GMK104 Barebones Keyboard Kit with Screen and Knob (White)
4.8Editor score
Custom TFT-style information display
Full-size 104-key layout
Tri-mode wireless connectivity
In this guide
Barebones keyboard kits provide the structure, PCB, and mounting hardware needed to create a personalized mechanical keyboard, while allowing builders to select their own switches, keycaps, and finishing touches. The best options balance thoughtful acoustics, accessible customization, useful connectivity, and enough documentation to make assembly approachable.
We compared ten kits across full-size, 80%, 75%, and 65% layouts, paying particular attention to hot-swap support, gasket mounting, wireless modes, programmability, displays, knobs, battery capacity, and switch compatibility. The list includes basic DIY boards as well as feature-rich models designed for users who want extensive control.
Each review identifies the kit's strongest qualities and practical limitations, helping you choose according to desk space, typing habits, and desired level of customization. Ratings and product details reflect the supplied marketplace information, while availability and prices can change at any time.
Top 3 Picks for Best Barebones Keyboard Kits
GMK104 Barebones Keyboard Kit with Screen and Knob (Black)
4.6Editor score
Real-time display customization
Hot-swappable 3-pin and 5-pin
Programmable RGB and macros
M87 75% Barebones Keyboard Kit (Black)
4.2Editor score
Compact 75% layout
Sound-absorbing internal foam
Detachable USB-C connection
Top 10 Best Barebones Keyboard Kits in 2026 Compared
The comparison below highlights the most important differences among these ten kits, including physical layout, mounting system, connection options, programmability, and special features such as screens and knobs.
ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
Editor's Choice
GMK104 Screen and Knob Black
Full-size 104-key layout
Gasket-mounted construction
Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, USB-C
Screen and multifunction knob
4.6Editor score
Editor's Choice
BOYI GMK67 White
Compact 65% layout
Gasket-mounted construction
Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, USB-C
Polycarbonate plate included
4.5Editor score
Best Premium
GMK108 Black
Full-size 108-key layout
Gasket-mounted construction
Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, USB-C
4000mAh battery capacity
4.1Editor score
GMK104 Screen and Knob White
Full-size 104-key layout
Gasket-mounted construction
Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, USB-C
Screen and multifunction knob
4.8Editor score
BOYI GMK67 Black
Compact 65% layout
Gasket-mounted construction
Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, USB-C
4000mAh battery capacity
4.3Editor score
GMK87 Screen White
Compact 87-key layout
Gasket-mounted construction
Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, USB-C
TFT display and knob
3.9Editor score
M87 75% Black
Compact 75% layout
Gasket-mounted construction
Detachable USB-C connection
Sound-absorbing foam
4.2Editor score
GMK87 Screen Black
Compact 87-key layout
Gasket-mounted construction
Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, USB-C
3000mAh battery capacity
3.9Editor score
BOYI GMK67 Pro Black
Compact 65% layout
Gasket-mounted construction
Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, USB-C
QMK and VIA support
4.0Editor score
M87 75% White
Compact 75% layout
Gasket-mounted construction
Detachable USB-C connection
Windows and Mac support
3.5Editor score
1. GMK104 Screen and Knob Black – Most Complete Full-Size Experience
GMK104 Screen and Knob Black
Full-size 104-key layout
Gasket-mounted keyboard
Tri-mode wireless connectivity
Hot-swappable switch sockets
The black GMK104 is a full-size barebones kit rated 4.6, combining a 104-key layout with a display, multifunction knob, wireless connectivity, and a hot-swappable PCB. It appeals to builders who want a complete, polished foundation without needing to compromise on familiar full-size navigation or a numeric keypad.
Pros
- Informative programmable display
- Excellent full-size functionality
- Flexible tri-mode connection
- No-solder switch installation
- Extensive key remapping options
Cons
- Large footprint on desks
- Screen adds assembly complexity
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Its strongest feature is the integrated display, which can show updated images and be controlled through dedicated multimedia buttons. The metal knob adds practical volume control, while VIA programmability supports key remapping, macros, and lighting effects. Gasket mounting, south-facing RGB, and support for both 3-pin and 5-pin switches make it a flexible platform for experimentation.
