Mode Designs SixtyFive is a premium 65% mechanical keyboard that builds upon its 2021 R1 predecessor with refined technology and user feedback incorporated. Tom's Hardware praised it as a 'renewed classic' that delivers an 'intoxicatingly innovative keystroke feel.' The keyboard features a robust aluminum construction, selectable block mount system, and customizable options including semi-custom orders for color and configuration. However, the $299 MSRP and limited international distribution, particularly in Japan, may deter some buyers. This keyboard is ideal for serious typists and collectors seeking a high-end, customizable 65% layout, but those on a budget or requiring local support should look elsewhere.
Full review
Design and Customization
Mode Designs SixtyFive represents a significant evolution from its predecessor, with the company refining its approach to materials, mounting systems, and user customization. The keyboard features a 65% layout with a compact design that includes arrow keys and navigation keys, while maintaining the classic Mode aesthetic. Reviewers like Tom's Hardware noted that the SixtyFive integrates two distinct mounting methods—regular top mount, isolated top mount, and Mode's signature stack mount system—into one precision-engineered package. The keyboard's main case is available in aluminum or polycarbonate, with the bottom case configurable for copper, brass, aluminum, or polycarbonate. The back piece can be chosen from multiple anodized aluminum, brass, and copper finishes, along with mirrored and multicolored options. According to alexotos, the new SixtyFive features a lattice system that allows for endless mounting style combinations, with the half-lattice blocks being particularly favored for their balance of comfort and sound. The keyboard also includes a magnetic accent bar that adds both visual appeal and functional benefits, with the accent now reduced in size to minimize potential noise from weight distribution.
Build Quality and Materials
The build quality of the Mode SixtyFive is exceptional, with reviewers highlighting the extensive material options and attention to detail. In a review by arun.is, the keyboard was described as a celebration of materials, with the author choosing a build inspired by Apple's early 2000s design language using clear polycarbonate for the top housing and silver finishes for the bottom. The keyboard's construction involves a top and bottom case that screw together at the back, with a magnetic back piece hiding the screws for a clean look. The internal structure includes a silicone base or foam layer between the PCB and plate, which contributes to the keyboard's unique typing feel. According to alexotos, the keyboard features a two-piece weight system with a ring and puck that matches the material of the bottom piece, adding a customizable touch. However, alexotos noted that the stainless steel Silver Mirror finish had uncoated areas that showed fingerprints, which could be a concern for users who prefer a pristine appearance. The keyboard also features no adhesive feet, which reviewers appreciated for their durability and intentional design.
The SixtyFive's internal design includes a lattice system that allows for various mounting configurations, with each setup offering different tactile and acoustic properties. The lattice blocks act as force breaks, helping to separate the two-piece construction and remove unwanted ping. According to alexotos, the keyboard's lattice system was refined in this iteration, offering more mounting options and a better overall build process. The keyboard also includes a magnetic accent bar that adds both visual appeal and functional benefits, with the accent now reduced in size to minimize potential noise from weight distribution. The keyboard's materials are described as high-end, with anodization and coatings that are noted for their quality. The polycarbonate option, in particular, was praised for its transparency, allowing users to see the internal components and adding a unique aesthetic element.
Typing Experience and Performance
The typing experience of the Mode SixtyFive is widely praised across multiple reviews, with reviewers noting its comfort and consistency across keys. In a review by inverse.com, the keyboard was described as feeling fantastic to type on, with the stack mount system creating a consistent typing experience that absorbs typing force through soft silicone, resulting in a comfortable and uniform feel. The keyboard's typing experience varies depending on the mounting method used, with the full plate assembly providing a consistent feel across all keys, while the half-plate assembly offers more flexibility and a more casual typing experience. According to inverse.com, the stack mount system creates a typing feel that is consistent across each key and extremely comfortable overall, similar to a gasket-mount system but more uniform. The keyboard's sound profile also varies with the mounting method, with the stack mount producing a more muted sound, while the top mount, especially with a half-plate, is louder and has more pop. The keyboard's performance was tested with different linear and tactile switches, and the full plate was found to feel great with all of them, with the half-plate being limited to Mode's own linear switches due to the PCB design.
Reviewers also noted the keyboard's versatility in terms of switch options and how it can be customized to suit different typing preferences. The SixtyFive supports hot-swap sockets, allowing users to easily switch between different switch types without soldering. According to alexotos, the keyboard's internal design allows for multiple mounting configurations, with each setup offering a unique typing feel and sound. The keyboard's ability to accommodate different switch types and mounting methods makes it suitable for a wide range of users, from casual typists to serious gamers. The keyboard's build quality and materials contribute to its overall performance, with the silicone base and various plate materials providing a comfortable typing experience that reduces fatigue during extended use.
