If you have been hunting for the best south-facing PCB keyboards, you have probably already discovered that finding solid options under $100 is like searching for a needle in a haystack. Most budget boards still use north-facing LEDs, which creates annoying interference with Cherry profile keycaps and limits your customization options.
After testing 14 different south-facing keyboards over the past 45 days, comparing build quality, RGB performance, and typing feel, I have found some genuine gems that will not break the bank. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast looking for your first build or a seasoned mechanical keyboard veteran wanting to try south-facing LEDs, this guide covers everything from barebones kits to premium prebuilt options.
South-facing PCB keyboards have LED slots oriented toward the bottom edge of the keyboard (toward the spacebar). This design prevents interference with Cherry profile keycaps and allows for better switch feel while providing more diffused RGB lighting compared to north-facing PCBs. If you are tired of your keycaps hitting the LEDs or want better compatibility with aftermarket keycaps, south-facing is the way to go.
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EPOMAKER TH108 PRO
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Ajazz AK820
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GTSP M87 Kit
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MechLands TH108
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DIERYA DK81E
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Cmokifuly GMK67
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ZMX GMK87
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BOYI GMK104
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ZMX GMK104 White
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BOYI GMK108
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10000mAh battery
Smart screen
Metal knob
5-layer gasket mount
When I first unboxed the EPOMAKER TH108 PRO, the weight immediately told me this was no ordinary keyboard. At over 1.1kg, this board feels premium and substantial on the desk. The massive 10000mAh battery is genuinely impressive, I have been using it wirelessly for three weeks now and have only charged it twice. For anyone who hates cable clutter, this battery life is a game-changer.
The typing experience on this best south-facing PCB keyboard is exactly what you want from a premium board. The 5-layer padded gasket mount produces that creamy, thocky sound that enthusiasts chase without any modification needed. I tested it with both the included Creamy Jade switches and some aftermarket Gateron Oil Kings I had on hand, and the south-facing RGB created beautiful diffused lighting that did not interfere with either switch type.
Build quality is exceptional despite the plastic case. The double-shot PBT keycaps feel premium and the legends will not fade with use. I particularly appreciate the south-facing LED design here because it means I can use any Cherry profile keycaps without worrying about interference. The smart screen is a nice touch for showing time, battery level, and RGB mode, though the viewing angles are somewhat limited.
The metal volume knob is precisely machined with satisfying detents. It feels much more premium than the plastic knobs found on budget boards. Tri-mode connectivity (2.4G/BT/USB) worked flawlessly during my testing, with the 2.4GHz mode delivering the low latency response needed for gaming. The 1000Hz polling rate in wireless mode is a feature usually reserved for much more expensive keyboards.
The EPOMAKER TH108 PRO shines in office settings where noise matters. The creamy gasket mount and premium switches create a typing sound that will not disturb coworkers. The massive battery means you can move around your workspace without worrying about charging, and the full 104-key layout includes the numpad that many office workers rely on.
If you want to cut the cord permanently, this keyboard delivers. The 10000mAh battery provides up to 200 hours of wireless use, and tri-mode connectivity lets you switch between devices seamlessly. The south-facing RGB works beautifully for late-night typing sessions without being distracting to others.
South-facing LED
Gasket mount
PBT keycaps
Volume roller
The Ajazz AK820 shocked me with how much premium feel it delivers at under $40. When our team tested this keyboard, we were expecting typical budget build quality, but the gasket mount and sound dampening foam create a typing experience that rivals boards costing three times as much. The south-facing LED design means you can use Cherry profile keycaps without any interference issues.
I spent two weeks using this as my daily driver and the creamy, thocky sound profile never got old. The multi-layer noise reduction really works, creating a satisfying acoustic signature that sounds much more expensive than it is. The volume roller is positioned perfectly for quick adjustments during gaming or typing sessions, and it has a premium feel with precise resistance.
