GK61 GK61x RGB Hot Swap Independent Driver Tyce-C ANSI Replacable Space Cherry MX Switches Mechanical Keyboard DIY Kit Case Plate PCB

What do you guys know about the GK61 hot swap keyboard kit? It looks mostly pretty good for the price, and I already know the software is questionable but usable. My one concern is the microphone/software privacy. Are there any know privacy issues, or is there any way to disable the microphone?

Oh yeah of course, there are numerous types of hotswappable boards where you can take keyswitches out, and put new ones in without soldering one example here

This?

I am just getting into the Mechanical Keyboard hobby. I am thinking about getting a hot swapable keyboard kit. Can you guys give me some suggestions on what kits I should get and what kind of switches I should get. I currently have my eyes on GH60 GK61 kit. Can you guys help me pick out the best option for me. My total budget for this build is $100.

https://www.amazon.com/Independent-Mechanical-Keyboard-Plastic-Aluminum/dp/B07JVMBMNK/?th=1

Ah thanks! Are you referring to the original gk61 with gateron optical or just the gk61 pcb with a separate case and plate?

Edit: I did some digging and found this, is this what you were referring to?

GK61 GK61x RGB Hot Swap Independent Driver Tyce-C ANSI Replacable Space Cherry MX Switches Mechanical Keyboard DIY Kit Case Plate PCB https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JVMBMNK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_SyUhFbP4EZNHP

I see this comes ready to go besides the switches right?

https://www.amazon.com/Independent-Mechanical-Keyboard-Plastic-Aluminum/dp/B07JVMBMNK/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?keywords=gh60+gk61&qid=1582051645&s=electronics&sr=1-5

One of the best ways a beginner can start on this sub is a hotswap **NON OPTICAL** keyboard, I would recommend the GK61 as it's very cheap and the layout fits all standard sized keycaps. At that point you would want to buy some switches, and some cheap keycaps wherever you can find them. Do you know what kind of switches you prefer? Linear, Tactile, or Clicky?

Edit: Here's the keyboard I'm referring to, they also have a bluetooth option.

The keyboard you listed will only hotswap with other Gateron optical switches nothing else. If you want to be able to experiment with others you could get this

GK61 GK61x RGB Hot Swap Independent Driver Tyce-C ANSI Replacable Space Cherry MX Switches Mechanical Keyboard DIY Kit Case Plate PCB https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JVMBMNK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_aRbXEbDVH6XRC

You’ll have to increase your budget though to buy switches and keycaps but if you’re fine with Gateron then the other one you picked was good too.

I’ve gamed on browns with no problems but I prefer linears. I’d look on YouTube and see what sounds you like.

The key caps work your I wouldn’t buy from KPrepublic they take forever for you to get your order I’m talking a month plus if it even arrives and the switches work. I would buy the gk61 from Amazon or AliExpress here is the Amazon link GK61 GK61x RGB Hot Swap Independent Driver Tyce-C ANSI Replacable Space Cherry MX Switches Mechanical Keyboard DIY Kit Case Plate PCB https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JVMBMNK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_pzT.EbMAE9TEZ

I want to spend around $100 for a 60% keyboard. Should I buy this kit and switches and use some keycaps I have or just buy a Ducky One 2 Mini?

Prebuilt ones use optical switches, the barebone ones where you have to buy the switches and keycaps yourself have standard mechanical hotswap sockets.

This one.

https://www.amazon.com/Independent-Mechanical-Keyboard-Plastic-Aluminum/dp/B07JVMBMNK/ref=sr_1_5?dchild=1&keywords=gk61+barebones&qid=1602215343&sr=8-5

The model I have allows for pcb mounted switches https://www.amazon.com/Independent-Mechanical-Keyboard-Plastic-Aluminum/dp/B07JVMBMNK

gk61 hotswappable https://www.amazon.com/Independent-Mechanical-Keyboard-Plastic-Aluminum/dp/B07JVMBMNK

Thanks. So I assume the GK61x listed here is for non-optical switches? (I don't want optical switches.)

Here you go, apparently the software kind of sucks but for the price and it being a hot swap PCB it’s nice for trying out my first build.

Got it off of Amazon if thats any help. Cant change anything at all without Apply Fail message popping up, its completely unusable software

it is on amazon as well here a bit more expensive but it is kn amazon and still solid. i have exact same keeb rn

but at this point it is like almost same price as gmmk barebones from glorious website

If you don't already have the equipment to desolder, as well as experience desoldering, I feel like it's probably best to just buy more switches so you would essentially have two boards with kailh speed switches. I feel like this would probably be the cheaper route because of the additional cost of desoldering equipment and the potential of ruining the pcb if you don't know what you're doing. On top of that, it would probably be nice to have the old keyboard around if you have trouble getting used to the 60% layout.