The format has obvious trade-offs. A 104-key board occupies more space than a 65% or 75% model, and attaching a display may require more care than a simple blank PCB. Nevertheless, the feature set is unusually cohesive, and the listed compatibility with Windows and Mac makes it a sensible full-size foundation for mixed-device workspaces.
Choose this kit when you want a numpad, arrow cluster, and function row alongside modern wireless controls and visible customization. It is especially compelling for users who intend to create macros, switch among several devices, and fine-tune the keyboard in software rather than settling for a standard factory configuration.
A Display That Adds Daily Utility
The display can present changing images and basic information while its adjacent buttons manage the screen and backlight. It turns an ornamental customization feature into a useful status or control interface.
Full-Size Freedom Without Fixed Switches
The hot-swappable PCB accepts common 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches, allowing builders to change the feel and sound without soldering. VIA support then preserves much of that freedom at the software layer.
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2. BOYI GMK67 White – Compact Wireless Customization
BOYI GMK67 White
Compact 65% layout
Gasket-mounted keyboard
Tri-mode wireless connectivity
Polycarbonate plate included
The white BOYI GMK67 is rated 4.5 and delivers a compact 65% barebones platform with wireless modes, a rotary knob, RGB lighting, and hot-swap sockets. Its strongest appeal is the amount of customization available in a footprint much smaller than a conventional full-size keyboard.
Pros
- Space-efficient 65% format
- Preinstalled sound dampening
- Programmable multifunction knob
- Broad mechanical switch support
- No-solder switch installation
Cons
- No dedicated numeric keypad
- Optical and magnetic switches excluded
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This kit supports Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz, and wired USB-C, while its 4000mAh battery is useful for frequent wireless use. A gasket-mounted structure, preinstalled foam, and included polycarbonate plate support a softer, less hollow acoustic profile. VIA software adds remapping, macros, and lighting control, while the knob handles multimedia functions.
Buyers must account for the 65% format, which omits a separate function row and numeric keypad. The product information also specifically states that it is not suitable for optical or magnetic switches. These constraints are understandable for a compact DIY board, but they make the GMK67 less versatile for spreadsheet-heavy work or builders using nonstandard switch technologies.
This is an attractive choice for desk-conscious enthusiasts who want a wireless mechanical keyboard they can configure and rebuild. It works especially well for programmers, creators, and general users who can navigate their software with compact shortcuts and do not require dedicated number keys.
A Complete Compact DIY Package
The inclusion of a polycarbonate plate and ample preinstalled foam means builders receive several important internal components from the outset. That reduces the number of separate upgrades required for a coherent first build.
Wireless With Easy Device Switching
Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz, and USB-C modes support different workstation habits, while the sizeable battery reduces the likelihood of frequent charging. The knob adds direct control without requiring another layer of software.
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3. GMK108 Black – Expanded Full-Size Functionality
GMK108 Black
Full-size 108-key layout
Gasket-mounted keyboard
Tri-mode wireless connectivity
4000mAh battery capacity
The GMK108 is a 108-key full-size kit rated 4.1, designed for users who want a conventional productivity layout with modern hot-swap and wireless capabilities. It includes a numpad, arrow keys, and function keys, making it a practical alternative to a standard compact office keyboard.
Pros
- Complete 108-key arrangement
- Hot-swappable switch sockets
- Useful numeric keypad
- Windows and Mac compatibility
- Programmable lighting and macros
Cons
- Consumes substantial desk space
- No display or rotary knob
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Gasket mounting creates a cushioned structure, and the PCB supports 3-pin and 5-pin switches for solder-free replacement. Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz, and USB-C connectivity make it suitable for multi-device setups, while the 4000mAh battery and VIA support add useful everyday flexibility. South-facing RGB and NKRO operation round out the feature set.
Its main limitation is size. A 108-key footprint needs considerably more room than the GMK67, GMK87, and M87 kits, and there is no display or knob to provide the more refined feature presentation found on higher-feature models. The lower rating than the leading choices also suggests more uncertainty around overall buyer satisfaction.
