Skyloong GK61 Pro vs GK61Programmable Knob vs Barebones Kit
Choose the GK61 Pro for advanced programmability and a knob, or the GK61 for a more affordable, customizable barebones starting point.
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Which one should you get?
Get the
Skyloong GK61 Pro
Programmable Knob
Build quality in the top 20% of 60% boards under $100.
- Hot-swappable knob and split spacebar for enhanced programmability.
- Full QMK and VIA firmware support for advanced key remapping.
- Includes PBT double-shot keycaps and pre-lubed switches/stabilizers.
- North-facing LEDs. Cherry-profile keycaps can hit the switch housing.
Get the
Skyloong GK61
Barebones Kit
Build quality in the top 10% of 60% boards under $100.
- Often available as a more affordable DIY kit or barebones package.
- Lighter weight (600g) can be beneficial for portability.
- Supports a wider range of stock switch types, including clicky.
Your budget and desired level of customization should guide this choice. If you want a feature-rich, out-of-the-box experience with superior programmability via a knob and split spacebar, the GK61 Pro is worth the investment. If you prefer to select your own switches and keycaps from the start and want a lighter, more mod-focused foundation, the standard GK61 kit is the pragmatic pick. Both are capable tri-mode wireless 60% keyboards with hot-swap sockets.
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
Ergonomics
Standard
Split Spacebar
Case material
ABS, Aluminum
ABS, Aluminum, Plastic
Switch options
Linear
Clicky, Linear, Tactile
Sound dampening
No
Yes
Keycaps
PBT
ABS, PBT
- Skyloong GK61 Pro
- Skyloong GK61
- Performance
- 7765
- Build quality
- 7785
- Productivity
- 6988
- Customizability
- 8894
- Portability
- 8488
- Layout size: 60%
- Connection: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
- Hot-swappable
- Battery: 4,000 mAh
- Knob
- QMK
What will you mostly use it for?
The GK61 Pro is the clear choice for users who prioritize advanced programmability, whether for gaming macros, coding efficiency, or creative software control. Its knob and split spacebar are significant functional upgrades. The standard GK61 wins for modders seeking a barebones foundation and for travelers where its slight weight advantage matters. For general office use, the Pro's better keycaps and software give it an edge.
Pick the Skyloong GK61 Pro
- The GK61 Pro's N-key rollover is explicitly listed as a feature.
- Its programmable knob can be configured for in-game functions or media control.
- Pre-lubed switches and stabilizers, as stated by the vendor, may offer a smoother, more consistent feel out of the box.
Skyloong GK61 Pro vs GK61 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
9 of 23 specs differ
Skyloong GK61 Pro
Skyloong GK61
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Knob
Display
Connection
Battery
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Backlight
QMK
VIA
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
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Skyloong GK61 Pro vs GK61: your questions
The GK61 Pro adds a hot-swappable programmable knob, a split spacebar layout, and native QMK/VIA firmware support. The standard GK61 is a more basic model, often sold as a barebones kit, and uses proprietary software for customization.
Yes. Both the Skyloong GK61 Pro and GK61 offer tri-mode connectivity, which includes Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless, and a wired USB-C connection. They also both feature a 4000mAh battery.
Yes, both keyboards are hot-swappable. The GK61 Pro vendor states it supports 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches. The GK61 listing also confirms hot-swappable sockets compatible with 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
The GK61 Pro comes with PBT double-shot keycaps, which are more resistant to wear and shine. The standard GK61, according to its specifications and vendor comparison, typically comes with ABS keycaps.
Yes, the Skyloong GK61 Pro vendor description explicitly states it has full QMK and VIA support for its wired connection, allowing for deep, code-free customization.
No. The standard Skyloong GK61 does not have a knob. The programmable, hot-swappable knob is a key feature exclusive to the GK61 Pro model.
Both keyboards use a gasket mount design. The GK61 Pro vendor describes a specific 'SKYLOONG O-Ring Gasket' with a silicone sandwich pad, while the GK61 listing mentions a 'SKYLOONG O-Ring Mount Gasket'.
According to the vendor, the GK61 Pro includes pre-lubed switches and stabilizers. The product description for the standard GK61 does not mention pre-lubed components.
The standard GK61 is often sold as a DIY kit, which includes the case, PCB, plate, and stabilizers, making it a classic starting point for a first build. The GK61 Pro is a pre-built board focused on software and layout customization rather than physical assembly.
The split spacebar divides the standard spacebar into two or three separate keys. On the GK61 Pro, this allows the two outer segments to be programmed independently, effectively adding two extra programmable keys under your thumbs.
Yes, both the Skyloong GK61 Pro and GK61 list Mac and Windows support in their extra features.
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