Summary
Drop is aiming its compactCSTM65mechanical gaming keyboard at the customize-everything crowd.
Drop’s goal worked too because I liked having so many options.
The CSTM65 is a compact enthusiast desktop centerpiece made for game-changing customization.
An innovative new component, purpose-built for personalization.
Drop calls it the decorative top case, and it fits magneticallyand seamlesslyonto the CSTM65s specially designed polycarbonate case.
Many gamers prefer compact boards like this because it makes for a more comfortable posture during gaming sessions.
The CSTM65 is a compact enthusiast desktop centerpiece made for game-changing customization. The game changer? An innovative new component, purpose-built for personalization. Drop calls it the decorative top case, and it fits magnetically—and seamlessly—onto the CSTM65’s specially designed polycarbonate case.
Of course, gamers aren’t the only people who like a compact keyboard.
I don’t have any complaints about this layout.
I had no problems with accuracy when it came to pressing the right shift key.
The CSTM65 is a compact enthusiast desktop centerpiece made for game-changing customization. The game changer? An innovative new component, purpose-built for personalization. Drop calls it the decorative top case, and it fits magnetically—and seamlessly—onto the CSTM65’s specially designed polycarbonate case.
The backspace and enter keys are plenty bigthose didn’t shrink.
The delete key is also easy to reach, as are the directional keys.
The keystrokes are smooth and the keys make a soft, but audible clack.
Jerome Thomas / How-To Geek
The board I tested featured Gateron Brown Pro 3.0 switches.
Brown switches are known for being tactile and audible.
The other option is Gateron Yellow KS3 switches.
Jerome Thomas / How-To Geek
They will be less tactile and are not as loud as brown switches.
Among those, the swappable top case is one of the more interesting ones.
All it takes is unplugging the cable from the CSTM65 and lifting the top case off.
Jerome Thomas / How-To Geek
The built-in magnets mean no fuss.
Popping a new plate on is just as easy.
Drop already has several top cases to choose from.
Jerome Thomas / How-To Geek
you could pick from an array of colors at $25 a pop.
There is an Overgrowth case (which has plant-like designs) for an extra $10.
Drop also has an aluminum option in silver or black.
The cases are heavier than their polycarbonate counterparts.
you’re able to swap out several other parts of the CSTM65, including the key switches.
It has Windows keys by default but ships with extra keycaps for Mac users.
It offers control software for Windows and Mac.
I downloaded theDrop Keyboard Configurator.
Flashy software it isn’t, but it’s possible for you to heavily customize the key assignments.
The Configurator also lets you flash the firmware, should you oughta.
The software doesn’t handle the CSTM65’s per-key RGB customization, though.
For that, you’ll need to use the keyboard itself.
That likely means going to the website and reading the instructions there.
That’s going to annoy users who like to have software for customizing that sort of feature.
Should You Buy the Drop CSTM65 Keyboard?
TheDrop CSTM65mechanical keyboard is a solid choice, regardless of whether you want to customize it.
If you want the complete keyboard, you’re looking at $129.
If you have already owned mechanical keyboards, you probably know which switch is for you.
If you’re new to mechanical keyboards, I’d suggest the brown switches.
I think they’ll hit the mark for many people, especially those who key in frequently.