Choose the GMK108 when number-entry speed and conventional navigation are priorities. It is a sensible full-size DIY option for accountants, data-entry users, and office-focused builders who value function keys, a numpad, and a straightforward hot-swap platform.
Productivity Layout Without Compromise
The 108-key arrangement retains dedicated function and number areas, reducing the need for layered shortcuts in frequently used applications. It provides a familiar starting point for office-focused mechanical keyboard builders.
Modern PCB in a Familiar Shape
Hot-swap sockets, gasket mounting, tri-mode wireless operation, and programmable RGB make the traditional full-size format considerably more adaptable. It suits users who value familiar layout over a compact footprint.
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4. GMK104 Screen and Knob White – Premium Customization Controls
GMK104 Screen and Knob White
Full-size 104-key layout
Gasket-mounted keyboard
Tri-mode wireless connectivity
Display and multifunction knob
The white GMK104 holds the highest listed rating in this roundup at 4.8. It combines a full-size 104-key layout with a customizable display, a metal knob, tri-mode wireless connectivity, and a hot-swappable gasket-mounted PCB, making it the most feature-forward premium option here.
Pros
- Highest listed customer rating
- Highly customizable information display
- Premium metal control knob
- Extensive programmability options
- Complete full-size key arrangement
Cons
- Substantial desk footprint
- Additional display assembly required
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The display supports real-time image updates, while dedicated multimedia buttons control the backlight and screen. A metal knob provides precise volume adjustment, and QMK/VIA programmability allows key remapping, macros, and lighting effects. The kit also includes a 4000mAh battery, south-facing RGB, and compatibility with 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
As with the black GMK104, size is the main practical compromise. The display also introduces a more involved assembly process, and buyers should verify the included components and current product listing before beginning. Even so, the 4.8 rating and polished control features give this version a particularly strong appeal for enthusiast builds.
This kit is best for someone who wants a premium DIY centerpiece rather than a minimal PCB project. Choose it if you value a dedicated screen, tactile knob, full-size navigation, and extensive configuration options in a single coherent platform.
Premium Controls in a Custom Board
The metal knob provides a more refined tactile interaction than relying exclusively on key commands. Together with the adjacent screen controls, it creates a compact control area for common actions.
Broad Software and Hardware Control
QMK/VIA support opens extensive mapping and lighting options, while hot-swap sockets simplify switch experimentation. The result is a kit designed for continued modification rather than a one-time build.
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5. BOYI GMK67 Black – Streamlined Compact DIY Platform
BOYI GMK67 Black
Compact 65% layout
Gasket-mounted keyboard
Tri-mode wireless connectivity
Polycarbonate plate included
The black BOYI GMK67 is rated 4.3 and shares the core strengths of the white version: a compact 65% format, gasket mounting, RGB lighting, a multifunction knob, and a hot-swappable PCB. It is a straightforward choice for builders who prefer a dark finished aesthetic and a smaller desk footprint.
Pros
- Compact and practical layout
- Preinstalled foam improves acoustics
- Programmable knob and RGB
- Hot-swappable 3-pin and 5-pin
- Three wireless operating modes
Cons
- No numeric keypad included
- Limited to mechanical switch types
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Its included polycarbonate plate and preinstalled foam provide a useful foundation for both sound and build quality. Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz, and USB-C connectivity support flexible setups, and the 4000mAh battery is well suited to wireless use. VIA allows custom key mapping, macros, and lighting behavior.
The same compromises as the white GMK67 apply: there is no dedicated number pad, and the kit is limited to conventional mechanical switches rather than optical or magnetic models. Its 65% arrangement also requires familiarity with compact navigation and shortcut layers.
This model makes sense for users who want the GMK67's feature set in a black enclosure and plan to customize switches, keycaps, and programming. It is a balanced platform for both productive work and gaming when desk space is valuable.
Acoustic Building Blocks Included
Preinstalled foam and the supplied polycarbonate plate help manage internal vibration and shape the board's sound. These additions are meaningful starting points for builders seeking a fuller acoustic result.
Knob and Macros for Daily Control
The multifunction knob handles common media tasks, while VIA software supports tailored macros and remaps. It offers useful control without requiring a separate accessory.
