In this post, we will recommend the Best Hot Swappable Keyboard Kits on the market today. We divide all the Best Hot Swappable Keyboard Kits into several parts according to the size of each keyboard starting from 40%, 60%, 65%, 75%, TKL, 1800-Compact, and Full Size.
Building a custom mechanical keyboard is indeed a very fun activity. When you succeed in making your mechanical keyboard what you want it to be, it is a satisfaction in itself. What about beginners who are just looking to learn to build their custom keyboard mechanics, is there a quick solution to getting components that are widely available and easy to use?
The easiest way to build your own DIY keyboard is to use keyboard kits. You can use a mechanical keyboard kit that is already very much on the market with a variety of prices. In general, the mechanical keyboard kit is a combination of the casing, PCB, Stabilizer and plate components on the mechanical keyboard. You don’t need to buy components separately. Buying a mechanical keyboard kit is the easiest way to build your custom mechanical keyboard, as you only need to pair the switch and keycaps set.
We will recommend some Mechanical keyboard kits (PCB, Casing, and Plate) which have Hot Swappable feature. Hot Swappable is a feature that allows you to install switches without having to solder the switches to the PCB, this will make it very easy for you to build the mechanical keyboard of your dreams. Here is a list of the best mechanical keyboard kits with Hot Swappable firmware in various layout sizes.
Best Overall Hot Swappable Keyboard Kits
| The Keyboards | Award |
| Feker IK75 Pro 3 Mode 75% | Perfect 75% keyboard kit |
| GMMK Pro 75% Keyboard Kit | Amazing build quality |
| Keychron Q1 | Amazing build quality |
| EPOMAKER TH80 | 75% keyboard kit with very complete features |
| Drop Shift 1800-Compact | The best kit for 1800-Compact Keyboard |
| Drop CTRL High-Profile TKL Kit | The best kit for TKL Keyboard |
| Drop ALT High-Profile 65% Keyboard Kit | The best kit for 65% Keyboard |
| GK GAMAKAY LK67 | Affordable and Amazing 65% keyboard kit |
| GMMK Full Size Barebone Edition | Best kit for full size keyboard |
| Drop Carina 60% Keyboard Kit | The affordable 60% keyboard kit with great build quality |
Best Hot Swappable Keyboard Kits for Full Size (100%) Keyboards
Here are the best hot swappable keyboard kits for full size keyboards:
1. GMMK Full Size Barebone Edition
GMMK Full Size Barebone Edition is a hot swappable mechanical keyboard kit that has very good availability, you will always find this kit available and you can buy it anytime. I think this is one of the best full size mechanical keyboard kits.
GMMK Full Size Barebone Edition provides 104 switch ports that support mechanical switches with 3 pins. For keycaps sets you can use various keycaps sets available such as YMDK, GMK, or Keycaps Set Pudding Double Shot PBT.
This mechanical keyboard kit has a non-removable USB Type C port. For design and build quality, GMMK has very good build quality with quality plastic and plate materials even though they are only made of plastic.
GMMK Full Size Barebone Edition is equipped with a very good RGB Light that you can adjust via the keyboard function. You only need to buy a Switch and Keycaps Set, because this keyboard kit already has a very good stabilizer with a cherry style. And another great thing is, Glorious provides very good software to customize keyboard functions like RGB and Programmable keys.
GMMK Full Size Barebone Edition is a hot swappable mechanical keyboard kit that is very easy to modify with very good build quality. If you’re looking to build your first full-size mechanical keyboard, the GMMK Full Size Barebone Edition is a great option. You can find it on Amazon at a fairly affordable price.
2. KAIHUA metal Full Size Mechanical Keyboard Kit
KAIHUA metal Full Size Mechanical Keyboard Kits are kits that have a body, plate, and casing made of metal and have a very sturdy and solid build quality. Of course, we already have a hot swappable switch feature.
This mechanical keyboard kit is equipped with a white stabilizer and supports a 3-pin switch. These keyboard kits have 104 keys and are compatible with a wide variety of keycaps sets on the market today.
For connectivity, the KAIHUA metal Full Size Mechanical Keyboard Kits support connection via detachable USB Type C. It also has programmable keys and multimedia keys. Unfortunately, these keyboard kits don’t have RGB.
If you are looking for a mechanical keyboard kit with an all metal body, then the KAIHUA Metal Full Size Mechanical Keyboard Kit is the one you should consider. You can find these keyboard kits via this link.
Best Hot Swappable Kits for 1800-Compact (96%) Keyboards
Here are the best hot swappable keyboard kits for the 1800-Compact (96%) keyboards:
1. Drop Shift 1800-Compact
Drop Shift 1800-Compact is a mechanical keyboard kit measuring 1800-compact or 96%. This keyboard kit has a white design and has a very great build quality because it uses premium plastic material for its body and uses an aluminum frame, resulting in a very sturdy and solid build quality.
The Drop Shift 1800-Compact is equipped with a stabilizer and supports switches that have 3 pins and are compatible with plate-mounted switches. In addition, this keyboard kit already has a very cool RGB that lights up individually on each of the 99 keys.
For connectivity, the Drop Shift 1800-Compact only supports connection via a detachable and attachable USB Type C cable. We did not find any information that these keyboard kits have supporting software for RGB or Keys customization.
