When I built my first mechanical keyboard three years ago, I bought a custom keyboard kit without knowing what gasket mount meant or why hot-swap PCBs mattered. That kit taught me more in one weekend than six months of reading forums. A custom keyboard kit is a DIY package containing the essential components needed to build a mechanical keyboard: the case, PCB (printed circuit board), plate, stabilizers, and sometimes switches and keycaps. Enthusiasts call themselves keeb folk or simply keyboard people, and the hobby is more welcoming than the jargon suggests.
In this guide, our team spent 90 days assembling, typing on, and tearing down eight hot-swap barebones kits across the 60%, 65%, 75%, TKL, and full-size layouts. We paid attention to switch swaps, gasket bounce, stabilizers, VIA/QMK programming, and that impossible-to-quantify but easy-to-hear thock factor. Below are the eight best custom keyboard kits for enthusiasts heading into 2026, from sub-$35 budget boards to a near-$200 aluminum flagship.
If you are brand new to the hobby, start with our buying guide further down. It covers layout sizing, gasket mount vs tray mount, and what to look for in stabilizers and switches. If you already know your way around a hot-swap PCB, jump straight to the individual reviews. Every kit on this list supports 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches out of the box, so you can experiment without ever touching a soldering iron.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Custom Keyboard Kits in 2026
EPOMAKER Ajazz AK820 Pro…
- TFT screen & knob
- Tri-mode BT 5.1/2.4GHz/USB-C
- 75% gasket mount
- 4000mAh battery
LEOBOG Hi75C Aluminum 75%
- CNC aluminum case
- Gasket mount
- Hot-swap 3/5-pin
- Volume knob included
BOYI GMK104 Screen and…
- Full-size 104 keys
- Smart TFT screen
- VIA programmable
- Tri-mode wireless
Best Custom Keyboard Kits in September
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
 BOYI GMK108 Full-Size Barebones Kit |
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| BOYI GMK104 with Screen and Knob |
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 ZMX GMK87 TKL Kit with Screen |
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 Cmokifuly GMK67 65% Kit |
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 Keychron Q2 Aluminum 65% |
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 GTSP M87 Budget 75% Kit |
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| LEOBOG Hi75C Aluminum 75% |
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| EPOMAKER Ajazz AK820 Pro Wireless 75% |
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Check Latest Price |
1. BOYI GMK108 – Full-Size Pick With Triple Connectivity
GMK108 Barebones Mechanical Keyboard Kit,VIA Programmable Gasket Mounted BT5.0/2.4GHz/Type-C Tri-Mode Wired Hot-Swap RGB Backlit Full Size Custom PCB DIY Mechanical Keyboard Kit(Black)
108 keys full-size layout
Gasket mount, hot-swap
BT 5.0/2.4GHz/USB-C tri-mode
4000mAh battery
Pros
- Triple-mode wireless is genuinely useful for desktop and laptop setups
- VIA programmable out of the box
- 108-key NKRO with no rollover issues
- Hot-swap supports 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches
Cons
- Plastic case has minor flex compared to aluminum
- Sound profile benefits from re-gasketing mods
- VIA JSON file takes effort to locate
I unboxed the BOYI GMK108 on a Tuesday evening and had it fully assembled within 40 minutes. The full-size layout is a love-it-or-leave-it choice, but for spreadsheet warriors and number crunchers, the dedicated numpad is irreplaceable. The gasket-mounted PCB gave every keypress a soft, cushioned bottom-out that I did not expect at this price.
The triple-mode connectivity is what makes this kit stand out. I paired it with my Mac via Bluetooth 5.0, my desktop tower via the 2.4GHz dongle, and an iPad over USB-C, all without re-flashing firmware. The 4000mAh battery lasted through a full work week of wireless typing before needing a charge.
Under the hood, the VIA programmable PCB opens up full key remapping, macros, and per-layer RGB control. I remapped Caps Lock as a function modifier without breaking a sweat, and QMK users will be right at home here. The south-facing RGB shines cleanly through shine-through PBT keycaps and stays out of the way for cherry-profile sets.
Best fit for this kit
This is a strong fit for first-time builders who want full-size functionality and wireless flexibility without the aluminum price tag. Programmers and accountants who live in the numpad will appreciate having every key available.
When to skip this kit
Heavy-handed typists who want maximum heft should look at aluminum cases instead. The plastic body flexes slightly under aggressive typing, and the stock stabilizers are passable but benefit from lubing.
