Mode Envoy Review: A Solid Staple in Custom Mechanical Keyboards
The Mode Envoy is a fantastic 65% keyboard that at first glance, may seem understated in both design and look. However, a deeper dive reveals the meticulous attention to detail that makes this board worth its price tag. With its great sound signature, innovative mounting system, and user-friendly build process, the Mode Envoy sets itself apart in the custom keyboard space. Mode did a stellar job in creating an incredibly well-engineered, no-frills keyboard that helped usher me into the new era of custom mechanical keyboards (having previously owned the Tofu65 and GMMK Pro). I find the Mode Envoy innovative in its approach while maintaining a timeless, classic aesthetic.
One of the standout features of the Mode Envoy is its 3D printed mounting system and one-piece chassis, which make reconfiguring the board a dream. After owning this board for over a year, it remains one of my top daily drivers, with virtually no drawbacks. While it may not be the best at any one thing, it checks every box for a relatively affordable, high-quality entry into the custom keyboard hobby.
Mode configuration code: Y0C1C2C3B4B5A
- Plate: POM
- PCB: 1.6mm Hot swap
- Mounting Blocks: Green (all locations)
- Foams: None
- Switches: HMX Cheese
- Keycaps: GMK
Scoring Criteria
| Criteria | Description | Scoring Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Build Process | How easy is it to build? | Well-thought-out, straightforward assembly with intentional design features. |
| Sound | How does it sound in the best configuration? | Uniform, clear, crisp typing sound with minimal rattle or hollowness. |
| Feel | What is the typing experience like? | Comfortable, cushioned, and fatigue-free typing experience. |
| Design | What makes this board unique? | Thoughtful design choices, flexibility in build configurations, and innovative features. |
| Aesthetics | How visually appealing is the keyboard? | Unique visual elements, premium materials, and quality finish. |
| Overall | Holistic evaluation including value for money. | Takes into account all the above factors and how well the keyboard performs relative to its price. |
Build Process: 10/10
Two words: incredibly easy. The build process can be broken down into simple steps:
- Prepare PCB with stabilizers and switches (using a foldable plate fork can be extremely helpful for soft plates like POM)
- Attach bottom weight, rubber feet, and accent bar.
- Mount the daughterboard and JST cable.
- Insert 3D printed mounting blocks (lattice blocks require some finesse as they are soft).
- Drop in PCB assembly (bottom row first).
- Secure PCB with only a few threads of the two screws for a softer feel.
- Mount keycaps!
The ease of building and re-buildability makes the Mode Envoy stand out. The one-piece design and drop-in PCB further simplify assembly, making experimentation (especially with hotswap PCB) with different mounting options, switches, and foam a seamless experience.
A plate fork can be an essential tool for building keyboards, ensuring that delicate plates like POM are properly supported during switch installation, preventing warping and misalignment. Check out our foldable plate fork that is easy to store!
Sound: 9/10
With a POM plate, HMX switches, and no foams, the Envoy delivers a satisfyingly poppy, crisp, and playful sound profile. The 1.6mm PCB and solid, one-piece chassis eliminates resonance, while the machined steps in the cavity help bounce sound for a fuller sound profile. Unlike some keyboards where sections can sound inconsistent, the Envoy maintains a uniform sound across the alphas, mods, and spacebar.
With foam, the sound becomes slightly deeper and softer, but still maintains clarity, fullness, and clack.
The Envoy's one piece chassis with sound enhancing geometry.
Feel: 9/10
I tend to prefer a softer typing experience, and the green lattice blocks deliver exactly that. The PCB is noticeably bouncy, and very comfortable to type on during long typing sessions. I've also noticed that the softer typing experience makes lighter spring weight switches feel slightly heavier, which I prefer.
While the black blocks are firmer, mixing them allows for fine-tuning of the typing feel, which is an awesome feature of this mounting method. However, the lateral movement in the PCB can lead to spacebar rubbing when using certain keycap sets which is a minor downside but worth noting.
The PCB sits atop the green lattice mounting blocks.
Aesthetics: 8/10
The Mode Envoy is simple yet elegant, with an accented backpiece adding a subtle touch of flair. My personal configuration includes a dark green chassis paired with a walnut wooden accent piece, which creates a unique, organic aesthetic. The uniform bezels and chamfered undercut contribute to the clean look, though the design doesn’t aim for a "wow" factor—it prioritizes refinement over flashiness.
Walnut accent on green Envoy with GMK Olive Noir keycaps.
Design: 9/10
The 3D printed mounting blocks and one-piece drop-in assembly make this keyboard very unique, as I have never seen 3D printed mounting components before!
PCB assembly drops in easily to the one-piece chassis.
The only downside is that tightening the PCB mounting screws too much can negatively impact both feel and sound. What happens is that the mounting screws compress the mounting blocks, effectively turning the board into a tray mount - stiff and dull. Leaving them slightly loose enables the board to flex, improving feel and sound quality.
The two mounting screws that secure the PCB assembly to the chassis. Be careful with overtightening.
The lattice mounting system has held up well over a year with no deterioration, proving that Mode’s innovative approach works effectively.
Final Thoughts & Scorecard
| Criteria | Score | Out of |
|---|---|---|
| Build Process | 10 | 10 |
| Sound | 9 | 10 |
| Feel | 9 | 10 |
| Aesthetics | 8 | 10 |
| Design | 9 | 10 |
| Overall | 45 | 50 |
The Mode Envoy scores a solid 45/50, cementing its status as a top-tier custom keyboard. It delivers exceptional build quality, sound, and ease of assembly while offering ample room for experimentation - which in my opinion is its best quality.
For anyone looking to step up from budget/entry-level boards, starting at just $199 the Envoy is a perfect stepping stone into high-quality custom mechanical keyboards. Despite minor drawbacks, it remains a highly recommended keyboard for both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts alike.