How to Select a Barebone Keyboard

August 26, 2025

How to Select a Barebone Keyboard

A barebone keyboard is your foundation—case, PCB, and plate, ready for switches and caps you choose. Selecting the right kit sets the tone for your build.


1. Size & Layout

Layout Keys Best For Example Use Case
60% ~61 Minimal footprint Travel, secondary setups
65% ~68 Compact with arrows Everyday desk typing
75% ~80 Function row included Balanced work + play
TKL ~87 Full function row, no numpad Coding, writing
100% ~104 All keys Data-heavy work, gaming macros

👉 Browse Typified barebones


2. Case & Build Quality

  • Aluminum — Premium weight, durability, crisp acoustics

  • Plastic/Polycarbonate — Lighter, softer sound, budget-friendly

  • Gasket vs tray mount — Gasket adds flex and softer feel; tray is simpler, firmer

💡 Tip: If sound tuning matters, choose a gasket-mount aluminium case with foam support.


3. PCB Features

  • Hotswap — Swap switches easily, no soldering required

  • Soldered — Stronger long-term, but fixed once installed

  • RGB support — Underglow or per-key lighting for personal style

  • Software compatibility — VIA/QMK for remapping flexibility


4. Ergonomics & Sound

  • Consider typing angle (6°–8° is comfortable for most users)

  • Check if foam and dampening options are included

  • Look for stabilizers (pre-lubed or upgrade-ready)


5. Brand & Support

Choose brands with reliable QC and after-care.
From our market survey:

  • China — Qwertykeys QK75, Wuque Ikki68 Aurora, Akko MOD 007, KBDfans Tiger80 Lite, Meletrix Zoom65

  • USA — GMMK Pro, Drop ALT/CTRL, NK65 Entry, CannonKeys Bakeneko 60

  • Hong Kong — Keychron Q series (Q1, Q2, Q3, Q6)

All strong choices, each with its own sound and feel profile.


Next Steps

Start with size, then choose case material and PCB features. Think about sound, feel, and your workflow. The right barebone saves you money on trial-and-error and sets you up for a build that lasts.


Never Miss a Drop.