Do you ever feel like your typing just isn’t quite right? Maybe your current keyboard feels mushy or just doesn’t have that satisfying click. You’ve heard about mechanical keyboards, those amazing typing tools that feel so much better. But then you start looking, and suddenly there are switches, plates, cases, and stabilizers—it’s a whole new language!
Choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard kit can feel overwhelming. It’s easy to get lost in all the jargon and options. You want that perfect sound and feel, but spending money on the wrong parts is a real worry. That’s where diving into a kit comes in handy. Building your own lets you control every single piece, from the sound it makes to how it looks on your desk.
This guide cuts through the noise. We will break down exactly what you need to know about mechanical keyboard kits. By the end, you will understand the key components and feel confident picking out the perfect set of parts to build your dream keyboard. Get ready to ditch the frustration and start building something truly yours!
Top Mechanical Keybooard Kit Recommendations
- ✅【QMK/VIA Customization】 Full support for tailored key mapping, macros, and backlighting to optimize your workflow and gaming experience. With QMK and VIA, you can easily program each key to work exactly the way you want
- ✅【Hot-Swappable Mechanical Switch】The custom BOYI GMK67 keyboard kit is equipped with hot swappable terminals,which you could install the switches directly without soldering. It’s compatible with Cherry MX switches, Kailh switches and Gateron switches and other 3 pin or 5 pin Mechanical switches.You can easily build up your own mechanical keyboard with this kit. (Please note:This kit only suitable for Mechanical Switch and not suitable for Optical Switch by now)
- ✅【Triple Mode Connection GMK67 Keyboard】It supports triple mode connection, including Bluetooth 5.0/2.4G/Wired Type-C Tri-Mode,offers more choice for you. The 4000mAh bulit-in long life battery don't worry games and office work.
- ✅【RGB Presets Varied&Pro Software Customizable】RGB is such a cool element while playing games. This custom kit fully know your needs and thus this model is equipped with RGB SMD light. More than 16.8 million lights are available.You can also remap your kit by your willing.
- ✅【Gasket-mounted Barebones Keyboard】This 65% Layout Customized mechanical keyboard uses a gasket material on the keyboard plate's top that reduces the occurrence of vibrations within your keyboard case,complemented by gaskets, significantly minimizes cavity sound, enhancing your typing sounds. Offering a very satisfying typing experience!
- ✅【A Fascinating Mechanical Keyboard Kit】The M87pro is an elegantly, simple but such a functional RGB mechanical keyboard kit for any one who is looking for something new and want to try customization. Every key is thoughtfully positioned to provide effortless access, allowing you to navigate your digital realm with ease and precision
- ✅【Sound Absorption Foam&Silicon Bottom Pad】To ensure a whisper-quiet typing experience, the M75pro equipped with high-quality silencing pads, absorbing the clatter of keystrokes without sacrificing responsiveness. Each press feels like a symphony of comfort and precision, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in your work or gaming sessions
- ✅【Hot-Swappable Switch-Compatible with 3Pin/5Pin Switch】Equipped with hot swappable terminals, you could install the MX switches directly without soldering, easily build up your own mechanical keyboard. Support NKRO. Supports both 3 pin or 5 pin switches, such as Cherry, Otemu, Gateron, Kailh and other MX switches and its clones.
- ✅【Software Customization】Up to 18 factory-set lights and music rhythm modes are free to choose from the keyboard. Custom software is also available for designing your new effects. Build macros, and set up per-key lighting and effects.
