DIY Keyboard Kit

80Retros GAME1989 GB65 PC DIY Kit

A faithful recreation of the iconic Game Boy, rebuilt as a high-performance mechanical keyboard.

A Modern Classic

This isn't just a nod to the past; it's a faithful recreation of an icon, rebuilt as a high-performance mechanical keyboard.

The GB65 inherits the classic Game Boy design language, from the distinct inner and outer frames to the precise side edge lines. Built on the foundation of a gasket-mounted 65% layout, this standout kit comes equipped with a thoughtful array of components: hot-swappable PCB options, full INOAC Poron foam for acoustic tuning, and interchangeable decorative pieces to make the homage your own.

Design Down to the Details

The designers studied the original console to capture its spirit. The small red light on the front is a perfect reproduction of the Game Boy's battery indicator. On the top, you'll find non-functional "Selection" and "Start" buttons, placed exactly where you remember them. Next to them, a rounded magnetic piece represents the classic "A" and "B" buttons—swappable in seconds for included arcade-style joystick or coin slot decorations.

The Cartridge System

The backplate pays homage to the game cartridge slot, featuring a magnetic system that recreates the console's battery cover. This panel hides a decorative 'game cartridge' inside the case. If you'd rather show it off, a replacement 'battery cover' is included to let you display the cartridge for all to see. It's a detail that transforms the keyboard from a tool into a conversation piece.

Tuned for Typing

While the design captures the past, the typing experience is thoroughly modern. The polycarbonate top case paired with a solid aluminum bottom case provides substantial presence on your desk. The gasket mount structure uses silicone gaskets for a firm, responsive feel. Comprehensive foam layers—including 3.5mm Poron plate foam, 0.5mm IXPE switch foam, and 2mm Poron case foam—let you dial in your ideal typing sound.

Your Build, Your Way

The GB65 is a DIY kit, giving you full control over the final feel and function. The hot-swappable PCB means you can install any 5-pin MX-style switch without soldering. Choose between the 1.2mm flex-cut PCB for a softer, bouncier typing experience with a deeper, "thockier" sound, or the 1.6mm non-flex-cut PCB for a stiffer build with a sharper, "clackier" sound. Full QMK and VIA support lets you remap any key and create custom macros.

Key Features

Game Boy Inspired Design

A meticulous homage to the 1989 original, featuring the iconic frame, button placements, and red power indicator light

Interchangeable Decorations

Customize your look with included magnetic arcade-style joysticks and coin slot piece for the "A" and "B" button area

Magnetic Cartridge Backplate

Unique backplate system hides a decorative 'game cartridge' behind a magnetic 'battery cover' with option to display openly

Gasket Mount Structure

Silicone gaskets provide a clean sound profile and firm, responsive typing feel

Hot-Swappable PCB

Choose between 1.2mm flex-cut or 1.6mm non-flex-cut PCB. Both support 5-pin switches for solder-free assembly

Complete Acoustic Kit

Includes full set of INOAC Poron plate foam, IXPE switch foam, and Poron bottom foam to eliminate hollowness

QMK & VIA Compatible

Total control over your layout. Remap keys, create layers, and build complex macros with open-source firmware

Tri-Mode Connectivity

Choose wired-only model or tri-mode version for Bluetooth (up to 3 devices) and low-latency 2.4GHz wireless

Available Options

Keyboard Configurations

GB65 Warm Gray Tri-Mode Keyboard (MONO Switches)
GB65 Cool Gray Tri-Mode Keyboard (MONO Switches)
GB65 Warm Gray Wired Keyboard (MONO Switches)
GB65 Cool Gray Wired Keyboard (MONO Switches)
GB65 Pink Tri-mode Keyboard (MONO Switches) - Pink Frame
GB65 Pink Tri-mode Keyboard (MONO Switches) - Blue Border
GB65 Pink Wired Keyboard (MONO Switches) - Pink Frame
GB65 Pink Wired Keyboard (MONO Switches) - Blue Border

Additional Plates Available

GB65 Dedicated POM Positioning Plate
GB65 Dedicated FR4 Positioning Plate
GB65 Special Aluminum Alloy Positioning Plate

Specifications

Layout

65%

Mounting Style

Gasket Mount

Typing Angle

7°

Case Material

Polycarbonate (Top), Aluminum (Bottom)

Plate Material

Polycarbonate

PCB

Hot-swappable (5-pin), QMK/VIA compatible

PCB Options

1.2mm (flex-cut) or 1.6mm (non-flex-cut)

Connectivity

Wired (USB-C) or Tri-Mode (Wired, Bluetooth, 2.4GHz)

Plate Foam

3.5mm INOAC Poron

Switch Pad

0.5mm IXPE

Bottom Foam

2mm INOAC Poron

Dimensions

332mm × 125mm × 32mm

Front Height

22mm

Weight (Unbuilt)

Approx. 1.45 kg

What's In The Box

✓ Top Case (PC)

✓ Bottom Case (Aluminum)

✓ PCB (your choice of variant)

✓ Plate (your choice of material)

✓ Daughterboard and JST Cable

✓ Full Foam Kit (Plate, Switch, Bottom)

✓ Set of Plate Mount Stabilizers

✓ USB-C Cable

✓ Set of Screws

✓ Switch Puller

✓ Keycap Puller

✓ Set of Silicone Gasket Tabs

✓ Suction Cup

✓ Arcade-style Joystick Decoration

✓ Coin Slot Decoration

✓ Magnetic Battery Cover Set

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "DIY Kit" mean? What else do I need to buy?

This is a barebones keyboard kit. It includes the case, PCB, plate, foam, stabilizers, and assembly hardware. To complete the build, you will need to purchase switches (any MX-style, 5-pin switch is compatible) and keycaps (standard 65% ANSI layout).

Is this keyboard difficult to assemble?

Assembly is straightforward for anyone with some experience building custom keyboards. The kit includes all necessary screws and tools like a switch and keycap puller. If you are new to the hobby, we recommend watching a few online build guides for similar gasket-mounted 65% keyboards to familiarize yourself with the process.

A Centerpiece for Your Retro-Inspired Setup

The GB65 transforms nostalgia into a high-performance mechanical keyboard that's built to last.

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80Retros - Game1989 GB65 – 65% PC DIY Keyboard Kit