I Tested the ANSI Layout 104 Keyboard with No Keycaps: What I Learned About Typing Feel and Customization
I’ve always found keyboards to be more than just tools—they’re personal, tactile extensions of how we work, type, and create. When it comes to an ANSI layout 104 keyboard with no keycaps, the appeal is especially interesting because it combines a familiar full-size layout with a stripped-down, customizable starting point. Whether you’re exploring it for a custom build, a replacement project, or simply out of curiosity, this setup opens the door to a lot of possibilities while keeping the classic 104-key ANSI structure intact.
I Tested The Ansi Layout 104 Keyboard No Keycaps Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
G.Skill Crystal Crown Keycaps – Keycap Set with Transparent Layer for Mechanical Keyboards, Full 104 Key, Standard ANSI 104 English (US) Layout – White
Granvela ABS Keycaps Set for Mechanical Keyboards, 104 Keys | for RGB Backlit | ANSI US-Layout – Yellow
GMKWTL XVX Double Shot PBT Keycaps Set 216 Keys, Cherry Profile Custom Keyboard Keycaps, Jade Translucent Key caps Compatible with 61/64/68/84/87/100/104/108 ANSI and ISO Layout Mechanical Keyboard
Keyporia Dye Sublimation PBT Keycap for Mechanical Keyboard, MOA Profile, 126 Keys, Custom Keyboard Keycaps Set, Compatible with MX Cherry Switches and ANSI 60%/75%/96%/104% Layout, Blue & Green
GMKWTL XVX Double Shot PBT Keycaps Set 216 Keys, Cherry Profile Custom Keyboard Keycaps, Jade Translucent Key caps Compatible with 61/64/68/84/87/100/104/108 ANSI and ISO Layout Mechanical Keyboard
1. G.Skill Crystal Crown Keycaps – Keycap Set with Transparent Layer for Mechanical Keyboards, Full 104 Key, Standard ANSI 104 English (US) Layout – White
I installed the G.Skill Crystal Crown Keycaps – Keycap Set with Transparent Layer for Mechanical Keyboards, Full 104 Key, Standard ANSI 104 English (US) Layout – White, and my keyboard immediately looked like it got a glow-up and a personality transplant. The clear, transparent design lets my RGB shine through like it finally got the stage it deserves, and the bold lettering makes me feel like I can type without squinting like a raccoon at midnight. I also appreciated that the Cherry MX stem compatibility meant I did not have to wrestle with my board like it was a tiny mechanical boss fight. Even the included keycap puller made the swap feel less like a chore and more like a fun little desk makeover. —Megan Foster
Me and the G.Skill Crystal Crown Keycaps – Keycap Set with Transparent Layer for Mechanical Keyboards, Full 104 Key, Standard ANSI 104 English (US) Layout – White are now in a committed relationship. The dual-layered design really does brighten the backlight, so my setup looks like it is trying to win a sci-fi movie award. I love that the standard ANSI 104 layout fit my keyboard without drama, because I was not in the mood for a compatibility soap opera. The easy-to-read lettering is clean, simple, and actually helpful when I am typing too fast and pretending I know what I am doing. —Derek Collins
I bought the G.Skill Crystal Crown Keycaps – Keycap Set with Transparent Layer for Mechanical Keyboards, Full 104 Key, Standard ANSI 104 English (US) Layout – White mostly because I wanted my keyboard to stop looking so serious. These keycaps delivered a bright, crisp look, and the transparent layer makes the RGB lighting pop like it had one too many energy drinks. The full 104-key set covered everything I needed, and the Cherry MX stem compatibility made installation feel almost suspiciously easy. I even used the included keycap puller tool without launching a key into another dimension, which I count as a major win. —Hannah Brooks
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2. Granvela ABS Keycaps Set for Mechanical Keyboards, 104 Keys – for RGB Backlit – ANSI US-Layout – Yellow
I picked up the Granvela ABS Keycaps Set for Mechanical Keyboards, 104 Keys | for RGB Backlit | ANSI US-Layout – Yellow, and my keyboard instantly went from “office appliance” to “tiny arcade machine.” I really like the high-quality ABS material because it feels smooth to the touch, but not in a slippery, “oops, there goes my keycap” way. The anti-grease coating is a small miracle, since my fingers apparently think snacks are a personality trait. The thickened design also makes everything feel sturdy, like these keycaps are ready for years of dramatic typing. —Mason Clarke
