Best DIY Custom Mechanical Keyboard Kits 2026

Updated: July, 2026

Are you tired of the same old keyboards on the market? Want a truly unique keyboard that belongs to you? Then, a DIY custom mechanical keyboard may be your best choice. Now it is not a difficult thing to customize your own mechanical keyboard because of the variety of DIY kits available on the market. In this article, we’ll explore the best DIY custom mechanical keyboard kits tailored to different needs and preferences.

What is a Custom Mechanical Keyboard Kit?

A mechanical keyboard kit is a package of components prepackaged for construction into a mechanical keyboard to individual tastes and preferences. Unlike ready-made keyboards, these kits allow the user to select and install desired switches and keycaps, among other optional features. This flexibility could easily result in the best customizations in terms of looks, typing feel, and functionality.

Components:

Case: The obvious part for the keyboard kit you can get is the case. It is usually made of plastic, metal, wood, resin, or other materials. The case can protect the internal components; it also determines the appearance of the keyboard; in addition, it affects the typefeel of the keyboard.

PCB: PCB is the Printed Circuit Board. It connects all the keys to the computer motherboard. The circuit design of the keyboard and the signal transmission and processing of the keyboard are determined by the PCB. In addition, for some high-end custom kits, PCB also integrate RGB lighting control modules to achieve rich lighting effects.

Plate: A metal or plastic layer that holds the switches in place. Available in materials like aluminum, brass, or polycarbonate, each affecting typing feel and sound.

Foam: Foam is used to reduce the noise generated when typing on the keyboard.

Knob: For some kits, there is a knob for additional functionality.

What to Look for in a DIY Keyboard Kit?

Before diving into the best options, it’s important to understand what makes a great DIY keyboard kit:

Case color and material

As we have talked, the case determines the appearance of the keyboard.

Choosing the case color you like is important. If you like the concise style, the white cases may suit you. If you want to create a mechanical industrial style or cyberpunk style, the black shells are more suitable. 

High-quality materials, like aluminum or acrylic cases, ensure durability and a premium feel.

Hot swappable PCB

Hot swappable PCBs bring us great convenience for changing the switches and other upgrades. Besides, the PCB may also be responsible for the RGB lighting effects of the keyboard, so if RGB lighting effects are required, a PCB board with corresponding functions should be selected.

If you prefer a PCB compatible with solderable switches, simply choose the one that suits your needs.

Layout

The layout determines the number, size, and position of the keys on the keyboard. Common layouts include 100%, 80%, 60%, etc. The specific choice should be determined according to personal usage habits and needs. 

For example, the 100% layout includes a complete numeric area and keypad, which is suitable for users who need comprehensive functions, while the 60% layout is more compact, suitable for portability or saving desktop space.

Customization features

Look for kits that support RGB lighting or programmable firmware like QMK or VIA for added personalization.

Budget

A proper budget is important.  You know, for the mechanical keyboard, in addition to the kit, you have to purchase the extra keycaps and switches.  At the same time, you also need to consider possible future upgrades and maintenance costs.

Best DIY Custom Mechanical Keyboard Kits 2026

Product	Best For	Layout	Key Highlights	Ideal Users
Monsgeek M1 V5 DIY Kit	Best for Beginners	75% Layout	Rapid Disassemble Design, VIA Support, 8000mAh Battery, Custom Knob, Aluminum Case	First-time custom keyboard builders who want an easy and beginner-friendly DIY experience
5075 VIA DIY Kit	Best for Budget Builders	75% Layout	VIA Support, Hot-swappable PCB, RGB Backlight, Custom Knob, Affordable Price	Users looking for essential DIY features at a great value
Akko Mineral 01 VIA DIY Kit	Best for Premium 75% Custom Builds	75% Layout	CNC Aluminum Case, Gasket Mount, VIA Support, Tri-mode Connectivity, 8000mAh Battery	Enthusiasts who want a premium-looking and highly customizable 75% keyboard
Monsgeek M2 V5 VIA DIY Kit	Best for Compact Full-Size Experience	1800 Compact Layout	Numpad, Quick Disassembly Design, VIA Support, Tri-mode Connectivity, Sound-Dampening Foams	Users who need full-size functionality with a more compact desk setup
Akko Mineral 02 VIA DIY Kit	Best for Compact Productivity Builds	1800 Compact Layout	CNC Aluminum Case, Gasket Mount, VIA Support, Tri-mode Connectivity, 8000mAh Battery	Professionals and productivity users who need a numpad with premium customization

Best for Beginners: Monsgeek M1 V5 DIY Kit

Why it's great: Here are two reasons why the Monsgeek M1 V5 DIY Kit is best for newcomers.