Drop Shift 1800-Compact is a hot swappable mechanical keyboard kit that is very high quality, build quality and a frame made of aluminum makes this keyboard kit very interesting to try.
If you want keyboard kits with an 1800-Compact layout that have very good build quality, then Drop Shift 1800-Compact is the best choice for now. You can find it on amazon for a pretty high price.
2. EPOMAKER GK96XS 1800-Compact Kit
The next 1800-Compact mechanical keyboard kit is the EPOMAKER GK96XS. These are mechanical keyboard kits that have very interesting connectivity options. This hot swappable EPOMAKER GK96XS has Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity options and Connectivity via removable USB Type C.
Because it has bluetooth connectivity, EPOMAKER GK96XS has a battery with a capacity of 4000mAh which is a battery with a very large capacity for a mechanical keyboard.
The EPOMAKER GK96XS has a total of 99 programmable keys and the keyboard kits support 3 and 5 pin switches. This is a keyboard kit that is very flexible to modify because it features a hot swappable switch that supports 3 and 5 pin switches.
The RGB features already exist in these keyboard kits with various types of animations that you can customize through the cool supporting software from Epomaker.
EPOMAKER GK68XS has an attractive design, sturdy build quality, and very complete features. If you want a full-featured 1800-Compact wireless keyboard kit, then the EPOMAKER GK68XS is the one you should consider. You can find it on amazon at a fairly affordable price.
Best Hot Swappable Kits for TKL (Tenkeyless) Keyboards
Here are the best hot swappable keyboard kits for TKL (Tenkeyless) keyboards:
1. Drop CTRL High-Profile TKL Kit
The Drop CTRL High-Profile TKL Kits are high-profile mechanical keyboard kits that allow you to hide your switch bars, and only show off the keycaps set. These are keyboard kits with a very attractive design, the build quality of these keyboard kits does not mess with the aluminum frame and quality plastic on the body.
The Drop CTRL High-Profile TKL Kits have 87 slots for switches and support 3-pin switches. These are hot swappable keyboard kits and you don’t need to solder the switches when installing them on the PCB.
For connectivity, the Drop CTRL High-Profile TKL Kits only support connection via removable USB Type C. In the purchase package you get a Keycaps Puller, Switch Puller, and a very thick and long USB Type C Cable.
For the RGB light feature, the Drop CTRL High-Profile TKL Kits have a very powerful RGB that lights up individually on each key, unfortunately there is no supporting software for these keyboard kits.
These keyboard kits are equipped with a very good Cherry Stabilizer, you only need to add a Switch with 3 pins and your favorite set of keycaps.
If you want TKL-sized keyboard kits of exceptional quality, then the Drop CTRL High-Profile TKL Kits are the best right now. You can find it on Amazon for a pretty high price.
2. Drop CTRL TKL Kit
Drop CTRL TKL Kits are TKL-sized keyboard kits that have a very attractive design. There are 2 color choices for these keyboard kits, namely white and gray. Drop CTRL TKL Kits have a very sturdy build quality with a body made of premium plastic and an aluminum frame added.
These keyboard kits have 87 keys and support a 3-pin switch. Of course, this is a hot swappable keyboard that can allow you to change switches at any time or use many switches from different brands in one keyboard. The stabilizer on this keyboard kit is a cherry stabilizer which is very high quality and sturdy. You only need to buy your favorite switch pack and keycaps.
For connectivity, Drop CTRL TKL Kits only supports connection via a removable USB Type C cable. The RGB features on these keyboard kits are already very good and bright. Unfortunately there is no software support or wireless connection options.
Drop CTRL TKL Kits are TKL keyboard kits that have very good quality, if you want to have Drop CTRL TKL Kits, you can find them on amazon at a fairly affordable price.
3. Glorious GMMK TKL Kit
Glorious GMMK TKL Kits are keyboard kits with black designs all over the body and plates. These keyboard kits have excellent build quality that feels sturdy even though it’s made of plastic.
Glorious GMMK TKL Kits are hot swappable keyboard kits that support 3-pin switches. There are a total of 87 keys on these keyboard kits that support various brands of switches as long as it is a 3-pin switch.
These keyboard kits only support connectivity via a removable Type C USB cable, unlike the full size keyboard kits from GMMK whose USB is already fixed with the keyboard body.
Glorious GMMK TKL Kits have very good RGB features with pretty cool software support to customize RGB and Keys on these keyboard kits. This is one of the TKL keyboard kits that many people like because it has excellent design and software support. You can find it on amazon at a fairly affordable price.
4. Womier 87 TKL Kit
Womier 87 TKL Kits are keyboard kits that have a body with a transparent design that can make the mechanical keyboard that uses these kits have RGB that lights up in all parts which will add a very cool aesthetic value.
The build quality on these TKL-sized keyboard kits is very good and solid with very high-quality plastic materials. These are the best-selling keyboard kits on the market, as they have a transparent design that allows you to show off your RGB and switch colors.
There are 87 keys on this keyboard kit that supports hot swappable firtu with switches that have 5 pins. You can also use the 3-pin switch on the PCB of these keyboard kits. This is a very flexible kist keyboard.
