Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 Review | 64 Data compared

double-arrow
  • Avg. price: ~£170
  • Layout size: 65%
  • Connection type: USB
  • Switch type: mechanical
  • Polling rate: 1000 Hz

Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 review. Compare 64 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among keyboards and if it is worth buying.

4.6

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the keyboard's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best keyboards on the market.

Score components:

80.0%

4.6

Technical Score

20.0%

?

User score

Poor
4.6

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the keyboard's technical performance, covering key areas such as switch feel, typing and gaming performance, layout and features, connectivity, build quality, backlighting, software, and comfort.

When it matters: When you want to compare keyboards based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

34.0%

4.8

Connectivity & Power

28.0%

3.7

Switches

20.0%

4.0

Materials

12.0%

7.1

Features

6.0%

4.2

Design

Poor
?

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the keyboard.

When it matters: When you want to understand how a keyboard performs in daily use or gaming and how reliable it is in terms of typing feel, noise level, comfort, and long-term durability.

Score components:

70.0%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 3.5
    Gaming

    Score components:

    28.0%

    1.0

    Polling rate

    24.0%

    1.0

    Rapid trigger

    20.0%

    1.0

    Adjustable actuation

    16.0%

    10

    Hot-swappable switches

    12.0%

    10

    Onboard memory

  • 7.1
    Typing

    Score components:

    28.0%

    10

    Wrist rest included

    24.0%

    4.0

    Legend method

    20.0%

    10

    Adjustable feet

    15.0%

    5.5

    Typing angle

    13.0%

    4.0

    Pre-lubed stabilizers

  • 6.3
    Programming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    10

    QMK support

    26.0%

    10

    VIA support

    18.0%

    1.0

    Mac compatibility

    14.0%

    0.0

    Multi-device pairing

    12.0%

    4.0

    Connection type

  • No image
No image

Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £170

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 is a high-end 65% DIY mechanical keyboard kit featuring a robust CNC-machined aluminum chassis, a carbon fiber bottom plate, and a 67-key layout. This wired-only enthusiast board utilizes a gasket-mount design with south-facing 5-pin hot-swap sockets and per-key RGB lighting, offering extensive customization through multiple included plate materials like FR4 and POM. Its primary advantages include QMK/VIA compatibility for advanced remapping, a comprehensive accessory kit with a carrying case and lubrication tools, and a rewarding 'build-from-scratch' experience tailored for newcomers. However, notable drawbacks include its premium $299–$399 price tag for a barebones kit that excludes switches and keycaps, occasional minor misalignment in the multi-piece frame assembly, and a lack of hall effect sensors for gaming performance.

Technical Specifications of Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the keyboard's technical performance, covering key areas such as switch feel, typing and gaming performance, layout and features, connectivity, build quality, backlighting, software, and comfort.

When it matters: When you want to compare keyboards based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

34.0%

?

Connectivity & Power

28.0%

?

Switches

20.0%

?

Materials

12.0%

?

Features

6.0%

?

Design

4.6
Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 has a technical score of 4.59 points, which is lower than that of 94.4% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the keyboard.

When it matters: When you want to understand how a keyboard performs in daily use or gaming and how reliable it is in terms of typing feel, noise level, comfort, and long-term durability.

Score components:

70.0%

0.0

User reviews

30.0%

1.0

Popularity

?
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the keyboard.
When it matters: When you prefer a keyboard that has already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.
1.0
Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 has a popularity of 1 points, which is lower than 79.8% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the keyboard's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a keyboard that offers a strong balance of performance, features, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

4.6

Overall score

40.0%

9.6

Price

6.1
Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.1 points, which is lower than 99.4% of products in this category.
Switch type
What it is: Identifies the switch technology used by the keyboard, such as mechanical, optical, or Hall effect.
When it matters: When you are choosing between different response technologies and their long-term behavior.

Importance: HIGH

mechanical
Switch feel
What it is: Describes the keypress character, such as linear, tactile, or clicky.
When it matters: When the sensation of each keypress changes comfort, control, and noise level for your use.

Importance: HIGH

Linear
Switch name
What it is: States the specific switch model used by the keyboard.
When it matters: When the exact switch model matters because small tuning differences affect your preference.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
Actuation force
What it is: Measures how much force is needed to actuate a key.
When it matters: When finger fatigue, accidental presses, or key resistance matters to your typing style.

Importance: HIGH

N/A
Min actuation distance
What it is: Measures the shortest key travel needed to register an input.
When it matters: When faster key response matters and you want the shortest possible trigger point under your fingers.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
Show more
Keyboard type
What it is: Identifies the keyboard technology, such as mechanical, membrane, optical, or Hall effect.
When it matters: When you need a keyboard built around a specific switch technology or feel profile.