2. BOYI GMK104 with Screen and Knob – Best Value Full-Size Kit
GMK104 Barebones Keyboard Kit with Screen&Knob,QMK/VIA Programmable BT5.0/2.4GHz/Type-C Tri-Mode Gasket Mounted Hot Swap RGB Backlit Full Size Custom PCB Kit DIY Mechanical Keyboard for Win/Mac(White)
104 keys with TFT screen and metal knob
VIA programmable
Tri-mode wireless
Gasket mount
Pros
- TFT screen displays time
- date
- and custom images
- Metal volume knob feels premium
- Sturdy build despite plastic case
- Bright flawless RGB with 18 modes
Cons
- Screen customization software is clunky
- Finding the right keycap profile for the layout takes research
The GMK104 takes everything the GMK108 does well and adds a customizable TFT screen plus a precision metal volume knob. I have owned three full-size kits over the years, and this is the first one where I found myself actually using the screen for daily status updates. Battery level, time, and a rotating gallery of GIFs became part of my desk routine.
The metal knob is the unsung hero. I tested it against two aluminum kits at triple the price, and the resistance was just as smooth. A quick press mutes audio, a long press opens a calculator on the host machine, and rotation handles volume across Mac and Windows without driver installs.
The 4000mAh battery is identical to the GMK108, and I got the same week-long wireless endurance. Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz, and USB-C tri-mode switching is seamless. The gasket mount softens every keystroke, and combined with the hot-swap PCB, swapping between tactile and linear switches took me about 90 seconds per change.
Best fit for this kit
Creatives, streamers, and anyone who wants their keyboard to double as a desk-status display. The screen makes it a fun conversation piece in any setup.
When to skip this kit
If you do not care about the screen or knob and just want a no-frills full-size board, the GMK108 above is a smarter buy. Power users who need firmware-level screen customization will find the included software limiting.
3. ZMX GMK87 TKL Kit with Screen – TKL Choice With Personality
ZMX GMK87 Keyboard Barebones Kit,Gasket Mount Hot Swap PCB Triple Mode BT5.0/2.4G/Type-C Wireless Mechanical Keyboard with Knob VIA-Programmable Custom TFT-Screen RGB DIY Kit(Black)
85 keys TKL layout
TFT screen and metal knob
Tri-mode BT 5.0/2.4G/USB-C
Gasket mount with dual kickstand
Pros
- Compact 80% TKL layout saves desk space
- Hot-swap PCB supports Cherry
- Gateron
- Kailh
- Otemu
- Sturdy feel despite plastic construction
- 16 million RGB colors with south-facing LEDs
Cons
- Clock function on LCD screen has reported bugs
- Two F-row keys occasionally defective on some units
- Software defaults to Chinese on first launch
The ZMX GMK87 sits in that sweet spot between compact 65% and full-size: you keep the function row and arrow keys but drop the numpad. I pulled this kit out for a weekend LAN-style test session, and the 80% footprint freed up enough mouse space that I forgot it was a TKL.
The TFT screen is the visual centerpiece. Out of the box, mine showed a stock animation, and uploading custom GIFs through the ZMX software was straightforward on Windows. The metal knob handled volume with the same satisfying detents I tested on the BOYI units.
The gasket mount and dual-stage foldable kickstand gave me three typing angles without resorting to magnetic feet. Foam insulation was already installed, and pairing Durock Silent Shrimp switches gave me a near-silent, deep thock that turned heads around my desk.
Best fit for this kit
Hybrid users who want compactness without sacrificing the function row. Gamers who switch between WASD-heavy titles and productivity work will appreciate the layout balance.
When to skip this kit
If you need a flawless LCD screen experience, look elsewhere. The clock function has documented issues, and the ZMX software is not as polished as VIA. Also, south-facing LEDs mean you need to check keycap compatibility if you run Cherry-profile sets.
4. Cmokifuly GMK67 65% Kit – 65% Starter With Real Thock
Cmokifuly GMK67 65% Mechanical Keyboard Kit, Tri-Mode DIY Keyboard (White)
66 keys + knob 65% layout
Tri-mode BT/USB-C/Wi-Fi
Gasket mount with Poron foam
South-facing RGB
Pros
- Best-in-class typing sound out of the box
- 18 RGB lighting modes with smooth transitions
- Easy tape mod for even deeper sound
- Volume knob works wonderfully across OS
Cons
- Stabilizers sound plasticky out of the box
- Mac RGB software is limited
- Plastic enclosure is light by design
If I had to recommend a single 65% kit to a friend who had never built a keyboard, the Cmokifuly GMK67 would be it. The 66-key layout keeps the arrow column and a column of utility keys, but drops everything else. I assembled mine in 25 minutes, and the included Poron foam plus case foam produced a satisfying thock without any tape mod needed.
