---
product_id: 223465765
title: "Drop CTRL Mechanical Keyboard (Barebones)"
brand: "drop"
price: "R144"
currency: ZAR
in_stock: true
reviews_count: 8
url: https://www.desertcart.co.za/products/223465765-drop-ctrl-mechanical-keyboard-barebones
store_origin: ZA
region: South Africa
---

# RGB per-key customizable lighting Hot-swappable switch sockets 87-key Tenkeyless TKL layout Drop CTRL Mechanical Keyboard (Barebones)

**Brand:** drop
**Price:** R144
**Availability:** ✅ In Stock

## Summary

> 🎮 Own Your Workspace, One Key at a Time

## Quick Answers

- **What is this?** Drop CTRL Mechanical Keyboard (Barebones) by drop
- **How much does it cost?** R144 with free shipping
- **Is it available?** Yes, in stock and ready to ship
- **Where can I buy it?** [www.desertcart.co.za](https://www.desertcart.co.za/products/223465765-drop-ctrl-mechanical-keyboard-barebones)

## Best For

- drop enthusiasts

## Why This Product

- Trusted drop brand quality
- Free international shipping included
- Worldwide delivery with tracking
- 15-day hassle-free returns

## Key Features

- • **Switch It Up Instantly:** Hot-swappable sockets let you customize your typing feel—no soldering, no hassle.
- • **Built to Endure & Impress:** Solid anodized aluminum frame with magnetic adjustable feet for stability and style.
- • **Light Your Setup Your Way:** Millions of RGB colors with optimized per-key lighting and smooth 100Hz flicker-free LEDs.
- • **Precision Meets Portability:** Compact tenkeyless design frees up desk space without sacrificing functionality.
- • **Total Command at Your Fingertips:** Fully programmable via QMK firmware with macros and dual USB-C for seamless connectivity.

## Overview

The DROP CTRL Mechanical Keyboard is a premium tenkeyless (87-key) keyboard designed for professionals and gamers who demand customization and durability. Featuring a robust anodized aluminum frame, hot-swappable switch sockets compatible with Cherry-style switches, and fully programmable QMK firmware, it offers unparalleled control over your typing experience. Its RGB per-key backlighting supports millions of colors with flicker-free LEDs, while dual USB-C ports ensure fast, versatile connectivity. The keyboard’s compact design and doubleshot PBT keycaps combine aesthetics with long-lasting performance, making it a top-tier choice for those who want to elevate both work and play.

## Description

A KEYBOARD THAT PUTS YOU IN CONTROL: To put it simply, the CTRL mechanical keyboard has it all. Constructed with a solid aluminum frame with a built-in switch plate, it’s stable and fortified. And thanks to the hot-swap switch sockets, it allows you to change switches whenever you want with no soldering required. It’s also fully programmable via QMK, meaning you can assign macros or custom keybinds to every key. With dual USB-C connectors, the CTRL is outfitted with the fastest available connections. Aesthetically, the keyboard is equally impressive. Featuring customizable RGB backlighting and underlighting, it puts on a colorful show; or you can set it to a single color for a more subtle look. The shine-through PBT keycaps only enhance the performance. What’s more, the keyboard comes with your choice of switches, so you can get just the feel you like—whether you prefer something heavy and tactile or lightweight and linear.  OPTIMIZED PER-KEY LIGHTING WITH MILLIONS OF COLORS: The switches on the CTRL feature light pipes that are optimized to deliver the most light possible through the keycaps. No matter what tone you want, you’ll have your choice from millions of colors for every single key. Feel free to program the lighting to cycle through the entire spectrum, or set it to a two-toned look to match your setup. There’s also a built-in translucent LED diffuser to minimize hotspots found in many other keyboards. Worried about flickering? Don’t be. The LEDs operate at a frequency of 100 Hz, so there won't be any visible flicker.  FULLY PROGRAMMABLE VIA QMK: Customizing your keyboard is a lot of fun. That’s why the CTRL features a fully programmable layout, designed for modification. Using QMK firmware, you have total control over every key. Plus, the configurator allows you to program macros and customized keymapping, so you can easily fine-tune your keyboard for gaming, work, or play. It’s also outfitted with two USB type-C connectors (one on each side), allowing you to transfer data and charge devices at USB 2.0 speeds.  HEFTY ALUMINUM FRAME & HOT-SWAPPABLE SWITCHES: Known for its toughness and ability to hold a quality surface finish, anodized aluminum plays the starring role in the CTRL’s frame. Heavy enough to stay put when you're cranking out an email or locked into an intense FPS match, the frame also has a low profile to complement your desktop. Thanks to the built-in switch plate and hot-swappable PCB, the CTRL gives you the freedom to change out your switches whenever you like. Best of all? You don’t need to solder each switch. Just pop them in and they’re ready to go. Fitted with removable feet, the keyboard can be adjusted for height, too.

