Vortex M0110A - 1800 Aluminum Barebones Hotswap RGB DIY Keyboard Kit
Best premium foundation for keyboard enthusiasts building a custom mechanical setup.
Experience the Vortex M0110A - 1800 Aluminum, a premium barebones DIY keyboard kit for enthusiasts. Its robust CNC aluminum case features a gasket mount design and an FR4 plate, offering a solid foundation for your custom build. This 98-key, full-size keyboard includes a hotswap PCB compatible with QMK and VIA for extensive customization. Multi-layer acoustic foam is included to enhance the typing experience. Please note this is a barebones kit and requires separate purchase of switches, keycaps, stabilizers, and a cable.
$219.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.4
/ 5
Category Rank
2366
/ 3798
#2366 in Keyboards
Price vs Category Average
+57%
Above average
Size
98
/ Full-size ( keys)
Who it's for
- Professionals needing a numpad in a space-saving footprint
- Typists seeking a durable, premium-feeling desk accessory
- Customizers wanting to swap switches without soldering tools
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for an all-in-one solution
- Keycap collectors preferring standard layout compatibility
- Beginners wanting a ready-to-use keyboard out of the box
Performance breakdown
Build Integrity
CNC aluminum construction provides a premium, heavy-duty foundation for custom builds.
Acoustic Profile
Multi-layer foam dampening creates a refined, muted sound signature out-of-the-box.
Customization Potential
QMK and VIA support offer limitless remapping and macro configuration options.
Assembly Accessibility
Hotswap PCB makes switch installation simple for enthusiasts of all levels.
Mounting Performance
Gasket mount design delivers a consistent, comfortable typing feel across keys.
Layout Versatility
Broad ANSI and ISO support accommodates diverse regional and user preferences.
Key Specs
Size
Full-size (98 keys)
Mounting Style
Gasket Mount
Plate Material
FR4
PCB Thickness
1.6mm (non-flex-cut)
Connectivity
USB-C
Switch Direction
North Facing
Layout Support
ANSI/ISO compatibility
Key Rollover
NKRO over USB
Know before you buy
The kit includes the CNC aluminum case, the gasket-mounted PCB, the FR4 plate, and the multi-layer acoustic foam. It also comes with a carrying case, but you will need to purchase your own switches, keycaps, stabilizers, and a USB-C cable separately.
Yes, the M0110A is designed to support both ANSI and ISO layouts, making it a versatile choice regardless of your preferred regional configuration.
Yes, the board is fully compatible with both QMK and VIA. This allows you to easily remap keys, create custom layers, and manage macros directly through the software.
The M0110A features a north-facing switch orientation. While this provides excellent RGB visibility, keep in mind that some Cherry-profile keycaps may experience interference with certain switch housings.
The gasket mount design, combined with the FR4 plate and included acoustic foam, provides a more cushioned and consistent typing feel compared to traditional tray-mount keyboards. It helps dampen harsh vibrations and creates a more refined sound profile.
The PCB is compatible with standard 3-pin and 5-pin MX-style mechanical switches. Because it is hotswap-enabled, you can install or replace your switches without the need for soldering.
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$219