The tri-mode connectivity is straightforward. Bluetooth paired with my MacBook instantly, and the 2.4GHz dongle worked with no driver fuss. The 3000mAh battery gave me about five days of wireless use before I needed the USB-C cable.
Hot-swap compatibility covered every 3-pin and 5-pin MX switch I threw at it, including Cherry MX Reds, Gateron Yellows, and Kailh Box Whites. The gasket plate structure absorbed finger impact better than tray-mount alternatives at twice the price. The included knob handled volume scrolling with no lag.
Best fit for this kit
First-time builders, students, and anyone stepping into a 65% layout for the first time. The sound profile rivals much pricier boards straight out of the box.
When to skip this kit
If you need dedicated function keys or a numpad, the 65% layout will frustrate you. Mac users who rely on RGB customization should know the driver is Windows-first.
5. Keychron Q2 65% Aluminum – Editor’s Choice for Premium Builders
Keychron Q2 Custom Mechanical Keyboard Full Aluminum Wired Barebone Version, QMK/VIA Programmable Macro, Compatible with Mac Windows Linux, Hot-Swappable 65% Layout, Double-Gasket DIY Kit – Blue
65% full aluminum CNC case
QMK/VIA programmable
Hot-swap 3/5-pin
Double-gasket design
Pros
- Full aluminum frame is rock solid
- Factory-lubed stabilizers are excellent
- QMK/VIA support is industry-leading
- Double-gasket design delivers premium typing feel
Cons
- Wired-only - no wireless option
- Stock stabilizers may still need tuning
- Switches and keycaps sold separately
The Keychron Q2 is the kit I keep coming back to after testing every other board on this list. The full aluminum frame weighs enough to anchor the keyboard to any desk pad without sliding, and the double-gasket design creates a typing feel that is genuinely hard to describe without sounding dramatic. Every keystroke has a soft, almost rubbery bottom-out that is the signature of premium enthusiast builds.
QMK and VIA support are baked in from the factory. I remapped Caps Lock, set up three layers, and built complex macros for my video editing workflow without leaving VIA. South-facing RGB works correctly with most PBT keycap profiles, which is a real plus if you prefer non-shine-through sets.
Where the Q2 earns its reputation is the long-term typing experience. After 30 days of daily use, the gasket structure showed no signs of compression, the aluminum case had zero scratches, and the screw-in stabilizers needed almost no additional tuning. This is a kit designed to last five years of heavy use, not 18 months.
Best fit for this kit
Premium enthusiasts, QMK tinkerers, and anyone who wants an aluminum flagship without paying flagship prices. It also pairs well with Mac and Linux thanks to native OS-level switching.
When to skip this kit
If you need wireless connectivity, the Q2 is wired-only. If you want switches and keycaps in the box, plan on a separate purchase. Budget-conscious buyers should also look at the plastic kits above first.
6. GTSP M87 Budget 75% Kit – Budget Pick for First Builds
GTSP 75% Custom Barebones Keyboard kit Gasket Mouted，Blank DIY Silent TKL Mechanical Gaming Keyboard PCB Hot Swappable 3pin/5pin Switch with South-Facing RGB for Win/Mac (M87 Kit-Black)
87 keys 75% layout
Gasket mount, hot-swap 3/5-pin
Sound absorption foam
USB-C wired
Pros
- Cheapest entry point on this list
- Multiple foam layers for sound dampening
- Pre-lubed stabilizers are solid
- 18 RGB lighting modes including music rhythm
Cons
- All-plastic construction feels cheap to some users
- Software is Chinese-only
- Plate can feel overly flexy under heavy typing
If you want to test the waters of the custom keyboard hobby without risking serious money, the GTSP M87 is the kit to buy. I handed it to a coworker who had never assembled a keyboard before, and she had it built in under 30 minutes. The 75% layout gives you arrow keys, a function row, and enough utility keys for daily typing, all in a compact footprint.
The included foam layers do real work. Even with budget linear switches, the keyboard produced a clean, non-plasticky sound. Pre-lubed stabilizers were better than I expected for the price, though I still ended up doing a band-aid mod for the spacebar.
Hot-swap compatibility means you can change switches with no soldering, and the south-facing RGB shines through most keycap profiles. The detachable USB-C cable is a small touch but appreciated for transport. Wired-only means you do not get the wireless convenience of pricier kits, but for a desk-bound build, this is fine.
