Do you love the satisfying click of mechanical keyboards? Have you ever thought about building your very own? That’s where barebones keyboards come in! Imagine a keyboard that’s almost done, but you get to pick the most important parts. It sounds cool, right? But picking the right barebones keyboard can feel like a puzzle. There are so many choices for switches, keycaps, and even the case! It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and wonder where to even start.
This is where our guide steps in. We’re going to break down what a barebones keyboard really is and why it’s such an awesome way to get the keyboard of your dreams. You’ll learn how to choose the perfect parts to make your typing experience amazing. By the end of this post, you’ll have the confidence to pick out your very own barebones keyboard and start building something truly special.
Our Top 5 Barebones Keyboard Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Barebones Keyboard Detailed Reviews
1. BOYI GMK67 Barebones Keyboard Kit
Rating: 8.7/10
The BOYI GMK67 Barebones Keyboard Kit is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants to build their own unique mechanical keyboard. This 65% layout kit comes in a clean white color and is packed with features to help you create a keyboard that’s truly yours, from how it looks to how it feels and sounds.
What We Like:
- You can easily customize your keyboard by choosing your own switches and keycaps.
- The hot-swappable design means you can change switches without soldering, making it super easy for beginners.
- It works with many popular mechanical switches, giving you lots of options.
- You can connect it in three ways: Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, or wired USB-C, so it’s ready for any setup.
- The built-in 4000mAh battery means you can use it wirelessly for a long time.
- It has vibrant RGB lighting with millions of color options that you can customize.
- The gasket-mounted design and PORON gaskets help reduce vibrations and create a satisfying typing sound.
- A handy multi-function knob lets you easily control media and other functions.
- The keyboard is built solid, with pre-installed foam and a polycarbonate plate for a great typing experience.
- South-facing LEDs mean your keycap legends will be clearly visible.
What Could Be Improved:
- This kit is designed for mechanical switches only and is not compatible with optical switches.
This kit offers an excellent starting point for keyboard enthusiasts to create a personalized typing experience. It’s a great way to dive into the world of custom mechanical keyboards with its user-friendly features.
2. Glorious Modular Mechanical Gaming Keyboard – 75% / Barebones/Pre Built/Black and White (Barebones (Black)) (Renewed)
Rating: 8.7/10
This Glorious Modular Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, in its 75% Barebones Black (Renewed) edition, offers a fantastic foundation for gamers and typists alike. It’s designed for customization, letting you build the exact keyboard you want. This particular model comes as a barebones kit, meaning you get the keyboard frame and plate, ready for you to add your favorite switches and keycaps. It’s a sleek black color, fitting into any setup easily.
What We Like:
- Modular design lets you swap out parts easily.
- 75% layout saves desk space but keeps essential keys.
- Barebones option is great for personalization.
- Renewed product offers good value.
- The black color looks sharp and clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- Requires separate purchase of switches and keycaps.
- As a renewed item, cosmetic flaws might be present.
- No specific software mentioned for advanced customization.
This renewed Glorious keyboard is a smart pick for anyone wanting a customizable mechanical keyboard experience without the top-tier price. It’s a solid starting point for building your dream keyboard.
3. Glorious Gaming GMMK 2 Full Size (96%) Barebones (Frame Only) – Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Frame
Rating: 9.1/10
The Glorious Gaming GMMK 2 Full Size (96%) Barebones is a fantastic starting point for building your dream mechanical keyboard. This white aluminum frame offers a premium feel and a compact, yet fully functional, layout that keeps your desk tidy.
What We Like:
- The aluminum top shell feels super strong and doesn’t bend.
- It has grippy rubber feet, so it stays put while you play games.
- The keyboard has a cool matte finish that resists scratches.
- You get all the keys of a full-size keyboard, including the number pad, but in a smaller shape.
- You can easily swap out mechanical switches without any soldering.
- It sounds great right out of the box, with smooth stabilizers and foam to stop annoying noise.