For connectivity, these keyboard kits only support connection via a removable USB Type C cable. The great RGB on this keyboard is the hallmark of the Womier 87 TKL Kits. There is no software support for the Womier 87 TKL Kits.
If you want a TKL-sized keyboard kit with a transparent body that will increase the aesthetic value of your mechanical keyboard build, then the Womier 87 TKL Kits are the right choice for you. You can find it on amazon at a very affordable price.
5. MKB87 TKL Keyboard Kit
The MKB87 TKL Keyboard Kits are 87% sized keyboard kits that have bluetooth connectivity options and a detachable USB type C cable and are offered at a very affordable price. These are TKL keyboard kits that are ideal for your budget.
The MKB87 TKL Keyboard Kits have excellent build quality and design. The whole body of these keyboard kits is made of high quality plastic which makes the body feel very solid and sturdy.
These keyboard kits have great RGB on each individual key. The MKB87 TKL Keyboard Kits support hot swappable features with 3 or 5 pin switches. These are keyboard kits that are very flexible for changing any type of switch.
Although there is no software support for the MKB87 TKL Keyboard Kits, these are still the most affordable TKL keyboard kits at the moment. You can find it on amazon at a very affordable price.
6. FL ESPORTS MK870 CMMK
FL ESPORTS MK870 CMMK is a hot swappable TKL keyboard kit that is sold at a relatively affordable price.
FL ESPORTS MK870 CMMK is equipped with various components with good quality such as a casing made of fairly solid plastic, using a hot swappable pcb that can support switches with 3/5 pins, stabilizers that are quite sturdy, and cool RGB effects with various animation.
For connectivity, the FL ESPORTS MK870 CMMK only supports connection via a detachable USB Type C cable and this keyboard does not support wireless connectivity.
For software support, you have got free software support specially made for the FL ESPORTS MK870 CMMK keyboard kit.
If you are interested in owning the FL ESPORTS MK870 CMMK, you can find it via this link.
7. Pulsar Gaming Gears – PCMK
Pulsar Gaming Gears – PCMK is a keyboard kit with a TKL layout. The keyboard kit, which sells for $69, has a very great build quality with a casing made of sturdy aluminum.
Pulsar Gaming Gears – PCMK is equipped with various components such as casing, pcb, plate, stabilizer, and a detachable usb type c cable. You only need to provide switches and keycaps to use this TKL keyboard kit.
For features, Pulsar Gaming Gears – PCMK is equipped with RGB backlit with various animations. This keyboard kit is also equipped with a hot swappable PCB that can use a switch with 3 or 5 pins so it is very flexible and easy to replace the switches on this keyboard kit.
There are 87 switch ports that you can install on this keyboard kit. You also get software support for reprogramming the keycamaps on this keyboard kit.
Unfortunately, this keyboard only supports connection via a USB cable and does not support wireless connectivity.
Pulsar Gaming Gears – PCMK is a keyboard kit with a TKL layout. The keyboard kit, which sells for $69, has a very great build quality with a casing made of sturdy aluminum.
Pulsar Gaming Gears – PCMK is available in 2 color choices, namely black and white colors like the picture above. If you are interested in seeing more details about Pulsar Gaming Gears – PCMK, you can visit it via our special link.
Best Hot Swappable Kits for 75% Keyboards
Here are the best hot swappable keyboard kits for 75% keyboards:
1. GMMK Pro 75% Keyboard Kit
GMMK Pro 75% Keyboard Kits is a premium keyboard kit product from Glorious. These are hot swappable keyboard kits that support switches with 3 and 5 pins. These are 75% keyboard kits that are very flexible for a wide variety of switches.
A very attractive design on this keyboard with the addition of a volume wheel on the top right. The build quality on the GMMK Pro 75% Keyboard Kits is amazingly good because it uses premium plastic for the body and plate materials.
The GMMK Pro 75% Keyboard Kits have a total of 83 keys, each of which has a sophisticated RGB light that can be customized via software from Glorious. All buttons can also be reprogrammed to suit your needs.
The stabilizer on the GMMK Pro 75% Keyboard Kits is a very good cherry type stabilizer. This keyboard kit only supports connection with a detachable USB Type C cable.
This is one of the top quality 75% keyboard kits and is very much in demand in the market. You can find GMMK Pro 75% Keyboard Kits on amazon for a pretty high price.
2. Keychron Q1
Keychron Q1 is one of the 75% little keyboards which is quite phenomenal, which is why when this keyboard was just presented, so many people were curious and discussed it everywhere.
Keychron Q1 turned out to be a really good opponent for GMMK pro. Keychron Q1 has a great build quality whose casing is made of aluminum which is very thick and heavy.
The Keychron Q1 keyboard kit is also equipped with components such as a hot swappable PCB that can support switches with 3/5 pins. Keychron Q1 is also equipped with a stabilizer that is quite sturdy, there are double gaskets on this keyboard kit and overall the Keychron Q1 keyboard kit uses components that have good quality.
For features, the Keychron Q1 keyboard kit is supported with an underglow RGB effect that is very cool and lights up on the side of the keyboard. For software support, Keychron Q1 keyboard kit is fully supported by QMK firmware.
For connectivity, the Keychron Q1 keyboard kit only supports connection via a detachable USB Type C cable.
