Odin Gaming Nova 65 Black Aluminum Barebones
Best customizable foundation for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts building a compact setup.
This barebones mechanical keyboard offers a compact 65% layout, perfect for optimizing desk space without sacrificing functionality. Its durable aluminum construction features a thick bezel and a comfortable 6-degree typing angle. The custom PCB supports 5-pin hot-swappable switches and south-facing LEDs, enabling extensive personalization. Enjoy vibrant per-key RGB lighting and underglow, all configurable via VIA software. The gasket-mounted design ensures a premium typing feel, complemented by pre-installed Durock v2 screw-in stabilizers for a superior build.
$149.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
1056
/ 3798
#1056 in Keyboards
Price vs Category Average
+7%
Above average
Size
Compact
/ Compact
Who it's for
- Minimalists seeking a durable and sophisticated desk centerpiece
- Enthusiasts wanting total control over their typing experience
- Typists prioritizing a soft, premium feel and refined acoustics
Who should skip it
- Users needing an immediate, plug-and-play typing solution
- Budget-conscious buyers wary of hidden component costs
- Beginners intimidated by complex mechanical assembly
Performance breakdown
Build Quality
Solid aluminum construction provides a premium, heavy-duty foundation for custom builds.
Typing Feel
Gasket-mounted plate design delivers a satisfying, flexible, and cushioned typing experience.
Customization Potential
Hot-swap PCB and VIA support offer enthusiasts near-limitless configuration options.
Aesthetic Versatility
Per-key RGB and underglow lighting create a vibrant, highly customizable desktop look.
Component Compatibility
Standard 5-pin support ensures compatibility with almost all modern mechanical switches.
Stabilizer Quality
Pre-installed Durock v2 screw-ins provide excellent stability right out of the box.
Key Specs
Size
Compact
Series
Nova65
Logical Layout
US QWERTY
Color
Black
Physical Layout
ANSI
Top Material
Aluminum
Bottom Material
Aluminum
Switch Mount Type
Plate mount
Know before you buy
A barebones keyboard comes as a fully assembled chassis, but it does not include mechanical switches or keycaps. You will need to purchase and install your own switches and keycaps separately to complete the build.
The Nova 65 features a 5-pin hot-swap PCB, which is compatible with the vast majority of standard MX-style mechanical switches. You do not need to solder anything; simply push the switches into the sockets.
The south-facing LED orientation is specifically designed to prevent interference with Cherry profile keycaps. This ensures you can use a wider variety of keycap sets without worrying about the keys hitting the switch housing.
The gasket-mounted plate provides a softer, more flexible typing experience compared to traditional tray-mount keyboards. It helps dampen the sound and provides a slight 'cushion' effect when you bottom out your keys.
Yes, the keyboard is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux. Since it supports VIA software, you can easily remap keys and customize your lighting profiles regardless of your OS.
The Nova 65 comes with high-quality Durock v2 screw-in stabilizers pre-installed. While they are excellent out of the box, you are free to remove and tune them further if you prefer a specific sound or feel.
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Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$149