Not sure which keyboard to choose? Try the Keyboard Finder now!
Novice 68

Novice 68

The Novice 68 is a compact mechanical keyboard designed for users who want a smaller footprint without sacrificing essential keys. It suits typists and casual gamers who prefer a 65% layout, which retains arrow keys and some navigation functions while saving desk space. This board is a fit for those who value straightforward functionality and moderate customization options.</p... Read more
Compare prices from $60.00
Details
Specification
Price alert

Compare prices and purchase options

Click the coupon code for a discount. Features and specs may vary by model version.

*I may earn a commission if you purchase through these links. Thanks for your support!

Price history

The price history chart tracks the lowest price over time across all stores, excluding Amazon (shipping costs not included).

Similar 65% keyboards

Same price range, layout, and form factor, from different brands.
68
$64
EPOMAKER TH65
Epomaker TH65
65%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
Gasket Mount

Compare specs
86
$59
R65 65% Wired Gaming Keyboard (QMK/VIA)
Royal Kludge R65
65%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

Compare specs
77
$65
Ducky OK-M 65 65% Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard
Ducky OK M 65
65%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
Gasket Mount

Compare specs
66
$59
Keychron K6 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron K6
65%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

Compare specs
86
$69
YUNZII AL65 QMK/VIA Custom Hollow Mechanical Keyboard
Yunzii AL65
65%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

Compare specs
75
$64
Zuoya GMK67 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
Zuoya GMK67
65%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
Gasket Mount

Compare specs

Compare Novice 68 vs Epomaker TH65 vs Royal Kludge R65 Specification

Compare similar keyboards side by side, or use the comparison table to compare all keyboards!
Novice 68Epomaker TH65Royal Kludge R65
Novice 68
68
EPOMAKER TH65
86
R65 65% Wired Gaming Keyboard (QMK/VIA)
0.0 (0)
5.0 (1)
0.0 (0)
  • Offers No RGB lighting
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Silent switch options
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 8000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 700 g
  • Sized at 41 x 298 x 102 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Plastic case
  • Features PBT, PC, ABS keycaps
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Linear switch options
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Weighs about 580 g
  • Sized at 41 x 116 x 41 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Features PBT keycaps
Scores
  • Performance: 40.7
  • Build Quality: 42.7
  • Productivity: 40
  • Customizability: 40.1
  • Portability: 59.9
Scores
  • Performance: 58.5
  • Build Quality: 63.2
  • Productivity: 76.2
  • Customizability: 67
  • Portability: 94
Scores
  • Performance: 66.6
  • Build Quality: 84
  • Productivity: 89.1
  • Customizability: 89.7
  • Portability: 85.7
Name
Novice 68
Name
Epomaker TH65
Name
Royal Kludge R65
Release year
2026
Release year
2026
Release year
2024
Switch Options
-
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Silent
Switch Options
Linear
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
65%
Layout Size
65%
Layout Size
65%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
Display Support
 
Display Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
Connection
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
-
Battery capacity
8000 mAh
Battery capacity
-
Hall Effect Support
 
Hall Effect Support
 
Hall Effect Support
 
QMK Support
 
QMK Support
 
QMK Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIAL Support
 
VIAL Support
 
VIAL Support
 
N-Key Rollover
 
N-Key Rollover
 
N-Key Rollover
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Mount Style
-
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
-
Case Material
ABS, Plastic
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
-
Keycaps Material
PBT, PC, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
41 x 298 x 102 mm
Dimensions
41 x 116 x 41 mm
Weight
-
Weight
700g
Weight
580g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Product Description

The Novice 68 is a compact mechanical keyboard designed for users who want a smaller footprint without sacrificing essential keys. It suits typists and casual gamers who prefer a 65% layout, which retains arrow keys and some navigation functions while saving desk space. This board is a fit for those who value straightforward functionality and moderate customization options.

Key Features

  • 65% layout offers a balance between compact size and key availability, making it easier to reach important keys without a numpad.
  • Supports hot-swappable switches, allowing users to change switches without soldering, which benefits hobbyists who like to customize typing feel.
  • RGB lighting provides visual customization, useful for users who want to personalize their setup or improve key visibility in low light.

Build Quality

The case is made from plastic, which keeps the keyboard lightweight but may feel less sturdy compared to metal alternatives. The mounting style is tray-mounted, which can produce a firmer typing feel but may transmit more sound through the desk.

Typing Experience

Hot-swappable switches enable users to experiment with different switch types to find preferred tactile or linear feedback. The keyboard’s sound profile depends largely on the chosen switches and keycaps, as the case material offers limited sound dampening.

Connectivity

Connectivity options are limited to wired USB-C only. This suits users who prioritize stable, low-latency connections and do not require wireless functionality.

Trade-offs

  • No wireless option, which may be a drawback for users wanting a clutter-free desk or portability.
  • Plastic case and tray mount may not appeal to users seeking a heavier, more solid typing platform.
  • Limited advanced features like hotswap socket variety or extensive programmability compared to enthusiast boards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Other users are also interested in these products

Discover products that are frequently liked and visited by other users!