/r/BudgetKeebs
Keyboards of all budgets welcome! Budget does not mean "cheap", it means working within a reasonable price range but still purchasing quality items, or the best available within your range.
We also love DIY boards; 3D printed, hand wired, whatever you have, we love the creativity of the community and the wonderful and amazing projects that are created every day.
No GroupBuys, Indiegogo, or Kickstarter links!
Try our Discord server: https://discord.budgetkeebs.com/ for quick help!
Why BudgetKeebs?
r/BudgetKeebs is a place where everyone can feel comfortable sharing their work, regardless of price tag, and asking questions without fear of ridicule or insult. Let's keep it nice, we're here to share about a hobby which many of us love. Let's keep the vibe positive and just like the old saying goes "If you've got nothing nice to say, then best to say nothing at all". Keep Calm and Keyboard On (KCKO - Just, I know Keto uses it too, but why can't we?). Please avoid using language or phrases that may have negative social or political connotations. Please, no low effort or questions without context/details/information. Be thoughtful about what you are trying to communicate before posting. Posts that remain below 1 karma can be removed by moderators at anytime. NO GBs!
Please ask all "Which keyboard should I buy?" questions in the weekly thread pinned at the top of the sub.
Do not advertise or share affiliate links without permission from a moderator.
(Chat and PMs are meant for sub related issues. If you have a keyboard question, please post it in the weekly question thread or ask on our DISCORD SERVER) - This way the question and subsequent answers remain for posterity
If you are sharing your video content, you must be a regular user of the sub. Users who do post drive bys will be removed.
Sister Subs
/r/BudgetKeebsMarket - Our own marketplace which is still in it's nascent form. Looking for volunteers to help make this sub come to life
/r/CustomKeeb - Dedicated to all custom projects; hand wired, 3D printed, different materials, etc. Creativity is the name of the game
r/Kmonad - Kmonad is an OSS tool that allows the end user almost limitless configurability of their keyboard at the OS level
/r/KeySwitchTrades - Got a bag of switches from a mystery buy? Wanna trade them for others you would like? Want to trade switches one for one and each cover shipping? This sub is for users looking to trade switches without cash, just even swaps. (Looking for mods)
TRUSTED VENDORS
PullingKeys
https://pullingkeys.com - Family owned web store that carries storage containers for switches/keycaps, switches including Gazzew - use code 'BudgetKeebs' for a 5% discount on your order.
Redragon
https://redragonshop.com/ - A budget gaming brand who has stepped up their game lately by adding support for practically all 3/5 pin switches. When they are not running sales the code 'BudgetKeebs' will get you a 10% discount from their shop.
Skyloong
https://skyloongtech.com/ - One of the originals. A brand that is truly coming up with some interesting designs, as well as their first QMK/VIA keeb! When shopping their store, use the discount code 'BudgetKeebs' for a 15% discount!
KPRepublic
https://kprepublic.com/ - Is a Chinese based vendor that carries many products, from kits, to switches, to practically anything needed for keyboards. They have a good track record with fulfilling orders on time and correctly, though as with anything in life, some time there are issues. Their support is very helpful in finding solutions. Much better than they were in the past.
Milktooth.nu
https://milktooth.nu - Know what switches feel like before buying them Try 10 switches for 5 days. Discover your favorite switch—right at your fingertips—before making a purchase.
KeebMats
https://keebmat.com - Ever needed a keyboard mat sized exactly to the footprint of your keyboard? Keebmats have you covered! High quality products from a trusted vendor. All BudgetKeeb members get a 10% discount with the code BUDGETISBEST (We do not receive a kickback, the entire discount goes to the customer)
Dangkeebs
https://dangkeebs.com/ - A store with unique selection of product sand excellent customer support. You can use the code 'BudgetKeebs' for a discount if you place an order.
VENDORS TO AVOID OR TO BE CAUTIOUS OF
(Note, these are only suggestions based on personal or second hand experience; these vendors are known to have issues with customer support issues and/or product quality issues)
Keychron
Not only have reports of defective/DOA units increased significantly, they no longer seem to be responding to their post sales support emails, and it has now been revealed that their database was hacked and all of the credit cards used on their site are now at risk, and they have made no statement, so their site could still be compromised. Please be cautious and if possible, avoid completely. (https://www.reddit.com/r/Keychron/comments/1dya8tb/keychron_billing_hacked/ https://www.reddit.com/r/Keychron/comments/1dnuyq5/cc_fraudulent_activity_after_keychron_purchase https://www.trustpilot.com/review/keychron.com)
Keeb-Finder
Be cautious when using this site, it is fully funded via affiliate links which could affect their rating system.
diykeycap(dot)com
Spamming communities across Reddit, drop shipper that sells items from AliExpress at inflated prices.
