Best Customizable Mechanical Keyboards You Can Buy

July 05, 2025 | 12 min read

Looking for a keyboard that feels just right? Customizable mechanical keyboards let you pick everything from the switches to the keycaps - even the sound it makes when you type. Whether you're into gaming, typing, or just love cool gear, there's a perfect match out there. Here's a list of some of the best customizable options you can get your hands on right now.

Wordrunner: A Keyboard Built for Writing

Before we get into our list of customizable mechanical keyboards, we want to highlight a keyboard that stands apart for a different reason.

We createdWordrunner for writers who care more about getting words on the page than swapping out plates or tuning foam. It is not a custom kit you have to build yourself, yet it brings a set of features no other off-the-shelf board offers. At the center of it all is our 8-digit mechanical Wordometer, a physical counter that tracks your word count in real time and keeps the total visible even when the keyboard is powered off.

Wordrunner pairs that Wordometer with a built-in sprint timer, a media joystick, and a refreshed function row made for writing instead of gaming. We kept the build simple to set up but solid to use: die-cast aluminum body, tactile switches, and gasket mounting for a comfortable feel. Everything you need is on board so you can focus on hitting your next milestone, whether you are drafting a novel or knocking out daily journaling.

Because the board works over USB-C or Bluetooth and can connect to up to four devices, you can take your writing from laptop to tablet without missing a beat. Our goal was to give writers a dedicated, professional-grade tool that pushes them forward every time they sit down to type.

Key Points

8-digit mechanical Wordometer shows session, project, or lifetime word counts
Built-in sprint timer with adjustable intervals and simple start-stop controls
Joystick for quick media and volume adjustments without leaving the keyboard
Reimagined function row with Find, Replace, Print, Undo, and three macro keys
Gasket-mounted aluminum chassis with sound-dampening layers and tactile switches
Wired USB-C plus Bluetooth support for up to three wireless connections

Why Wordrunner Stands Out

Adds real-time word tracking that keeps momentum high during writing sessions
Ready out of the box with no need for switch swapping or complex assembly
Durable materials and rated switches make it a long-term writing companion
Fits seamlessly into multi-device workflows by switching connections with one keystroke

Head to theWordrunner Kickstarter to see everything it comes with.

Now, let’s check out some customizable keyboards for those who love dialing in every detail of their setup.

1. Keykobo Moon Rabbit

The Keykobo Moon Rabbit keycap set uses a white, red, and blue color scheme based on White Rabbit candies. It is produced in Cherry profile ABS with doubleshot legends for main colors and UV-printed sublegends. Optional novelty caps replace standard keys with themed artwork, and a deskmat in matching colors is available.

The set is offered in several kits including a base kit, novelties, numpad, and a red stripe accent kit. The deskmat measures 900 x 400 x 4 mm and features a cloth top, rubber bottom, and stitched edges. Keykobo’s tooling supports standard layouts as well as many popular compact formats.

Key Points

Cherry profile ABS keycaps with doubleshot legends
UV-printed sublegends on selected keys
Optional novelty, numpad, and accent kits
Matching deskmat in 900 x 400 x 4 mm size
Compatible with full-size, TKL, and compact layouts

Why This Choice

Colorway offers a recognizable candy-inspired theme
Multiple kits allow coverage for different keyboard sizes
Standard Cherry profile suits common typing preferences
Doubleshot construction keeps legends distinct over time

2. KBD8X MKIII

The KBD8X MKIII is an 80 percent keyboard kit that pairs a classic low front height with a 7 degree typing angle. The aluminum case comes in both anodised and e coated finishes, and supports either WK or WKL layouts. A wider stainless steel or brass weight bar anchors the case while an acrylic ambient light module adds a subtle glow.

Build options are extensive. Three PCB versions cover hot swap ANSI, hot swap ISO, and solder layouts, each supported by QMK and VIA. Four plate materials balance different typing feels, and a dual top mount or silicone gasket system lets users tune firmness. The kit ships with a carrying case, silicone socks, and basic tools, and the completed board weighs about 2.7 kg with keycaps installed.

