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Finding a mechanical keyboard with the proper switches is one of the hardest tasks. It's also easy to feel overwhelmed while making the commitment to a keyboard with soldered switches.
Investing in a hot-swappable keyboard is a great choice if you're concerned about that.
And to help you completely no longer be confused when searching for your “bestie” on your desk, we’ve created a list of the best hot-swappable keyboards with in-depth reviews.
Let’s start with a quick look at the best hot-swappable keyboards here!
| Keyboards | Main features | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Drop CTRL | Best Tenkeyless Hot-Swappable Keyboard | $220.00 |
| Keychron K6 | Best Wireless Hot-Swappable Keyboard | $84.99 |
| Tecware Phantom | Best Budget Hot-Swappable Mechanical Keyboard | $59.99 |
| GMMK TKL/Full-Size | Best Full-Sized Hot-Swappable Mechanical Keyboard | $79.99 |
| Kemove Shadow/Snowfox | Best Hot-Swappable Keyboard for Gamers | $98.99 |
| Velocifire M2 TKL61WS | Best Budget Wireless Hot-Swappable keyboard | $59.99 |
| The Hexgear Impulse | Best Hot-Swappable Keyboard with RGB | $99.99 |
| Redragon Draconic K530 | An Excellent Gaming Hot-Swappable Keyboard | $64.99 |
| Epomaker SK61 | Best Optical Hot-Swappable Keyboard | $69.00 |
| Royal Kludge RK84 | Best 75% Hot-Swappable Mechanical Keyboard | $79.99 |
| HK Gaming GK61 | Best 60% Budget Hot-Swappable Keyboard | $35.03 |
| Epomaker GK68XS | Best Wireless Hot-Swappable Keyboard | $169.00 |
| Geek GK6 | Cheapest Hot-Swappable Keyboard for Gaming | $35.03 |
| Keychron K8 | Best Tenkeyless Hot-Swappable Keyboard | $104.99 |
| Ducky One 3 Fuji | Best Full-Size Hot-Swappable Keyboard | $119.00 |
| Keys | 87 |
| Hotswap Socket | 3-Pin Sockets |
| Keycap Material | Double-shot PBT keycap |
| Lighting | RGB |
| Programming | Yes |
| Connectivity | USB |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 14.5 x 5.5 x 1.4” |
| Weight | 2.12 lbs |
Even though the Drop CTRL is a classic model, it continues to hold the crown of the best hot-swappable keyboards overall.
The CTRL concentrates its attention on a premium typing experience with a substantial build and durable design, forgoing some of the newer features seen in gaming-focused decks.
Talking about its design, the main deck is made out of an aluminum frame and a metal baseplate, with double-shot PBT keycaps adding the ultimate touch of luxury.
There is much to rejoice about here when you notice the USB passthrough charging that is included as well as the large selection of Cherry MX, Kailh, and Drop Halo switches that are available right out of the box.
If you intend to test Cherry MX on Drop CTRL, remember to check this post: Cherry MX Switches: A Complete Color Review.
Or if you are confused about these brands, read this: Cherry MX Vs Gateron Vs Kailh Vs Outemu Vs Razer Switches.
In terms of appearance and durability, Drop CTRL is undoubtedly one of the best hot-swappable keyboards.
Pros:
Cons:
| Keys | 68 |
| Hotswap Socket | 5-pin switch socket |
| Keycap Material | ABS keycaps |
| Lighting | RGB |
| Programming | No |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.1 |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 4.21 x 12.48 x 1.46” |
| Weight | 1.46 lbs |
This product is unquestionably something to think about if you're seeking the best wireless hot-swappable keyboard.
The Keychron K6 hot-swappable keyboard can be put in place as a wired keyboard using the provided USB-C cable or as a wireless keyboard with Bluetooth 5.1 connection.
About how it looks, you will get a 65% keyboard with ergonomic concave keys in a classic and neat style. This 68-key layout is small and comfortable to type on, saving desk space while retaining the arrow keys.
What else? It is also comparable to the greatest gaming keyboard, which also features real per-key RGB backlighting, 100% anti-ghosting, and full N-key rollover.
So, the K6 can be top-ranked among the best hot-swappable keyboards thanks to its superb build quality and wireless performance.
