Best Barebones Keyboards 2023: Find the Right Keyboard for Your Needs

David Hill

A barebones keyboard is a type of keyboard with fewer features than a typical full-sized keyboard. They are typically lightweight and portable, often with a minimal design that eliminates extra features such as a number pad. Barebones keyboards are designed for people who want the essential keys for basic typing and don’t need the additional functions of a full-sized keyboard. They are often used by gamers and office workers who need a smaller form factor for their keyboard.

Best Barebones Keyboards 2023: Find the Right Keyboard for Your Needs
Best Barebones Keyboards 2023: Top Picks for Maximum Performance. Image source: Amazon.com

Top Products

NoImageProductScoreCheck
1Glorious Custom Gaming Keyboard - GMMK 85% Percent TKL Barebone - USB C Wired Mechanical Keyboard Kit - RGB Hot Swappable Switches & Keycaps - Black Metal Top PlateGlorious Custom Gaming Keyboard9.7Check Price
2Keychron V1 Wired Custom Mechanical Keyboard Barebone Version, 75% Layout QMK/VIA Programmable Macro with Hot-swappable Support Compatible with Mac Windows Linux (Frosted Black - Translucent)Keychron V1 Wired Custom Mechanical Keyboard Barebone Version9.5Check Price
3BOYI GMK67-65% Keyboard Kit,Hot-Swappable Bluetooth 5.0/2.4G/Type-C Tri-Mode Wireless RGB Mechanical Keyboard PCB Mounting Plate Kit EVA Sound Insulation Mat,Customized Keyboard Kit(White+Knob)BOYI GMK67-65% Keyboard Kit9.3Check Price
4EPOMAKER TH80 Pro 75% 80 Keys Hot Swap Bluetooth 5.0/2.4GHz/Wired Keyboard PCB Mounting Plate Kit with Dampener Foams, South-Facing LEDs, Compatible with 3/5 Pin Switches for Win/Mac PS5 PS4EPOMAKER TH80 Pro 75% 80 Keys Hot Swap Bluetooth 5.0/2.4GHz/Wired Keyboard PCB Mounting Plate Kit9.1Check Price
5GLORIOUS GMMK 2 Gaming Barebones Keyboard Kit - Hot Swappable Wired Mechanical Keyboard Base - Modular, RGB Backlit,- PC Setup Accessories- 96%, WhiteGLORIOUS GMMK 2 Gaming Barebones Keyboard Kit9Check Price

#1:Glorious Custom Gaming Keyboard

Overall Experience

The Glorious Custom Gaming Keyboard is a fully modular keyboard with hot swap switch sockets, per key 16.8 million RGB, fully customizable with the GMMK software, and the ability to set major RGB patterns from the keyboard hotkeys without software. It is compatible with a wide range of 3-pin plate mounted Mechanical switches, OEM layouts, and sculpted keycaps for an ergonomic typing experience. It is also compatible with Windows, Mac and keyboard supported consoles and includes a 1 year limited manufacturer warranty.

Product Quality

The Glorious Custom Gaming Keyboard is made with a full aluminum metal top plate and ABS plastic bottom plate for perfect sound tuning. It has a standard ANSI layout with standard sized bottom row for compatibility with 3rd party standard keycaps. It also has an in built stand to adjust the angle of the keyboard to match a more ergonomic typing experience. The keyboard is also compatible with backlit RGB SMD LED compatible switches.

Performance

The Glorious Custom Gaming Keyboard provides a great gaming experience with its hot swap switch sockets, per key 16.8 million RGB, and fully customizable with the GMMK software. It also has major RGB patterns that can be set from the keyboard hotkeys without the need for software. It is also compatible with a wide range of 3-pin plate mounted Mechanical switches, making it perfect for both quiet office setups and gaming.

Ease of Use

The Glorious Custom Gaming Keyboard is easy to use with its hot swap switch sockets, which allows users to plug in and out switches as their DIY preference. It also has an in built stand that allows users to adjust the angle of the keyboard to match a more ergonomic typing experience. It is also compatible with a wide range of 3-pin plate mounted Mechanical switches and 3rd party standard keycaps.

Value for Money

The Glorious Custom Gaming Keyboard is a great value for money as it provides a great gaming experience with its hot swap switch sockets, per key 16.8 million RGB, and fully customizable with the GMMK software. It is also compatible with a wide range of 3-pin plate mounted Mechanical switches and comes with a 1 year limited manufacturer warranty.

#2:Keychron V1 Wired Custom Mechanical Keyboard Barebone Version

Overall Experience

The Keychron V1 is a great option for custom mechanical keyboard users, offering great performance and ease of use for a reasonable price.

Product Quality

The V1 has a sleek design, featuring an ultra-low-power Arm structure MCU and PCB-mounted screw-in stabilizers. It also has a south-facing RGB backlight for better illumination.

Performance

The V1 is equipped with full QMK and VIA support, allowing for programmability of each key. It also has a 1000 Hz polling rate out of the box, making latency non-existent for competitive gaming.