- ✅【Compatible with Windows and Mac Systems】Full keys anti-ghosting bring you more smooth gaming experience. Detachable USB-C keyboard cable make the 75% gaming keyboard more portable and customized
- Multifunctional Screen & Volume Knob -- GMK104 barebones keyboard with smart display is an interactive interface that you can update and customize in real time. The display allows customization of the image,the two multimedia buttons on the left side of the screen function to switch the backlight/screen on/off. Equipped with a metal knob for volume control
- 104 Keys NKRO Keyboard with Numpad -- 104 keys full size design with arrow keys, number pads, function keys, All keys no conflicts, ensure that every click is registered, retaining the usual number keys, perfect for the office and gaming. Press FN+(F1~F12) keys could quickly active the multi-function keys
- VIA Programmable Keyboard Kit -- As a multifunctional mechanical keyboard that supports VIA software, the GMK104 kit gives you the freedom to customize and personalize each key to suit your workflow and preferences. Full 104 keys programmable, allows you easily create complex macros, remap keys, lighting effects and fine-tune your input experience
- Three Mode Connectivity & 4000mAh Capacity Battery -- This wireless mechanical keyboard supports wireless Bluetooth 5.0/2.4GHz and Type-C wired connection. Bluetooth effectively reduces power consumption, press FN+Q/W/E to switch between three devices, and the detachable USB-C cable can be recharged while in use. The rechargeable keyboard also features a large capacity 4000mAh battery that ensures long hours of use
- Gasket Mount & Hot Swappable Keyboard -- Features gasket structure that the silencing and cotton rubber pad, provides a cushioned typing experience that reduces strain on your fingers and minimizes noise. This custom keyboard with hot-swappable base supports 3-pin or 5-pin switches replacement. Easily DIY your own keyboards without soldering issue
- GMK108 Barebones mechanical keyboard: DIY Customization Made Easy,Build your own unique mechanical keyboard with the GMK108 diy keyboard kit,defining its look, feel, and sound to suit your preferences and creating a refreshing,personalized experience.
- Triple Connectivity Custom pcb kit: Supports wireless Bluetooth 5.0/2.4GHz,wired Type-C connection,and features a 4000mAh Long-Lasting Battery for extended use. Switch between devices with FN+Q/W/E and recharge on the go.
- VIA Programable Keyboard: Fully programmable with 104 keys, this keyboard allows you to create complex macros, remap keys, and customize lighting effects for a personalized input experience.
- Gasket Mounted&Hot-Swappable keyboard pcb: Features a silent gasket structure with a cushioned typing experience and supports 3-pin/5-pin switch replacements, making it easy to DIY your keyboard without soldering.
- South-Facing RGB Backlight Barebone keyboard: Offers customizable RGB backlighting (FN+|) and full compatibility with Windows and macOS, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and functionality for a wide range of users.
- ✅【Aluminium CNC Gasket-mounted Barebones Keyboard Kit】With All Aluminum Alloy CNC machined body,FR4 Positioning Plate and 5-layer sound optimization Gasket Mounts tructure.This 65% Layout Customized mechanical keyboard uses a gasket material on the keyboard plate's top that reduces the occurrence of vibrations within your keyboard case,complemented by PORON gaskets, significantly minimizes cavity sound, enhancing your typing sounds. Offering a very satisfying typing experience!
- ✅【Hot-Swappable Mechanical Switch】The custom BOYI GMK67 keyboard kit is equipped with hot swappable terminals,which you could install the switches directly without soldering. It’s compatible with Cherry MX switches, Kailh switches and Gateron switches and other 3 pin or 5 pin Mechanical switches.You can easily build up your own mechanical keyboard with this kit. (Please note:This kit only suitable for Mechanical Switch and not suitable for Optical Switch by now)
- ✅【Triple Mode Wireless Connection GMK67 Kit】It supports triple mode connection, including Bluetooth 5.0/2.4G/Wired Type-C Tri-Mode,offers more choice for you. The NKRO Aluninum Alloy game keyboard can work with tablet,laptops,PC,smartphone devices.The 4000mAh bulit-in long life battery don't worry games and office work.
- ✅【RGB Presets Varied&Pro Software Customizable】RGB is such a cool element while playing games. This custom kit fully know your needs and thus this model is equipped with RGB SMD light. More than 16.8 million lights are available.You can also remap your kit by your willing.
- ✅【DIY Your Own Aluminum Alloy Mechanical Keyboard】The BOYI GMK67-65% Aluminum Alloy Keyboard Kit is such a functional RGB CNC mechanical keyboard kit for any one who is looking for something new and want to try customization. You can easily DIY your own mechanical keyboard. BOYI GMK67-65% Keyboard Aluminum Alloy Kit will give you the shot to make a refreshing new keyboard, to define how it looks, clicks and sounds with your choice.