Pros:
Cons:
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| Keys | 87 |
| Hotswap Socket | Outemu |
| Keycap Material | Double-shot ABS |
| Lighting | RGB |
| Programming | Macros and lighting |
| Connectivity | Fixed USB cable |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 14.2 x 5.3 x 1.6” |
| Weight | 2.48 lbs |
If you are on a tight budget, the Tecware Phantom might be for you. It is still perhaps one of the best TKL hot-swappable keyboards as long as you don't mind having fewer switch options, that is.
You may know that Outemu hot-swappable switches, instead of the more typical Kailh or Gateron sockets, are limited. That's a tradeoff for a low price (around $50).
In fact, it's uncommon to find the hot-swappable capability on a keyboard for under $150, much less for under $50.
Yet, if you're okay with that limit, the Phantom is still a great value. You get pre-lubricated stabilizers, dedicated software for macros, and an aluminum plate that gives the otherwise plastic body some stiffness.
Ultimately, if cost is your top priority, the Tecware Phantom is unquestionably a keyboard worth considering.
Pros:
Cons:
| Keys | 87 |
| Hotswap Socket | 5-pin hot swap sockets |
| Keycap Material | PBT plastic |
| Lighting | RGB |
| Programming | Yes |
| Connectivity | USB 2.0 |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 14 x 5.1 x 1.4” |
| Weight | 1.94 lbs |
If you love customizing your keyboards and want to mix and match various switch types, this GMMK TKL hot-swappable keyboard is a true bestie for you.
Focusing on the gamer and quick typist, GMMK TKL also offers anti-ghosting technology as well as an N-key rollover so you won't miss any clicks.
Additionally, its practical 87-key layout preserves a compact size and provides a full complement of function keys. Compared to a wonderful 60 mechanical keyboard, this is more practical.
Read Intro to Keyboard Sizes and layouts to learn more about TKL, 60, full-size, and more keyboard layouts.
Last but not least, it connects via a USB-C connector and features configurable RGB illumination with up to 16.8 million shades.
Pros:
Cons:
| Keys | 61 |
| Keycap Material | ABS-plastic keycaps |
| Lighting | RGB |
| Programming | Yes |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 11.54 x 4.09 x 1.5” |
| Weight | 1.47 lbs |
The Kemove Shadow & Snowfox are the products from Kemove that finally support the hot-swappable capability.
The Shadow and Snowfox are typically identical, albeit in different colors. The construction is the same, but for marketing purposes, it is available in a variety of colors with hip names.
Outemus is a low-cost Cherry MX copy, so the switch quality won't be the greatest, but if you require a hot-swappable 60% design, you can just change the switches out for another type.
After all, the Kemove Shadow might be one of the best hot-swappable keyboards if you're seeking a 60% hot-swap keyboard.
Pros:
Cons:
| Keys | 78 |
| Hotswap Socket | Outemu brown hot swap switches |
| Keycap Material | Double-shot ABS |
| Lighting | RGB |
| Programming | Yes |
| Connectivity | Twin USB interface |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 11.7 x 5.2 x 1.5” |
| Weight | 1.54 lbs |
The Velocifire TKL02WS keyboard has a simple design and practical features like a tactile brown switch with universal compatibility, even though it isn't as glamorous as other keyboards on this list.
It boasts a twin USB interface that enables simultaneous charging and connection while typing. The main downside of Velocifire TKL02WS is that it uses Outemu switches.
Thus, you can replace the factory-installed switches (browns) with different Outemu switches. Unfortunately, Cherry MX, Gateron, and Kailh switches are not supported.
If you don't mind that, the Velocifire M2 TKL61WS keyboard is still an excellent buy.
Pros:
Cons:
| Keys | 104 |
| Hotswap Socket | MX-compatible |
| Keycap Material | PBT plastic |
| Lighting | RGB |
| Programming | Yes |
| Connectivity | USB-A cable |
| Dimensions | 17.25 x 6” |
| Weight | 2 lbs |
Another innovative and fascinating hot-swappable mechanical keyboard worth mentioning is the Hexgear Impulse.
The best selling point of this keyboard is its excellent RGB. The keyboard incorporates side-lighting and RGB illumination for each key, making it stand out on your desk.
Moreover, the PBT pudding keycaps are the literal cherry on top of the RGB cake. The RGB can now shine through the edges of the keycaps thanks to the pudding keycaps, giving everything a more impressive glow.
Also, it will be enjoyable to have the ability to experiment with the Kailh BOX switches as most keyboards would ship with Cherry MX, Gateron, or Outemu switches.
If you want to go with a great RGB option, The Hexgear Impulse is among the best hot-swappable keyboards with the best RGB ever.