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6. GMK87 Screen White – Feature-Rich 80% Design
GMK87 Screen White
Compact 87-key layout
Gasket-mounted keyboard
Tri-mode wireless connectivity
TFT display and knob
The white GMK87 is an 80% kit rated 3.9 that combines an 87-key layout with a TFT-LCD display, a metal knob, wireless connectivity, and a hot-swappable PCB. It occupies a useful middle ground between a full-size board and a very compact 65% model.
Pros
- Compact 87-key configuration
- Customizable TFT information display
- Adjustable dual-stage kickstand
- Dedicated USB cable storage
- Broad MX-style switch compatibility
Cons
- Lower listed rating
- Smaller 3000mAh battery
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The screen can display customized images, the date, and the time, while the knob controls volume. Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz, and wired USB-C modes support several device types, and the 3000mAh battery is smaller than the GMK67 and GMK104 alternatives. A dual-stage kickstand and built-in USB storage compartment improve everyday usability.
Its 3.9 rating is the lowest among the top half of the list, which may encourage buyers to examine recent customer feedback before purchasing. The kit also requires more assembly than a blank board because of the screen, knob, and kickstand. RGB customization and VIA macro programming are meaningful additions, though.
The GMK87 is suited to users who want visible information and a rotary control but prefer fewer keys than a traditional full-size layout. It is particularly relevant for hybrid desktop setups and users who move regularly between a laptop and larger workstation.
Useful Information at a Glance
The TFT display can present customizable images, the date, and the time. This adds visible utility while also creating a customizable focal point for the finished keyboard.
Designed for Flexible Workspaces
A detachable USB-C cable, onboard storage compartment, and adjustable kickstand make the board easier to pack, reconnect, and position. These details are especially useful for movable desktop setups.
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7. M87 75% Black – Focused Entry-Level Custom Build
M87 75% Black
Compact 75% layout
Gasket-mounted keyboard
Hot-swappable switch sockets
Sound-absorbing internal foam
The black M87 is rated 4.2 and provides a relatively focused route into custom keyboard building. Its 75% layout preserves dedicated function and navigation keys while remaining smaller than a full-size board, and its blank, understated design leaves the final appearance to your own switches and keycaps.
Pros
- Accessible first DIY platform
- Effective internal sound dampening
- Support for common MX switches
- Windows and Mac compatibility
- Detachable USB-C cable
Cons
- No wireless connectivity listed
- Does not include a screen or knob
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The kit uses a gasket-mounted structure, sound-absorbing foam, and a silicon bottom pad to reduce internal vibration and keyboard clatter. Hot-swappable terminals support common 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches, including Cherry, Otemu, Gateron, Kailh, and other MX-style options. NKRO and full-key anti-ghosting are useful for gaming.
This is not a wireless board: its listed connection is a detachable USB-C cable. It also lacks a display, knob, and integrated multi-device controls, so buyers seeking those extras should choose a GMK67, GMK87, or GMK104 instead. Custom software is available for macros and per-key lighting, with 18 factory lighting and music-rhythm modes.
Choose the M87 for a conventional 75% layout, quiet-oriented internal design, and lower-complexity entry into hot-swap customization. It is especially useful for learners who want meaningful customization without paying for a screen or wireless electronics.
Quiet Construction from the Start
Sound-absorbing foam and a silicon bottom pad help reduce unwanted vibration and clatter. These internal treatments make the kit appealing to builders who care about a controlled typing sound.
A Straightforward Wired Experience
The detachable USB-C cable makes the M87 simple to connect and comparatively uncluttered. It also avoids charging and multi-device pairing concerns, although wireless users will need a different kit.
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8. GMK87 Screen Black – Compact Display and Wireless Features
GMK87 Screen Black
Compact 87-key layout
Gasket-mounted keyboard
Tri-mode wireless connectivity
3000mAh battery capacity
The black GMK87 mirrors the feature-rich design of the white version, offering an 87-key layout, TFT-LCD screen, metal knob, and three-mode wireless connection. It is rated 3.9 and appeals to builders who want visual customization and a relatively compact layout.
