Drop rolled out its new CSTM80 line of customizable mechanical keyboards starting with a tenkeyless model, the company said Tuesday.
“CSTM” in the name hints at how much you can modify them — in addition to easily swapping out keycaps and switches, you can change the magnetically attached case for a different look.
Drop CSTM80 mechanical keyboards
The mechanical keyboard market is loaded with an ever-increasing number of customizable, “hot-swappable” keebs. Most of them focus on letting you change out the keycaps and the switches under them without needing a soldering iron.
Drop now takes it a bit further with its new gasket-mounted design featuring ABS keycaps with custom side legends where the RGB lighting shines through. Whereas changing keycaps can give a different look, the CSTM80 lineup lets you further enhance that difference with another case. Attached magnetically, they come off easily and Drop sells them in different materials and colors.
More to come after launch
Photo: Drop
The initial launch is just the beginning, Drop said. More options are coming.
“As we continue to explore new horizons in personal expression, we were inspired to expand how our enthusiast community can further personalize their keyboards beyond just keycap modifications,” said CEO Jef Holove.
“With our innovative CSTM series, we are redefining keyboard customization, allowing users to tailor their keyboards to meet both their design preferences and performance expectations,” he added. “We’re excited to expand our CSTM product range and look forward to introducing new innovations in the future.”
Buy it bare or build it up
Photo: Drop
The tenkeyless keyboard (no number pad) comes “barebones” at $99, meaning without switches, keycaps or stabilizers. You can add all those, of course. Fully assembled, it will set you back $149 with a polycarbonate case.
“At launch, we’re also supporting the CSTM80 with a host of additional add-ons — including several keyboard weights and switch plates — to tailor your typing experience even further,” Drop said.
Photo: Drop
Drop sells polycarbonate cases in black, white, orange, green and purple for $25 and aluminum cases in black and silver for $59.
Right now you can also try two artist-designed cases Drop worked on with OsheTart and Chasing Artwork. And at some point Drop will collaborate with more artists for other designs.
You can choose from Gateron Brown (tactile) and Gateron Yellow (linear) 5-pin switches from Drop, or get different ones elsewhere.
Where to buy: Drop