Key Points

Dual top mount or silicone gasket mounting system
Hot swap ANSI, hot swap ISO, and solder PCB options with QMK and VIA support
Plate choices in polycarbonate, FR4, aluminum, and carbon fiber
Case finishes in multiple anodised and e coated colors
Wide stainless steel or brass weight bar and acrylic ambient light module included

Why This Choice

Fits users who want an 80 percent layout with extensive customization
Hot swap PCBs allow switch changes without soldering
Heavy build reduces desk movement and alters sound profile
Color and plate variety makes it easier to match different desk setups

3. Bauer Lite

The Bauer Lite is a 65 percent injection-molded keyboard kit designed to offer a full custom keyboard experience in a more accessible format. It features a hot-swap PCB, allowing for easy switch installation without soldering, and supports QMK and VIA for layout customization. The compact layout includes arrow keys and navigation keys while keeping the footprint minimal.

Each kit includes top and bottom enclosures, plate, foam, rubber feet, bumpers, and basic tools. The board uses a unique breakaway plate design to support both full and split-backspace layouts. Users can mix and match tops, bottoms, and plates for custom color combinations, and the VIA software allows for simple remapping of keys and macros directly in a web browser.

Key Points

65 percent layout with hot-swap support
Injection-molded plastic case in various color options
VIA and QMK programmable for layout customization
Includes foam layers, rubber bumpers, and assembly tools
Compatible with both full and split-backspace layouts via breakaway plate

Why This Choice

Designed for beginners but supports deeper customization
Lightweight materials for easy handling and setup
Customizable layout and key functions using browser-based software
Flexible case and plate combinations to match different styles

4. Mode Sonnet

The Mode Sonnet is a 75 percent mechanical keyboard kit built around a mix of modular components and high-end finishes. The board supports both solder and hot-swap PCBs, allowing users to choose their preferred method for installing switches. Layout options include function row and navigation keys in a compact format. The Sonnet is known for its layered construction, with separate top, bottom, plate, internal weight, and accent pieces.

Customization plays a central role in the Sonnet's design. Users can select from a variety of materials and finishes for each part of the keyboard, including polycarbonate, FR4, aluminum, carbon fiber, and copper. The internal weight and optional foam kits provide flexibility in sound and typing feel. It also includes rubber feet, and supports both VIA and QMK for key remapping and macros.

Key Points

75 percent layout with support for hot-swap or solder PCBs
Modular design with separate top, bottom, accent, plate, and internal weight
Material options include aluminum, polycarbonate, carbon fiber, and copper
Optional foam kit includes case, plate, and PE foam layers
QMK and VIA compatible for full key customization

Why This Choice

Offers a wide range of finish and material combinations
Compact layout with function row and arrow keys included
Flexible build options for users with different skill levels
Designed to balance customizability with visual consistency

5. Pwnage Ultra Custom Mechanical Keyboard

The Pwnage Ultra Custom is a full-size mechanical keyboard built around fast response times and high flexibility for customization. It features hot-swappable Gateron optical switches, which are designed for low-latency input and a long switch lifespan. Users can choose between three switch types: Linear Red, Tactile Brown, and Clicky Blue, depending on their preferred typing or gaming style.

Customization is a major focus of this keyboard. Users can swap the top plate, keycaps, switches, and even the USB-C cable without tools. The keyboard includes pre-installed noise dampening foam, RGB lighting with multiple effects, and three adjustable height settings. While designed with gaming performance in mind, the keyboard supports a wide range of visual and functional modifications for everyday use.

Key Points

Full-size layout with 105 keys
Hot-swappable Gateron optical switches: linear, tactile, or clicky
Doubleshot PBT shine-through keycaps
Customizable RGB backlighting and lighting modes
Toolless top plate and keycap swaps

Why This Choice

Suitable for users who want plug-and-play customization
Supports both typing and gaming preferences with optical switches
Pre-installed sound dampening foam enhances typing feel
Offers multiple colorway combinations for personal setups

6. Corgi Fairlady Alice with PBTfans Rim R2

The Corgi Fairlady Alice is a 65 percent keyboard with a split ergonomic layout, often referred to as an “Alice” layout. It includes an aluminum case with E-coating in various color options and is built around a tri-mode flex-cut PCB. This board supports wired, Bluetooth, and 2.4 GHz wireless connections, though it ships without a battery by default due to shipping limitations.

