, split space module and even a cable removal tool. With this kit you can customize your own mechanical keyboard with whatever type of switches you like – Cherry Gateron Kailh SMD Box switches or others – and adjust the sound to get just the right tactile feel from it.
The design of this kit is top-notch as well; it comes in an attractive ABS plastic casing which is molded by Zealio factory for higher quality and looks better than before. The PCB included in this set is fully programmable with software GK6X Plus, though unfortunately there are no arrow keys or numpad included here so it’s not ideal as an everyday keyboard.
If you’re on the hunt for an economical solution to create your own unique mechanical keyboard, why not give the YMDK GK61 DIY Kit a thought? While its price tag might be a bit steeper compared to other options out there, it truly pays off in quality and ease of assembly. It’s like buying a premium cup of coffee – worth every penny for the experience and satisfaction it delivers. Just imagine crafting your very own keyboard with this kit. Cool, right?
GK GAMAKAY LK67 Modular DIY Mechanical Keyboard
If you’re a keyboard enthusiast on the lookout for a DIY project, let me introduce you to the GK GAMAKAY LK67 Modular Mechanical Keyboard. This isn’t just any keyboard; it’s your chance to create something unique that truly resonates with your style.
Picture this: your desk, illuminated by the soft glow of this keyboard’s 65% RGB layout, mesh structure lighting, and side RGB lighting. It’s not just about aesthetics though; the LK67 offers hot-swappable 3Pin/5Pin switch compatibility and NKRO support, allowing you to tailor every detail to your preferences.
Now imagine being able to connect up to five devices swiftly through Bluetooth 5.0 / 2.4GHz wireless or USB-C wired connectivity modes – we’re talking serious flexibility here! And let’s not forget about the detachable USB Type-C cable and 2.4GHz receiver that comes with it for hassle-free switching between devices.
So why wait? Dive into the world of mechanical keyboards with the LK67 and make it an extension of your personality.
Building your own keyboard is a breeze, thanks to the added foam dampening tucked between the plate and PCB. This smart feature cuts down on typing noise – no more distracting keystrokes! Plus, there’s an FN layer that lets you personalize your keys exactly how you like them, with no fuss. And don’t worry about tangled wires – your keyboard comes with its very own braided cable for easy setup. No stress, just smooth sailing!
Despite the minor hiccups, such as a less user-friendly software UI and a somewhat finicky dongle with USB ports, this remains an outstanding pick for DIY enthusiasts in search of a mechanical keyboard kit. Loaded with numerous customization options and set at an economical price point, it caters well to the needs and preferences of keyboard aficionados. So if you’re someone who enjoys tinkering with your tech, you’ll likely find this kit a delightful challenge!
BOYI GMK67-65% Customized Mechanical Keyboard Kit
The BOYI GMK67-65% Customized Mechanical Keyboard Kit is a great choice for anyone looking to make their own DIY mechanical keyboard. It comes with everything you need in one kit; gasket material on the top plate of the keyboard to reduce vibration, fully programmable keys with multifunction knob design and 16.8 million RGB backlight, 8000mAh built-in long life battery, hot swappable terminals compatible with Cherry MX switches and Kailh switches or other 3 pin or 5 pin switches.
This kit has all the pros of an excellent build quality such as gasket mount, polycarbonate plates, poron plate foams, poron PCB foams and base foam plus south facing LED lights, five pin hot swappable sockets and volume/media knob as well as stock lubricated stabilizers and multiple connectivity options (wired/Bluetooth). As for cons there’s only one notable issue – that you’ll need to pry open the top plate to get access inside – but still it’s a minor inconvenience compared to all its advantages.
Overall this is an exceptional mechanical keyboard kit that will let you customize your own experience exactly how you want it; from how it looks, clicks and sounds down to three way adjustable heights. So if you’re looking for a DIY mechanical keyboard kit then BOYI GMK67-65% Customized Mechanical Keyboard Kit is definitely worth considering!
DROP CTRL Kit
Are you in the market for a DIY mechanical keyboard project? If so, you might want to consider the DROP CTRL Kit. This kit has been designed with precision and ease-of-use in mind, ensuring a smooth assembly process even for those who might not be tech-savvy. The sturdy aluminum frame and built-in switch plate provides both durability and convenience. But here’s the best part: there’s no need for any soldering thanks to the hot-swappable switches! So, whether you’re a seasoned keyboard enthusiast or a beginner looking to explore this exciting world, this kit allows you to reposition keyswitches with ease during reassembly. It’s like a lego set for keyboard lovers – fun, engaging, and ultimately satisfying
The keyboard also features fully programmable QMK functionality with custom macros and key binds for every key along with customizable RGB backlighting and underlighting which offers millions of colors. Its dual USB Type-C connectors provide USB 2.0 speeds, while its shine-through PBT keycaps are easy to clean. Additionally, the kit is compatible with Cherry switches and stabilizers (not included). It even has removable feet that allow you to adjust the height of your keyboard.