- It comes with helpful tools like a switch puller and keycap puller.
What Could Be Improved:
- This is a barebones kit, so you need to buy your own switches and keycaps.
- The American QWERTY layout might not work for everyone.
This keyboard frame is a solid choice for anyone wanting a high-quality, customizable keyboard. It provides a great foundation for a personalized typing and gaming experience.
4. GMK104 Barebones Keyboard Kit with Screen&Knob
Rating: 9.3/10
The GMK104 Barebones Keyboard Kit is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants to build their own unique mechanical keyboard. You get to pick how it looks, feels, and sounds! It’s a DIY kit that makes it easy for you to create a keyboard that’s totally yours, giving you a fresh and personal typing experience.
What We Like:
- You can customize the smart display with your own images and control the backlight and screen with two multimedia buttons.
- The metal knob lets you easily adjust the volume with a premium feel.
- It’s fully programmable with QMK/VIA, so you can create custom shortcuts and lighting.
- You can connect it in three ways: Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, or wired USB-C.
- The 4000mAh battery lasts a long time, so you can use it wirelessly for longer.
- It has a silent gasket structure for a cushioned and quiet typing feel.
- The hot-swappable PCB means you can change switches without soldering, making DIY super simple.
- It has south-facing RGB backlighting for cool lighting effects.
- The full-size layout includes a number pad, arrow keys, and function keys, with NKRO so no keys will miss a press.
- It works with both Windows and macOS.
What Could Be Improved:
- The initial setup for advanced customization might take a little learning.
- The kit does not include keycaps or switches, so you’ll need to buy those separately.
This keyboard kit offers a lot of fun and personalization for keyboard enthusiasts. It’s a great way to get exactly the keyboard you want.
5. CORBOBO LEOBOG Hi75C Upgraded Wired Mechanical Keyboard Kit – Aluminum Alloy Gasket Mount 75% Barebones DIY Base with Hot Swap
Rating: 8.8/10
The CORBOBO LEOBOG Hi75C Upgraded Wired Mechanical Keyboard Kit is a fantastic option for anyone looking to build their own custom keyboard. It’s an improved version of a popular model, offering a better typing feel and sound. The sturdy aluminum body and special “gasket mount” design make it comfortable to type on for long periods. Plus, you can easily swap out the keys yourself without needing special tools. It also has cool RGB lights and a handy knob to control your volume.
What We Like:
- It’s an upgraded version with a better feel and sound.
- The aluminum case looks great and is very strong.
- The gasket mount makes typing soft and quiet.
- You can easily change the keys because it’s “hot-swappable.”
- Lots of colorful RGB lights and music modes to choose from.
- The volume knob and mute button are very convenient.
- It comes with a neat retractable USB-C cable that won’t get tangled.
- You can program custom buttons and shortcuts for gaming or work.
What Could Be Improved:
- Being a barebones kit, you need to buy switches and keycaps separately.
- Software for customization might have a learning curve for some users.
This keyboard kit offers a lot of value for its price. It’s a strong choice for both gamers and anyone who wants a personalized typing experience.
Your Guide to Picking the Perfect Barebones Keyboard
Barebones keyboards are like building blocks for your dream typing experience. You get the frame, the plate, and sometimes the PCB (the brain), but you choose the switches and keycaps yourself. This lets you customize your keyboard exactly how you want it. Let’s dive into what makes a barebones keyboard great.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a barebones keyboard, keep these important features in mind:
- Layout: This is how many keys the keyboard has and how they are arranged. Common layouts include full-size (with a number pad), tenkeyless (no number pad), 75%, 65%, and 60%. Smaller layouts save desk space.
- Mounting Style: This affects how the plate is attached to the case. Different mounting styles change the typing feel and sound. Common ones are tray mount, gasket mount, and top mount. Gasket mount often feels softer and quieter.
- Hot-Swappable Sockets: These let you change switches easily without soldering. This is a huge plus for beginners and anyone who likes to experiment.
