A barebones keyboard is the starter shell of a custom build: the case, the PCB (the circuit board that registers your keystrokes), and the plate, minus switches, keycaps, and stabilizers. You bring the parts, the lube, the soldering iron (or just patience for hot-swap), and you end up with something that actually feels like yours. The picks below cover a real spectrum, from aluminum 60% shells to a 96% with a full numpad, plus a switch pack if you want to refresh what you already own.
A Side-By-Side Look
kutethy KY60 Hollow Out Aluminum Keyboard Case (Black)
AULA F75 Pro Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (Gradient Blue)
Akko V3 Pro Cream Yellow Linear Switches (45 Pcs)
Glorious GMMK Full Size 100% Barebones Kit (Black)
GMK67 65% Mechanical Keyboard Kit (White)
EPOMAKER x LEOBOG Hi75 Aluminum Alloy Barebones Kit (Grey)
GLORIOUS GMMK 60% Compact Barebone (Black)
GLORIOUS GMMK 2 96% Barebones Keyboard (Black)
More Details On Our Top Picks
The kutethy KY60 case is a hollow aluminum shell aimed at someone stepping into their first custom build. It supports common 60% PCBs like Wooting60, Mad60, Win60, and GH60, so you can swap boards later without buying a whole new case.
If your previous pick was the Glorious GMMK Full Size, this one trades the numpad for a denser desk footprint. The cut-out top adds a slight industrial look without making the chassis feel flimsy. You still need to bring your own switches, stabilizers, keycaps, and possibly a daughterboard (a small connector board that links the USB-C port to the main PCB) to finish it.
The Helpful Details
- Aluminum case body with cut-out styling that trims weight without losing rigidity
- Broad PCB compatibility covers the most common 60% boards
- Compact 60% footprint frees up mouse space for FPS gaming
- Hollow design lets you see the plate layer, helpful when troubleshooting switch seating
Things To Consider
- Switches, stabilizers, and keycaps are sold separately, so total cost climbs once you build it out
- Hollow tops can ring slightly louder than a sealed case, depending on your switch choice
Who It Suits Best
A first-time builder who already owns or is sourcing a compatible 60% PCB and wants an aluminum case without paying premium-tier money.
Look Elsewhere When
You want wireless freedom out of the box: the AULA F75 Pro ships with tri-mode connectivity and RGB without the assembly work.
The AULA F75 Pro arrives pre-built with hot-swap sockets, so you can change switches without soldering, and ships with linear switches that have already been factory-lubricated. Tri-mode connectivity covers Bluetooth, a 2.4GHz wireless dongle, and a wired USB-C option, so it adapts whether you’re docked at a desk or working from a couch.
Compared to the kutethy KY60 from earlier, this is the easier path: no sourcing a PCB, no stabilizers to lube, no plate swap. The 75% layout keeps the function row and arrow cluster, which is the make-or-break detail for spreadsheet users. For most backyards, err, most home offices, that’s the layout sweet spot.
What Makes Sense
- Tri-mode wireless gives you real flexibility for mixed setups
- Hot-swap PCB means future switch experiments stay tool-free
- Pre-lubed linear switches skip the learning curve for new builders
- Side-printed PBT keycaps (a thicker, shine-resistant plastic) keep legends readable at an angle
Points To Note
- Wireless mode relies on the internal battery, so you’ll need to plan around recharging during long sessions
- RGB backlighting drains battery faster than expected on heavy use
Feature Snapshot
Made For
Anyone wanting wireless freedom, RGB flair, and a hot-swap PCB without spending a weekend building it.
Swap It Out When
You want a fully aluminum top frame and gasket-mount feel, which the EPOMAKER x LEOBOG Hi75 delivers.
The Akko V3 Pro Cream Yellow switches drop into any standard MX-style hot-swap PCB, including the GMMK boards from Glorious further down this list. They’re linear, meaning there’s no tactile bump or click on the way down, with a 50gf actuation force (the amount of pressure needed to register a keystroke) and a five-pin design for a snug fit in PCB-mounted sockets.
The transparent top cover lets RGB light bleed through, and the long-pole stem produces a deeper bottom-out sound, which matters if you care about acoustic profile. For most typists, the pre-lubed rail cuts the scratchy stock feel you usually get out of the box.
The Good Stuff
- Factory-lubed rails feel smoother than stock on first install
- Five-pin layout adds stability in PCB-mounted sockets
- Transparent housing shows off per-key RGB cleanly
Honest Caveats
- Linear-only, so users who want a tactile bump will need to source a different switch
- 5-pin switches may require leg-clipping to fit 3-pin-only boards, a quick snip with flush cutters
Best Suited To
Builders who already own a hot-swap barebones kit and want a smoother, deeper-sounding linear without breaking out the lube station.
Consider Something Else When
You don’t own a kit yet, since switches alone don’t make a working keyboard: pair this with the Glorious GMMK 60% if you want a compact starting point.