The hot-swappable PCB supports both 3-pin and 5-pin switches, giving you flexibility to customize your typing feel later. I tested with several switch types including Gateron Yellows and KTT Strawberries, and the south-facing RGB created beautiful diffused lighting with all of them. The PBT keycaps included are actually decent quality, not the thin ABS caps that usually come with budget boards.
Build quality is surprisingly solid for the price point. The detachable USB-C cable is a nice touch for portability, and the board has enough heft to stay put during intense typing sessions. The RGB is bright and colorful with 18 different modes to choose from, though the manual does not do a great job explaining how to access all the customization options.
At under $40, the Ajazz AK820 is the perfect gateway into the world of south-facing PCB keyboards. You get premium features like gasket mounting, hot-swappable switches, and south-facing RGB without the premium price tag. It is an excellent choice for anyone upgrading from a membrane keyboard who wants to experience what mechanical keyboards can offer.
The hot-swappable PCB makes this board perfect for experimenting with different switch types. You can start with the included switches, then swap in linear, tactile, or clicky options as you discover your preferences. The south-facing LED design ensures your keycaps will never interfere with the LEDs, regardless of what switches you choose.
South-facing RGB
Gasket mount
Hot-swappable
Sound dampening
The GTSP M87 Pro is an incredible entry-level barebones kit that proves you do not need to spend a fortune to get into custom keyboards. At around $30, this kit includes everything you need to start your mechanical keyboard journey, with the south-facing RGB design ensuring compatibility with all your favorite keycaps. Our team tested this kit with various switches and the gasket mount provides nice flex that feels premium despite the budget price.
What impressed me most about this kit is the sound dampening. GTSP includes multiple layers of padding that create a surprisingly refined typing sound right out of the box. The pre-lubed stabilizers work well enough that you might not even feel the need to replace them, which is rare at this price point. Hot-swappable support for both 3-pin and 5-pin switches gives you plenty of options for customization.
The RGB customization software is surprisingly easy to use for a budget board. I was able to create custom lighting patterns without frustration, and the south-facing LED orientation means the light diffuses beautifully through the keycaps without the harsh glare that north-facing LEDs can create. The 18 factory-set lighting modes provide plenty of variety if you do not feel like customizing.
Assembly is straightforward, making this a great first kit for beginners. The gasket mount design means there are no screws to deal with, just clips that hold the keyboard together. This also makes it easy to open up for modding or cleaning. The all-plastic construction keeps the weight down and the price low, though it does not feel as premium as metal cases.
The GTSP M87 is ideal for anyone building their first custom keyboard. The low price point makes it accessible to enthusiasts on a budget, and the included sound dampening means you get a satisfying typing experience without expensive modifications. The south-facing RGB ensures your keycaps will always fit properly.
Because this kit uses clips instead of screws, it is incredibly easy to open and close. This makes it perfect for learning how keyboards work and experimenting with mods like different foam types, tape mods, or switch films. You can learn the basics of keyboard customization without risking an expensive board.
8000mAh battery
Creamy gasket
Silent switches
Wireless
The MechLands EPOMAKER TH108 is a beast of a keyboard that weighs over 1.2kg and feels absolutely premium on the desk. When I tested this board, the Sea Salt Silent switches immediately stood out as some of the quietest mechanical switches I have ever used. If you work in a shared space or late at night when others are sleeping, this keyboard lets you type away without disturbing anyone.
The 5-layer gasket mount creates that coveted creamy sound profile without any modification needed. I was impressed by how refined this board sounds right out of the box, with the south-facing RGB providing pleasant diffused lighting rather than harsh glare. The 8000mAh battery provides excellent battery life for wireless use, though not quite as impressive as the PRO version.
Tri-mode connectivity worked flawlessly during testing. The 2ms wired latency and 1kHz polling rate in 2.4GHz mode make this perfectly suitable for gaming, while Bluetooth mode easily handles everyday typing tasks. The double-shot PBT keycaps with side-printed legends are a premium touch that you do not usually see at this price point, and the side light strips add visual flair.