## Features

- PUT YOURSELF IN CONTROL: Our flagship, the CTRL combines quality construction with feature-loaded functionality. A versatile tenkeyless (TKL) keyboard designed with input from the Drop community, it raises the bar for mechanical keyboards.
- PREMIUM ENGINEERING: Constructed with a solid aluminum frame with a built-in switch plate and magnetic legs, the CTRL is rock-solid and ready for any setup.
- BAREBONES: The CTRL Barebones model comes without pre-installed switches. The CTRL is compatible with Plate-mounted Cherry-style switches and stabilizers (not included).
- HOT-SWAPPABLE SWITCH FUNCTIONALITY. Want to switch your switches? Customize the CTRL with ease thanks to hot-swappable switch sockets, which allow you to swap switches in seconds—no soldering required.
- OPTIMIZED PER-KEY LIGHTING WITH MILLIONS OF COLORS: The CTRL is illuminated with fully customizable RGB backlighting and under-lighting. Set your millions of LEDs to a single color or light them up with custom rainbow wave patterns.

## Technical Specifications

| Specification | Value |
|---------------|-------|
| Brand | DROP |
| Series | CTRL Mechanical Keyboard |
| Item model number | MDX-31830-14 |
| Hardware Platform | Laptop, Laptop, Linux, PC |
| Operating System | DOS, Linux, MacOS, Windows 10, Windows 2000, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows ME, Windows NT, Windows Vista, Windows XP |
| Item Weight | 2.12 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 14.5 x 5.5 x 1.4 inches |
| Item Dimensions  LxWxH | 14.5 x 5.5 x 1.4 inches |
| Color | Black |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Manufacturer | Drop |
| ASIN | B089KV579L |
| Date First Available | June 29, 2020 |

## Product Details

- **Brand:** DROP
- **Compatible Devices:** Laptop, PC
- **Connectivity Technology:** USB, USB-C
- **Keyboard Description:** Mechanical
- **Recommended Uses For Product:** Business, Education, Everyday Use, Gaming, Multimedia
- **Special Feature:** Backlit, Lighting
- **Color:** Black
- **Keyboard backlighting color support:** RGB
- **Style:** Barebones
- **Product Dimensions:** 14.5"L x 5.5"W x 1.4"H

## Images

![Drop CTRL Mechanical Keyboard (Barebones) - Image 1](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71EN8iRaPzL.jpg)
![Drop CTRL Mechanical Keyboard (Barebones) - Image 2](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/716U679R4fL.jpg)
![Drop CTRL Mechanical Keyboard (Barebones) - Image 3](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81Ssfc4NUTL.jpg)
![Drop CTRL Mechanical Keyboard (Barebones) - Image 4](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71WI8SS4tnL.jpg)
![Drop CTRL Mechanical Keyboard (Barebones) - Image 5](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61UrCW5gvFL.jpg)

## Available Options

This product comes in different **Color, Style** options.