KeebMonkey and WOBKEY
KeebMonkey/WOBKey is no longer a trusted vendor, complaints have been coming and and we've made the decision to move them to vendors to avoid. We highly advise to not buy anything from this outfit. Though they were once a respected vendor, they have failed many customers and are now not delivering on their promises. Avoid at all cost!
BerserKeys
Vendor to avoid as they are known for breaking set rules to spam their "store" all over the Internet, so much so they have been banned from Reddit altogether. There are much better vendors to choose from in AU.
NuPhy
We are seeing an increased amount of reports of faulty NuPhy keyboards, as well as poor and non-existent customer service and after sales support. Also, many report of shipping via third party unknown courier and many lost packages which NuPhy fails to correct. Caution is advised if choosing to spend money with this business.
Epomaker
Is snatching up all manner of kits, even bad ones (Looking at you Eclair), and now is refusing to honor warranties. We recommend either avoiding Epomaker products, buying the original model (Epomaker is only a reseller/ TH66 = Dukharo66, TH68 = LK67, TH80 = NJ80, etc.), or purchasing from a trustworthy vendor who will accept returns.
Keygeak
New store that has representatives spamming their overpriced by as much as 300% products. Anything they list can be found cheaper elsewhere, even on Amazon.
HK Gaming
This company has been caught doing numerous unscrupulous things including cyber squatting. We highly recommend avoiding this vendor and their products.
Nuovolo
Besides spamming their drop shipped products across numerous subs including here, there are multiple reports of severe customer service issues, DOAs, and receipt of cheaper incorrect orders.
RESOURCES
((Feel free to suggest more))
65% Mechanical keyboards (MechTech)
75% Mechanical keyboards (MechTech)
Mechanical keyboards: everything you need to know
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8jX2DpHA5E
How to Choose the RIGHT Keyboard Size (60%, 65%, TKL, 100%)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DWYxofVGIB0
How to Choose The BEST Mechanical Keyboard For You!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wimjq3SHmJA
Mechanical vs Membrane Keyboards: Are Mechanical Keyboards Worth It?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CVtjCbpW7as
ULTIMATE Key Switch Comparison - Which is Best for You?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_N7adWvQDM
Ultimate Guide to Custom Keycap Sets for Mechanical Keyboards | ABS vs PBT, GMK, Profiles, and more!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PkXZLs7zzHk
Plastic Vs Aluminum (Tofu60) Keyboard Case Sound Comparisonhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PVD31ZTo-z4
Switch List
A very comprehensive list of switches.
Open Source Projects
Curated List of Open Source keyboard projects
Member YouTube Channels
(Message mod if yours is not listed)
MechTechKeyboards - /u/badmark
SamBoga - /u//Mr-Boga38
Member Written Blogs
Budget Keebs Marketplace
Software
KPRepublic has a great collection of budget board software downloads.~~
/r/BudgetKeebs
43,960 Subscribers
First 75 Percent Keyboard! Leobog Hi75
Board: Leobog Hi75
Switches: Akko Piano Pro V3
Keycaps: Womier Custom Doubleshot PBT Keycaps
Board is great! No complaints so far except the red knob which will be replaced with a clear one once it comes in.
10:56 UTC
Akko Red Fuji on MG75W, do you see the problem with the opt/alt keys?
04:10 UTC
Miryoku Demo on FAK-Powered Ortholinear
14:56 UTC
Varmilo Minilo98 Pro Review
11:21 UTC
New keycaps day 😎
Epomaker TH80 pro + Budgerigar switches + Akko WOB Building Blocks keycaps. I’m not fully sold on red accents so this might change but board is great for me 😊
10:24 UTC
Redragon Eisa K686 Max 96% 3 Mode with a knob MOA DS PBT Keycaps and a nice linear the Mint Mambo
05:47 UTC
Lucky65 v2 Review
My Lucky65 v2 Review After One Week
The Lucky65 v2 is one of the best value full-aluminum keyboard kits I’ve ever used. It keeps everything that worked well in the Lucky65 v1 and fixes some of the problems from the first version. After a week of using it, I can confidently say that this keyboard is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a budget-friendly kit that doesn’t skimp on quality or features.
What I Loved About It
- Catch-Ball Assembly The new catch-ball assembly is such a welcome change. It makes removing the top frame ridiculously easy, which is a godsend if you enjoy modding your keyboard like I do. I’ve spent hours tinkering with my Lucky65 v2, and this design makes the whole process much more enjoyable compared to the v1.
