Skyloong GK61 Pro vs GK61 DRUMPre-Built or DIY?
The GK61 Pro is the clear choice for most buyers due to its pre-built nature, QMK/VIA support, and large battery, while the GK61 DRUM appeals only to DIY enthusiasts who want a barebones kit.
KeebFinder may earn a commission when you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Which one should you get?
Get the
Skyloong GK61 Pro
Knob
Build quality in the top 20% of 60% boards under $100.
- QMK and VIA support for full firmware customization of keymaps, macros, and RGB.
- Pre-built with Gateron G Pro 3.0 switches and PBT double-shot keycaps, ready to use immediately.
- 4000mAh battery provides long wireless life up to 300 hours with backlight off.
- North-facing LEDs. Cherry-profile keycaps can hit the switch housing.
Get the
Skyloong GK61 DRUM
Build quality in the top 25% of 60% boards under $100.
- DIY kit includes aluminum case, PCB, plate, and stabilizers, offering a clean slate for custom builds.
- Replaceable space key splits into three keys, enabling unique layout configurations.
- Hot-swappable PCB supports both 3-pin and 5-pin switches for broad switch compatibility.
For anyone seeking a complete, programmable 60% keyboard with long battery life and out-of-box usability, the GK61 Pro is the easy recommendation. The GK61 DRUM is only worth considering if you enjoy the process of sourcing and assembling your own switches, keycaps, and plate, and value a barebones kit over pre-built convenience. Choose based on whether you want to type immediately or build your keyboard from scratch.
The differences that matter
Skip the 40-row spec sheet. These are the specs that change how each board feels, sounds, and fits your desk.
Skyloong GK61 Pro
Skyloong GK61 DRUM
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
Bluetooth, Wired
Wireless for several devices and wired for lower latency
Case material
ABS, Aluminum
Aluminum
Knob
Yes
No
QMK
Yes
No
The deep option when you want to remap every key
VIA
Yes
No
GUI remapping without compiling firmware
- Skyloong GK61 Pro
- Skyloong GK61 DRUM
- Performance
- 7855
- Build quality
- 7773
- Productivity
- 6946
- Customizability
- 8868
- Portability
- 8477
- Layout size: 60%
- Hot-swappable
- Switch options: Linear
What will you mostly use it for?
The Skyloong GK61 Pro dominates in Gaming, Office, Programming, Travel, and Content Creation use cases due to its pre-built readiness, QMK/VIA software, larger battery, and wider connectivity options. The GK61 DRUM only wins in the Modding category, where its barebones kit design appeals to builders who want to select every part themselves. If you need a full-featured keyboard out of the box, the GK61 Pro is the obvious pick; if you enjoy assembling your own board from scratch, the GK61 DRUM gives you that freedom.
Pick the Skyloong GK61 Pro
- The GK61 Pro supports wired, 2.4 GHz, and Bluetooth connectivity, offering more latency-reducing options for gaming than the GK61 DRUM's Bluetooth and wired modes.
- It comes pre-built with Gateron G Pro 3.0 switches, so you can game immediately without sourcing switches.
- The GK61 Pro has N-key rollover, ensuring every key press registers during rapid inputs.
Skyloong GK61 Pro vs GK61 DRUM specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
10 of 18 specs differ
Skyloong GK61 Pro
Skyloong GK61 DRUM
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Knob
Display
Connection
Battery
Case material
Keycaps
Backlight
QMK
VIA
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
Compare prices
Live prices from the stores we track, cheapest in-stock offer first.
Prices in USD are converted to your currency and can change at any time. KeebFinder may earn a commission when you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you.
- Check on Amazon
Amazon
Check price
- Check on Amazon
Amazon
Check price
Skyloong GK61 Pro vs GK61 DRUM: your questions
Yes, the vendor states that the GK61 Pro fully supports QMK and VIA firmware for the wired version. This allows you to customize keymaps, macros, and RGB lighting through an easy-to-use interface without needing coding knowledge.
The GK61 Pro is available with Gateron G Pro 3.0 switches in Red (linear, 45g), Yellow (linear, 50g), or Brown (tactile, 55g). All options are pre-lubed and suitable for both gaming and office use according to the vendor.
The GK61 DRUM is a DIY kit, meaning it only includes the case, PCB, plate, and stabilizers. You need to purchase switches, keycaps, and possibly a battery separately to complete the build.
Both keyboards use the Skyloong O-ring mount gasket, an exclusive design that uses silicone rings between the plate and screws. The vendor says it provides a softer typing experience with reduced noise and increased stability.
Yes, the GK61 Pro supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, and wired connectivity, according to the metadata. The 2.4 GHz option offers a more stable and lower-latency wireless connection for gaming.
The GK61 Pro has a 4000mAh battery. The vendor reports wireless working time up to 300 hours with the backlight off and up to 100 hours at the lowest RGB brightness, though actual life will vary.
The vendor does not mention QMK or VIA support for the GK61 DRUM. It uses Skyloong's own software for key assignment and RGB settings, but the metadata indicates no QMK/VIA support.
The GK61 Pro comes with PBT double-shot keycaps, while the GK61 DRUM does not include any keycaps. The DRUM kit's metadata lists PBT and ABS as the keycap material, but they are not supplied in the package.
Yes, both keyboards are hot-swappable. The vendor confirms they support both 3-pin and 5-pin MX mechanical switches, allowing you to change switches without soldering.
Both keyboards have a 60% layout, meaning they have 61 keys and lack a number pad, function row, and navigation cluster. The GK61 Pro additionally offers a split spacebar option.
Yes, the vendor states that the GK61 DRUM can connect to up to three devices simultaneously over Bluetooth. The GK61 Pro also supports Bluetooth, but the number of concurrent connections is not specified.
Yes, the GK61 Pro has a hot-swappable programmable knob that can be configured for volume control, zoom in/out, timeline scrubbing, or other shortcuts via the Skyloong software or QMK/VIA.
Not sold on either?
Still torn?
Answer a few quick questions and the keyboard finder ranks 2,000+ boards by how you will actually use yours.