Importance: HIGH

mechanical
Layout size
What it is: States the keyboard form factor and how much of the standard keyset it includes.
When it matters: When desk space, portability, or access to a full key set affects how you work or play.

Importance: HIGH

65%
Layout standard
What it is: Specifies the regional layout standard, such as ANSI, ISO, or JIS.
When it matters: When you need a regional key layout that matches your language habits or keycap set.

Importance: MEDIUM

ANSI
N. of keys
What it is: States how many keys are present on the keyboard.
When it matters: When you need a certain number of keys for shortcuts, navigation, or a numpad.

Importance: MEDIUM

67
Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 has 67 keys, which is fewer than 82.2% of keyboards and equal to 4.5% of keyboards.
Profile
What it is: Describes whether the keyboard uses a low-profile or standard-height design.
When it matters: When key height changes your typing comfort, travel distance, or the overall desk setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

standard
Show more
Connection type
What it is: Specifies how the keyboard connects, such as USB, 2.4 GHz wireless, or Bluetooth.
When it matters: When latency, cable management, or wireless flexibility is part of your buying decision.

Importance: HIGH

USB
Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 offers USB connectivity, which is less versatile than 56.7% of keyboards and equal to 43.3% of keyboards.
Multi-device pairing
What it is: Shows whether the keyboard can stay paired with multiple devices for quicker switching.
When it matters: When you switch regularly between a laptop, tablet, and other devices on one desk.

Importance: HIGH

N/A
Bluetooth version
What it is: States the Bluetooth generation supported for wireless pairing.
When it matters: When wireless stability, compatibility, and energy efficiency are part of what you compare.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
Mac compatibility
What it is: Shows whether the keyboard is intended to work properly with macOS layouts, shortcuts, or legends.
When it matters: When you need the keyboard to work properly with macOS shortcuts and key mapping.

Importance: HIGH

no
Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 is not Mac compatible. 55.9% of keyboards work with Mac.
Battery life
What it is: Estimates how long the keyboard can run on a full charge.
When it matters: When the keyboard needs to last through workweeks, travel, or long gaming stretches without constant charging.

Importance: HIGH

N/A
Show more
RGB lighting
What it is: Shows whether the keyboard includes customizable RGB lighting effects.
When it matters: When visual customization and desk aesthetics matter to your setup.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 has RGB lighting. 12.3% of keyboards have RGB lighting.
Per-key RGB
What it is: Shows whether each key can be lit and controlled independently instead of sharing one uniform lighting zone.
When it matters: When customizing each key individually matters for visuals, games, or shortcut visibility.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 has per-key RGB lighting. 23% of keyboards have per-key RGB lighting.
RGB zones
What it is: States how many RGB lighting zones can be controlled separately.
When it matters: When you want more lighting control than a simple all-at-once backlight can provide.

Importance: LOW

67
Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 has 67 RGB zones, which is fewer than 65.8% of keyboards and equal to 4.3% of keyboards.
Underglow / side lighting
What it is: Shows whether the case includes lighting around the underside or outer edges in addition to the keys themselves.
When it matters: When edge lighting is part of the visual style you want from the keyboard.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 does not include underglow lighting. 31.7% of keyboards include underglow lighting.
Per-key RGB only.
Backlight direction
What it is: Specifies whether the switches use north-facing or south-facing backlighting.
When it matters: When you care about switch compatibility, keycap interference, or lighting placement.

Importance: LOW

south-facing
Show more
Case material
What it is: Describes the main material used for the keyboard case.
When it matters: When build feel, rigidity, and overall finish influence your sense of quality.

Importance: HIGH

aluminum
Plate material
What it is: Describes the material used for the mounting plate beneath the switches.
When it matters: When keyboard stiffness, sound profile, and bottom-out feel matter more than the switch spec sheet alone.

Importance: HIGH

FR4 / POM
Keycap material
What it is: Describes the material used to make the keycaps.
When it matters: When surface texture, wear resistance, and sound of the keycaps affect your choice.

Importance: HIGH

N/A
Keycap profile
What it is: Describes the shape and height profile of the keycaps.
When it matters: When key shape and sculpting affect comfort, wrist angle, and the sound of each press.

Importance: MEDIUM

Cherry
Legend method
What it is: Describes how the legends are applied to the keycaps, which affects durability and visibility.
When it matters: When you care about how long key legends stay readable after heavy use.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
Show more

Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 vs the average keyboard

  • Supports QMK
    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 supports QMK, the average keyboard does not. 28.8% of keyboards support QMK.
    What it is: Shows whether the keyboard supports QMK firmware for deeper remapping and behavior customization.
    When it matters: When deep remapping, macros, and firmware-level customization matter to your workflow.