Inside the case, the keyboard uses a foam gasket mount paired with a variety of plate materials: FR4, polycarbonate, and polypropylene. These options allow users to adjust the typing feel from firm to soft. The keyboard includes a matching aluminum wrist rest and comes with pre-selected keycaps from the PBTfans Rim R2 set, creating a complete out-of-the-box setup for users who prefer minimal assembly.

Key Points

65 percent Alice layout with E-coated aluminum case
Tri-mode PCB (wired, Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz) with per-key RGB support
Multiple plate materials included: FR4, PC, and PP
Comes with aluminum wrist rest and PBTfans Rim R2 keycap set
Foam kit included with case, plate, PCB, and PE layers

Why This Choice

Suits users looking for a pre-assembled ergonomic keyboard option
Offers multiple mounting and plate choices to fine-tune typing feel
Includes both function and comfort-focused features in one kit
Compact layout helps reduce hand movement during extended use

7. Keychron Q1 HE

The Keychron Q1 HE is a 75 percent wireless mechanical keyboard that features Gateron double-rail magnetic Hall Effect switches. This keyboard supports adjustable actuation points, dynamic rapid triggering, and 4-in-1 action keys, meaning each key can register different functions depending on how far it’s pressed. These features are designed to enhance responsiveness, particularly for gaming scenarios.

The board has a full aluminum case, double-gasket mounting system, and south-facing RGB lighting. It connects via wired USB-C, Bluetooth 5.1, or 2.4 GHz wireless, and supports VIA and QMK for full key remapping. The Q1 HE is compatible only with specific magnetic switches sold by Keychron. It also includes screw-in stabilizers and an open-source firmware for advanced customization.

Key Points

75 percent layout with all-aluminum case and double-gasket design
Gateron magnetic switches with adjustable actuation and rapid trigger
2.4 GHz wireless, Bluetooth, and wired USB-C connections
QMK and VIA programmable with per-key customization
South-facing RGB and OSA profile PBT keycaps (on assembled models)

Why This Choice

Suitable for users seeking precise control and fast key response
Supports multiple device connections for flexible use
Offers deeper switch customization through magnetic sensing
Combines performance features with a durable metal build

8. GMMK PRO Barebones 75%

The GMMK PRO is a 75 percent mechanical keyboard base designed for users who want full control over customization. It comes in a CNC-machined aluminum case and supports hot-swappable 3 and 5-pin switches, so you can install and change your preferred mechanical switches without soldering. The layout includes arrow keys and function row keys, fitting between a compact and full-size format.

This barebones kit does not include switches or keycaps, giving users the freedom to choose their own. It also includes per-key RGB lighting, a programmable rotary knob, and gasket mounting for a softer, quieter typing feel. The board is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux, and can be configured with Glorious CORE software or used out of the box with basic functionality.

Key Points

75 percent layout with 82-key compact form
CNC aluminum case with gasket-mounted plate
Hot-swappable PCB supports both 3-pin and 5-pin switches
Per-key RGB lighting and programmable rotary knob
Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux systems

Why This Choice

Offers a sturdy aluminum build with room for full personalization
Ideal for users who prefer selecting their own switches and keycaps
Includes quality-of-life features like rotary control and hot-swap support
Suits both everyday productivity and gaming with a balance of size and function

9. Womier SK65

The Womier SK65 is a 65 percent wireless mechanical keyboard featuring a CNC aluminum case and a gasket-mounted design. It comes with 66 keys and a rotary knob, and supports three types of connectivity: wired USB-C, Bluetooth, and 2.4 GHz wireless. The board is built with a hot-swappable PCB that supports both 3-pin and 5-pin switches, making it easy to swap out switches without soldering.

Internally, the SK65 includes layered sound-absorbing foams and flex-cut FR4 or nylon plates, depending on the version. The included Womier POM linear switches are pre-lubed, and the south-facing RGB lighting enhances visibility under Cherry profile double-shot PBT keycaps. The board is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux, and recent versions support QMK and VIA for key remapping.

Key Points

65 percent layout with CNC aluminum case and rotary knob
Hot-swappable PCB with flex cuts for 3/5 pin switch support
Tri-mode connectivity: wired, Bluetooth, and 2.4 GHz wireless
South-facing RGB LEDs with layered foam for sound dampening
QMK/VIA support available on select versions

Why This Choice

Offers a compact layout with wireless and wired flexibility
Easy to modify thanks to hot-swap sockets and VIA compatibility
Suitable for users looking for a ready-to-use yet customizable board
Includes premium materials and build features for its class

10. Varmilo Minilo 65%

The Varmilo Minilo 65% is a compact mechanical keyboard that balances design, functionality, and quiet operation. It features 67 keys in a 65 percent layout, maintaining essential keys like arrows while saving desk space. The board comes in several color themes, including Bluebell, Eucalyptus, Latte, and Mendozae, each using a layered color design for a distinctive appearance.