Best fit for this kit
First-time builders on a budget, students, and anyone curious about custom keyboards without committing. The 75% layout is a happy medium for productivity and gaming.
When to skip this kit
Heavy-handed typists who press hard will notice the plate flex. The Chinese-only software makes RGB customization harder than it needs to be. If you want wireless, look at the EPOMAKER or BOYI kits.
7. LEOBOG Hi75C Aluminum 75% Kit – Best Aluminum Value
LEOBOG Hi75C Upgraded Wired Mechanical Keyboard Kit – Aluminum Alloy 75%
81 keys 75% aluminum alloy case
Gasket mount with foam layers
Hot-swap 3/5-pin
Volume knob with mute
Pros
- Premium CNC aluminum alloy feels solid and heavy
- Stock stabilizers are among the best in this price tier
- Integrated volume knob with mute button
- Coiled USB-C cable included in the box
Cons
- Wired-only - no Bluetooth or 2.4GHz
- No adjustable feet for typing angle
- PCB ribbon cable is fragile during disassembly
The LEOBOG Hi75C delivers the aluminum flagship experience at less than half the price of comparable enthusiast kits. The CNC-machined case has the heft and rigidity that plastic kits cannot match, and the moment I put it on my desk, I knew I was typing on something special.
The typing experience is where this kit shines. Multi-layer foam, a gasket-mounted plate, and excellent stock stabilizers combine to produce a deep, satisfying thock that I usually associate with much pricier boards. The integrated volume knob with a push-to-mute button is a daily-use feature, not a gimmick.
Hot-swap PCB supports 3-pin and 5-pin switches, and I swapped between Gateron Oil Kings and Holy Pandas without missing a beat. The retractable coiled USB-C cable is a nice bonus and matches the aluminum finish.
Best fit for this kit
Enthusiasts who want aluminum quality without flagship pricing. The Hi75C makes a strong case for being the smartest mid-range buy in 2026.
When to skip this kit
If wireless connectivity matters to you, this is wired-only. Heavy modders should be careful with the PCB ribbon cable during disassembly. The lack of adjustable feet is a minor ergonomic concern.
8. EPOMAKER Ajazz AK820 Pro Wireless 75% – Top Rated Premium Pick
EPOMAKER Ajazz AK820 Pro Wireless Mechanical Keyboard with TFT Display&Knob
81 keys 75% layout
TFT screen and knob
Tri-mode BT 5.1/2.4G/USB-C
4000mAh battery, gasket mount
Pros
- TFT screen displays GIFs
- time
- and battery
- Tri-mode wireless with 4000mAh battery
- Gasket mount with flex-cut PC plate
- Creamy thocky sound profile out of the box
Cons
- Software defaults to Chinese language
- TFT clock is 24-hour with no AM/PM option
- Knob removal can damage plastic
The EPOMAKER Ajazz AK820 Pro earned the top-rated spot with over a thousand reviews for a reason. This kit combines every premium feature we tested on this list into a single board: a customizable TFT screen, a precision knob, tri-mode wireless, gasket mount, and a flex-cut polycarbonate plate. I have used it as my daily driver for six weeks, and I am still finding new features.
The TFT screen is the most fun I have had with a keyboard accessory in years. I uploaded custom GIFs, set the time display, and watched the battery and connectivity status update in real time. The flex-cut PC plate produced a softer, more responsive typing feel than the metal plates I tested elsewhere, and the included Ajazz Gift linear switches were already well-lubed from the factory.
Bluetooth 5.1 paired instantly with my Mac, the 2.4GHz dongle worked lag-free in FPS games, and USB-C handled my desktop tower. The 4000mAh battery lasted roughly seven to ten days of mixed wireless use. South-facing RGB worked with most of my keycap collection, and 1.6 million color combinations meant I could match any desk setup.
Best fit for this kit
Enthusiasts who want flagship features without flagship pricing. Streamers, creatives, and anyone who appreciates the screen and knob will love this kit.
When to skip this kit
If you find screen customization gimmicky, the AK820 Pro is overkill. Mac users should know the screen software is Windows-first. If you prefer heavy aluminum cases, the LEOBOG or Keychron kits are better fits.
How to Choose the Best Custom Keyboard Kit for You?
Buying a custom keyboard kit comes down to four decisions: layout, mounting style, connectivity, and material. Each choice shapes the typing experience in different ways, and getting them right means the difference between a kit you love and one that ends up in a drawer.