The original Glorious GMMK Full Size is the classic entry point into custom builds, largely because hot-swap sockets were still rare when it launched. It’s a wired USB-C board in a traditional 100% layout, meaning you get the function row, navigation cluster, and full numpad without compromise.
Unlike the kutethy KY60 earlier, this one ships as a complete kit including plate, PCB, and case, so you’re a switch set away from a working board. If you regularly punch numbers into spreadsheets or run hotkeys in creative apps, the numpad justifies the larger footprint.
What Earns Its Place
- Hot-swap PCB was industry-leading on release and still works fine today
- Full 100% layout covers every key without needing layers or macros
- Wide third-party support for switches and keycap sets in standard sizes
- Solid community documentation for first builds and mods
Worth Bearing In Mind
- Wired only, so no wireless flexibility like the AULA F75 Pro
- Larger desk footprint than 60% or 65% options
Right Fit For
Office users and data-entry pros who want a numpad without learning Fn-layer shortcuts.
A Better Fit Elsewhere
If you want the numpad feel without the bulk, the GLORIOUS GMMK 2 96% packs a numpad into a tighter shell.
The GMK67 kit is a 65% form factor with arrows still on the board, paired with a gasket-mount structure (rubber or silicone pads between the plate and case that soften the typing feel) and tri-mode wireless. The 66-key count keeps the footprint reasonable while preserving navigation.
It’s a different lane from the kutethy case earlier: that one is just a shell, while this kit includes the PCB and gasket hardware. Tri-mode means the board pairs over Bluetooth, the 2.4GHz dongle, or USB-C, with an internal 3000mAh battery for cable-free sessions.
A Few Highlights
- Gasket-mount softens the bottom-out sound compared to tray-mount kits
- Hot-swap sockets let you change switches without desoldering
- Tri-mode wireless covers laptop, desktop, and tablet workflows
- 65% keeps arrows without the full numpad bulk
Smaller Limitations
- You still need to buy switches and keycaps separately
- White case finish shows dust and fingerprints faster than darker shells
Quick Facts
Who Should Grab It
Anyone who wants wireless flexibility, gasket feel, and a 65% footprint for mixed desk-and-couch use.
Not Your Match When
You need a fully aluminum frame: the EPOMAKER x LEOBOG Hi75 brings a heavier aluminum chassis with a mode-switching knob.
The EPOMAKER x LEOBOG Hi75 is a gasket-mount 75% kit in a CNC-finished aluminum case, paired with a gaming-grade chip that supports N-key rollover (every keypress registers, even when you mash multiple keys at once). A physical knob on the top right toggles between work and gaming modes, including an RGB profile switch.
Compared to the GMK67 earlier, this trades tri-mode wireless for build rigidity and the rotary control. Hot-swap sockets handle 3-pin and 5-pin switches, so most modern switch packs drop in cleanly. Depending on your typing habits, the heavier aluminum frame changes the acoustic profile noticeably.
Well-Handled Touches
- Aluminum chassis gives the kit a planted, premium desk presence
- Gasket mount softens bottom-out compared to tray-mount boards
- Mode-switching knob is genuinely useful for RGB and profile swaps
- N-key rollover supports fast gameplay without ghosting
Less-Strong Areas
- Wired only, no Bluetooth or 2.4GHz option
- Aluminum case adds weight that may bother anyone who moves their setup often
- Switches and keycaps are still separate purchases
Built With In Mind
Desktop enthusiasts who want aluminum heft, gasket feel, and a knob for quick profile changes during long sessions.
Reach For A Different Pick When
Wireless matters more than chassis weight: the AULA F75 Pro gives you Bluetooth and a 2.4GHz dongle in a lighter build.
The original GMMK 60% established Glorious in the barebones space, and the compact 60% layout still earns its place on smaller desks. It uses hot-swap 3-pin sockets, which means 5-pin switches need their plastic legs clipped before they fit, a small but real step before you start clicking.
It’s a step up from the kutethy case earlier because the kit is fully assembled: case, plate, PCB, and RGB are all in the box. Per-key RGB is configurable through Glorious’ software, which is helpful when you want to color-code specific keys for gaming binds.
Points In Its Favor
- Compact 60% footprint frees serious mouse space for low-DPI gaming
- Per-key RGB gives granular control over lighting zones
- USB-C wired connection is broadly compatible with cables you already own
- Black metal top plate adds rigidity over plastic-only shells
A Few Limitations
- 3-pin hot-swap sockets require leg-clipping for 5-pin switches like the Akko V3 Pro
- No wireless option if you want to tidy your desk completely
- Switches and keycaps still cost extra on top of the kit
Whose Shelf It Belongs On
First-time custom builders who want Glorious software support and a compact wired board without diving into aluminum-tier pricing.
Where Another Pick Suits Better
You need wireless and battery life built in: the GMK67 65% kit covers tri-mode wireless in a slightly larger layout.