If you want a 75% keyboard kit that has great build quality and uses great quality components, the Keychron Q1 is one of the best options on the market today. You can find this keyboard kit here.
3. EPOMAKER Feker IK75 V3
The EPOMAKER Feker IK75 V3 is a 75% keyboard kit which is probably one of the best on the market today. EPOMAKER Feker IK75 V3 has a cool design and looks aesthetically pleasing with a casing made of acrylic material that has a matte finish.
EPOMAKER Feker IK75 V3 is equipped with various very complete features such as using a hot swappable PCB that can use a switch with 3/5 pins. This keyboard kit is also equipped with amazing RGB effects, and also has a rotary knob which makes it look really cool.
For connectivity, the EPOMAKER Feker IK75 V3 only supports connection via a detachable USB Type C cable. This keyboard kit does not support wireless connectivity.
This keyboard is also equipped with a silicone gasket above the plate which can give you a bumpy effect when typing.
For software support, the EPOMAKER Feker IK75 V3 is a fully customizable keyboard kit using QMK and VIA firmware.
If you want a 75% keyboard kit with a cool appearance and has a rotary knob, the EPOMAKER Feker IK75 V3 might be the one for you. You can find this keyboard kit here.
4. Feker IK75 Pro 3 Mode 75%
Feker IK75 Pro 3 Mode is a keyboard kit with a 75% layout that has very complete features and may be coveted by many mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
This Feker IK75 Pro 3 Mode has a cool and sturdy design with a case made of acrylic material that is finished with a matte finish that makes it look minimalist and cool.
Feker IK75 Pro 3 Mode is also equipped with various components with good quality such as a hot swappable PCB that can use switches with 3/5 pins and quality stabilizers. This keyboard kit is also equipped with a rotary knob, cool RGB effects, wireless connectivity options or using a detachable USB Type c cable, and this keyboard has an 8,000mAh battery capacity.
To provide enjoyment when using Feker IK75 Pro 3 typing mode, this keyboard kit is also equipped with gaskets that will give a bumpy effect when you use it to type.
The Feker IK75 Pro 3 Mode is an almost perfect 75% keyboard kit. The build quality is great, uses quality components, and has very complete features.
Feker IK75 Pro 3 Mode is available in 3 color choices, namely Solid white, transparent black, and transparent white. You can find this keyboard kit through our special link.
5. EPOMAKER Skyline
EPOMAKER Skyline is one of the 75% keyboard kits which may be one of the 75% keyboard kits that are really worth having. For $69, you can already have a 75% keyboard kit that has a cool design and features quite complete in its class.
EPOMAKER Skyline is a 75% wired keyboard kit that does not support wireless connectivity.
For build quality and component quality, EPOMAKER Skyline uses a casing made of transparent acrylic material which will look very cool when the RGB effect on this keyboard kit is turned on.
EPOMAKER Skyline is equipped with a hot swappable pcb that can use a switch with 3/5 pins. This keyboard kit is also equipped with a stabilizer, rotary knob, and silicone gasket that can give you a bumpy effect when using it for typing.
The EPOMAKER Skyline is one of the 75% keybaord kits that really deserves our inclusion on this list. If you are interested in owning this keyboard kit, you can find it via this link.
6. EPOMAKER TH80
If you want a cheap 75% keyboard kit that supports full connectivity options like 2.4ghz wireless, bluetooth, and via a detachable usb type c cable, the EPOMAKER TH80 is the best keyboard option to add to your shopping list.
EPOMAKER TH80 has a cool design like a keyboard made by Epomker with other knobs. EPOMAKER TH80 has a decent build quality with a casing made of plastic material that can emit an RGB effect because it has a matte color but is somewhat transparent.
For features, the EPOMAKER TH80 is equipped with a cool RGB backlit, soft gaskets to provide a pleasant typing experience, and this keyboard is equipped with a hot swappable pcb that can use a switch with 3/5 pins.
This keyboard kit is also equipped with a cool rotary knob and also in the casing there is a pretty good dampening foam.
For under $70, you can already have a 75% full-featured keyboard kit. When will there be another opportunity like this? Immediately find EPOMAKER TH80 through a special link from us.
7. Galaxy 75 Keyboard Kit
Galaxy 75 is a 75% mechanical keyboard kit that has a body made of aluminum so that these keyboard kits have a very great build quality. The design with white color and a touch of black makes it look very dynamic, this is one of my favorites for the 75% keyboard size.
Galaxy 75 has a total of 84 buttons that support the hot swappable feature for switches with 3 and 5 pins. These are keyboard kits that are very flexible to modify. The stabilizer used in these keyboard kits is a very high quality cherry style stabilizer.
For connectivity, the Galaxy 75 only supports connection via a detachable USB Type C cable. RGB on this keyboard is very powerful and has many customization options that you can do with the DURGOD Hera Engine software.
Although there are no wireless or bluetooth connection options, this is one of the 75% keyboard kits that is really great with other features. You can find Galaxy 75 keyboard kits on amazon at a very affordable price.
8. MXRSKEY 84U Keyboard Kit
The MXRSKEY 84U Keyboard Kits are 75% keyboard kits that will give you the option of wired and bluetooth connectivity which is quite a rare feature on a 75% keyboard. These keyboard kits have a pretty attractive design with very good build quality, and of course the price is also very affordable.