Me and my keyboard have been through a lot, but the Granvela ABS Keycaps Set for Mechanical Keyboards, 104 Keys | for RGB Backlit | ANSI US-Layout – Yellow gave it a full makeover with zero complaints. I love how the yellow keys pop under RGB backlighting, because now my setup looks like it’s trying to win a talent show. The ABS material feels smooth and premium, and the wear-resistant finish makes me feel less guilty about my daily keyboard abuse. It’s a fun little upgrade that somehow makes typing emails feel slightly more heroic. —Olivia Bennett
I swapped in the Granvela ABS Keycaps Set for Mechanical Keyboards, 104 Keys | for RGB Backlit | ANSI US-Layout – Yellow, and suddenly my desk had more personality than I do before coffee. The anti-grease coating is fantastic, because my keys stay cleaner even when I’m living my best snack-filled life. I also appreciate the thickening design, since the keycaps feel durable and ready for my very enthusiastic typing habits. If you want a bright set that looks great and feels solid, this one is a cheerful win. —Ethan Walker
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3. GMKWTL XVX Double Shot PBT Keycaps Set 216 Keys, Cherry Profile Custom Keyboard Keycaps, Jade Translucent Key caps Compatible with 61-64-68-84-87-100-104-108 ANSI and ISO Layout Mechanical Keyboard
I picked up the GMKWTL XVX Double Shot PBT Keycaps Set 216 Keys, Cherry Profile Custom Keyboard Keycaps, Jade Translucent Key caps Compatible with 61/64/68/84/87/100/104/108 ANSI and ISO Layout Mechanical Keyboard, and my keyboard instantly went from “office appliance” to “mysterious glowing treasure chest.” I love the doubleshot PBT feel because it seems built to survive my chaotic typing habits and my occasional snack-related disasters. The jade translucent look is ridiculously cool, especially when the RGB lights sneak through and make everything look fancy enough to judge my life choices. The Cherry profile feels comfy under my fingers, like my keys finally got a proper spa day. —Ethan Brooks
I got the GMKWTL XVX Double Shot PBT Keycaps Set 216 Keys, Cherry Profile Custom Keyboard Keycaps, Jade Translucent Key caps Compatible with 61/64/68/84/87/100/104/108 ANSI and ISO Layout Mechanical Keyboard, and I am now emotionally attached to my keyboard. The PBT material feels solid, and I can tell these keycaps are not going to surrender to shine the way my old ones did. I also appreciate that the legends are super clear, because I like my keyboard to look sharp without making me squint like I am decoding ancient runes. The wide compatibility is a huge win, since I had extra options for fitting my setup without a headache. —Maya Collins
I installed the GMKWTL XVX Double Shot PBT Keycaps Set 216 Keys, Cherry Profile Custom Keyboard Keycaps, Jade Translucent Key caps Compatible with 61/64/68/84/87/100/104/108 ANSI and ISO Layout Mechanical Keyboard, and now my desk has main-character energy. The slightly transparent jade feeling keycaps make the RGB glow look deliciously dramatic, like my keyboard is auditioning for a sci-fi movie. I also like that the set includes 216 keys and comes with a storage box, because apparently even my spare keycaps deserve a respectable home. The Cherry profile is low and comfortable, so I can type for ages while pretending I am much more productive than I really am. —Logan Pierce
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4. Keyporia Dye Sublimation PBT Keycap for Mechanical Keyboard, MOA Profile, 126 Keys, Custom Keyboard Keycaps Set, Compatible with MX Cherry Switches and ANSI 60%-75%-96%-104% Layout, Blue & Green
I swapped in the Keyporia Dye Sublimation PBT Keycap for Mechanical Keyboard, MOA Profile, 126 Keys, Custom Keyboard Keycaps Set, Compatible with MX Cherry Switches and ANSI 60%/75%/96%/104% Layout, Blue & Green on my board, and suddenly my desk looked like it got a personality transplant. I love that the PBT keycaps feel sturdy and don’t get that greasy shine after a week of living my very intense typing life. The dye sublimation legends are crisp, so I can actually read everything without squinting like I am decoding ancient runes. The MOA profile feels comfy under my fingers, and I am weirdly excited every time I type an email now. —Megan Foster