Ease of Use

The V1 is designed for easy assembly, and its hot-swappable support makes it easy to switch out switches without the need for soldering.

Value for Money

The V1 offers great value for money, with its reasonable price, quality components, and excellent performance.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros:
    • Compact 75% layout
    • Programmable with QMK & VIA
    • Hot-swappable support
    • South-facing RGB backlight
    • 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Cons:
    • User must buy switches and keycaps separately

#3:BOYI GMK67-65% Keyboard Kit

Overall Experience

The BOYI GMK67-65% Keyboard Kit has been designed to offer great user experience for those who are looking to customize their own mechanical keyboard. It is equipped with several features, including a hot-swappable mechanical switch, triple-mode connection, RGB presets, and a multifunction knob. The keyboard is solid and comes with all the necessary components to make the assembly process quick and easy.

Product Quality

The BOYI GMK67-65% Keyboard Kit is made of high-quality components, including a polycarbonate plate, foam, and a 8000mAh bulit-in long life battery. The hot-swappable mechanical switch is compatible with Cherry MX switches, Kailh switches and Gateron switches and other 3 pin or 5 pin switches. The RGB presets offer more than 16.8 million lights for a vibrant gaming experience.

Performance

The BOYI GMK67-65% Keyboard Kit offers a great user experience with its triple-mode connection, including Bluetooth 5.0/2.4G/Wired Type-C Tri-Mode, and its multifunction knob for easy control of multimedia. The hot-swappable mechanical switch ensures smooth and reliable performance. The gasket material on the keyboard plate's top also ensures a satisfying typing experience.

Ease of Use

The BOYI GMK67-65% Keyboard Kit is easy to use. The assembly process is straightforward and the components provided make it a breeze. The hot-swappable mechanical switch can be installed directly without soldering. The RGB presets and the multifunction knob offer great convenience for gamers.

Value for Money

The BOYI GMK67-65% Keyboard Kit offers great value for money. It comes with all the necessary components required to customize your own mechanical keyboard. It has a hot-swappable mechanical switch, triple-mode connection, RGB presets, and a multifunction knob. The gasket material also ensures a great typing experience.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros: Hot-

#4:EPOMAKER TH80 Pro 75% 80 Keys Hot Swap Bluetooth 5.0/2.4GHz/Wired Keyboard PCB Mounting Plate Kit

Overall Experience

The EPOMAKER TH80 Pro 75% 80 Keys Hot Swap Bluetooth 5.0/2.4GHz/Wired Keyboard PCB Mounting Plate Kit comes with brand-new pro version features that upgrade its functions. The triple-mode connection, south-facing LEDs, steel plate with foam dampeners, and scroll knob for easy media control provide users with a unique and enjoyable experience.

Product Quality

The EPOMAKER TH80 Pro 75% 80 Keys Hot Swap Bluetooth 5.0/2.4GHz/Wired Keyboard PCB Mounting Plate Kit is made of high-quality materials and features a 3800mAh battery for ultra-long-lasting performance. The steel plate ensures the ultimate performance while the two layers of dampening foams absorb sounds from typing and reduce hallow sound of bottom case.

Performance

The EPOMAKER TH80 Pro 75% 80 Keys Hot Swap Bluetooth 5.0/2.4GHz/Wired Keyboard PCB Mounting Plate Kit is designed for efficient performance with triple modes of connection, Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, and Type-C wired. The south-facing LEDs make the RGB lights show brighter and the scroll knob works as a volume controller with any operating system.

Ease of Use

The EPOMAKER TH80 Pro 75% 80 Keys Hot Swap Bluetooth 5.0/2.4GHz/Wired Keyboard PCB Mounting Plate Kit is easy to use with its automatic switching to Win/Mac mode once connected. It also has compatible software available for more DIY settings, allowing users to make their own effects.

Value for Money

The EPOMAKER TH80 Pro 75% 80 Keys Hot Swap Bluetooth 5.0/2.4GHz/Wired Keyboard PCB Mounting Plate Kit is a great value for money as it provides users with a unique and enjoyable experience with its efficient performance, triple modes of connection, and compatible software for more DIY settings.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros:
    • Brand-new pro version features

#5:GLORIOUS GMMK 2 Gaming Barebones Keyboard Kit

Overall Experience

The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 Gaming Barebones Keyboard Kit offers exceptional craftsmanship and premium performance for an immersive gaming experience. This modular keyboard provides robust coverage, ensuring maximum strength and durability, as well as the ultimate build-your-own keyboard kit.

Product Quality

This gaming keyboard is designed with a sleek, low-profile look and a premium brushed finish. It is equipped with a durable metal top plate for superior strength and ideal weight, as well as double-shot keycaps for enhanced durability. Additionally, it features a thick interior keyboard foam that acts as a dampener, eliminating base ping.