- The Price I’m still amazed that the price stayed the same as the v1 in Vietnam. For just $36–$45 (cheaper than most of other markets, probably because of we're China's neighbor), you’re getting a keyboard kit that punches way above its weight class. And here’s a local bonus: we get a special 1.6mm PCB version without flex cuts. For me, this made the typing experience feel sturdier and the sound richer—though the trade-off is that this PCB only supports a single ANSI layout. Personally, I’m completely good with that, but if you need more layout options, you might prefer the 1.2mm PCB with flex cuts.
- VIA/QMK Support This is where the Lucky65 v2 really shines for me. As someone who types a lot for work and uses repeated phrases, VIA/QMK compatibility has been a total game-changer. It’s miles better than the clunky, hard-to-use software from the v1. I’ve already set up a bunch of macros that save me so much time—it’s been a lifesaver, honestly.
Changes That Caught My Eye
- Aluminum Weight and Receiver Holder The weight of the Lucky65 v2 definitely caught my eye. However, I have to admit that I still prefer the gold-accented aluminum weight of the v1 just a little more. That said, I really like the v2’s weight—it feels solid and premium. As for the magnetic receiver holder, I nearly lost the receiver for my v1 quite many times. This addition completely solves that problem.
- Slimmer Top Frame One small but significant change is the thinner edges on the top frame. If you’ve ever had keycaps scrape or get stuck on the v1, you’ll know how annoying that was. This has completely eliminated that issue for me.
- FR4 Plate: The v2 introduces an FR4 plate with flex cuts, replacing the polycarbonate plate from the v1. Personally, I like the firmer typing feel of the FR4 plate, though I understand that some might miss the bounce of the polycarbonate. If I had planned to stick with the stock configuration, I’d have chosen the FR4 plate over the polycarbonate one. However, since I’m aiming for a clacky build, I’ve already swapped the plate for aluminum.
Downsides
Of course, no keyboard is perfect, and the Lucky65 v2 does have a flaw as far as I know
- Case Ping The catch-ball assembly is great, but its placement near the center of the case means you get noticeable case ping. I find it particularly annoying when tapping the top frame—you can hear the metal-on-metal contact, which isn’t pleasant. Luckily, I managed to reduce this with a force-break mod, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re sensitive to sound.
Interesting Things I Found While Researching
While digging into the Lucky65 v2, I came across some fun facts:
- The v1 and v2 plates and PCBs are fully interchangeable, which opens up a lot of options if you want to mix and match parts.
- Although the v2 features a catch-ball assembly, the original screw holes from the v1 remain on the top frame, which means you can experiment with a top-mount setup. I haven’t tried it myself, but it seems like a fun project for those who enjoy tinkering. However, as I mentioned earlier, the thin top frame might result in more case ping with a top-mount configuration, unless you apply a proper force-break mod.
After a week with the Lucky65 v2, I feel like it’s a huge step up from the v1. It’s not perfect—there are some issues like the case ping—but they’re fixable, and the positives far outweigh the negatives. For the price, it’s honestly hard to beat. Whether you’re a beginner or someone who’s been in the hobby for a while, I think you’ll find a lot to love about this kit.
Soundtest and build in the comment.
21:28 UTC
November 29, 2024 Weekly "General Help Post?" - Please post all general, recommendations, and help questions as a top level comment under this post. Thank you.
This is the "Weekly General Help Post". Please ask your questions regarding keyboard, switch, keycaps, or anything regarding keyboards as a top level comment under this post. Mods and members will check this thread on a regular basis answering as many questions as possible.
The more information you provide, the better the answers you are likely to receive.
13:00 UTC
Akko Creamy Purple Pro: A heavy/sharp tactile with a cliff and short travel, one of my new favorites | Review and Sound Test
22:50 UTC
An oldie, but a goodie. The E-Yooso Z-11 60% has always been a solid little kit for modding and many times can be found for less that $20, with an HE version for $40, review coming soon!
17:11 UTC
Feeling retro
18:22 UTC
Feker IK65, Less than $30 bucks for N facing LED and VIA @ Amazon. Makes great stocking stuffers....Get one just incase?
16:39 UTC
Built a keyboard to celebrate finishing exams ft. some fun (but terrible) painting jobs! (Sorry for crap video quality, it's the sound that matters!)
11:50 UTC
Two Plastic Workhorse TKLs. They May Be Older, But They're Still Ready to Rock and Roll
06:03 UTC
MechLands Vibe 99: Gasket Mounted 1800 3 Mode with a Screen | Review and Sound Test
19:00 UTC
Lucky65 V2 Review
18:09 UTC
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