- Connectivity: Most barebones keyboards connect with a USB cable. Some offer wireless options like Bluetooth, which is handy for tidiness.
- RGB Lighting: Some barebones keyboards have RGB lighting built into the PCB. You can choose whether you want this feature or not.
Important Materials
The materials used in a barebones keyboard greatly affect its feel, sound, and durability.
- Case: The outer shell of the keyboard.
- Plastic (ABS, Polycarbonate): These are common and affordable. Polycarbonate can offer a deeper sound.
- Aluminum: This is a premium material. It feels solid and often produces a more refined sound. It’s also heavier.
- Plate: This sits between the PCB and the switches.
- Aluminum, Brass, Polycarbonate, FR4: Each material gives a different typing feel. Aluminum and brass are stiffer. Polycarbonate and FR4 are more flexible, leading to a softer typing experience.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a barebones keyboard stand out or fall short.
What Makes it Better:
- Solid Construction: A well-built case with no flex feels much better.
- Good Sound Dampening: Foam inside the case and plate helps reduce hollowness and unwanted noise.
- High-Quality PCB: A reliable PCB with good hot-swap sockets ensures your switches work well.
- Precise Fitment: All parts should fit together snugly without gaps or rattling.
What Makes it Worse:
- Cheap Plastic: Thin, flimsy plastic cases can flex and feel cheap.
- Hollow Sounds: A lack of internal dampening can make the keyboard sound echoey.
- Poorly Soldered Switches (if not hot-swappable): This can lead to keys not working.
- Loose Parts: Rattling or loose components indicate lower quality.
User Experience and Use Cases
Barebones keyboards are for anyone who wants a personalized typing tool.
- Gamers: They can choose switches that react quickly. They can also pick a layout that saves desk space for mouse movement.
- Writers and Programmers: They can select switches that feel comfortable for long typing sessions. A specific layout might also improve workflow.
- Enthusiasts: People who love to tinker and build things find joy in creating their perfect keyboard from scratch.
- Beginners: Hot-swappable barebones kits are fantastic for those new to the hobby. They offer a great learning experience without the need for soldering.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Barebones Keyboards
Q: What is a barebones keyboard?
A: A barebones keyboard is a keyboard kit that includes the case, plate, and PCB, but you add your own switches and keycaps.
Q: Do I need to solder for a barebones keyboard?
A: Not always. Many barebones keyboards have hot-swappable sockets, which let you plug in switches without soldering.
Q: What are switches?
A: Switches are the mechanisms under each keycap that register a keystroke. They come in different types like linear, tactile, and clicky, each with a unique feel and sound.
Q: What are keycaps?
A: Keycaps are the plastic covers you press on each key. You can choose them for their look, feel, and material.
Q: Is a barebones keyboard good for gaming?
A: Yes, it can be. You can pick switches that are very responsive for gaming. You can also choose smaller layouts to give your mouse more room.
Q: How do I choose the right layout?
A: Think about how much desk space you have and what keys you use most. Smaller layouts save space but might lack a number pad or function keys.
Q: What does “hot-swappable” mean?
A: Hot-swappable means you can easily remove and replace switches without any tools or soldering. This makes it simple to try different switches.
Q: What material is best for the case?
A: Aluminum cases are usually higher quality and feel more premium. Plastic cases are more affordable and lighter.
Q: Can I use any switches with a barebones keyboard?
A: If the keyboard has hot-swappable sockets, you can usually use any 3-pin or 5-pin mechanical switches. Always check the product details.
Q: Is a barebones keyboard more expensive than a regular keyboard?
A: It can be, especially if you buy premium components. However, you get exactly what you want, and the customization is worth it for many people.
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.
My name is Gary Flores, the creator of deepskyblue-owl-132507.hostingersite.com.. With a passion for creating cozy, functional, and beautiful spaces, I share my personal experiences and expertise about everything related to home improvement. From practical tips to design inspiration, my goal is to help you make your home the best it can be.