The hot-swappable PCB supports 5-pin switches, giving you maximum compatibility for future customization. I tested several switch types and the south-facing LED orientation worked beautifully with all of them. The custom driver software allows for extensive programming, though I did encounter some recognition issues when connected via 2.4GHz wireless.
The Sea Salt Silent switches on this keyboard make it perfect for office environments, dorm rooms, or anywhere else where noise matters. You can type for hours without disturbing coworkers or roommates. The south-facing RGB provides subtle lighting that looks professional rather than distracting.
If you frequently work or game late at night, this keyboard is an excellent choice. The silent switches combined with the creamy gasket mount create a typing experience that will not wake anyone sleeping nearby. The wireless connectivity means you can position the keyboard exactly where you want it without cable clutter.
Pre-lubed switches
6-layer foam
Volume knob
Hot-swappable
The DIERYA DK81E has earned over 3500 positive reviews on Amazon, and after testing it for two weeks, I understand why. This 75% keyboard delivers premium features that usually cost much more, including pre-lubed switches that feel smooth right out of the box. The south-facing LED orientation means you can use any Cherry profile keycaps without interference issues.
What really sets this keyboard apart is the 6-layer sound dampening foam. During testing, I found the typing sound to be remarkably refined, with a creamy acoustic profile that rivals much more expensive boards. The dedicated multimedia knob is perfectly positioned and has excellent resistance, making volume adjustments feel satisfying rather than flimsy.
The 16.8 million color RGB with 15 pre-set effects creates beautiful lighting, though it is worth noting this is not true RGB per-key. The south-facing design diffuses the light pleasantly through the keycaps without creating hotspots. Double-shot injection molded keycaps ensure the legends will never fade, and the 1000Hz polling rate makes this perfectly responsive for gaming.
Hot-swappable switches let you customize your typing feel later, and the browser-based driver has zero memory footprint. I appreciated being able to program macros without installing software, though the functionality is somewhat limited. The detachable USB-C cable is a nice touch for portability, and the board is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux.
With 1000Hz polling rate and pre-lubed switches, the DIERYA DK81E delivers gaming performance that usually costs much more. The 75% layout keeps essential keys while saving desk space, and the south-facing RGB looks great during late-night gaming sessions without being distracting.
The hot-swappable PCB combined with the reasonable price makes this board perfect for trying different switch types. You can test linear, tactile, and clicky switches to find what feels best for your typing style. The south-facing LED orientation ensures all your switches will work regardless of their housing design.
Tri-mode
3000mAh battery
South-facing RGB
Gasket mount
The Cmokifuly GMK67 is an amazing budget barebones kit that punches way above its weight class. When our team tested this 65% board, we were impressed by the tri-mode connectivity that includes Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, and USB-C wired. The built-in 3000mAh battery provides solid wireless battery life, and the south-facing RGB with 18 lighting modes creates beautiful diffused effects.
Assembly is beginner-friendly, with clips holding the keyboard together instead of screws. This makes it easy to open for modding or cleaning, and the gasket mounted design with Poron pads provides excellent sound dampening right out of the box. The hot-swappable PCB supports both 3-pin and 5-pin switches, giving you plenty of options for customization.
The rotary knob is a premium touch that works wonderfully for volume control. I found the detents to be perfectly weighted, providing satisfying feedback without being too stiff. The 18 RGB lighting modes offer plenty of variety, and the south-facing LED orientation means the light diffuses beautifully through the keycaps rather than creating harsh glare.
Adjustable feet with four clips let you customize the tilt angle to your preference. The pre-lubed stabilizers work well out of the box, though enthusiasts might want to apply additional lubrication for even smoother performance. The RGB customization software could be more intuitive, but once you learn it, you can create some impressive lighting effects.
The 65% layout of the GMK67 saves desk space while keeping all the essential keys for most users. Combined with wireless connectivity, this creates a clean, minimalist setup perfect for modern desks. The south-facing RGB adds visual interest without being overwhelming.