Unfortunately, some users have reported double key press issues as well as flawed firmware that causes issues. Unfortunately customer support isn’t great either. However these minor drawbacks should not be a major issue if you’re looking for an easy-to-build DIY mechanical keyboard kit with lots of features at an affordable price point – in which case the DROP CTRL Kit will fit the bill perfectly!
Womier 75% Custom Keyboard Kit
The Womier 75% Custom Keyboard Kit is a great option for anyone looking to build their own DIY mechanical keyboard. It has all the features you would expect from a gaming keyboard, including RGB lighting, software customization, and hot swappable PCBs compatible with most 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches. On top of that, it comes with quality packaging and solid build quality. The keycaps are frosted for a nice feel and look, and the RGB lighting looks great when set up to light up when typing. The stabilizers also have a good feel to them. The only downside is that the keys can be unreadable in low light conditions due to the dark colour scheme of the keyboard kit. Additionally, some may prefer tactile switches instead of clicky ones which this kit uses. Overall, this custom keyboard kit offers everything you need for an awesome gaming experience at a reasonable price point – making it an ideal choice for those looking for diy mechanical keyboards!
Embarking on the Journey: Buying a DIY Mechanical Keyboard Kit
When you’re diving into the world of typing, gaming, or coding, there’s a good chance you’ve felt the allure of a mechanical keyboard. Its tactile feedback and satisfying click can make any task feel like an exciting adventure. And guess what? The thrill only amplifies when you build one yourself. Whether you’re just beginning to explore the vast universe of mechanical keyboards or you’re already an experienced enthusiast on the lookout for your next project, we’ve got some insights to help guide your DIY mechanical keyboard kit purchase.
h3>Deciding Whether to Solder: A Keyboards Enthusiast’s Dilemmahot-swap board, experiment until you find your preferred switch type, then graduate to a high-end soldered kit.
Your Keyboard, Your Rules: Programmability
Another key aspect is programmability. Having the freedom to remap keys and set up custom lighting schemes gives your keyboard that personal touch. Besides, who knows? Your taste might change over time, and being able to adjust keymaps ensures your board won’t become outdated quickly.
Surely software solutions exist for remapping keys, but having this feature built-in means one less program hogging resources on your computer.
It’s All About Fit: Keycaps
Since DIY kits typically don’t come with keycaps (unless specified), it’s crucial to ensure that whatever key set you purchase fits your board perfectly. Be aware of non-standard key sizes that some boards may feature and verify that your chosen keycap set includes all necessary keys.
Steady as She Goes: Quality Stabilizers
Quality stabilizers can significantly enhance your typing experience by keeping those longer keys steady under your fingers. No one likes loose or sticky keys – they can be frustratingly distracting!
The good news? Swapping out stabilizers on a hot-swap board is relatively easy (no need for desoldering!). So it’s recommended that you try out your kit first before committing to any stabilizer modifications.
Final Thoughts
Building your own mechanical keyboard can seem daunting at first – so many decisions! But remember – it’s all about creating something uniquely suited for YOU. Whether you prefer box jade switches for their sharp tactility or lean towards sleek barebones aesthetics, there’s something incredibly rewarding about crafting something yourself from scratch!
So dive in – start exploring different options available in DIY mechanical keyboard kits. And remember – half the fun lies in exploration! Happy building!
Conclusion
In wrapping things up, let me tell you, rolling up your sleeves to create your DIY mechanical keyboard can be a truly gratifying adventure – whether you’re just dipping your toes in or you’re already deep into the keyboard enthusiast world. With the right pinch of knowledge and the perfect kit that screams “you”, you’ll end up with a personalized setup that doesn’t just meet but fits like a glove to your needs.
If easy-peasy is your motto, don’t forget to give solder-free kits a glance when hunting for the perfect one – they might just be the convenience-filled answer you’re looking for. And while we’re on the topic of shopping, remember to check off programmability and quality stabilizers from your list so your keyboard can hit all those performance high notes.
Armed with these nuggets of wisdom and some thorough research (I know you’ve got this), I believe you’re all set and ready to dive headfirst into this exhilarating journey! Let’s get those keys clacking