Pros
- Customizable TFT information screen
- Useful 87-key compact layout
- Three operating and connection modes
- Hot-swappable mechanical sockets
- Adjustable two-stage kickstand
Cons
- Lower listed customer rating
- Screen complicates initial assembly
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The display can show custom images, the date, and the time, and the knob provides volume control. Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz, and USB-C modes allow use with PCs, laptops, tablets, and phones, while a 3000mAh battery supports wireless operation. The hot-swap PCB works with common 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches.
The same caveats seen with the white GMK87 apply. Its lower rating calls for extra attention to current customer feedback, and the display and knob add assembly steps compared with a blank PCB. The two-stage kickstand and onboard cable compartment do improve practical desk management.
Choose the black GMK87 if your priority is a dark, compact board with a meaningful information display and flexible connectivity. It is a strong match for mobile-heavy users and anyone who wants a tactile knob without moving to a larger full-size model.
Wireless Across Several Device Types
The kit can operate through Bluetooth, its 2.4GHz receiver, or a wired USB-C connection. That flexibility suits users alternating between a desktop, laptop, tablet, or phone.
Customization Beyond the Keycaps
RGB effects, per-key lighting controls, macros, and a live display let the finished board reflect personal preferences. A broad selection of hot-swap-compatible switches adds another layer of customization.
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9. BOYI GMK67 Pro Black – Advanced Compact Firmware Control
BOYI GMK67 Pro Black
Compact 65% layout
Gasket-mounted keyboard
Tri-mode wireless connectivity
4000mAh battery capacity
The BOYI GMK67 Pro is rated 4.0 and builds on the established GMK67 concept with explicit QMK and VIA support. Its compact 65% format, hot-swap PCB, knob, RGB lighting, and tri-mode connectivity make it a serious platform for users who want both physical and software customization.
Pros
- QMK and VIA programming support
- Large 4000mAh battery
- Hot-swappable mechanical sockets
- Programmable multifunction knob
- Preinstalled foam and plate
Cons
- No display included
- Optical switches remain unsupported
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QMK and VIA provide options for key mapping, macros, and backlighting, allowing complex configurations to be created and refined. The board supports Cherry MX-style, Kailh, Gateron, and other 3-pin or 5-pin mechanical switches. Gasket mounting, PORON gaskets, and preinstalled foam support sound control, while a polycarbonate plate provides a flexible base.
Compared with the screen-equipped GMK models, the GMK67 Pro has a cleaner appearance and does not require display assembly. However, it does not support optical switches, and the compact format still omits a number pad. Its 4.0 rating places it behind several higher-rated alternatives.
This kit is ideal for experienced builders who value QMK/VIA freedom and want a compact wireless board. It is also a sensible starting point for ambitious newcomers who intend to learn remapping, macros, and switch customization over time.
Firmware Flexibility for Advanced Mapping
QMK and VIA support give builders deeper control over remaps, macros, and lighting behavior. The platform is particularly attractive for users who see keyboard software as part of the hobby rather than an occasional extra.
Balanced Sound and Modularity
Gasket mounting, PORON gaskets, preinstalled foam, and a supplied polycarbonate plate form a flexible internal foundation. Hot-swap sockets make it easy to revise switch choices as preferences change.
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10. M87 75% White – Simple Versatile DIY Canvas
M87 75% White
Compact 75% layout
Gasket-mounted keyboard
Hot-swappable switch sockets
Sound-absorbing internal foam
The white M87 is a minimalist 75% barebones kit rated 3.5. It offers a familiar functional layout, a blank canvas for personal keycap and switch choices, and a practical feature set for builders who do not need a screen, knob, or wireless connectivity.
Pros
- Clean white blank-kit aesthetic
- Effective sound-absorbing materials
- Support for common MX switches
- NKRO and anti-ghosting support
- Windows and Mac compatibility
Cons
- Lowest listed customer rating
- Wired USB-C connection only
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Its gasket-mounted design, sound-absorbing foam, and silicon bottom pad aim to reduce vibration and typing noise. Hot-swappable sockets accept 3-pin and 5-pin MX-style switches, and NKRO with full-key anti-ghosting supports gaming input. Custom software can handle macros, per-key lighting, and effects, while 18 built-in lighting and music-rhythm modes provide ready-made alternatives.