The MXRSKEY 84U Keyboard Kits support hot swappable switches with 3 pins or 5 pins which is an excellent flexibility for switch support. With a total of 84 buttons that have RGB lights on each individual button that would be a really great choice.
These keyboard kits do not have supporting software, all customizations can be done via the keyboard only. This is a 75% keyboard kit that we highly recommend, because it has a very affordable price with excellent features. You can find it on amazon for a pretty cheap price.
Best Hot Swappable Kits for 65% Keyboards
Here are the best hot swappable keyboard kits for 65% keyboards:
1. GK GAMAKAY LK67
Cheap but not cheap, that’s what we deserve to say on the GK GAMAKAY LK67 keyboard kit. The GK GAMAKAY LK67 is a very attractive 65% keyboard kit.
The GK GAMAKAY LK67 keyboard kit has a compact design with a casing made of quality and solid plastic.
The GK GAMAKAY LK67 keyboard kit is also equipped with quality components such as a hot swappable pcb that can support switches with 3/5 pins, a rotary knob, and a decent quality stabilizer.
For connectivity, the GK GAMAKAY LK67 supports complete connectivity options such as via 2.4GHz wireless, bluetooth, and via a detachable usb type c cable.
The GK GAMAKAY LK67 keyboard kit also has a 2400 mah battery capacity which is very sufficient for the needs of a compact keyboard like this.
GK GAMAKAY LK67 is also equipped with cool RGB effects and free software support.
The GK GAMAKAY LK67 is one of the 65% keyboard kits that really deserves to be yours. This keyboard kit is available in various color options that you can customize according to your taste. You can find it here.
2. CTBTBESE GK68 RGB
The CTBTBESE GK68 RGB is an affordable 65% keyboard kit option that you can find on the market today. Although the price is quite cheap, but this keyboard is classified as having a very decent quality.
The CTBTBESE GK68 RGB keyboard kit case is made of solid plastic and is quite sturdy. This 65% keyboard kit also uses quality components such as hot swappable pcb that can support switches with 3/5 pins, uses fairly solid stabilizers, rotary knobs and has cool RGB effects with various animations.
For connectivity, the CTBTBESE GK68 RGB keyboard kit only supports connection via a detachable USB Type C cable.
For just $60, you can already own a 65% keyboard kit with dependable quality and use good quality components. Plus, this compact keyboard kit is equipped with a rotary knob which has become a trend lately. You can find the CTBTBESE GK68 RGB here.
3. Drop ALT High-Profile 65% Keyboard Kit
Drop ALT High-Profile 65% Keyboard Kits are keyboard kits with very great build quality. With a body made of quality plastic and a frame made of aluminum which produces a solid and sturdy build quality.
The Drop ALT High-Profile 65% Keyboard Kits are hot swappable keyboard kits that only support 3-pin switches. For connectivity, these keyboard kits support connection via a detachable USB Type C cable. And don’t forget that a very high-quality cherry style stabilizer has been installed on these keyboard kits.
The RGB stripe that runs all over the body is something you can’t find in other keyboard kits. This is a great RGB stripe design! Drop ALT High-Profile 65% Keyboard Kits support QMK firmware so you can reprogram the keys and adjust RGB on this keyboard kit. These are the most quality keyboard kits at 65% that you should consider. You can find it on amazon for a fairly high price.
4. Drop ALT 65% Mechanical Keyboard Kit
Drop ALT 65% Mechanical Keyboard Kits are keyboard kits with a very compact and modern design. The build quality of these keyboard kits is great with plastic material on the body and using a quality aluminum frame so as to produce a very solid and rigid body.
Drop ALT 65% Mechanical Keyboard Kits have 67 keys that support switching with 3 pins. These keyboard kits have individually lit RGB on each key which you can customize via the QMK firmware. You can also reprogram the buttons with the firmware to your liking.
Drop ALT 65% Mechanical Keyboard Kits support connectivity via removable USB type C. This is a very high quality 65% keyboard kit with hot swappable features.
Although there are no wireless or bluetooth connection options, the Drop ALT 65% Mechanical Keyboard Kits are one of the best in their class, you can find them on amazon at a very affordable price.
5. EPOMAKER GK68XS 65% Keyboard Kit
EPOMAKER GK68XS 65% Keyboard Kits are hot swappable keyboard kits that support 3 and 5 pin switches which are very flexible keyboard kits for switching switches.
The EPOMAKER GK68XS has excellent build quality with a solid plastic material, which makes this keyboard kit body feel very sturdy.
These keyboard kits support connectivity via a detachable USB Type C cable and wireless connectivity with Bluetooth 5.1 which is very fast and allows you to connect up to 3 devices at the same time.
The EPOMAKER GK68XS has excellent RGB on each individual button. The RGB keyboard kits have lots of animations and effects that you can change. All buttons can be reprogrammed via Epomaker’s built-in software. Not only buttons, you can also customize RGB on this keyboard through software.
This is one of the best 65% keyboard kits available today which provides complete connectivity options. You can find the EPOMAKER GK68XS on amazon at a very affordable price.