- GMK104 Barebones Mechanical Keyboard: DIY Customization Made Easy,Build your own unique mechanical keyboard with the GMK104 diy keyboard kit,defining its look, feel, and sound to suit your preferences and creating a refreshing,personalized experience
- Barebones Keyboard Kit With Smart Display&Knob: Customize the screen in real-time with image updates and use the two multimedia buttons to control the backlight/screen.The metal knob provides precise volume control for a premium feeling
- VIA Programable Custom Keyboard Kit: Fully programmable with 104 keys, this keyboard allows you to create complex macros, remap keys, and customize lighting effects for a personalized input experience
- Three Mode Connectivity&4000mAh Capacity Battery: Supports wireless Bluetooth 5.0/2.4GHz,wired Type-C connection,and features a 4000mAh Long-Lasting Battery for extended use. Switch between devices with FN+Q/W/E and recharge on the go
- Gasket Mounted&Hot-Swappable PCB: Features a silent gasket structure with a cushioned typing experience and supports 3-pin/5-pin switch replacements, making it easy to DIY your keyboard without soldering
- Package includes: Small black nylon brush, yellow IC puller, black key puller, small shaft puller, 2-in-1 key puller, 4-jaw jewellery pick-up tool - black, plus a black velvet bag 10*20cm.
- 2-in-1 Key Puller: Adopting the wire design specially designed for mechanical keyboards, it combines the functions of key and shaft removal in one, which is easy to use.
- High Quality Tools: Each keycap removal tool in this set is made of high quality material, ruggedness and reliable, so you can use it for a long time without wear or damage.
- Nylon Brush: The cleaning brush removes dust and debris from keyboards and is also suitable for computers, laptops, screens, printers and electronic devices. Compact and easy to carry around.Velvet Pouch: The included velvet pouch keeps these keyboard cleaning tools together, preventing them from getting lost and making them easy to use.
- Wide Application: Ideal for regular maintenance of keyboards, ensuring efficient cleaning and maintenance to keep your keyboard performing well. Compatible with all mechanical keyboards, it is a practical tool for keyboard enthusiasts and everyday users.
- TRI-MODE It has 3 connection modes and built in a 3000mAh battery,which is so convenient to you for outside working/travelling.
- AMAZING RGB BACKLITS EFFECTING RGB is a necessary point when you play PC games.This mechanical keyboard kit has 18 lighting modes you can adjust according to your preference.
- HOTSWAP GASKET KEYBOARD KIT This 66 keys custom kit is equipped with hotswap socket and gasket structure plate,support most of 3pin/5pin switches on the market,so that you could choose the great hands feeling switches you prefer.
- BUILT-IN NOISE ABSORBING PAD There are a poron pad and a poron switch uderpad between pcb and gasket plate,a foam between case and pcb,to reduce the noise of the keyboard inner part and improve the gaming/typing experience of our keyboard owner.
- PROGRAMMABLE KEYBOARD This keyboard kit has its driver to customize the backlits speed,brightness,mode,etc.And you can also DIY the function of the key.(If your keyboard is V2 version [on the box or the back of keyboard] please ask the new software for us after you receive the keyboard)
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Building Your Dream Mechanical Keyboard Kit
Thinking about getting a mechanical keyboard? Buying a kit lets you build one exactly how you like it! This guide helps you pick the best mechanical keyboard kit for you.
Key Features to Look For
A good kit has several important parts you need to check before buying.
1. Hotswap vs. Solderable PCB
- Hotswap PCB: This is super easy. You just push the switches in. If you want to change switches later, you can do it without soldering. This is great for beginners.
- Solderable PCB: You must use a soldering iron to attach the switches. This gives you more options for switch placement but takes more skill.
2. Layout and Size
Kits come in many sizes. Think about how much desk space you have and what you use the keyboard for.
- Full Size (100%): Has all the keys, including the number pad. Good for data entry.
- Tenkeyless (TKL or 80%): Removes the number pad. Saves space but keeps the main typing area.