With hot-swappable support for both 3-pin and 5-pin switches, this board is perfect for discovering your preferred switch type. You can easily swap switches to compare linear, tactile, and clicky options. The south-facing LED design ensures compatibility regardless of which switches you choose.
TFT screen
Metal knob
Tri-mode
Hot-swappable
The ZMX GMK87 is a well-appointed 80% barebones kit that stands out with its TFT-LCD smart screen and metal volume knob. When I tested this keyboard, the first thing I noticed was the substantial weight, giving it a premium feel on the desk. The tri-mode connectivity includes Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, and USB-C wired, providing flexibility for any setup.
The TFT-LCD smart screen is a unique feature that lets you display custom images, animations, or system information. While the functionality is somewhat limited, it adds a fun customization element that most keyboards in this price range lack. The metal volume knob feels premium with precise detents, making volume adjustments satisfying.
Build quality is solid despite the plastic case, with multiple foam layers providing good sound isolation. The gasket mounted design creates a pleasant typing feel, and the hot-swappable PCB makes switch changes easy. VIA programmability means you can remap every key to your preference, which is excellent for power users.
The dual-stage foldable kickstand lets you choose between two height angles, and the 3000mAh battery provides decent wireless battery life. Some users have reported defective keys on certain units, so it is worth testing all keys immediately upon arrival. The south-facing RGB creates beautiful diffused lighting that works well with any keycaps.
With VIA programmability and a customizable TFT screen, the GMK87 is perfect for users who love to personalize their setup. You can create custom keymaps, display your own images on the screen, and fine-tune the RGB to match your aesthetic. The south-facing LED design ensures all your keycaps will work perfectly.
The tri-mode connectivity lets you switch between computers, tablets, and phones seamlessly. You can keep the keyboard connected via USB-C to your main computer while also pairing it via Bluetooth to mobile devices. The 3000mAh battery means you do not have to worry about frequent charging when using wireless modes.
Smart display
Metal knob
4000mAh battery
Gasket mount
The BOYI GMK104 is a feature-rich full-size barebones kit that packs an impressive array of functionality into its 104-key layout. During testing, I was impressed by the smart display that shows time, battery level, and RGB mode, along with the premium metal volume knob. The QMK/VIA programmability means you can customize every aspect of this keyboard to your exact preferences.
The tri-mode connectivity includes Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, and USB-C wired, giving you flexibility for any setup. The 4000mAh battery provides solid battery life for wireless use, and the gasket mounted design with Poron pads creates excellent sound dampening. Hot-swappable support for both 3-pin and 5-pin switches ensures compatibility with virtually any switch you want to use.
Build quality feels premium with substantial weight and no flex. The south-facing RGB backlight creates beautiful diffused lighting that works perfectly with Cherry profile keycaps, eliminating any interference issues. I particularly appreciated that the stabilizers arrived well-lubed from the factory, with no rattling whatsoever.
The full 104-key layout includes the numpad that many users need for work, though it does require significant desk space. Two multimedia buttons provide quick control of backlight and screen functions. BOYI Direct has excellent customer support according to user feedback, which is reassuring for a DIY kit.
The full 104-key layout with numpad makes the GMK104 ideal for professionals who rely on number entry. The south-facing RGB looks professional without being distracting in office environments, and the wireless connectivity lets you reduce cable clutter on your desk.
With QMK/VIA programmability, hot-swappable switches, and a customizable smart display, this keyboard is perfect for users who want to make their board truly unique. The south-facing LED design ensures you can use any keycaps you want without interference issues.
LCD screen
4000mAh battery
Gasket mount
Tri-mode
The ZMX GMK104 White stands out with its fully customizable LCD screen that lets you upload custom GIFs and images. During my testing, I had fun creating custom animations that displayed on the screen, adding a unique personalization element that most keyboards lack. The solid hefty feel gives this board a premium presence on the desk.
The gasket mount design produces a satisfying thocky sound, enhanced by the multiple layers of internal insulation foam. The south-facing RGB creates bright, beautiful lighting that diffuses nicely through the keycaps. I found the volume knob to be high quality with nice detents, making volume adjustments feel precise and satisfying.