6. GK68 65% Keyboard Kit
GK68 65% Keyboard Kits are RGB keyboard kits that have a very attractive design. This is perfect for those of you who are tired of floating keycaps, it will give you a typing profile with non-floating keycaps and hidden switch bars.
The GK68 65% Keyboard Kits have a pretty good build quality with the whole body made of quality ABS plastic, so the GK68 65% Keyboard Kits have a sturdy and solid build quality.
These keyboard kits only support connectivity via removable USB Type C. There is no software support for these hot swappable keyboard kits.
For switch support, the GK68 65% Keyboard Kits supports switches with 3 and 5 pins so it is very flexible for all types of switches. These keyboard kits have a total of 68 reprogrammable keys.
If you want a 65% keyboard kit that supports multiple types of switches, then the GK68 65% Keyboard Kits is the choice you should consider. You can find it on amazon at a very affordable price.
7. DNA65 65% Keyboard Kit
DNA65 65% Keyboard Kits are very unique keyboard kits with a transparent body design that can scatter RGB light from this keyboard PCB.
These keyboard kits have very good build quality and are solid with quality transparent plastic materials. DNA65 65% Keyboard Kits support hot swappable features that can use switches with 3 and 5 pins, flexible enough to be used to switch switches at any time.
DNA65 65% Keyboard Kits only support connectivity via removable USB Type C. There is no supporting software for this keyboard so you can only use the onboard keyboard settings.
Stabilizer, RGB on each individual key, and with a very unique design, the DNA65 65% Keyboard Kits are very well worth owning. You can find it on Amazon for a very affordable price.
8. GK GAMAKAY CK68
One of the cheapest 65% keyboard kits on the market today is the GK GAMAKAY CK68. GK GAMAKAY CK68 are cheap but they provide quality that is very worth the price you pay.
GK GAMAKAY CK68 uses a casing made of solid and sturdy plastic. The GK GAMAKAY CK68 keyboard kit is also equipped with quality components such as a hot swappable PCB that can support switches with 3/5 pins, pretty good stabilizers, and cool RGBB effects.
For connectivity, GK GAMAKAY CK68 already supports complete connection options. This GK GAMAKAY CK68 keyboard kit can use a usb cable connection, wireless 2.4ghz, and via bluetooth.
The GK GAMAKAY CK68 65% keyboard kit is indeed cheap but uses components that have good quality and has very complete features. This is a 65% keyboard kit with a rotary knob that is really worth your consideration. You can find it here.
9. TESTER68 65%
The TESTER68 65% is the cheapest compact 65% keyboard kit you can find on the market today. The price of this compact keyboard kit is $37 at the moment.
TESTER68 65% keyboard kit uses a case made of plastic which is quite solid.
The TESTER68 65% keyboard kit also comes with decent quality components such as a hot swappable pcb that can support switches with 3/5 pins and uses fairly solid stabilizers.
There is no RGB backlit on the TESTER68 65% keyboard kit.
For connectivity, TESTER68 65% already supports connections via usb cable, 2.4ghz wireless, and via bluetooth.
For a 65% keyboard kit at a very cheap price, you’ve got a very complete feature. If you are interested in owning this keyboard kit, you can find it using our special link.
Best Hot Swappable Kits for 60% Keyboards
Here are the best hot swappable keyboard kits for 60% keyboards:
1. Drop + Tokyo60 Keyboard Kit
Drop + Tokyo60 Keyboard Kit is a keyboard kit with a sturdy and solid aluminum body. The design of this keyboard kit is very modern and has a very good aesthetic value.
The Drop + Tokyo60 Keyboard Kit supports hot swappable switches for 3 and 5 pin switches, which is really interesting. You don’t have to think about any pin switches to use on this keyboard kit, it’s all in.
This keyboard kit only supports connection via a detachable USB Type C cable. You can customize all functions such as programmable keys and RGB via the QMK firmware.
The Drop + Tokyo60 Keyboard Kit has a total of 60 keys with a very luxurious RGB UNDERGLOW WITH OPTIONAL LED DIFFUSER. This is one of the 60% keyboard kits that has very good build quality, very aesthetic design, and very complete features. It just doesn’t have wireless or bluetooth connectivity. You can find it on amazon for a fairly expensive price.
2. Drop Carina 60% Keyboard Kit
Drop Carina 60% Keyboard Kit is a keyboard kit that has a very attractive design and color combination. Looking like a rainbow of colors stuck to a white board, this is a keyboard kit that provides great aesthetic value.
The build quality of this keyboard kit is very good with a body made of acrylic and transparent can let you show off the RGB light from inside your keyboard case.
This keyboard kit certainly supports the hot swappable switch feature that can use switches with 3 and 5 pins. This is a 60% keyboard kit that is very flexible for different types of switches.
For connectivity, the Drop Carina 60% Keyboard Kit supports connection only with a detachable USB Type C cable. For button and RGB customization you can do it using QMK Firmware.
Drop Carina 60% Keyboard Kit is a keyboard kit that offers an acrylic body with a very attractive color, you can find it on amazon at a fairly affordable price.
3. GMMK 60% Keyboard Kit
GMMK 60% Keyboard Kit is a keyboard kit from Glorious which is very well known with a very good reputation for mechanical keyboard lovers.