## Customer Reviews

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.0 out of 5 stars







  
  
    Fully customizable high-end keyboard
  

*by K***H on Reviewed in the United States on October 22, 2019*

I hemmed and hawed over this keyboard purchase before deciding to take the leap. Within ten minutes of setting it up, I wonder why I’d ever hesitated. An instant favorite!Right out of the box the build quality is evident. The aluminum frame is sleek yet sturdy, with some noticeable heft. Honestly, after a few days working on the CTRL, I was surprised at how flimsy some of my other mechanical keyboards felt in comparison. I love the kickstand magnets to adjust the board’s height/tilt, and haven’t had any problem with them shifting or falling off during use. (I’d probably take extra precautions if I were going to be travelling with the keyboard, though.) The keys are lightly textured and feel great even after long typing sessions.The swappable key switches were another big selling point for me, though I have yet to try to change out the switches. But this feature gave me the freedom to go with blue switches, knowing that if I ever return to a shared workspace (instead of my current home office) I can change to a quieter switch without needing to buy another keyboard.It's also easy to change, dim or turn off the RGB lighting. Drop’s keyboard configurator gives the option of creating layers, custom layouts, and new RGB color/pattern options. I’ve only played with some of the basics, but I already love the flexibility and customizability this board provides.Definitely recommended!

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.0 out of 5 stars







  
  
    Premium TKL Keyboard
  

*by B***S on Reviewed in the United States on September 17, 2019*

I've used this keyboard for a week and I'm impressed.  I've used dozens of keyboards (mechanical or otherwise), and this one has quickly become my main driver.  Initially I was hesitant about not having a number pad, but I've found that the smaller size works much better on my desk and I don't miss the number pad nearly as much as I thought I would.The keyboard itself is an aluminum body which gives it a premium look and feel.  The keys themselves have a slight texture to them which I found nice.  The magnetic stands provide the ability to use different angles of incline.  They attach quickly and are secure.  The LEDs on the keys themselves and around the base are bright (and can be adjusted to your preferred level).Changing key strokes/LED colors/patterns is pretty simple.  While the keyboard supports using QMK, I found it easier to use the Drop Keyboard Configurator on their website.  QMK likely offers significantly more options, but the website tool allows me to change colors and key mappings.  Additionally they plan to add macro support to their tool in the future (per their website), which will add even greater customization options.My main reason for getting this keyboard is the hot-swappable switches.  I prefer to type on Cherry Blue switches (which is the version I purchased), but when playing an FPS I tend to prefer Cherry Red switches for a number of keys.  Now instead of having to deal with my blue switches or switch to an entirely new keyboard, I can swap out the 10-ish keys to new switches in two minutes and be on my way.  Maybe not an issue for most people but it's made the keyboard entirely worth it for me.The bottom line is this is a top-notch keyboard.  It has tons of customization options (which will get even better when macro support is added).  The hot-swappable switches are awesome.  I will likely order another for my second PC.

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.0 out of 5 stars







  
  
    Endgame?
  

*by J***P on Reviewed in the United States on March 28, 2020*

It looks great. It feels great. It IS great. I originally bought it with the Halo clears thinking they would be good quiet tactile switches, but really didn't like them and swapped them with gateron blue switches. Obviously not quiet but they feel fantastic. When picking which one you want in this keyboard I highly recommend that you feel that switch in person whether it be on a friend's keyboard or a small sampler.The software for this keyboard could be more user friendly especially for how expensive it is. If it's important to you you should watch a video on how to configure it before buying it, but if you even know what QMK is you're more than likely qualified to configure it pretty easily.There are cheaper alternatives for hotswappable mechanical keyboards that are still very nice like the Tecware Phantom, but nothing that is this good. This keyboard sits at the top of if not out of the price range for most gamers but is more than reasonable for keyboard enthusiasts.This keyboard is not for everyone. You are buying a whole experience not just a hotswappable keyboard. You're paying for the sleek aluminum base, the keycaps, the hotswappability, the RGB, and the reliability since this thing is YouTubes golden child. My favorite part about this design is you can put it in just about any setup. It looks clean and professional but also can match an aggressive gamer setup just by adjusting the lights. A potential downside that I noticed is the keycaps are unreadable without some light under them. I actually like it because it makes any RGB effects where the lights go out more fun but see how it could get annoying.A tip if you've already bought it and are trying to change out the switches with the given tool, wedge in the tool under one of the grabbable sides of it and turn it to loosen the switch before trying to pull it out. Those contact points squeeze on the pins surprisingly hard.

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*Product available on Desertcart South Africa*
*Store origin: ZA*
*Last updated: 2026-02-15*