Story65 SE Custom Mechanical Keyboard Barebone
Best premium barebones kit for discerning keyboard enthusiasts.
The Story65 SE is a 65% ANSI layout mechanical keyboard barebone kit, designed for customization. It features a gasket mount structure and a typing angle of 6 degrees, housed in a 6063 CNC aluminum case. The kit includes a flex-cut 1.2mm PCB and PC plate, supporting hot-swappable switches with south-facing RGB lighting. It offers versatile connectivity options including USB-C, 2.4G wireless, and Bluetooth 5.0, powered by a 3000mAh battery. The keyboard includes a removable weight bar/badge, allowing for further personalization. This DIY kit requires assembly and does not come with keycaps or switches.
$95.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
459
/ 3786
#459 in Keyboards
Price vs Category Average
-32%
Below average
Layout
65
/ % ANSI
Who it's for
- Enthusiasts seeking a refined and comfortable daily typing experience.
- Builders who enjoy tailoring every aspect of their keyboard.
- Users prioritizing long-lasting quality and a premium desktop aesthetic.
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers or those new to custom keyboards.
- Novices unfamiliar with keyboard assembly or those preferring ready-to-use products.
- Consumers expecting a fully functional keyboard immediately after purchase.
Performance breakdown
Build Quality
Precision-milled 6063 aluminum provides a premium, rigid foundation for enthusiasts.
Typing Feel
Gasket mounting and flex-cut PCB deliver a soft, consistent typing experience.
Connectivity Versatility
Seamless switching between wired, 2.4G, and Bluetooth for any workspace setup.
Customization Potential
Hot-swappable sockets and modular badges invite endless aesthetic and tactile tuning.
Acoustic Profile
Comprehensive dampening layers effectively tune out harsh vibrations and hollow resonance.
Assembly Accessibility
DIY nature requires patience but rewards users with a personalized build.
Key Specs
Layout
65% ANSI
Mount Structure
Gasket Mount
Typing Angle
6°
Case Material
6063 CNC Aluminum
PCB
Flex cut 1.2mm
Plate Material
PC
Switches
Hot swappable, south facing RGB
Dampening
Poron/IXPE/EPDM sheets
Features
- Customizable 65% ANSI Layout
- Gasket Mount Structure for Enhanced Typing Feel
- Premium 6063 CNC Aluminum Case
- Hot-Swappable Switches for Easy Customization
- Versatile Connectivity: USB-C, 2.4G, Bluetooth
- South-Facing RGB Lighting
- Includes Removable Badge for Personalization
- DIY Kit Requires Assembly
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Story65 SE for its exceptional build quality and thoughtful design. Enthusiasts highlight the premium materials and precise machining, contributing to a satisfying typing experience. The aesthetic appeal, often described as sleek and minimalist, resonates strongly with users seeking a sophisticated desktop centerpiece. Many appreciate the attention to detail in its construction, making assembly a rewarding process. While an investment, the perceived durability and refined appearance justify the cost for many, solidifying its reputation as a high end barebones option.
Know before you buy
The Story65 SE is a barebone kit, meaning it does not include switches or keycaps. You will need to purchase your own MX-style mechanical switches and a set of keycaps compatible with a 65% ANSI layout to complete the keyboard.
No, the south-facing switch orientation is specifically designed to prevent interference with Cherry profile keycaps, which is a common issue on north-facing boards. This ensures a smoother typing experience and better compatibility with a wider range of keycap sets.
The gasket mount structure, paired with the flex-cut PCB and PC plate, provides a softer, more cushioned typing feel compared to traditional tray-mount keyboards. It allows the plate to flex slightly with each keystroke, resulting in a more consistent and comfortable typing experience.
Yes, you can use the keyboard in wired mode via the USB-C connection while it charges the internal 3000mAh battery. This allows for uninterrupted use even when the wireless battery is low.
The removable badge is primarily for aesthetic customization, allowing you to swap out the look of your board. It is a design feature meant to add a personal touch to the CNC aluminum case.
The 2.4G wireless connection provides a low-latency, stable link suitable for gaming. It is generally more responsive and reliable than Bluetooth, making it the preferred choice for competitive or fast-paced tasks.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$95