Building a 100% mechanical keyboard from a kit lets you tailor every keystroke, sound, and lighting to your workflow. The following guide highlights five top-rated DIY kits that support full-size layouts, VIA or QMK programmability, and tri-mode connectivity. Whether you want a screen and volume knob, hot-swappable switches, or gasket-mounted builds, these kits offer strong foundations for a personalized typing experience.
| Product | Brand | Connectivity | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| ZMX GMK104 (Black) | ZMX | BT5.0/2.4GHz/USB-C | Screen & Knob, VIA programmable, NKRO 104 keys |
| ZMX GMK104 (White) | ZMX | BT5.0/2.4GHz/USB-C | Screen & Knob, VIA programmable, NKRO 104 keys |
| GMK104 Barebones (Black) | BOYI | BT5.0/2.4GHz/USB-C | Smart display, VIA/VK programming, gasket mount |
| GMK108 Barebones (Black) | BOYI | BT5.0/2.4GHz/USB-C | Gasket-mounted, triple connectivity, 4000mAh battery |
| FKZ GMK104 (Black) | FKZ | BT5.0/2.4G/USB-C | Smart display, VIA software, full 104 keys |
Note: The kits listed emphasize full-size layouts, programmable keys, and modern wireless or wired options. All allow customization via VIA or QMK software, letting you tailor macros, lighting, and key remaps for gaming, coding, or heavy typing sessions. The focus here is on 100% keyboards that include a screen or knob option, hot-swapping, and gasket mounting variants that enhance acoustics and feel.
ZMX GMK104 With Screen And Knob (Black)
The ZMX GMK104 kit integrates a multifunctional screen and a metal volume knob within a full-size 104-key layout. It supports NKRO for reliable key registration, ensuring every keystroke is captured during intense gaming or rapid typing. The VIA programmable keyboard kit allows full 104-key customization, enabling complex macros, remapping, and multi-layer lighting effects. This kit’s wireless options combine BT5.0 and a 2.4GHz dongle with USB-C wired mode, making it versatile for desktops and laptops alike. The built-in display supports real-time customization of images, with two multimedia buttons to control backlight and screen power.
ZMX GMK104 With Screen And Knob (White)
This white variant mirrors the Black model’s feature set, offering a 104-key full-size keyboard with NKRO, a smart display, and a metal volume knob. VIA compatibility makes it straightforward to tailor keymaps and macros, so you can optimize layouts for coding, data entry, or gaming. The kit supports multiple connection modes (Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz, and USB-C wired), helping users switch between devices without reconfiguring. The screen lets you preview images or status displays, and FN-F1 to F12 combinations provide quick access to macros and lighting profiles.
GMK104 Barebones With Screen & Knob (Black)
The BOYI GMK104 Barebones kit emphasizes DIY customization with a built-in smart display and volume knob. Its barebones design enables you to add your preferred switches and keycaps while leveraging VIA to program all 104 keys. The display supports real-time image updates, making it easy to monitor lighting and macro states. The VIA integration ensures you can craft complex macros, remap keys, and fine-tune lighting effects. This full-size kit also supports tri-mode connectivity for flexible device pairing.
GMK104 Barebones With Screen & Knob (White)
The White GMK104 Barebones kit offers the same core features as its Black counterpart, including the screen, volume knob, NKRO, and full 104-key layout. VIA support allows you to construct bespoke macros and lighting schemes, while the gaskets and plate options can influence acoustics and feel. The tri-mode connectivity offers wireless convenience with a dependable wired backup. This option is suitable for users who want a polished, white aesthetic and robust customization without starting from a blank slate.
FKZ GMK104 With Screen And Knob (Black)
The FKZ GMK104 kit presents a full-size, tri-mode 104-key keyboard with a smart display and volume knob. VIA software support enables real-time customization of macros, lighting, and key maps. The kit’s NKRO compatibility helps minimize ghosting in fast-paced tasks, and the triple connectivity supports Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, and Type-C wired use. A focus on ease of programming makes it a strong choice for users who want a broad feature set with relatively straightforward setup.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
When selecting a 100% mechanical keyboard kit, consider how you plan to use the keyboard, the importance of programmability, and how connectivity fits into your setup. Here are essential factors to evaluate from multiple perspectives:
- Layout and size: Full-size 104-key layouts are ideal for office work, data entry, and gaming, but ensure your desk space accommodates the size. If you prefer a more compact footprint, consider 65% or TKL options.
- Switch type and hot-swap: If you want to try different switches without soldering, hot-swappable designs are valuable. Check compatibility with 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
- Programmability: VIA and QMK compatibility are common. VIA offers real-time remapping and macros; QMK may provide deeper customization for seasoned users.
- Connectivity: Evaluate whether you need wireless options (Bluetooth 5.0 or 2.4GHz) or a wired USB-C connection. Tri-mode setups enable flexible device pairing but may require battery considerations for wireless use.
- Gasket mounting and acoustics: Gasket-mounted builds typically deliver a softer, more cushioned typing experience and reduced vibration, appealing to typists who value sound and feel.
- Display and controls: A built-in screen and volume knob add unique functionality for on-the-fly status updates and media control, but confirm power and software compatibility with your workflow.
- Battery life and charging: For battery-powered wireless kits, review the battery capacity and charging method. A larger battery supports longer use between charges.
- Compatibility and software: Ensure your operating system supports the chosen software (VIA/QMK) and confirm driver requirements for full functionality.
In short, your choice should align with how you type, what software you rely on, and whether you value wireless convenience alongside a standout user interface like a display or a knob. The kits above are designed to support robust customization, full-size layouts, and flexible connectivity—catering to both dedicated keyboard enthusiasts and professionals seeking greater control over their input devices.