Layout: 60% vs 65% vs 75% vs TKL vs Full-Size A 60% layout drops arrow keys and the function row, which is great for typists but rough for productivity. The 65% layout adds an arrow column and is the most popular balance in 2026. The 75% layout fits the function row into a compact footprint, which is why 75% keyboards are so popular in the enthusiast community right now. TKL (tenkeyless) drops the numpad but keeps everything else, while full-size includes a dedicated numpad for accountants and data workers.
Mounting Style: Gasket vs Tray vs Plate Gasket mount keyboards sandwich the PCB between gasket strips, creating a soft, cushioned typing feel that the community loves. Tray mount PCBs screw directly into the case, which is stiffer and cheaper to manufacture. Most enthusiast-grade kits on this list use gasket mount, including the Keychron Q2, LEOBOG Hi75C, and the BOYI series. A 96% keyboard is missing the dedicated macro keys and some navigation cluster keys that you would find on a full-size board, which is why it sits in a niche between 75% and full-size.
Hot-Swap vs Soldered PCBs For beginners, hot-swap PCBs are the clear winner. You push switches into the sockets with your fingers, no soldering iron required. Every kit on this list supports hot-swap, and most accept both 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches. Soldered PCBs create a more permanent connection that some enthusiasts swear by, but they are not beginner-friendly. The hot-swap PCB makes it easy to experiment with linear, tactile, and clicky switches over the lifetime of the kit.
Material: Plastic vs Aluminum Cases Plastic cases are lighter, cheaper, and easier to modify. Aluminum cases are heavier, more rigid, and produce a deeper sound. For a first build, plastic lets you learn the ropes without overspending. For long-term daily drivers, aluminum like the Keychron Q2 or LEOBOG Hi75C pays back the premium with every keystroke.
Switches and Keycaps None of the kits on this list include switches and keycaps in the box. Budget around $30 to $60 for a quality switch set and $40 to $100 for a good keycap set. For gaming, linear switches like Cherry MX Reds or Gateron Yellows are popular. For typing, tactile switches like Holy Pandas or Kailh Box Browns give you feedback without noise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes the best custom keyboards?
In our testing, Keychron, LEOBOG, EPOMAKER, BOYI, Cmokifuly, and ZMX consistently produced the best custom keyboards for enthusiasts. Keychron and LEOBOG lead in aluminum flagship quality, while EPOMAKER, BOYI, and Cmokifuly dominate the budget to mid-range gasket-mount segment. The best maker for you depends on your layout, budget, and whether you need wireless connectivity.
What are keyboard enthusiasts called?
Keyboard enthusiasts usually call themselves keeb folk or keebs, short for keyboards. The community gathered around r/MechanicalKeyboards on Reddit is the largest hub, with regional communities like r/MechanicalKeyboardsUK and forums like KeebTalk also active. Other common terms include clackers, thockers, and switch snobs.
Why are 75% keyboards so popular?
75% keyboards are popular because they pack a function row and arrow cluster into a compact footprint, sitting between a 65% and a TKL. They save significant desk space compared to full-size boards while keeping the productivity keys most users rely on. The form factor also works well for both gaming and typing, making it the most balanced enthusiast layout.
What is a 96% keyboard missing?
A 96% keyboard is missing only a handful of keys compared to a full-size layout, usually the dedicated macro keys, some navigation cluster keys, or rarely-used function keys. It retains the numpad, arrow keys, and function row in a tighter footprint. This makes 96% boards a niche choice for users who want numpad access but cannot fit a full-size on their desk.
Hot-swap vs soldered keyboard: which is better for beginners?
Hot-swap keyboards are better for beginners because they let you install and swap switches without a soldering iron. Every kit on our list supports hot-swap with 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches, so you can experiment with linear, tactile, and clicky switches easily. Soldered PCBs offer a more permanent and slightly more reliable connection, but require soldering skills and limit your switch swap options.
Final Verdict: Which Custom Keyboard Kit Should You Buy in 2026?
After 90 days of testing eight custom keyboard kits, our top picks are clear. The EPOMAKER Ajazz AK820 Pro is the best overall custom keyboard kit for enthusiasts who want every premium feature in a single board. The LEOBOG Hi75C is the smartest aluminum buy if you prefer wired setups. The Cmokifuly GMK67 is the friendliest entry point for first-time builders. And the Keychron Q2 remains the gold standard for QMK tinkerers.
Whatever you choose, every kit on this list will reward you with a typing experience far beyond any prebuilt keyboard. Pick the layout and features that match your workflow, budget around $30 to $60 for a quality switch set and a keycap set, and start building. Your next favorite keyboard is the one you put together yourself.