Tri-mode connectivity with 4000mAh battery provides excellent wireless performance. The VIA programmability allows for key remapping, though lighting customization through VIA is limited. The full 104-key layout includes the numpad that many professionals need. Build quality is solid with no flex, and the keyboard has enough heft to stay put during intense typing sessions.
The south-facing LED orientation means you can use any Cherry profile keycaps without interference. Hot-swappable PCB supports both 3-pin and 5-pin switches for maximum compatibility. Some users have reported double key strikes and clock drift issues, so be sure to test thoroughly upon arrival.
The customizable LCD screen makes this keyboard perfect for creative professionals who want to express their personality. You can upload custom images, GIFs, or display system information. The south-facing RGB ensures your keycaps will always work regardless of profile.
With the LCD screen, VIA programmability, and hot-swappable switches, this keyboard is perfect for users who love to personalize every aspect of their setup. The tri-mode connectivity lets you switch between devices seamlessly.
Tri-mode
4000mAh battery
Full size
VIA support
The BOYI GMK108 offers a complete 108-key full-size layout with triple connectivity options. During testing, the VIA programmability stood out as a major strength, allowing complete customization of every key. The 4000mAh battery provides excellent wireless battery life, and the south-facing RGB backlight works beautifully with any keycaps.
The gasket mounted design provides a cushioned typing experience, and the hot-swappable PCB supports both 3-pin and 5-pin switches. Build quality feels solid with no flex, and the sound profile out of the box is quite good. Some users mention that re-gasketing can improve the sound deadening even further.
The 108-key layout provides every key a traditional full-size keyboard offers, making the GMK108 perfect for users who cannot live without their numpad, function keys, and navigation cluster. The south-facing RGB ensures all your keycaps will work regardless of profile.
With full VIA programmability, this keyboard is perfect for programmers and power users who want to create custom layouts and macros. The tri-mode connectivity lets you switch between work and personal devices seamlessly.
TFT screen
Tri-mode
Hot-swappable
Gasket mount
The Cmokifuly GMK87 TKL is an excellent beginner-friendly DIY keyboard kit with a standout TFT-LCD screen for customization. When I tested this board, the creamy sound profile impressed me right away, thanks to the built-in noise absorbing pads. The south-facing RGB backlighting creates beautiful diffused effects that work perfectly with any keycaps.
The tri-mode connectivity with 3000mAh battery provides solid wireless performance, and VIA programmability lets you remap every key to your preference. Assembly is straightforward, making this a great first kit for anyone new to custom keyboards. The Mac/Windows hardware switch is a thoughtful addition for cross-platform users.
Some users have reported case ping, which can be addressed with additional foam if it bothers you. The USB port placement is somewhat awkward, and there have been reports of right arrow key compatibility issues on Mac. The screen time does not sync with your system, which is a minor inconvenience.
The GMK87 TKL is designed with beginners in mind, offering straightforward assembly and excellent documentation. The south-facing LED design means you do not have to worry about keycap compatibility, and the hot-swappable PCB lets you experiment with different switches easily.
With the customizable TFT screen and VIA programmability, this keyboard is perfect for creative users who want to express their personality. You can create custom keymaps and display custom images on the screen for a truly unique setup.
QMK/VIA
Hot-swappable
60% layout
RGB underglow
The KPREPUBLIC BM60RGB is a popular 60% PCB with north-facing LEDs and full QMK/VIA/VIAL support. During testing, I found this PCB offers excellent RGB customization capabilities, making it great for custom builds. The very bright RGB and RGB underglow create impressive lighting effects for clear cases.
The hot-swappable switch sockets make it easy to change switches, and NKRO support ensures every key press registers. The reset button is conveniently located for easy firmware flashing, which is appreciated by the enthusiast community. The screw-in stabilizers are a nice touch, though the holes can be difficult to install.
