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Compare KBDFans Athena 75 vs KBD75 V3 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for builders deciding between two 75% KBDfans top-mount keyboards that target different skill levels. The Athena 75 is an advanced DIY kit with a CNC-engraved aluminum case, an integrated LCD screen, and flexible mounting options including a PCB gasket and plateless build. The KBD75 V3 is a more traditional barebones kit with an acrylic mid-layer, simpler construction, and immediate availability. The decision is hard because both share a 75% layout and top-mount design, but the Athena 75 offers far more creative freedom while the V3 is easier to build and more portable.

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Athena 75
70
KBDFans KBD75 v3.1 Barebones 75% DIY Kit PC Plate Pine Green

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  • Released in 2026
  • Includes a Yes, LCD display
  • Supports VIAL configuration
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Weighs about 2300 g
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Clicky switch options
  • Includes a No display
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Supports , Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Made with a Aluminum, Acrylic case
Scores
  • Performance: 68
  • Build Quality: 82.3
  • Productivity: 78.8
  • Customizability: 85.8
  • Portability: 62.4
Scores
  • Performance: 66
  • Build Quality: 73
  • Productivity: 73.9
  • Customizability: 63.7
  • Portability: 63.4
Name
KBDFans Athena 75
Name
KBDFans KBD75 V3
Release year
2026
Release year
2023
Switch Options
-
Switch Options
Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
LCD
Display Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Connection
, Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
-
Battery capacity
-
Hall Effect Support
 
Hall Effect Support
 
QMK Support
 
QMK Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIAL Support
 
VIAL Support
 
N-Key Rollover
 
N-Key Rollover
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Mount Style
Top Mount
Mount Style
Top Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum, Acrylic
Keycaps Material
-
Keycaps Material
-
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
2300g
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

If you are an enthusiast who values deep customizability, a built-in LCD screen, and premium materials, the Athena 75 is the clear choice. If you want a simpler, lighter build with classic acrylic styling and immediate availability, the KBD75 V3 is a reliable alternative. Both are top-mount 75% boards, but the Athena 75 offers significantly more creative potential for modders and power users.

KBDFans Athena 75

  • +Integrated high-definition LCD screen for custom GIFs and real-time feedback.
  • +Multiple mounting options: top mount and PCB silicone gasket mount, plus plateless build potential.
  • +Four plate materials (Aluminum, FR4, Polycarbonate, Carbon Fiber) for tuning sound and flex.
  • +CNC-engraved aluminum case with owl-plumage texture adds a premium tactile finish.
  • +Full foam kit included in the box for sound dampening out of the gate.
  • −Heavy at around 2.3 kg, making it less ideal for frequent travel or desk rotation.
  • −Only wired connectivity, no wireless or Bluetooth options for cable-free setups.
  • −Currently on a waiting list with no confirmed stock availability from vendor.

KBDFans KBD75 V3

  • +Lighter aluminum and acrylic construction improves portability over a full-metal board.
  • +Includes RGB-lit acrylic mid-layer for unique lighting effects.
  • +Comes with Cherry screw-in stabilizers and PCB foam plus case foam pre-included.
  • +Available in 10 colors for aesthetic flexibility.
  • −No LCD screen or dedicated macro/command button for advanced controls.
  • −Fixed 7-degree typing angle with no adjustable feet or optional mounting styles.
  • −Limited to aluminum, polycarbonate, and brass plate options, fewer than the Athena 75.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Athena 75 wins in gaming, office, modding, and content creation due to its LCD screen, tactical command button, and extensive material and mounting options. The KBD75 V3 takes the travel category with a lighter aluminum and acrylic build. The two tie for programming because both offer hot-swap PCBs with VIAL support and a top-mount feel, with no clear advantage for code entry.

GamingKBDFans Athena 75
  • •Athena 75 features a tactical command button with RGB light bar for rapid macros and media controls.
  • •KBD75 V3 uses a hotswap PCB but lacks the additional command interface.
  • •Athena 75 includes VIAL support for per-key remapping without flashing firmware.
OfficeKBDFans Athena 75
  • •Athena 75 has an integrated high-definition LCD screen for custom GIFs and status display.
  • •9-degree typing angle and Cherry lip front edge improve wrist comfort during long sessions.
  • •KBD75 V3 has a fixed 7-degree typing angle with no display or specialized ergonomic front edge.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both keyboards offer hot-swappable PCBs and VIAL support, enabling on-the-fly key remapping.
  • •Both use a top-mount structure, providing consistent keystroke feel for typing.
  • •Neither has a dedicated macro column, limiting extra key options without layers.
TravelKBDFans KBD75 V3
  • •KBD75 V3 is lighter due to its aluminum and acrylic construction compared to the all-metal Athena 75.
  • •Athena 75 weighs around 2.3 kg after building, while the KBD75 V3 is not specified but is clearly lighter for portability.
  • •KBD75 V3 is simpler to reassemble if disassembled for transport.
ModdingKBDFans Athena 75
  • •Athena 75 supports four plate materials: aluminum, FR4, polycarbonate, and carbon fiber.
  • •Athena 75 offers dual mounting options: top mount and a PCB silicone gasket mount for softer flex.
  • •Includes a plateless build potential with a solderable PCB for maximum flex and unique sound profile.
  • •Comes with a full foam kit, stainless steel weight bar, and compatibility with an LCD screen.
Content CreationKBDFans Athena 75
  • •Athena 75 includes an integrated LCD screen for displaying custom GIFs or workflow cues.
  • •The tactical button with RGB light bar can be programmed for quick shortcuts in editing software.
  • •KBD75 V3 lacks any display or additional programmable controls beyond standard keys.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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