Performance

The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 keyboard is engineered to adapt to your gaming needs. It offers 5-pin hotswap versatility, allowing you to customize your switch setup with support for mechanical switches from Glorious, Cherry, Kailh, Gateron, Glorious Panda Switches, and more. Additionally, it provides 16.8 million RGB options and 18 pre-installed lighting effects, making it essential PC gaming accessories.

Ease of Use

The keyboard is designed for gamers and DIY keyboard enthusiasts, offering an easy-to-use interface and customizability. It is compatible with Windows, Mac IOS, and Linux, and comes with a removable USB-C cord and exchangeable power cord for streamlined connectivity. It also offers Glorious Core software with QMK's open-source configurator to create your own keymaps.

Value for Money

The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 Gaming Barebones Keyboard Kit offers exceptional value for money. It provides an immersive gaming experience, with premium performance and craftsmanship, as well as the convenience of a modular keyboard and customizability.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros:
    • 5-pin hotswap versatility
    • Top-grade metal build
    • Immersive sound experience
    • Vibrant RGB illumination
1
Glorious Custom Gaming Keyboard - GMMK 85% Percent TKL Barebone - USB C Wired Mechanical Keyboard Kit - RGB Hot Swappable Switches & Keycaps - Black Metal Top Plate
  • Score

    Apcstart Score is a ranking system developed by Apcstart.com. Apcstart score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

    9.7
  • Brand
    Glorious PC Gaming Race
2
Keychron V1 Wired Custom Mechanical Keyboard Barebone Version, 75% Layout QMK/VIA Programmable Macro with Hot-swappable Support Compatible with Mac Windows Linux (Frosted Black - Translucent)
  • Score

    Apcstart Score is a ranking system developed by Apcstart.com. Apcstart score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

    9.5
  • Brand
    Keychron
3
BOYI GMK67-65% Keyboard Kit,Hot-Swappable Bluetooth 5.0/2.4G/Type-C Tri-Mode Wireless RGB Mechanical Keyboard PCB Mounting Plate Kit EVA Sound Insulation Mat,Customized Keyboard Kit(White+Knob)
  • Score

    Apcstart Score is a ranking system developed by Apcstart.com. Apcstart score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

    9.3
  • Brand
    BOYI
4
EPOMAKER TH80 Pro 75% 80 Keys Hot Swap Bluetooth 5.0/2.4GHz/Wired Keyboard PCB Mounting Plate Kit with Dampener Foams, South-Facing LEDs, Compatible with 3/5 Pin Switches for Win/Mac PS5 PS4
  • Score

    Apcstart Score is a ranking system developed by Apcstart.com. Apcstart score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

    9.1
  • Brand
    EPOMAKER
5
GLORIOUS GMMK 2 Gaming Barebones Keyboard Kit - Hot Swappable Wired Mechanical Keyboard Base - Modular, RGB Backlit,- PC Setup Accessories- 96%, White
  • Score

    Apcstart Score is a ranking system developed by Apcstart.com. Apcstart score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

    9.0
  • Brand
    GLORIOUS

Last update on 2023-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Common Answers

Keychron V1 Wired Custom Mechanical Keyboard Barebone Version, 75% Layout QMK/VIA Programmable Macro with Hot-swappable Support Compatible with Mac Windows Linux (Frosted Black - Translucent)

The Best Barebones Keyboards of 2023 - Reviews & Buyer's Guide. Image source: Amazon.com

What is a barebones keyboard?

A barebones keyboard is a keyboard without any extra features such as backlighting, macro keys, or other additional components. They are designed to provide basic functionality in a lightweight and cost-effective package.

What are the benefits of a barebones keyboard?

The main benefit of a barebones keyboard is its price. They are typically much cheaper than their feature-laden counterparts. Additionally, they are much more lightweight and require less power than a regular keyboard, making them ideal for mobile use.

What should I look for when purchasing a barebones keyboard?

When purchasing a barebones keyboard, it's important to consider the type of switches used. Different switches offer different levels of feedback, responsiveness, and durability. Additionally, it's important to consider the layout and size of the keyboard, as some may be better suited for certain uses than others.

What are some of the best barebones keyboards?

Some of the best barebones keyboards on the market include the Logitech G413, the Razer Blackwidow Lite, and the Corsair K65. Each of these models offers excellent performance and reliability at a reasonable price.

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Final Words

BOYI GMK67-65% Keyboard Kit,Hot-Swappable Bluetooth 5.0/2.4G/Type-C Tri-Mode Wireless RGB Mechanical Keyboard PCB Mounting Plate Kit EVA Sound Insulation Mat,Customized Keyboard Kit(White+Knob)

The Best Barebones Keyboards of 2023: Find the Perfect Fit for Your Needs. Image source: Amazon.com

In conclusion, I think <Glorious Custom Gaming Keyboard> is one of the best barebones keyboards. It offers intuitive typing experience with excellent tactile feedback. The keyboard is ergonomically designed to provide superior comfort during long typing sessions. All in all, it is the perfect choice for those who want a dependable and reliable keyboard.