Setup and Software
The setup process for the Mode SixtyFive is described as straightforward, with the keyboard supporting both VIA and QMK firmware for configuration. The keyboard's hot-swap sockets allow for easy switch swapping, and the various mounting options provide flexibility in customizing the typing experience. According to arun.is, the keyboard's configurator is similar to the car industry, offering a wide range of materials and finishes for every single part. The ordering process was noted as being efficient, with Mode starting manufacturing before orders open, reducing wait times compared to other custom keyboard manufacturers. The keyboard's internal components are designed to be easily accessible, with the magnetic back piece hiding screws for a clean appearance. The keyboard also features no adhesive feet, which reviewers appreciated for their durability and intentional design. The keyboard's build process was refined in the SixtyFive, with the lattice system offering more mounting options and a better overall build process.
The keyboard's software support includes VIA and QMK, allowing users to customize key mappings, macros, and lighting effects. The keyboard's configurator is described as intuitive and user-friendly, with a wide range of options for customizing the keyboard's appearance and functionality. According to alexotos, the keyboard's configurator allows for a high degree of personalization, with users able to choose from a plethora of materials and finishes for every single part. The keyboard's software support also includes firmware updates, which are described as easy to install and effective in improving the keyboard's performance. The keyboard's ability to be customized through both hardware and software makes it a versatile option for users with different needs and preferences.
Where It Falls Short
Despite its many strengths, the Mode SixtyFive has some drawbacks that reviewers have noted. One significant concern is the potential for solder joint damage with the half-plate assembly, which uses a different mounting method that leaves the majority of switches only attached to the PCB without any plate. According to inverse.com, while Mode reassured users that this would not cause damage, the reviewer expressed concerns about the long-term durability of the PCB's solder joints. Another issue is the keyboard's price point, which starts at $270 and can go up to $550 when fitted with all the highest-end options. This makes it significantly more expensive than many other mechanical keyboards on the market, especially when compared to pre-built options like the Razer BlackWidow V3 Mini HyperSpeed or Keychron Q2. The high cost is justified by the extensive customization options, but it may not be worth it for users who don't require such a level of personalization.
Additionally, some reviewers have noted that the keyboard's aesthetic choices may not appeal to all users. For example, alexotos mentioned that the stainless steel Silver Mirror finish had uncoated areas that showed fingerprints, which could be a concern for users who prefer a pristine appearance. The keyboard's magnetic accent bar, while visually appealing, may also be seen as a design choice that doesn't suit all tastes. The keyboard's lack of adhesive feet, while appreciated by some, may also be seen as a minor inconvenience for users who prefer a more secure attachment. The keyboard's price point and the complexity of its customization options may also be barriers for users who are not experienced with mechanical keyboards or who prefer simpler setups.
Who It's Best For
The Mode SixtyFive is best suited for users who value customization, high-end materials, and a unique typing experience. According to inverse.com, the keyboard is ideal for those who want a boutique mechanical keyboard that starts around $300 and can be upwards of $550 when fitted with all the highest-end options. The keyboard's extensive customization options make it particularly appealing to users who want to build a keyboard that reflects their personal style and preferences. The keyboard's support for multiple mounting methods, including stack mount, isolated top mount, and regular top mount, allows users to tailor the typing feel to their liking. The keyboard's hot-swap sockets and firmware support via VIA and QMK make it a versatile option for users who want to experiment with different switch types and key mappings. The keyboard's build quality and materials also make it suitable for users who prioritize durability and aesthetics in their keyboard choice.
However, the SixtyFive may not be ideal for users who prefer simpler setups or who are on a tight budget. The keyboard's price point starts at $270 and can go up to $550 when fitted with all the highest-end options, making it significantly more expensive than many other mechanical keyboards on the market. The keyboard's complexity in terms of customization options may also be a barrier for users who are not experienced with mechanical keyboards or who prefer straightforward setups. The keyboard's lack of adhesive feet, while appreciated by some, may also be seen as a minor inconvenience for users who prefer a more secure attachment. The keyboard's extensive customization options, while a strength, also require a significant investment of time and effort to fully realize the potential of the keyboard.