Pros:
Cons:
| Keys | 61 |
| Keycap Material | PBT |
| Lighting | RGB |
| Programming | Yes |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, Wired |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 13.3 x 6.06 x 2.1” |
| Weight | 1.34 lbs |
The Redragon K530 is another 60% hot-swappable option in this list, but it is jam-packed with useful features.
This is one of the less expensive options on the list, but it still has a built-in Bluetooth 5.0 wireless connection with three device switching capabilities and a strong 3,000mAh battery.
It's important to take note of the full rollover and the clever double function placements if you use your Redragon for gaming.
Pros:
Cons:
| Keys | 61 |
| Keycap Material | Premium PBT |
| Lighting | RGB |
| Programming | Yes |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth or Wired |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 11.6 x 4.7 x 1.7” |
| Weight | 1.69 lbs |
Epomaker SK61 is really worth a look if you want an incredibly smooth typing experience on a tight budget.
Yes, it's a budget design, but if you're prepared to put some effort and time into it. Here, a fantastic experience with extremely low latency is waiting for you.
This is due to the optical switches that are available. Although you have fewer switch options when it comes to switching out your switches, the light-based activation in such switches speeds up gaming and typing and feels much better.
Not to mention, there are 3 more layers of built-in programmability, so you can add a tonne of keybindings to your working or gaming.
Pros:
Cons:
Are you curious about which PBT keycaps are the best? So, this post 21 Best PBT Keycap Set might be for you!
| Keys | 84 |
| Hotswap Socket | 3-pin and 5-pin |
| Keycap Material | ABS |
| Lighting | RGB |
| Programming | Yes |
| Connectivity | USB, Bluetooth |
| Dimensions | 12.5 x 5” |
| Weight | 1.77 lbs |
RK84 from Royal Kludge is among the best hot-swappable mechanical keyboards with 75% layout.
This hot-swappable keyboard is relatively affordable with a sturdy build and offers both Bluetooth and a 2.4GHz wireless connection. Gamers should benefit a lot since the 2.4GHz connection is more efficient and stable than Bluetooth.
The plastic body is constructed of two parts, with the frame being detachable. Users can choose between the standard and floating keycaps, which look awesome when RGB is turned on.
Nonetheless, the given switches are produced by Royal Kludge and cannot be paired with switches from Cherry, Gateron, Kailh, or other switches from smaller producers.
Besides, the standard keycaps are not of the greatest quality and are made of ABS. Yet, for the price, they’re more than excellent.
Pros:
Cons:
| Keys | 61 |
| Hotswap Socket | Gateron Optical switches |
| Keycap Material | ABS |
| Lighting | RGB |
| Programming | Yes |
| Connectivity | USB-C |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 11.5 x 4.02 x 1.57” |
The GK61 is the best 60% cheap option if you're seeking a hot-swappable keyboard.
You will be pleased with this keyboard's durability given its extremely low price. Additionally, you get decent to double-shot ABS keycaps, an IP64-rated keyboard, full RGB backlighting, and a detachable USB-C connector.
Well, What else can such a cheap keyboard offer?
GK61 comes with Gateron optical switches in all of the colors. Although they aren't Cherry MX, these switches are superior to standard Cherry MX ones in terms of typing comfort.
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The drawback is that only other Gateron optical switches can be hot-swapped, not for Cherry MX.
Additionally, there isn't a bare-bones version available here, therefore you must get a keyboard with switches already installed. Despite certain drawbacks, the GK61 is still considered to be one of the best hot-swappable keyboards for low-budget users.
Pros:
Cons:
| Keys | 68 / 70 |
| Hotswap Socket | MX-style 3- and 5-pin |
| Keycap Material | Dye-sublimated PBT |
| Lighting | Per-key RGB |
| Programming | Yes |
| Connectivity | Per-key RGB |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 12.4 x 4.1 x 1.3” |
| Weight | 1.19 lbs |
The greatest hot-swappable 65% keyboard, like the 75% boards, is between a Keychron and an Epomaker brand.
As for Keychron, we've already mentioned K6.
Coming to Epomaker, the GK68XS, a little hot-swappable keyboard, contains practically everything you might desire.
You can choose between bodies made of plastic or aluminum. However, the aluminum body of the GK68XS increases the price up to $200, therefore for the majority of users, we recommend choosing the plastic version.
Epomaker has also offered a Mac version of the GK68XS software. Therefore, you can set it up without needing to locate a Windows PC. However, in case the Epomaker software is not suitable for you, there is also an open-source substitute.
