Drop CTRL

The Drop CTRL is a highly accessible aluminum TKL keyboard that serves as a perfect entry point into the custom world. It's often sold as a 'barebones' kit (case, plate, PCB), allowing you to choose your own switches and keycaps. It features a per-key RGB backlight, a hot-swappable PCB, and programmable layers via QMK. The integrated plate design offers a stiff typing feel.

While not as refined as gasket mounts, its combination of solid aluminum construction, widespread availability, and user-friendly customization makes it a enduringly popular choice.