If I were you and wanted a cheap 60% with very little work on my end, I would probably get the wired (not bluetooth) version of this board ($49), which needs 61 switches ($19.52 minus shipping from the link I put in a previous comment), though you might want to get a couple more just in case you get some bad switches, and then use the key caps from the board you already have.

This plan doesn't take into account where you live though. I live in the US so this might not work out for you if you live in another country.

Hey,

So I'd not recommend getting any of the low-budget prebuilts on the market. If you are looking for one, the G Pro is a good option. Alternatively, you could go a cheap custom that you can assemble yourself. If you're on a budget; you can go for the gk61.

Keycaps are all your decision - same for the switches.

Happy typing;

Rusty

https://www.amazon.com/Independent-Mechanical-Keyboard-Plastic-Aluminum/dp/B07JVMBMNK if its this model no its plate mount stabs

I don’t think that’s hotswap nor is it available. If recommend this: GK61

this one? They seem to take pcb mount switches as well so you won't need to clip anything.

there are 2 variants of the gk61 one being optical switches https://www.amazon.com/Independent-Mechanical-Keyboard-Plastic-Aluminum/dp/B07JVMBMNK?th=1&psc=1

That is if you buy the prebuilt optical one yes. Heres the link for the one thats hot-swap sockets for 5 or 3 pin switches and even has a bluetooth version and several case choices including different colors of aluminum. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07JVMBMNK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 The largest downside apparently is the software but apparently there was an update to it but I just dont use it never have the factory layout is fine by me.

Yeah thats a fair worry, I got mine off US Amazon heres the link! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JVMBMNK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_LduIEbZ39J2AQ

Hello lefuwu, I'm not sure if any of this information is correct but I'll do my best.

1. Holy Pandas are quite popular for their sound an feel, they are somewhat pricey but otherwise it is considered one of the best tactile switch. Zealios are known for their extremely tactile feel and smoothness. Otherwise the rest I know are browns.
2. A good starter hotswap kit is the GK61X. It is pretty cheap and most complaints about it is because of their software. I think the difference between a bad and good pcb is it's compatibility, software, and other features; however I don't look into pcbs over 75 usd.
3. Lubing affects the feel and sound of a keyboard. It's not too important, but is highly recommended since it can really improve it. Verdict: It will definitely be noticeable but not needed
4. Not sure how wood would affect sound, but my guess is that is would adsorb sound better than metal.
5. A case is not important of how a keyboard feels. (Unless you are constantly holding it and admiring it.) Sound will be noticeable in different material cases.

Amazon currently has a GK61 kit. I got one myself and it has been worth every penny.

https://www.amazon.com/Independent-Mechanical-Keyboard-Plastic-Aluminum/dp/B07JVMBMNK/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=gk61&qid=1589745838&sr=8-1

https://www.amazon.com/Independent-Mechanical-Keyboard-Plastic-Aluminum/dp/B07JVMBMNK/ref=mp_s_a_1_7?keywords=hotswap+keyboard&qid=1577826919&sprefix=hitswap+&sr=8-7

That gk61 is only hot-swappable with other optical switches, so most Mx type switches won’t work with it. You can get a hotswap gk61 with just the pcb, case, and plate from amazon here. The Gk61 pcb will only fit into cases made for the gk61.

I bought this very similar one and it is quite a good budget board. It was the first hotswap board I bought and I didn't realize I can't stand not having arrow keys so I don't use it anymore. The stabs are fairly rattly on mine but I'm sure they'd be much better if you lubed and maybe replaced them. I am planning to buy a barebones one with the same layout as yours to use as a bluetooth keyboard.

I search something like that :
https://www.amazon.com/Independent-Mechanical-Keyboard-Plastic-Aluminum/dp/B07JVMBMNK?th=1

https://www.amazon.com/Independent-Mechanical-Keyboard-Plastic-Aluminum/dp/B07JVMBMNK/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=diy+keyboard&qid=1581993964&sr=8-1

​

Here you go, this is the one that I got, 50 bucks with prime.