The GMMK 2 96% packs a numpad and full function row into a footprint closer to a TKL (tenkeyless, a layout without the numpad). It uses an aluminum top shell, which adds rigidity and weight, with anodized finishing (an electrochemical process that hardens the surface and locks in color) that resists scratches.
Compared to the GMMK Full Size earlier in this list, this one shrinks the chassis without dropping the numpad. Rubber feet keep the board planted during intense typing, and the brushed aluminum exterior hides light wear better than glossy plastic shells.
Useful Highlights
- 96% layout keeps the numpad while shaving width off a full-size board
- Aluminum top shell adds meaningful rigidity to the typing platform
- Grippy rubber feet prevent sliding during competitive play
- Anodized finish holds up against desk wear better than painted shells
Possible Compromises
- Heavier than plastic-only kits, so backpack portability takes a hit
- Wired connection only, no wireless flexibility like the AULA F75 Pro
Product Snapshot
Perfect Match For
Hybrid office-and-gaming users who want a numpad for spreadsheets but a tighter desk footprint than a full-size layout.
Skip It When
Portability matters most: the EPOMAKER x LEOBOG Hi75 and AULA F75 Pro both travel more easily, especially the wireless AULA.
What To Weigh Before Choosing a Barebones Keyboard Kit
Form Factor And Layout Fit
Barebones kits come in fixed footprints, and the size dictates which keys are present. A 60% board drops arrows and the function row, forcing you into layer shortcuts. A 65% keeps arrows, a 75% adds the function row, and 96% and 100% bring back the numpad. Match the layout to your daily app mix: spreadsheets lean toward 96% or 100%, while competitive FPS play often rewards compact 60% builds for mouse room.
Connectivity: Wired Versus Wireless
Wired kits avoid battery concerns but anchor you to a desk. Tri-mode wireless, like the AULA F75 Pro and GMK67, lets you switch between Bluetooth, a 2.4GHz dongle, and USB-C. The trade-off shows up in weight and recharge cycles: wireless boards carry internal batteries that add grams and need periodic charging depending on RGB use.
Plate, Mount, And Feel
Tray-mount kits feel crisp and direct, while gasket-mount designs, like the GMK67 and EPOMAKER Hi75, soften the bottom-out sound through rubber or silicone pads. Aluminum cases ring differently from plastic ones, often with a deeper, more contained tone. The honest read is that acoustics depend heavily on your switch, keycap, and case combination, so specs only tell part of the story.
Hot-Swap Vs. Soldered PCBs
Hot-swap sockets let you swap switches without a soldering iron, which is the right call for anyone still refining their switch preference. Soldered PCBs offer slightly better long-term contact reliability but lock you into your initial switch choice. Most barebones kits now ship hot-swap, though older boards, including the original GMMK 60%, only accept 3-pin switches out of the box.
Key Considerations Across These Picks
Where Shoppers Go Wrong
The most common slip-up is buying a kit without checking PCB compatibility. A 60% case like the kutethy KY60 only fits specific 60% PCBs, so a 65% or 75% board will not drop in. Another trap is underestimating switch and keycap costs. A barebones kit is just the chassis, so budget for switches, stabilizers (the small mechanisms that keep larger keys level), and a keycap set on top of the kit price. Finally, wireless expectations catch people off guard: tri-mode boards still need charging, especially with RGB on full brightness.
Why Top Tier Costs More
Premium kits like the EPOMAKER Hi75 charge more for aluminum machining, gasket mounting, and gaming-grade controllers that support faster key scanning. The upgrade payoff shows up in acoustic profile, chassis rigidity, and long-term durability under heavy use. For most home offices, a mid-tier plastic kit performs identically in daily typing, but if you game competitively or value a planted, low-resonance feel, the aluminum and gasket combination is worth the spend.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly comes in a barebones keyboard kit?
A barebones kit typically includes the case, PCB, and plate, but no switches, stabilizers, or keycaps. You supply those separately to complete the build.
Can I use any mechanical switches with any hot-swap kit?
Most modern hot-swap PCBs accept standard MX-style switches, but 3-pin-only boards require you to clip the plastic legs off 5-pin switches before they fit.
Are gasket-mount kits worth the extra cost over tray-mount?
Gasket mounts soften the typing feel and reduce ping, which is most noticeable during long typing sessions. For casual use, the difference is subtle.
Do barebones keyboards work without software?
Yes, basic typing and keypress registration work out of the box. Software is only needed for RGB customization, macro programming, and firmware updates.
How long does building a barebones kit take?
A first build with hot-swap sockets, switches, and keycaps usually takes one to two hours, depending on stabilizer tuning and any switch lubing you choose to add.
Closing Remarks
The right barebones keyboard depends on what you’re trying to build: a quick daily driver, a wireless travel board, or a full aluminum desktop centerpiece. Start with the layout you actually need, then pick the case and connectivity that match your space, and you’ll end up with a board that feels genuinely yours.