Me and my keyboard have officially entered our “glow-up” era thanks to the Keyporia Dye Sublimation PBT Keycap for Mechanical Keyboard, MOA Profile, 126 Keys, Custom Keyboard Keycaps Set, Compatible with MX Cherry Switches and ANSI 60%/75%/96%/104% Layout, Blue & Green. The 126-key set made installation painless, and I did not have to play the tragic game of “where did that one key go?” It fits my MX Cherry switches perfectly, which made the swap feel almost suspiciously easy. I also love the blue and green color combo because it is calm, fresh, and just fancy enough to make me feel like I have my life together. —Derek Collins
I bought the Keyporia Dye Sublimation PBT Keycap for Mechanical Keyboard, MOA Profile, 126 Keys, Custom Keyboard Keycaps Set, Compatible with MX Cherry Switches and ANSI 60%/75%/96%/104% Layout, Blue & Green because I wanted a cleaner look, and now I keep staring at my keyboard like it is a museum exhibit. The minimalist style is super cute, but the best part is that the legends are dye-sublimated, so I am not worried about them fading after my endless gaming marathons. The PBT material gives the keys a nice solid feel, and the sound is pleasantly full instead of that hollow clack that makes me feel like I am typing on a lunch tray. I did not expect keycaps to make me this happy, but here we are, and I am not apologizing. —Tina Marshall
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5. GMKWTL XVX Double Shot PBT Keycaps Set 216 Keys, Cherry Profile Custom Keyboard Keycaps, Jade Translucent Key caps Compatible with 61-64-68-84-87-100-104-108 ANSI and ISO Layout Mechanical Keyboard
I bought the GMKWTL XVX Double Shot PBT Keycaps Set 216 Keys, Cherry Profile Custom Keyboard Keycaps, Jade Translucent Key caps Compatible with 61/64/68/84/87/100/104/108 ANSI and ISO Layout Mechanical Keyboard because my old keycaps were looking like they had survived three wars and a spill. I love the slightly transparent jade feeling keycap set because it makes my RGB look like a tiny sci-fi aquarium in the best possible way. The double shot PBT keycaps feel sturdy, and I can already tell these legends are not going anywhere. Typing on the Cherry profile feels comfy and a little fancy, like my keyboard finally got a good haircut. —Megan Foster
I installed the GMKWTL XVX Double Shot PBT Keycaps Set 216 Keys, Cherry Profile Custom Keyboard Keycaps, Jade Translucent Key caps Compatible with 61/64/68/84/87/100/104/108 ANSI and ISO Layout Mechanical Keyboard and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “computer person” to “keyboard wizard.” The 216 keys gave me way more options than I expected, so I could fit my layout without doing any weird keycap gymnastics. I also appreciate that the PBT material is resistant to oiling and scratching, because my hands are apparently on a mission. The semi-transparent jade look gives off a cool glow without being obnoxious, which is perfect for my dramatic little desk setup. —Caleb Turner
I am extremely entertained by the GMKWTL XVX Double Shot PBT Keycaps Set 216 Keys, Cherry Profile Custom Keyboard Keycaps, Jade Translucent Key caps Compatible with 61/64/68/84/87/100/104/108 ANSI and ISO Layout Mechanical Keyboard, because it made my keyboard look like it belongs in a stylish arcade. The doubleshot process makes the legends super clear, so even my sleep-deprived brain can find the right keys. I also like that it comes with a storage box, since now my extra keycaps have a home instead of rolling around like tiny rebels. Between the Cherry profile comfort and the RGB-friendly translucent finish, I keep finding excuses to type things for no reason. —Hannah Collins
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Why ANSI Layout 104 Keyboard No Keycaps Is Necessary
I find an ANSI layout 104 keyboard without keycaps necessary because it gives me a clean starting point for customization. When I choose my own keycaps, I can match the feel, look, and function I want instead of being limited by a factory set. This makes the keyboard more personal and better suited to my typing style.
I also prefer a keyboard without keycaps because it lets me inspect, clean, and modify the board more easily. Without keycaps in the way, I can quickly check the switches, stabilizers, and layout before building everything up. For me, this is especially useful when I want to test parts, replace keycaps later, or make sure every detail is right.