The keyboard is available in different connectivity options: wired only, dual-mode, or tri-mode (wired, Bluetooth, and 2.4 GHz). The tri-mode version supports hot-swappable switches and RGB lighting, while others offer white backlighting. Users can choose from a wide range of switch types, including Kailh Prestige Silent, Varmilo EC switches, and more. The board has a bottom mount structure and a plastic case with a soft-touch finish.

Key Points

65 percent layout with 67 keys and compact footprint
Options for wired, dual-mode, or tri-mode wireless connectivity
Available with a variety of pre-lubed switch types
Double-shot ABS keycaps in Cherry profile
Hot-swap and RGB support included in tri-mode model

Why This Choice

Suitable for users wanting a quiet keyboard for shared spaces
Offers different versions to fit various needs and budgets
Compact size makes it ideal for minimalist or portable setups
Broad switch selection allows for personalized typing experience

11. Satisfaction75 / Sat75 X

The Satisfaction75 is a 75 percent mechanical keyboard designed with a focus on professional use and personal customization. It includes a rotary knob and a small OLED screen, giving users extra functionality for adjusting volume, displaying system info, or managing macros. The board has seen two limited production runs, with continued interest among enthusiasts.

The newer Sat75 X version builds on the original design but introduces a lighter, more portable polycarbonate case. It features refined internals and offers both hot-swap and solder PCB options. The board is fully programmable through QMK and VIA, and it supports multiple plate materials, layout configurations, and additional accessories for tuning sound and feel.

Key Points

75 percent layout with OLED screen and rotary knob
Available in aluminum or lightweight polycarbonate case (Sat75 X)
Supports QMK and VIA for full key remapping and macros
Hot-swap and solder PCB options with refined internals
Multiple plate and case part options for custom builds

Why This Choice

Combines form and function with an intuitive layout and extra features
Ideal for users wanting both aesthetic appeal and workflow control
Offers long-term flexibility through modular components
Suited for desk setups where space and performance both matter

12. Divinikey x Modokey Tess65

The Divinikey x Modokey Tess65 is a 65 percent mechanical keyboard kit designed in collaboration with Modokey, focusing on flexibility and cost efficiency. It features a 6063 aluminum case and supports both gasket and top mount configurations. The board offers compatibility with several plate materials, including FR4, aluminum, polycarbonate, and polypropylene. Users can choose between wired and tri-mode PCBs, making it suitable for both stationary and wireless setups.

Customization options include multiple case colors, as well as interchangeable badge and weight pieces in various aluminum and stainless steel finishes. The hot-swappable PCB supports VIA or VIAL depending on the version, and the kit includes a complete foam kit for tuning acoustics. The Tess65 is built with a 7-degree typing angle and supports ANSI or Tsangan bottom row layouts.

Key Points

65 percent layout with support for ANSI and Tsangan bottom rows
6063 aluminum case with top or gasket mounting styles
Multiple PCB options: wired (VIAL) or tri-mode (VIA)
Includes a full foam kit and swappable badge and weight parts
Plate options in FR4, PC, aluminum, and PP

Why This Choice

Supports both wired and wireless setups with high polling rates
Designed for easy customization of feel, acoustics, and appearance
Balanced approach to price and build quality for entry to mid-level users
Offers flexibility in layout and typing feel with plate and mounting options

Final Thoughts

Customizable mechanical keyboards offer a unique way to fine-tune your setup to match how you work, play, and express your personal style. Whether you're focused on performance, sound, aesthetics, or comfort, there’s a keyboard out there that fits your exact needs. From beginner-friendly kits to enthusiast-grade builds, the options listed above show just how flexible and creative this hobby can be.

As you explore different layouts, switches, and materials, keep in mind what matters most to you - whether it's wireless convenience, a specific typing feel, or a standout design. Building or choosing a custom keyboard isn't just about specs, it's about creating something that feels right for you.