The rapid disassemble design can enable first-time builders to assemble and modify the keyboard with ease. This design reduces complexity, making it less intimidating for beginners while allowing easy adjustments or repairs.

Monsgeek M1 V5 DIY Kit supports VIA, which means beginners can explore customization without feeling overwhelmed by complex firmware tools. And with VIA, changes to key configurations are applied instantly, making it easy for beginners to experiment and see results immediately. 

Key features:

• VIA Support
• Rapid Disassemble Design
• 8000mAh Battery
• RGB Backlit
• Custom Knob
• Aluminum Case

Best for Budget Builders: 5075 VIA DIY Kit

Why it's great: You don't want to miss the 5075 VIA DIY Kit because it offers excellent value for money. All essential features are supported with a reasonable price. 

It supports VIA for easy key remapping, and the hot-swappable PCB ensures flexibility for switch choices.

Key features:

• 75% Layout
• Hotswap Socket
• N-Key Rollover
• Plate Mount Stabilizer
• RGB Backlit
• Custom Knob

Best for Premium 75% Custom Builds: Mineral 01 VIA DIY Kit

Why it's great: Here are two reasons why the Akko Mineral 01 VIA DIY Kit is a great choice for premium 75% custom keyboard builds.

The CNC aluminum case and refined curved design give the Mineral 01 a premium look and solid typing experience that stands out from typical DIY kits. Combined with a gasket mount structure, it delivers a softer and more comfortable typing feel for long sessions.

The VIA support and rapid disassemble design make customization easier than ever. Users can quickly adjust key mappings, modify components, and fine-tune their keyboard setup without complicated processes, making it ideal for both experienced enthusiasts and users entering the custom keyboard hobby.

Key features:

• CNC Aluminum Case
• 75% Layout
• VIA Support
• Gasket Mount Structure
• Tri-mode Connectivity
• 8000mAh Battery

Best for Compact Full-Size Experience: Monsgeek M2 V5 VIA DIY Kit

Why it's great: Here are two reasons why the Monsgeek M2 V5 is the best choice for users who want a full-featured keyboard in a compact form.

First, the 1800 compact layout offers the functionality of a full-size keyboard—including the number pad—without taking up extra desk space. This makes it ideal for those who need productivity features like the numpad but prefer a cleaner and more compact setup.

Second, the multi-mode connectivity with an 8000mAh battery ensures seamless switching between devices via wired, Bluetooth, or 2.4GHz wireless. This is especially valuable for users who work across multiple platforms and want both flexibility and long battery life.

Key features:

• 1800 Compact Layout (With Numpad)
• Quick Disassembly Design
• VIA Support for Easy Keymap Customization
• Tri-Mode Connectivity (USB-C, Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz)
• 8000mAh Rechargeable Battery
• Hot-Swappable PCB
• Aluminum Case with Sound-Dampening Foams

Best for Compact Productivity Builds: Mineral 02 VIA DIY Kit

Why it's great: Here are two reasons why the Akko Mineral 02 VIA DIY Kit is ideal for users who want productivity features in a compact custom keyboard.

The 1800-style layout keeps essential keys and a dedicated numpad while reducing unnecessary desk space compared with a traditional full-size keyboard. It provides an efficient layout for work, programming, and daily productivity without sacrificing functionality.

With a premium aluminum case, gasket mount structure, and VIA support, the Mineral 02 offers a highly customizable typing experience with a refined build quality. Whether adjusting key layouts or personalizing the keyboard feel, users can easily create a setup that matches their workflow.

Key features:

• 1800 Compact Layout
• CNC Aluminum Case
• VIA Support
• Gasket Mount Structure
• Tri-mode Connectivity
• 8000mAh Battery

Conclusion

DIY keyboard kits allow you to create a personalized typing experience tailored to your preferences. From beginner-friendly options like the Monsgeek M1 V5 VIA Kit to advanced kits like the MonsGeek M5 QMK DIY Kit, there’s something for everyone. With the right kit, you can build a mechanical keyboard that’s not only functional but also a true reflection of your style.

Start your DIY journey today and enjoy the satisfaction of building your own custom mechanical keyboard!