To anyone mad they didn't get there forced layout cheap purple plastic not screw in stabalizer or metal not screw in stabalizer overpriced 65% just know you can go get a hot swap 60% with multiple layouts for spacebar on Amazon here and if you want you can get it Bluetooth option as well and spend the money you saved on any case you want for it.... Still not screwed in stabalizers but way better a deal in my opinion. It's not QMK but literaly has every function but tap modding you could want plus has fully addressable RGB and around board Underglow. Plus it comes in a GK64 option here that you get arrow keys but is a 1u shift which isn't my personal favorite but watever floats your boat..... Fits in wieghted 60 case, Tofu, 5 degree angle case all from kbdfans and any other normal layout case you can imagine

Probably this - https://www.pcgamingrace.com/products/the-glorious-gmmk-compact-pre-built

custom for a similar price? - This with any switch you want + keycaps - https://www.amazon.com/Independent-Mechanical-Keyboard-Plastic-Aluminum/dp/B07JVMBMNK/ref=sr_1_3?crid=2PBIZXCXRR3PL&dchild=1&keywords=gk61&qid=1596474128&sprefix=dye+syb+keycaps%2Caps%2C238&sr=8-3

https://www.amazon.com/Independent-Mechanical-Keyboard-Plastic-Aluminum/dp/B07JVMBMNK/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=GK61+Hot+Swappable&qid=1583127118&s=electronics&sr=1-1

https://www.amazon.com/Independent-Bluetooth-Mechanical-Keyboard-Plastic/dp/B07JVMBMNK/ref=sr_1_4

is this a good bare bones hotswappable board? Im trying to get a good one less than $70

I have a gk61 (although its been heavily modded as i added dampening foam, new stabilizers, and a new case) but overall it has held up pretty well.

Here is a link to the gk61

These are the gateron yellows I was talking about

https://www.amazon.com/Independent-Mechanical-Keyboard-Plastic-Aluminum/dp/B07JVMBMNK this should be good and then you can buy your own switches, plus lube most likely and if you can stretch the budget probably new stabs however it is unnecessary.

I mean, this one is substantially less expensive: https://www.amazon.com/Independent-Mechanical-Keyboard-Plastic-Aluminum/dp/B07JVMBMNK

The only difference is the plate on this one is plastic instead of aluminum. Note that both have plastic case.

But yeah, looks like it says the RGB is already on the board, so you should be able to buy keycaps and switches and plug them in. But do some research first because you'll probably want to at least lube, clip and bandaid your stabs, if not lube your switches as well. Although... since it's hotswap, you could always do that later.

I mean, probably your cheapest option is a gk61 with hotswap terminals, like this one right here

Off course you have other options, probably even cheaper ones but rn that's the only one that comes to my mind

gk61: https://www.amazon.com/Independent-Mechanical-Keyboard-Plastic-Aluminum/dp/B07JVMBMNK

gk64: https://m.aliexpress.com/item/4000993753892.html?_randl_currency=USD&_randl_shipto=US&src=google&albch=shopping&acnt=494-037-6276&isdl=y&slnk=&plac=&mtctp=&albbt=Google_7_shopping&aff_platform=google&aff_short_key=UneMJZVf&&albagn=888888&albcp=9765122064&albag=101238896618&trgt=892975210062&crea=en4000993753892&netw=u&device=m&albpg=892975210062&albpd=en4000993753892&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI7YChh9Wh6wIVaf7jBx0RBw3tEAQYAiABEgIxvvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

kit complete

you could pick up something like a gk61 and order gat yellows and put them in it, then just get some keycaps, no soldering, you just put it in the socket.

Easiest option is the GK61

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JVMBMNK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_bGgQFbC8J4JMS

But since you asked DIY and just want the experience of putting a keyboard together then 1upkeyboards has a 60% hotswap pcb that restocked not too long ago. (~$50)

https://www.1upkeyboards.com/shop/controllers/1up-rgb-pcb-hse/

Doesn't look like they have any plates available for 60% but they have cases for around $50 and a cheap clear case for like $20. Just keep in mind the hotswap PCB i listed earlier only has underglow so if you're into that you'll need a case that can utilize that.

Plates you can get off KBDfans for around $20-$40 depending on if you go Aluminum or Brass.

Switches and keycaps are entirely dependant on your preference so the price for this can vary.

Since KBD does cost a bit more to ship it may be more cost efficient to get a bulk of what you need from there and get the PCB separately from 1up.

Just finished my first custom mechanical keyboard! Just in time for the end of the school year too.

Specs:

Pulse SA keycaps

Zeal Zilents V2 67g

GK61 kit (will probably upgrade later)

Well, my friend, that is a topic that would take a long, long time to get through.

As a starting point, def check out /r/MechanicalKeyboards - just browsing around will give you a good idea of the type of stuff that is possible, depending on your skill level. As far as actually buying the stuff you need, mechanicalkeyboards.com and kbdfans.cn are great places to start. There are countless others, but in terms of ease of use, you can't beat something like kbdfans.cn - even ordering from somewhere else like amazon the chances of it coming from that site are high.