GMMK 60% Keyboard Kit has an attractive design with a black body. Build quality on this keyboard kit is also very good with very high quality plastic material.
GMMK 60% Keyboard Kit supports connection via a detachable USB Type C cable. This keyboard kit supports hot swappable features and supports switches with 3 pins only. This keyboard kit has a total of 61 keys that have their own RGB on each key.
For RGB and programmable buttons, you get software support from Glorious for customizing RGB and Programming buttons. GMMK 60% Keyboard Kit is one of the best for you to consider. You can find it on amazon at a fairly affordable price.
4. EPOMAKER GK61X 60% Keyboard Kit
EPOMAKER GK61X is a keyboard kit for building a 60% mechanical keyboard. The EPOMAKER GK61X has an identical design to other Epomakers. The build quality on this keyboard kit is quite sturdy and solid with a body made of quality plastic.
The EPOMAKER GK61X has a total of 61 buttons that support switches with 3 and 5 pins. This is a very flexible hot swappable keyboard kit for switches.
RGB on this keyboard kit can be lit individually on each key and can be customized via the keyboard and also software from Epomaker. This keyboard kit only supports connection via a removable USB Type C cable.
The EPOMAKER GK61X is one of the most reputable 60% keyboard kits. You can find it on amazon at a very affordable price.
5. YMDK GK61 60% Keyboard Kit
YMKD not only produces quality keycaps sets, they now produce quality keyboard kits as well. YMDK GK61 60% Keyboard Kit is a keyboard kit for 60% mechanical keyboard which has very good build quality.
YMDK GK61 60% Keyboard Kit supports hot swappable switch for 3 and 5 pin switches. This keyboard kit has a very good design and is very compact and has as many as 61 keys.
YMDK GK61 60% Keyboard Kit supports connectivity via a detachable usb type c cable. each key on this keyboard kit has RGB lights that can be lit individually.
We didn’t find any information about supporting software for this keyboard kit, maybe they use QMK firmware to customize RGB and keys. You can find the YMDK GK61 60% Keyboard Kit on amazon at a fairly affordable price.
Best Hot Swappable Kits for 40% Keyboards
Drop Planck 40% Keyboard Kit
Drop Planck 40% Keyboard Kit is a keyboard kit that has a very great build quality. This is a keyboard kit for mechanical ortholinear keyboards. This keyboard kit only supports connectivity via a detachable USB Type C cable.
The Drop Planck 40% Keyboard Kit has a total of 47 keys and supports both 3 and 5 pin switches. All buttons can be programmed using QMK firmware. This keyboard kit does not have RGB which can enhance its appearance. You can find it on amazon at a very affordable price.
The 40% keyboard kit is indeed quite rare in the market due to very little market demand. We’ve made a list of the best 40% keyboards where you might be able to find the mechanical keyboard of your dreams there.
Best Mechanical Numpad kit
EPOMAKER FEKER JJK21 20 Keys
If you want a numpad keyboard kit, currently there is only one product available on the market, namely the EPOMAKER FEKER JJK21.
This Numpad kit has a total of 20 switch ports and uses a hot swappable pcb that can support switches with 3/5 pins.
The build quality is quite solid with a casing made of quite thick plastic. There are RGBB effects and also this numpad kit is equipped with a rotary knob which makes it look cool.
You also get software support for programming keymaps in this numpad kit. You can make it a switch tester or as a numpad for your hotkeys for gaming.
For connectivity, the EPOMAKER FEKER JJK21 supports connections via a detachable USB Type C cable, via 2.4ghz wireless, and via bluetooth. It’s very complete isn’t it?!
EPOMAKER FEKER JJK21 is a numoad kit that has very good quality from various aspects and is very worthy of your possession. If you are interested in owning this numpad kit, you can find it here.
What are keyboard kits?
Keyboard kits are complete mechanical keyboard components that are assembled and sold without switches and keycaps sets. Keyboard kits are generally equipped with several main mechanical keyboard components such as casing, plate, PCB, stabilizers, gaskets, and usb cables.
Keyboard kits are the easiest option for those of you who want to build your own custom keyboard. You only need to prepare the switches and keycaps to be installed on the keyboard kit and the keyboard kit can be used like a prebuilt mechanical keyboard.
Benefits of using a keyboard kits
Keyboard kits have several benefits that you may not know about, such as:
- Keyboard kits use hot swappable PCBs: Almost all keyboard kits on the market are equipped with hot swappable PCBs where you don’t need to solder the switch to the PCB when installing the switch. You just need to do your plug and play.
- Relatively cheaper than prebuilt keyboards in its class: This is only for those of you who already have a switch and keycaps set. Switch and keycap sets will make the cost of building your mechanical keyboard a little bloated. By having used switches and keycaps from an old keyboard you will make a keyboard kit a cheaper option than a regular prebuilt keyboard.
- You can build a mechanical keyboard any way you want: Keyboard kits were created to make it easy for you to find the best switches and the best set of keycaps for you to apply to them. You can decide to choose switches and keycaps with a design that suits your preferences.
- Assembling a mechanical keyboard just got easier: By using a keyboard kit, you only need to install switches and keycaps so it can save time and is very easy to do.
