NK65 EE Review: Is It Worth Buying in 2024?
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If you're hunting for a budget mechanical keyboard under $100, the NovelKeys NK65 Entry Edition's hype might have caught your attention. After building one with KTT Rose switches and Blue Cat keycaps, I discovered some surprising truths about its much-discussed silicone padding, stiffness tradeoffs, and whether those "better than ID67" claims hold water. Let's cut through the noise.
Unboxing Reality and Build Quality
The $95 NK65 EE arrives in premium packaging with a Nintendo Switch-style carrying case—impressive for its price. My Cartridge Gold polycarbonate unit looked deceivingly like aluminum initially, but closer inspection revealed common budget-board flaws: minor scuffs and case creaking. The included accessories were mixed: decent plate-mount stabilizers (needing immediate re-lube) versus a frustratingly short USB-C cable that barely reached my PC.
South-facing RGB LEDs and hot-swap sockets worked flawlessly with 5-pin KTT Roses ($0.27/switch), but the tray-mount design made the typing experience stiffer than its "modified top mount" marketing suggests. This puts it in direct competition with similarly priced boards like the GamaKay K66 or ID67.
The Silicone Secret and Sound Performance
That thick purple silicone pad isn't just a gimmick. Pre-installed beneath the PCB, it absorbs higher-pitch noises, creating a deeper "thock" profile unusual for polycarbonate boards. Weighing 241g, the NK65 EE feels substantial, and the dampening elevates its sound above many budget rivals.
After re-lubing the stabilizers with XHT-BDZ (a thick wire grease), I eliminated most rattle—though the spacebar felt slightly mushy from overlubing. For best results:
- Clean factory lube off stabilizers completely
- Apply dielectric grease sparingly to wires
- Use Krytox 205g0 on housings for smoother action
NK65 vs. Competitor Showdown
| Feature | NK65 EE | ID67 | GamaKay K66 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Style | Tray | Integrated | Tray |
| Dampening | Silicone pad | Minimal foam | Case foam |
| RGB Control | VIA support ✅ | Limited software | Extensive app |
| Typing Feel | Stiff | Stiff | Moderate flex |
| Value Score | 8/10 | 7/10 | 9/10 |
VIA software support is the NK65's killer feature. Remapping keys or adjusting RGB without firmware flashes makes it exceptionally beginner-friendly. However, its cramped 65% layout lacks the blocker I prefer for arrow key separation.
Verdict: Who Should Actually Buy It
Worth buying if:
- You find it in stock at $95 MSRP
- Prioritize deep sound over typing flex
- Need VIA compatibility for macros/layers
- Can replace the included cable
Skip if:
- You want a "bouncy" typing feel
- Need extensive RGB customization
- Prefer wireless connectivity
The NK65 EE delivers remarkable sound quality for its price, but its stiffness and occasional QC issues mirror budget limitations. For $170 total (with switches/keycaps), it’s a solid entry point—though the GamaKay K66 offers better features if RGB is a priority.
Actionable Builder's Checklist
- Order a longer USB-C cable immediately
- Relube stabilizers before assembly
- Test switch pins with VIA's tester mode
- Map your preferred delete key location
- Consider MA profile keycaps for deeper sound
Advanced Tool Recommendations:
- Stabilizers: Durock Plate-Mount ($15) – tighter tolerances than stock
- Lube: Krytox 205g0 (switches) + dielectric grease (wires)
- Keycap Tester: VIA software – free and pre-configured
Final thought: This board proves silicone dampening can transform budget builds, but don’t expect premium flex. When stock appears, it’s a justifiable buy—but not a "budget endgame."
"Which NK65 flaw would bother you most: the short cable or stiff typing? Share your dealbreaker below!"
Sound Test Transcript
[Spacebar: Deep thock with minimal rattle]
[Alphas: Consistent mid-pitch clack on KTT Roses]
[Backspace: Slight mush from overlubed stabilizer]
Full sound test available in video section