This model has the lowest listed rating among the ten products, so prospective buyers should review current customer feedback carefully. Its detachable USB-C lead is simple and dependable, but the absence of Bluetooth and 2.4GHz modes limits placement flexibility. Like the black M87, it has no screen or knob.
Choose the white M87 for a clean aesthetic, a compact but familiar key layout, and the freedom to select your own mechanical switches. It is most appropriate for builders who prioritize straightforward assembly and traditional wired operation over advanced integrated controls.
A Clean Canvas for Personal Styling
The blank white design leaves ample room for the color and texture of your chosen keycaps and switches. It can produce a distinctive finished board without integrated screens competing for attention.
Essential Gaming and Macro Support
NKRO, anti-ghosting, programmable macros, and per-key lighting effects cover common gaming and productivity needs. The wired connection keeps setup simple and avoids managing wireless pairing or battery charging.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Barebones Keyboard Kits
The right barebones kit depends on how you balance layout, acoustics, connectivity, programmability, and assembly complexity. These factors help narrow the field before you invest in switches, keycaps, and other finishing components.
Choose the Right Physical Layout
Layout is the first decision because it determines which functions remain permanently visible. The GMK104 and GMK108 provide full-size arrangements with number pads, arrow clusters, and function rows. The GMK87 uses an 87-key 80% format, while the M87 offers a 75% compromise. The BOYI GMK67 models are the most compact at 65%, making them effective where desk width and portability matter.
Understand What the Kit Includes
A barebones kit is not necessarily a collection of every component needed for a finished keyboard. Some models include a plate and preinstalled foam, as the BOYI GMK67 does, while others focus more heavily on the PCB and case. Confirm whether keycaps, switches, stabilizers, a plate, a cable, and mounting parts are included before calculating the remainder of your build.
Prioritize the Mounting Structure
Gasket mounting places the plate between flexible pieces rather than securing it rigidly to the case. This can reduce harsh vibration, improve the perceived bottom-out, and help control a hollow acoustic profile. The internal foam, plate material, switch choice, and stabilizer tuning also shape the final sound, so mounting alone does not determine how a keyboard will sound.
Check Switch and Hot-Swap Compatibility
Hot-swap sockets let you install and change conventional mechanical switches without soldering. Most of these kits support both 3-pin and 5-pin styles, and the listed compatibility includes popular MX-style families. Optical and magnetic switches are different and remain incompatible with the BOYI GMK67 models, so check the exact PCB standard before buying those switches.
Decide Whether Wireless Features Matter
Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz, and wired USB-C operation provide flexible use across computers, tablets, and phones. The GMK67, GMK87, GMK104, and GMK108 models support this tri-mode approach. The M87 kits are wired, which can simplify operation and reduce assembly concerns. Consider battery capacity, rechargeability, and the availability of a physical wireless receiver.
Evaluate Programmable Software
VIA support allows users to remap keys, assign macros, and alter lighting through a graphical interface, while QMK provides an additional layer of firmware flexibility. The M87 also offers custom software for macros and per-key effects. Consider how often you want to change layouts and whether browser-based configuration is more convenient than a command-line workflow.
Consider Displays, Knobs, and Controls
A display can show images, dates, times, or other customizable information, while a knob provides direct control over volume or programmed actions. The GMK104 and GMK87 prioritize these features. They create a more finished, feature-rich appearance, but they also require more assembly and may be unnecessary for users who want a simple blank canvas.
Account for Stabilizers and Key Support
Long keys such as the spacebar, Enter, Shift, and Backspace often use stabilizers to prevent tilting. Barebones kits may include stabilizers, but their condition and tuning vary, and some packages require separate installation. Pay attention to the key count and layout as well, because stabilizers must match the board's geometry and your chosen keycap set.