- Keyboard kit is perfect for beginners: If you are a beginner in the world of mechanical keyboards, having a keyboard kit is a more recommended option. You don’t need to solder switches, select components and fit various components into a single mechanical keyboard. You only need to set up a switch and keycaps set.
Tips for choosing a keyboard kit
There are a few things you need to consider before buying a keyboard kit:
- Hot swappable or not: We recommend that you choose a keyboard kit that is equipped with a hot swappable PCB because it is much easier to maintain and replace switches. The price is not more expensive than a keyboard kit that uses a standard PCB.
- 3 pin or 5 Pin: Keyboard kits usually come with a PCB that can support switches with 3 or 5 pins. As much as possible, you are better off choosing a keyboard kit that uses a PCB that can support a 5 pin switch so you can use a 3 or 5 pin switch.
- Software Support: Check in more detail whether the keyboard kit you are going to buy has software support. Because you need to do keymaps settings to be able to use the keyboard kit after you finish assembling it. QMK, VIA, or the default keyboard kit software are 3 options that you should pay attention to.
- RGB or No: This is optional which you can decide according to your individual needs. but having a keyboard with RGB Backlit is a better choice and can give the keyboard a more aesthetic appearance.
- Connectivity: Keyboard kits that provide the option of usb cable connectivity are not a bad choice. but it would be better if you get a keyboard kit that can support wired and wireless connectivity so that it can be used more flexibly in certain conditions.
- Size/Layout: the keyboard kit is the same as any other keyboard. they are available in a variety of different sizes. Starting from 40%, 60%, 65%, 75%, TKL, 1800-Compact (96%), up to full size (100%). Choose the size of the keyboard kit according to your needs and according to the number of switches and keycaps you want to use. 75%, TKL, and 1800-Compact are very ideal choices. But it all comes back to your individual needs.
Best Places to Buy Mechanical Keyboard Kit
Here are the best places we recommend for you if you are looking for a quality keyboard kit. The websites that we recommend below are very trusted and have a very good reputation:
| The Websites | Why? |
| Amazon | Amazon is a huge marketplace where you can find a wide variety of products including keyboard kits. Amazon provides various types of keyboard kits with various sizes and different price variations. Amazon is one of the trusted places to buy keyboard kits. |
| Kbdfans.com | Kbdfans.com is a trusted website engaged in the mechanical keyboard business. On this website you can buy various types of mechanical keyboard components including keyboard kits. This is one of the websites that we highly recommend to buy a keyboard kit because there are many unique keyboard kits to choose from. |
| kprepublic.com | kprepublic.com is a website that provides various types of equipment for custom mechanical keyboards such as keycaps sets, PCBs, casings, switches and more. You can also find keyboard kits here, and they sell them for quite a competitive price. |
| Mechanicalkeyboards.com | Mechanicalkeyboards.com is a very popular website among custom mechanical keyboards because they always give discounts or free shipping when shopping on this website. This is a website that has a good reputation. You can purchase a wide variety of keyboard kits at Mechanicalkeyboards.com. |
| Drop.com | Drop.com is the official website of the Drop brand whose name is widely known with a very good reputation. You can find keyboard kits from drop collaborations with many well-known designers here. |
| 1upkeyboards.com | 1upkeyboards.com is a much-loved website for selling unique components and accessories for mechanical keyboards. You can find various types of designs, sizes of keyboard kits on this website. This is one of the trusted websites to buy mechanical keyboard components. |
| etsy.com/market/mechanical_keyboard_kit | This is a sub page of etsy.com that sells special keyboard kits. There are not many products on this website, but it is a trustworthy website. |
| candykeys.com | candykeys.com is a website that initially only sells keycaps sets and switches. The more they come here, they sell a lot of other mechanical keyboard components such as keyboard kits. You can visit this website at any time and it is a trusted website. |
Why You Should Buy a Hot Swappable Keyboard Kit?
Having a hot swappable keyboard kit is something you should consider if you don’t want to be stuck in the world of soldering switches which not everyone can do.
Having a hot swappable keyboard kit makes it easy for you to install the switches on the PCB because you don’t need to solder your switches to the PCB. You just have to install it and can replace it anytime you want.
What Size Should You Buy for a Keyboard Kit?
In general, the most common mechanical keyboard sizes used to build custom mechanical keyboards are 60%, 65%, and 75%. By using a keyboard kit that comes in many sizes, you also have a ton of options. If you need a numpad but want a compact keyboard, the 1800-Compact size is the right choice.
I myself really like the 75% keyboard size and TKL. In my opinion, these two sizes are ideal because they still leave complete functionalities such as F1 to F12. Even without numpad, you still have numbers that can be entered with the Shift function.
What is the best cheap diy mechanical keyboard kit?
For the cheapest keyboard kits that have quite complete quality and features, in my opinion, are keyboard kits from GMMK and Epomaker. They provide various types of keyboard kit sizes and features that are very complete and sell them at very affordable prices.
The list of cheapest keyboard kits in this article is the MXRSKEY 84U which is a 75% keyboard kit, DNA65 which is a 65% keyboard kit that has an aesthetic appearance, and the Womier 87 which is a TKL-sized keyboard. YMDK GK61 also has a very affordable price and has very good quality.
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