Next, your skill level- if you haven't soldered before and don't really want to, your options are limited to hot swap boards- these are keyboards that allow you to physically remove the switches and insert new ones. These can range from actually pretty cheap to crazy expensive. All up to you on how fast you wanna dive in. If you have soldered before/are willing to learn, your options are more or less endless. I want to take the time here to say that it is something that is worth doing. Unless your motorskills are absolute trash, soldering key switches to a keyboard is fairly painless. I'm terrible at stuff like that and it was a breeze for me to learn.

If I had to summarize everything, and give you a one shot, HERE TRY THIS in the hope that it leads you down a path of a great hobby - I would go with one of many GH60 hot swap boards: (https://www.amazon.com/Independent-Mechanical-Keyboard-Plastic-Aluminum/dp/B07JVMBMNK)

They are hardly top of the line, and a lot of people will knock them (elitest, mostly) but you will also see plenty of people who love them. The stabilizers aren't great but if you lube them up a bit it should help a tad. This way, you can go about purchasing switches at your leisure, and even swap them out in a few months if you want to. You can take your time researching and watching youtube videos to find out which switch you'd like to try. (You mentioned noise, so a good starting point is some kind of linear switch like Gateron Ink or Creams - crazy smooth and quiet switches that can be dropped even more with some lube)

This is predicated on the idea that you might be interested in picking up the hobby, and will eventually aquire multiple boards and are willing to spend a little bit of money in the future (think that is crazy? spend a few more minutes at /r/MechanicalKeyboards :P)

If this doesn't sound like a great idea to you, and you'd like to get something a little more quality, the two (hot swap boards, as these are probably best for people who don't really know what kind of switch they prefer. In fact I recommend EVERYONE try different switches from time to time, as you tastes might change. I never thought I'd use linears and I type this on some Gateron Inks right now) I'd shoot for are::

Glorious GMMK Hotswap Keyboard The nice thing about the GMMK is it comes in any size you want, a decent upgraded stabilizer and still gives you the ability to hot swap you switches. W/O caps and switches this thing comes in <$100 - a great value and amazing starter board!

Drop Alt This one skyrockets our price point, but the quality is there to back it up. It isn't that the other two mentioned are bad... this board is just built really, really well. Same with the GMMK, this comes in all three sizes however here they are under different names (Alt, Ctrl, Shift). This board gets a decent amount of love over on /r/mk which is saying something - those guys and gals hate everything. This would be a board you'd plan on buying and it would sit on your desk for a while- a long while! Should ben noted that with the Alt you have a very custom layout so finding keycaps is almost impossible for it.

yeah, take a look at this screenshot from one of the images on the amazon listing, that's not the usual hotswap socket that most switches use.

edit: and compare that to the gk61x, the hotswap sockets are the usual round hole with 2 offset holes underneath for the switch pins

What exactly are you looking for in a keyboard? Is wireless a big deal? Do you care about hot-swap? What is your budget?

If your budget only allows for those two, personally I would get something second-hand, or maybe a HyperX Alloy FPS Pro, which will likely last longer and be better built than those.

If you want hot-swap, you could get the standard GK61 (although the software is horrible), or something like the GMMK compact. The version of the GK61 you linked is only compatible with Gateron optical switches, making the hot-swappable functionality way less useful.

Personally I wouldn't get wireless because it almost always costs more (or is less quality for the same price), has lag, and I hate batteries – but if it's a must have, I'd get an Anne Pro 2.

Otherwise I would get the Ducky One 2 Mini, as it is the best pre-built 60% board on the market in my opinion.

I just created a mechanical keyboard parts list, and I want to know if these parts are compatible:

Base + PCB: https://www.amazon.com/Independent-Mechanical-Keyboard-Plastic-Aluminum/dp/B07JVMBMNK

Switches: https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=1643

Keycaps: https://www.amazon.sg/Keycaps-Profile-Mechanical-Keyboard-Keycap/dp/B071ZZ8XPH

Tell me what you think, and thanks in advance.

Tkl is gonna be hard to find for that budget. https://www.amazon.com/swappable-Custom-Mechanical-Keyboard-Switch/dp/B07YZMJNM1/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=Yc96&qid=1591532933&sr=8-1

This kit comes with everything except switches and keycaps. I would mod the stabs though. That keyboard has a weird layout so here are some keycaps: https://www.amazon.com/YMDK-Suitable-Mechanical-Keyboard-Standard/dp/B07Q87PZXN/ref=psdc_12879431_t2_B07YZMJCYF

You could do 60% and it would be a lot easier to find keycaps: https://www.amazon.com/Independent-Mechanical-Keyboard-Plastic-Aluminum/dp/B07JVMBMNK/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=Gk61&qid=1591533173&s=electronics&sr=1-3

Gateron yellows: https://kbdfans.com/products/smd-gateron-swtich?variant=35743516045