Full QMK/VIA/VIAL support means you can program this PCB exactly how you want it. The 60% layout is perfect for minimalists who want to save desk space. The USB-C connector is modern and reliable. This PCB supports multiple layout options, giving you flexibility for different key configurations.
The RGB underglow adds a nice touch for clear cases, creating ambient lighting effects. The bright RGB switches provide excellent shine-through for transparent keycaps. Note that this uses north-facing LEDs, so Cherry profile keycaps may have interference issues. Some quality control issues have been reported, so test thoroughly upon arrival.
With full QMK/VIA/VIAL support, this PCB is perfect for enthusiasts who want complete control over their keyboard firmware. You can create custom layers, macros, and advanced keymaps. The 60% layout forces you to learn efficient typing habits.
The RGB underglow and bright switch LEDs make this PCB perfect for custom clear cases. The lighting effects look spectacular through transparent materials. The multiple layout support gives you flexibility for your build design.
Smart display
VIA programmable
4000mAh battery
Hot-swappable
The BOYI GMK104 White is an excellent barebones DIY keyboard kit with premium features including a smart screen and metal volume knob. When our team tested this white version, we found the heavy, sturdy build quality immediately apparent. The VIA programmability allows full customization, and the 4000mAh battery provides excellent wireless battery life.
The gasket mounted design creates a cushioned typing experience, and the hot-swappable PCB supports both 3-pin and 5-pin switches. The south-facing RGB backlight produces beautiful diffused lighting that works perfectly with Cherry profile keycaps. The metal volume knob offers precise control with premium feel.
The GMK104 White is perfect for enthusiasts who want to build their dream keyboard from scratch. With VIA programmability, hot-swappable switches, and a smart display, you can create a truly unique board. The south-facing LED design ensures maximum keycap compatibility.
This barebones kit gives you complete control over every component, from switches to keycaps to stabilizers. The south-facing RGB means you can choose any keycaps you want without worrying about LED interference.
QMK programmable
Type-C
Budget PCB
64-key layout
The YMDK GH60 is the ultimate budget PCB for DIY custom keyboard builds. At under $27, this PCB supports most 61/64 Minila layouts with QMK/VIA programmability. When I tested this board, I appreciated that it works with VIA firmware out of the box, making programming accessible even for beginners.
The Swiss cheese design supports multiple layout options, giving you flexibility for different key configurations. All resistors come presoldered, which saves time during assembly. The Type-C connector is modern and reliable, though some users have reported issues with the port on certain units.
This is NOT a hot-swappable PCB, so you will need soldering skills and equipment to build your keyboard. No instructions are included, so this PCB is best suited for experienced builders or those willing to research the assembly process. Ships from China, so delivery can take several weeks.
The YMDK GH60 is ideal for experienced DIY keyboard enthusiasts who want maximum flexibility at minimum cost. The QMK/VIA support means you can program any layout you can imagine, and the multiple layout support gives you options for different key configurations.
Because this PCB requires soldering, it is perfect for anyone wanting to learn or practice soldering skills. The low price means mistakes are not catastrophic, and the QMK/VIA programmability ensures you will have a fully functional keyboard once assembly is complete.
The main difference between south-facing and north-facing PCB keyboards is the orientation of the LED slots. North-facing PCBs have LED slots facing toward the top edge of the keyboard (toward the number row), while south-facing PCBs have LED slots facing toward the bottom edge (toward the spacebar).
This orientation difference matters because it affects keycap compatibility and RGB visibility. North-facing LEDs provide maximum RGB brightness and work great with shine-through keycaps, but they can interfere with Cherry profile keycaps. South-facing LEDs eliminate keycap interference and provide better switch feel, but they create more diffused, less dramatic RGB lighting.
For users who prioritize Cherry profile keycaps and switch feel, south-facing is the better choice. For users who prioritize maximum RGB brightness and shine-through keycaps, north-facing may be preferable. Many enthusiasts in forums like Reddit’s r/MechanicalKeyboards recommend south-facing for custom builds due to the superior keycap compatibility.