After all, the GK68XS is one of the best hot-swappable keyboards overall you can buy right now.
Pros:
Cons:
| Keys | 61 |
| Keycap Material | ABS Doubleshot |
| Lighting | RGB |
| Programming | Yes |
| Connectivity | USB |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 11.5 x 4.02 x 1.57” |
| Weight | 1.32 lbs |
The Geek GK61 is a well-known keyboard among gamers who seek a compact, affordable keyboard with blazing-fast optical switches.
With a 60% layout, there are no arrow keys, a number pad, or a function row. The remainder of the design is rather straightforward, with plastic materials, ABS keycaps, and RGB lights.
This simple build makes it incredibly affordable, and the optical switches provide players with a way to improve their competitiveness for less money.
Essentially, the Geek GK61 is a great choice if you need a quick, inexpensive keyboard.
Pros:
Cons:
| Keys | 87 |
| Hotswap Socket | MX-style 3- and 5-pin |
| Keycap Material | Double-shot ABS |
| Lighting | RGB |
| Programming | No |
| Connectivity | USB Type-C, Bluetooth 5.1 |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 14.1 x 5 x 1.6” |
| Weight | 2.9 lbs |
This is another keyboard from Keychron in this list, The K8 includes a lot of appealing features into an around $100 keyboard.
This keyboard works with both Windows and Macs. It's one of the few popular choices that include specific Mac keycaps in the box.
Beyond layout advantages, the K8 also gets the majority of the basics right. The K8 feels pretty upscale because of its sturdy, heavy metal frame.
Not surprisingly, the Keychron K8 is a decent contender for the best hot-swappable keyboards in the TKL layout. Although there is still room for improvement, we would happily use this every day without any problems.
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Pros:
Cons:
| Keys | 104 |
| Hotswap Socket | MX-style 3- and 5-pin |
| Keycap Material | Double-shot PBT |
| Lighting | RGB |
| Programming | Yes |
| Connectivity | USB Type-C |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 17.7 x 5.5 x 1.6” |
| Weight | 2.5 lbs |
The One 3 keyboards have excellent features that should place them among the best hot-swappable keyboards on the market.
Firstly, the keycaps on all One 3 keyboards are thick double-shot PBT. Along with the premium keycaps, Ducky is also distributing One 3 keyboards that have stabilizers that have been "fine-tuned" and a layer of EVA foam under the PCB.
Furthermore, this keyboard can also be programmed, albeit not fully. The Alt, Fn Ctrl, Caps Lock and Windows key on the keyboard itself can be moved around and macros can be recorded.
After all, the Ducky One 3 is among the best hot-swappable keyboard overall since it offers the right features with a full-size layout.
Pros:
Cons:
Simply said, a hot-swappable keyboard lets users quickly swap out the switches by simply pulling out one and plugging in another.
You now can easily add a variety of switch types to your mechanical keyboard or swap them out anytime you feel bored of one particular style.
No matter whether they're tactile, linear, or clicky, you can easily install and test them all.
Hot-swappable keyboards have been incredibly popular recently, and you can now purchase them nearly anywhere.
All sizes of hot-swappable keyboards are available, some of which have optical switches.
Even though there are dozens of hot-swappable keyboards with various prices out there, it is still not easy to find the best hot-swappable keyboards that you are hunting for.
That's why our list was created to make finding the best hot-swappable keyboards become much easier for you!
It can be hard to locate a hot-swappable PCB if you're looking to build your own custom keyboard.
Indeed, getting the PCB available is the most challenging step because the parts typically sell out very quickly.
The 60% design is typically the easiest to source a PCB for; the other layouts require a unique plate and case designed particularly to fit those PCBs.
Thus, we'd like to recommend looking at the most recent group buys for those parts. KBDfans and Banggood are 2 sites we frequently search for 60% hot-swappable PCBs.
We also recommend checking the most recent group buys on Mechgroupbuys if you're wanting to buy a PCB for a 65% or 75% hot-swappable PCB.
Undeniably, choosing a hot-swappable is a lot of fun as they are going to be much more well-liked.
Finding one could take some time, but we're confident you'll find the best hot-swappable keyboards on our list that meets your needs.
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Finding a mechanical keyboard with the proper switches is one of the hardest tasks. It's also easy to feel overwhelmed while making the commitment to a keyboard with soldered switches. Investing in a hot-swappable keyboard is a great choice if you're concerned about that. And to help you completely no longer be confused when searching […]