- 60% or 65%: Very small. Great for portability or gamers who need lots of mouse space. You might lose some function keys or arrow keys.
3. Mounting Style
This affects how the keyboard feels when you type.
- Tray Mount: The easiest and often cheapest. Screws go straight through the PCB into the bottom case.
- Gasket Mount: Uses soft material (like foam or rubber) between the plate and the case. This gives a softer, more cushioned typing feel. Many enthusiasts prefer this.
Important Materials Matter
The materials used in the kit decide how durable and how the keyboard sounds.
Case Material
- Plastic/Acrylic: Lighter and usually cheaper. Can sometimes sound hollow.
- Aluminum: Heavy, solid, and premium feeling. Aluminum cases usually sound deeper and better.
Plate Material
The plate sits between the switches and the PCB. It strongly affects the sound and feel.
- Polycarbonate (PC) or POM: Softer materials. They let the keyboard flex a bit, offering a softer bottom-out feel.
- Brass or Aluminum: Stiffer materials. They give a sharper, higher-pitched sound and a firm typing experience.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all kits are made the same. Small details make a big difference.
What Makes Quality Better?
- Good Stabilizers: Stabilizers keep long keys (like Spacebar, Enter) from wobbling. High-quality, pre-lubed stabilizers make a huge difference in sound quality.
- Hot-swappable Sockets: Quality hotswap sockets hold switches tightly. Loose sockets are frustrating.
- Good Finish: Smooth edges and perfect paint jobs show better manufacturing.
What Reduces Quality?
- Poor Tolerances: If parts don’t fit together perfectly (e.g., screws don’t line up), the kit quality is low.
- No Dampening Material: Empty plastic cases often sound echoey or hollow. Look for kits that include foam to put inside the case.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use the keyboard should guide your purchase.
For Typing and Work
If you type all day, comfort and sound are key. A gasket-mounted kit with a softer plate (like PC) is often best. You want a layout that includes all the necessary keys, like a TKL or Full Size.
For Gaming
Gamers often prefer smaller boards (60% or 65%) to maximize mouse space. A stiff plate (like brass) might be favored for fast actuation feedback. Since gamers often swap switches to test them, hotswap PCBs are highly recommended.
Mechanical Keyboard Kit Buying FAQs
Q: What parts do I need besides the kit?
A: You must buy three extra things: mechanical switches (the things that press down), keycaps (the plastic tops you touch), and a USB cable to connect it to your computer.
Q: How do I know if a kit supports RGB lighting?
A: Look in the product description for terms like “RGB support” or “LED compatibility.” If it doesn’t mention it, assume it only has plain backlighting or no lighting at all.
Q: What is “lubing” and why is it important?
A: Lubing means applying a thin layer of special grease to the moving parts inside the switches. This makes the switch press down much smoother and sound less scratchy or rattly.
Q: Can I use any keycaps on any kit?
A: Most modern kits use the standard ANSI layout, so most keycaps will fit. However, very small kits (like 65%) sometimes use non-standard bottom rows, so always check the keycap compatibility list.
Q: Is a metal case always better than a plastic one?
A: Metal cases (usually aluminum) feel more premium and sound deeper. Plastic is lighter and cheaper. “Better” depends on your budget and portability needs.
Q: What is the difference between a plate and a PCB?
A: The PCB (Printed Circuit Board) is the electronic ‘brain’ that registers the keypresses. The plate sits on top of it and holds the switches firmly in place.
Q: Are mechanical keyboard kits hard to assemble?
A: Hotswap kits are quite easy; you just plug in the switches and keycaps. Solderable kits require you to learn basic soldering, which takes patience and practice.
Q: Why are some kits so much more expensive than others?
A: Price often reflects the case material (CNC aluminum is costly), the mounting style (gasket mounts are complex), and the quality of included parts like stabilizers and foam.
Q: Do I need special software for my new kit?
A: Many custom kits use open-source firmware like QMK or VIA. This software lets you reprogram what every single key does, which is a huge benefit for customization.
Q: How long do mechanical switches usually last?
A: Most quality mechanical switches are rated for 50 million keystrokes or more. If you take care of your keyboard, it should last for many years.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.