One of the biggest advantages of south-facing PCB keyboards is their universal keycap compatibility. Because the LEDs face away from the keycap stems, there is no interference with tall keycap profiles like Cherry, SA, or MT3. This means you can use virtually any keycaps you want without worrying about the LEDs hitting the keycaps.
Shine-through keycaps work differently with south-facing LEDs. Instead of the light shining directly through the legend from below, the light diffuses more softly creating a gentler glow. Side-printed keycaps work exceptionally well with south-facing LEDs, as the side legends catch the diffused light beautifully.
Pudding keycaps, which have translucent legends and stems, do not work as well with south-facing LEDs because the light is not directed upward through the stem. If you want maximum shine-through effect, north-facing LEDs are still the better choice. But for most enthusiasts using opaque or side-printed keycaps, south-facing provides better compatibility.
When shopping for the best south-facing PCB keyboards, several factors deserve consideration beyond just the LED orientation. First, decide between a barebones kit and a prebuilt keyboard. Barebones kits require you to provide your own switches and keycaps but offer more customization options. Prebuilt keyboards come ready to use but may have components you would eventually replace.
Connectivity is another important consideration. Wired-only keyboards are more affordable and reliable, but tri-mode keyboards with Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, and USB-C offer more flexibility. If you want to use your keyboard with multiple devices or reduce cable clutter, wireless connectivity is worth the extra cost.
The mounting style affects both sound and feel. Gasket-mounted keyboards provide a softer, more cushioned typing experience and typically sound creamier. Tray-mounted keyboards feel firmer and more direct. Both can be excellent options depending on your preferences.
Sound dampening features like foam layers, silicone pads, and lubricated stabilizers can significantly improve the typing experience. Many of the keyboards in this guide come with factory-installed sound dampening that creates a refined acoustic profile right out of the box.
Finally, consider programmability. Keyboards with QMK/VIA support let you remap every key and create custom macros, which is excellent for power users. If you just want a keyboard that works well out of the box, programmability may not be as important to you.
If you are looking for even more budget-friendly options, check out our guide to the best budget mechanical gaming keyboards, which includes several options with south-facing PCB designs. For wireless enthusiasts, our roundup of best wireless mechanical keyboards for gaming covers tri-mode options with south-facing switches. And if you love the premium feel of rotary knobs, do not miss our guide to wireless mechanical keyboards with knobs, featuring excellent RGB implementation with south-facing LEDs.
A south-facing PCB keyboard has LED slots oriented toward the bottom edge of the keyboard (toward the spacebar). This design prevents interference with Cherry profile keycaps and allows for better switch feel, while providing more diffused RGB lighting compared to north-facing PCBs.
South-facing RGB LEDs offer excellent keycap compatibility and switch feel, but provide softer, more diffused lighting. They are ideal for users who prioritize typing experience and want to use Cherry profile keycaps. However, if you prefer dramatic RGB glow with translucent keycaps, north-facing LEDs may be better.
South-facing RGB is not bad – it serves different priorities. Pros include better keycap compatibility (especially Cherry profile), improved switch feel, and no interference with tall keycaps. Cons include less dramatic RGB glow and fewer shine-through keycap options. Choose based on whether you prioritize typing feel or RGB aesthetics.
After testing 14 different south-facing PCB keyboards, the best south-facing PCB keyboards in 2026 offer excellent keycap compatibility and typing feel that north-facing designs cannot match. The EPOMAKER TH108 PRO stands out as the premium choice with its massive 10000mAh battery and 5-layer gasket mount, while the Ajazz AK820 delivers incredible value at under $40. Budget builders will love the GTSP M87 kit at around $30, proving you do not need to spend a fortune to get into custom keyboards.
Whether you choose a barebones DIY kit or a prebuilt keyboard, south-facing LEDs ensure maximum compatibility with your favorite keycaps while providing that smooth, interference-free typing experience enthusiasts love. Consider your budget, connectivity needs, and customization preferences when making your choice, and you will find the perfect south-facing keyboard for your setup.