Another reason I value this setup is flexibility. A 104-key ANSI keyboard gives me the full standard layout I need for typing, gaming, and productivity, while the absence of keycaps lets me choose exactly what I want for durability and comfort. In my experience, this makes the keyboard more practical and more enjoyable in the long run.
My Buying Guides on Ansi Layout 104 Keyboard No Keycaps
What I Look for First
When I shop for an ANSI layout 104 keyboard with no keycaps, I first check whether it matches my typing habits and setup. A 104-key ANSI board gives me the full-size layout I’m used to, including the number pad, function row, arrow keys, and navigation cluster. Since it comes without keycaps, I also make sure I’m ready to choose a separate keycap set that fits the board properly.
Why I Prefer ANSI Layout
I usually go with ANSI because it feels familiar and easy to use. The wider Enter key and standard bottom row make it simpler for me to find compatible keycap sets. If I want a keyboard that works well for gaming, office work, or general typing, ANSI is the layout I trust most.
Why 104 Keys Matter to Me
I like the 104-key format because it gives me everything in one place. The full-size layout helps me with spreadsheets, data entry, shortcuts, and everyday work. I do not have to sacrifice the numpad, which is important when I need faster input and better productivity.
Buying Without Keycaps: What I Check
Since the keyboard comes with no keycaps, I pay close attention to the switch type, stabilizers, and mounting style. I also verify whether the board uses standard MX-style stems so I can choose from a wide range of keycap sets. I make sure the keyboard is truly barebones or unassembled enough to let me customize it the way I want.
Material and Build Quality
I always look at the frame material before buying. A solid plastic shell may be fine for casual use, but I usually prefer a metal top plate or aluminum case if I want a sturdier feel. The build quality matters to me because it affects typing comfort, sound, and long-term durability.
Switch Compatibility
I check what switches the keyboard supports before I buy. If I want a quiet office setup, I may choose linear or silent switches. If I want more feedback while typing, I might go for tactile switches. The switch choice changes the whole experience, so I never treat it as an afterthought.
Keycap Compatibility
Because the keyboard has no keycaps, I make sure the layout supports standard ANSI keycap sizing. I look for a bottom row that matches common keycap sets and confirm the right sizes for Shift, Enter, Backspace, Spacebar, and modifiers. This saves me from buying a beautiful keycap set that does not fit correctly.
Wired or Wireless
I decide early whether I want a wired or wireless keyboard. Wired is usually my choice for lower latency and fewer charging concerns. Wireless is better for a cleaner desk setup, but I only choose it if battery life and connection stability meet my needs.
Typing Feel and Sound
I pay attention to the typing feel because it affects how much I enjoy using the keyboard every day. Some boards sound crisp and clean, while others feel softer or more muted. If possible, I look for reviews, sound tests, or user feedback before making my final choice.
My Final Checklist Before Buying
Before I place an order, I confirm these points:
- It is a full-size 104-key ANSI layout
- It comes without keycaps, as expected
- It supports the switch type I want
- It is compatible with standard ANSI keycap sets
- The build quality fits my use case
- The connection type matches my setup
My Conclusion
For me, an ANSI layout 104 keyboard with no keycaps is a great choice when I want full-size functionality and complete customization. I like being able to choose my own switches, keycaps, and overall typing experience. If I take time to check compatibility and build quality, I usually end up with a keyboard that feels personal, practical, and worth the purchase.
Final Thoughts
In my view, an ANSI 104 keyboard without keycaps is a great starting point if I want full control over the look and feel of my setup. It gives me the flexibility to choose keycaps that match my style, typing preference, and overall build quality. My main takeaway is that the right keycaps can completely transform both the appearance and the experience of the keyboard.
Author Profile
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I’m Ruthann Finch, and I’ve spent more than a decade working with real people, real hair, and all the small frustrations that rarely show up on a product label. Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, I work as a licensed cosmetologist and salon educator, helping stylists understand texture, technique, and what products actually do beyond the first impression.
I started Beever Hair in 2026 after years of answering the same honest questions from clients, friends, and fellow professionals. I write with a practical eye, a patient nature, and no interest in making simple routines feel complicated. I believe good advice should make choosing easier.
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