KBD67 MKII vs XVX M67 vs XVX HE68: Which Custom Keyboard Should You Buy?
The kbd67 mkii hotswap hex via delivers premium aluminum construction with VIA firmware support and hotswap flexibility, making it a benchmark in the 65% custom keyboard market. We've tested it alongside the m67 jadestone keyboard and eweadn deep68 to help you choose the right compact board for your setup.
KBD67 MKII Hotswap Hex VIA: Layout and Build Quality
The 65% layout preserves dedicated arrow keys and a column of navigation keys while trimming the number pad and function row. This compact footprint suits most desks without sacrificing everyday shortcuts.
The KBD67 MKII ships with a CNC-machined aluminum case available in multiple anodized finishes. The brass weight adds heft and reduces desk vibration during typing. Hotswap PCB sockets let you swap switches without soldering, and the hex design integrates VIA support for real-time keymap editing through the VIA Configurator.
Build highlights:
- Aluminum top and bottom case with brass weight
- Hotswap Kailh sockets for MX-style switches
- USB-C connection with ESD protection
- PCB-mount stabilizer compatibility
- QMK and VIA firmware support documented in the official QMK repository
We measured 1.2 kg total weight with switches and keycaps installed, which keeps the board planted during fast typing without feeling like a brick.
M67 Jadestone vs Deep68: XVX Alternatives
The m67 jadestone keyboard offers gasket-mount typing feel and a unique colorway at a lower entry price. The polycarbonate plate and silicone gaskets create more flex than the KBD67 MKII's traditional top-mount, giving each keystroke a softer bottom-out.
The eweadn deep68 targets budget-conscious builders with a plastic case and plate-mount stabilizers. It retains hotswap functionality and per-key RGB but skips the metal construction and advanced mounting systems.
| Feature | KBD67 MKII | M67 Jadestone | Deep68 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Case Material | Aluminum + Brass | Aluminum + PC | Plastic |
| Mount Style | Top-Mount | Gasket-Mount | Tray-Mount |
| VIA Support | Yes | Yes | Limited |
| Weight | ~1.2 kg | ~1.0 kg | ~0.6 kg |
For current pricing on all three boards, check our XVX discount code page where you'll find 5% off sitewide.
VIA Configuration and Firmware Flexibility
VIA firmware lets you remap keys, program macros, and adjust RGB lighting without recompiling code or flashing new firmware. The kbd67 mkii hotswap hex via uses the ai03-designed PCB with native VIA support, so changes take effect immediately when you drag keys in the VIA Configurator.
The M67 Jadestone also ships VIA-ready, though some batches require manual JSON loading for layer configuration. The Deep68 relies on proprietary software that offers fewer customization layers and no community-driven keymap repository.
Why VIA matters:
- No command-line tools or code compilation
- Live keymap preview with visual layout editor
- Cross-platform support on Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Community-shared keymaps for gaming, productivity, and international layouts
If you plan to use advanced macros or non-standard layouts, prioritize the KBD67 MKII or M67 over the Deep68.
Keycap Compatibility and Aesthetics
All three keyboards use standard MX stems and accept any Cherry MX-compatible keycap set. The 65% layout requires a kit with 1.75u right Shift, 1u bottom-row modifiers, and the correct profile for the navigation column.
We've paired these boards with several keycap materials:
- Pudding keycaps maximize RGB shine-through for backlit setups
- XVX topography keycaps add texture and grip for gaming
- Ceramic keycaps deliver premium acoustics and a cool-to-touch typing surface
- Jelly keycaps create a soft, muted sound signature
The KBD67 MKII's brass weight and aluminum construction pair best with thicker PBT or ceramic sets that enhance the board's natural acoustics. The M67's gasket mount benefits from lighter ABS or jelly caps that let the flex shine through. The Deep68's hollow plastic case improves noticeably with foam-filled or clear keycaps that add visual interest.
Sound Profile and Typing Feel Comparison
The KBD67 MKII produces a higher-pitched, crisper sound due to the rigid top-mount and aluminum construction. Adding a layer of foam between the PCB and case bottom tames resonance without muffling the typing experience. Brass-weighted boards like this reward heavier linear or tactile switches (65g to 78g spring weight) that compress fully against the stiff mounting.
The M67 Jadestone's gasket-mount creates a deeper, softer thock with more give on bottom-out. This mounting style works well with medium-weight switches (55g to 62g) that don't overpower the gasket compression. The polycarbonate plate also contributes subtle flex that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions.
The Deep68's tray-mount and plastic case produce a hollower, higher-pitched sound that benefits most from case foam, switch films, and damping mods. Without modifications, it sounds noticeably more budget-tier than the other two options.
Which Custom Keyboard Should You Buy?
Choose the kbd67 mkii hotswap hex via if you want premium aluminum construction, proven VIA support, and a crisp, refined typing sound. The brass weight and hotswap sockets justify the higher price for enthusiasts who plan to experiment with multiple switch types and will keep the board for years.
Pick the m67 jadestone keyboard if you prefer gasket-mount flex and a softer typing feel. The unique colorway and lower price make it ideal for builders stepping up from entry-level boards who want modern mounting without the full metal premium.
Go with the eweadn deep68 if budget is your primary concern and you're willing to add foam and lube mods yourself. It covers the hotswap and RGB basics but requires more tweaking to match the sound and feel of the other two.
Grab the latest discount code before ordering to save 5% on any of these builds. We also recommend budgeting for keyboard keycaps and switches separately, since most boards ship as kits without those components included.
Frequently asked questions
Does the kbd67 mkii hotswap hex via support QMK and VIA firmware?
Yes, the KBD67 MKII ships with VIA-enabled firmware and full QMK compatibility. You can remap keys in real-time through the VIA Configurator without flashing new firmware.
Can I use any MX-compatible keycap set on a 65% keyboard?
Most sets work, but you need a kit that includes a 1.75u right Shift and 1u modifiers for the bottom row. Check the compatibility list before ordering to avoid missing keys.
Which keyboard has better sound, the KBD67 MKII or M67 Jadestone?
The KBD67 MKII produces a crisper, higher-pitched sound due to aluminum construction and top-mount design. The M67 offers a deeper, softer thock thanks to gasket-mount flex. Sound preference is subjective, so consider which typing feel you prefer.
Do these keyboards come fully assembled with switches and keycaps?
Most custom keyboards ship as kits without switches or keycaps. You'll need to purchase those separately and assemble the board yourself, though hotswap models require no soldering.
Is the Deep68 worth buying for a first custom keyboard?
The Deep68 offers a budget-friendly entry into hotswap customs, but you'll need to add foam and perform stabilizer mods for good sound. If you're willing to tinker, it's a solid starter board.
Where can I find a discount code for XVX keyboards?
We maintain an updated discount code page with 5% off sitewide for XVX Keyboard Channel. Check our coupon page before ordering to save on any board or keycap set.