How to Use and Care for Your Barebones Keyboard Kits
Begin by identifying every included component, reading the product instructions, and comparing the PCB, plate, gaskets, stabilizers, and case with their intended positions. Test the PCB in a powered state before installing switches, checking basic key registration, lighting, wireless pairing, and knob or display functions while access remains easy.
Install switches carefully in the hot-swap sockets without forcing the pins. Seat stabilizers, check their alignment, and add a small amount of suitable lubricant if the kit requires it. Once the switches and stabilizers are installed, attach the plate and case evenly rather than tightening one corner completely before moving around the keyboard.
For daily care, disconnect the cable or turn the keyboard off before cleaning, and use a soft dry cloth or compressed air to remove dust from the case and around keys. Avoid aggressive liquids near the display, knob, PCB, and sockets. Periodically check loose keycaps, connector security, battery charging, and firmware behavior so small issues do not become larger build problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in a barebones keyboard kit?
A barebones kit normally includes the case, PCB, and various mounting or connection components, but it commonly lacks switches and keycaps. Some kits also include a plate, stabilizers, foam, feet, and a cable. Check the package contents carefully because the included components differ among the GMK67, GMK87, GMK104, GMK108, and M87 models.
Do I need to solder to build these keyboards?
The featured kits use hot-swappable PCB sockets, allowing supported mechanical switches to be installed without soldering. You may still need to install or tune stabilizers according to the instructions, and nonstandard components can require additional work. A small soldering iron and basic tools are useful for repairs, but they are not essential for standard switch installation.
Are barebones keyboard kits suitable for beginners?
They can be, especially the wired M87 models and the BOYI GMK67 with its supplied plate and foam. Beginners should choose a compatible switch type, understand stabilizer installation, and work carefully when attaching the plate. Kits with screens, knobs, wireless modes, and advanced software require more setup than a blank wired board.
Can I use optical or magnetic switches with every kit?
No. The BOYI GMK67 listing specifically states that it is not suitable for optical or magnetic switches. The featured hot-swap kits support conventional 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches, with several models listing common MX-compatible families. Always verify the supported electrical and physical switch standard before purchasing.
What is the difference between a 65% and full-size kit?
A 65% kit removes the number pad, arrow cluster, and dedicated function row to create a much smaller typing surface. A full-size kit retains those areas, making it more convenient for numerical entry and conventional navigation. The GMK67 models are compact choices, while the GMK104 and GMK108 suit users who need a number pad.
Do these kits need batteries or frequent charging?
The wireless models include rechargeable batteries: the GMK67, GMK104, and GMK108 list 4000mAh capacity, while the GMK87 lists 3000mAh. Actual runtime depends on usage, lighting, connection method, and battery condition. The M87 models use a detachable wired USB-C connection and do not require routine charging.
Can I customize lighting, keys, and macros?
Yes. The featured kits provide south-facing RGB lighting, and their software supports features such as remapping, macros, and lighting effects. VIA is the most visible option across several models, while the GMK67 Pro also supports QMK. You can generally change switches without soldering and can add your own keycaps for a more individualized finished appearance.
What should I check before buying additional switches?
First confirm that the kit supports your chosen switch technology and pin count. Then check the switch manufacturer's stem, housing, and plate compatibility, especially when mixing brands. Linear, tactile, and clicky switches produce different sounds and sensations, while stabilizer behavior is influenced by the case, plate, lubrication, and switch housings.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Barebones Keyboard Kits
The GMK104 with its screen and knob is the strongest premium choice, with the white version earning the highest listed rating and the black version providing a similarly capable feature set. The BOYI GMK67 stands out for compact wireless customization, while the M87 Black offers the most straightforward 75% starting point for a wired DIY build.
Prioritize the layout you can comfortably use every day, then select a mounting and switch approach that matches your technical confidence. Wireless connectivity, displays, knobs, and advanced firmware are valuable only when they support your routine. A simpler kit with a familiar layout and reliable fundamentals may produce a better result than a feature-heavy model you do not need.
Before ordering, verify the current package contents, supported switch types, stabilizer requirements, software compatibility, and included accessories. Prices, ratings, and availability can change, so check the latest listing and customer feedback before making a final purchase.