Value at This Price
The Mode SixtyFive's value proposition is complex, with reviewers noting that while the keyboard is expensive, it offers extensive customization and high-end materials that justify the price for many users. According to Tom's Hardware, the SixtyFive starts around $300 and can be upwards of $550 when fitted with all the highest-end options, which is considered expensive but justified by the extensive customization options and premium materials. The keyboard's support for multiple mounting methods, including stack mount, isolated top mount, and regular top mount, allows users to tailor the typing feel to their liking, which adds significant value for enthusiasts. The keyboard's hot-swap sockets and firmware support via VIA and QMK make it a versatile option for users who want to experiment with different switch types and key mappings. The keyboard's build quality and materials also make it a worthwhile investment for users who prioritize durability and aesthetics in their keyboard choice.
However, the keyboard's high price point may not be justified for users who don't require such a level of personalization. The keyboard's extensive customization options, while a strength, also require a significant investment of time and effort to fully realize the potential of the keyboard. According to inverse.com, the SixtyFive is a boutique mechanical keyboard that starts around $300 and can be upwards of $550 when fitted with all the highest-end options, which is expensive but offers a unique typing experience and extensive customization options. The keyboard's value is particularly evident for users who are willing to invest in a high-end, customizable keyboard that offers a unique typing experience and extensive personalization options.
How It Compares to Alternatives
When compared to other mechanical keyboards, the Mode SixtyFive stands out for its extensive customization options and high-end materials, but it also faces stiff competition from more affordable alternatives. The keyboard's price point starts at $270 and can go up to $550 when fitted with all the highest-end options, making it significantly more expensive than many other mechanical keyboards on the market. In comparison to pre-built options like the Razer BlackWidow V3 Mini HyperSpeed or Keychron Q2, the SixtyFive offers a more personalized experience but at a higher cost. The keyboard's unique mounting systems and extensive material options set it apart from competitors, but these features come at a premium. According to inverse.com, the SixtyFive is a boutique mechanical keyboard that starts around $300 and can be upwards of $550 when fitted with all the highest-end options, which is expensive but offers a unique typing experience and extensive customization options.
The keyboard's performance is also competitive, with reviewers noting its comfort and consistency across keys, particularly with the stack mount system. The keyboard's ability to accommodate different switch types and mounting methods makes it a versatile option for users with different needs and preferences. However, the keyboard's complexity in terms of customization options may be a barrier for users who are not experienced with mechanical keyboards or who prefer straightforward setups. The keyboard's lack of adhesive feet, while appreciated by some, may also be seen as a minor inconvenience for users who prefer a more secure attachment. Overall, the Mode SixtyFive is a premium product that offers extensive customization and high-end materials, but its value depends on the user's willingness to invest in a high-end, personalized keyboard.
Strengths
- +Premium build quality with a massive aluminum body and accent bar that enhances both aesthetics and durability
- +Innovative selectable block mount design allows for customization of keyswitches and mounting options
- +Exceptional keystroke feel with a unique tactile response that stands out among 65% keyboards
- +Semi-custom ordering system enables users to personalize color schemes and configurations to their preference
Watch-outs
- −Limited global availability with no Japanese sales vendors, making international purchase challenging
- −Price point of $299 may be prohibitive for budget-conscious enthusiasts
How it compares
The Mode SixtyFive distinguishes itself with its selectable block mount system and unique tactile keystroke feel, which sets it apart from the Keychron Q1 Max and Drop CTRL that offer more standard switch compatibility. While the Glorious GMMK Pro provides better RGB lighting and the NuPhy Air75 V2 offers a low-profile design, the SixtyFive's semi-custom ordering system and premium aluminum construction make it ideal for collectors and serious typists.
Who this is for
At a glance: Collectors and serious typists seeking customization.
Why you’d buy the Mode SixtyFive
- Premium build quality with a massive aluminum body and accent bar that enhances both aesthetics and durability.
- Innovative selectable block mount design allows for customization of keyswitches and mounting options.
- Exceptional keystroke feel with a unique tactile response that stands out among 65% keyboards.
Why you’d skip it
- Limited global availability with no Japanese sales vendors, making international purchase challenging.
- Price point of $299 may be prohibitive for budget-conscious enthusiasts.
Rating sources
“Mode Designs SixtyFive Review｜Luxury Keyboard with an Intoxicatingly Innovative Keystroke Feel”
“The SixtyFive feels fantastic to type on. When talking to Mode about this keyboard, Mello described how the stack mount system is meant to create a typing experience with a consistent feeling across every key.”
“Modes latest keyboard is seriously top-notch. Finally, we get a revamp of the OG SixtyFive, and let me tell you, its not just a run-of-the-mill refresh.”
Our 4.4 score is the average of these published ratings. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