    Importance: HIGH

    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 supports QMK, the average keyboard does not. 28.8% of keyboards support QMK.
  • Supports VIA
    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 supports VIA, the average keyboard does not. 27.1% of keyboards support VIA.
    VIA setup may require manual JSON import.
    What it is: Shows whether the keyboard supports VIA for live remapping and configuration without rebuilding firmware manually.
    When it matters: When quick live remapping without rebuilding firmware is important to you.

    Importance: HIGH

    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 supports VIA, the average keyboard does not. 27.1% of keyboards support VIA.
  • Includes wrist rest
    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 includes a wrist rest, the average keyboard does not. 17% of keyboards include a wrist rest.
    What it is: Shows whether a wrist rest is included in the box instead of needing to be purchased separately.
    When it matters: When long typing or gaming sessions make wrist support more important.

    Importance: HIGH

    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 includes a wrist rest, the average keyboard does not. 17% of keyboards include a wrist rest.
  • Includes wrist rest
    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 includes a wrist rest, the average keyboard does not. 17% of keyboards include a wrist rest.
  • Supports QMK
    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 supports QMK, the average keyboard does not. 28.8% of keyboards support QMK.
  • Supports VIA
    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 supports VIA, the average keyboard does not. 27.1% of keyboards support VIA.
  • 20 fewer keys
    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 has fewer keys than the average keyboard (67 vs 87). The average keyboard has 87 keys.
  • 13.2% higher weight
    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 weighs more than the average keyboard (1,105 g vs 976 g). The average keyboard weighs 976 g.
  • 9.5 mm higher keyboard height
    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 is taller than the average keyboard (48 mm vs 38.5 mm). The average keyboard height is 38.5 mm.
  • 10 mm thicker design
    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 is thicker than the average keyboard (48 mm vs 38 mm). The average keyboard thickness is 38 mm.
  • Less versatile connectivity
    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 offers less versatile connectivity than the average keyboard (USB vs USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth). The average keyboard offers USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth connectivity.
  • Limited Mac support
    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 is not Mac compatible, the average keyboard is. 55.8% of keyboards are Mac compatible.
  • No pre-lubed stabilizers
    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 does not have pre-lubed stabilizers, the average keyboard does. 81.1% of keyboards come with pre-lubed stabilizers.
  • 16 fewer RGB zones
    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 has fewer RGB zones than the average keyboard (67 vs 83). The average keyboard has 83 RGB zones.
  • Less versatile connectivity
    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 offers less versatile connectivity than the average keyboard (USB vs USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth). The average keyboard offers USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth connectivity.
    What it is: Specifies how the keyboard connects, such as USB, 2.4 GHz wireless, or Bluetooth.
    When it matters: When latency, cable management, or wireless flexibility is part of your buying decision.

    Importance: HIGH

    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 offers less versatile connectivity than the average keyboard (USB vs USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth). The average keyboard offers USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth connectivity.USB vs USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth
  • Limited Mac support
    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 is not Mac compatible, the average keyboard is. 55.8% of keyboards are Mac compatible.
    What it is: Shows whether the keyboard is intended to work properly with macOS layouts, shortcuts, or legends.
    When it matters: When you need the keyboard to work properly with macOS shortcuts and key mapping.

    Importance: HIGH

    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 is not Mac compatible, the average keyboard is. 55.8% of keyboards are Mac compatible.
  • No pre-lubed stabilizers
    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 does not have pre-lubed stabilizers, the average keyboard does. 81.1% of keyboards come with pre-lubed stabilizers.
    What it is: Shows whether the stabilizers arrive factory-lubricated instead of requiring manual tuning for smoother larger keys.
    When it matters: When larger keys like space, enter, and shift need to feel smoother and sound less rattly out of the box.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 does not have pre-lubed stabilizers, the average keyboard does. 81.1% of keyboards come with pre-lubed stabilizers.
  • 20 fewer keys
    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 has fewer keys than the average keyboard (67 vs 87). The average keyboard has 87 keys.
    What it is: States how many keys are present on the keyboard.
    When it matters: When you need a certain number of keys for shortcuts, navigation, or a numpad.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 has fewer keys than the average keyboard (67 vs 87). The average keyboard has 87 keys.67 vs 87
  • 27.9% worse value for money
    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 has worse value for money than the average keyboard (6.10 vs 7.802).
    What it is: An indicator that combines the keyboard's overall rating with its cost.
    When it matters: When you are looking for a keyboard that offers a strong balance of performance, features, and price.
    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 has worse value for money than the average keyboard (6.10 vs 7.802).6.1 vs 7.8
  • 16 fewer RGB zones
    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 has fewer RGB zones than the average keyboard (67 vs 83). The average keyboard has 83 RGB zones.
    What it is: States how many RGB lighting zones can be controlled separately.
    When it matters: When you want more lighting control than a simple all-at-once backlight can provide.

    Importance: LOW

    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 has fewer RGB zones than the average keyboard (67 vs 83). The average keyboard has 83 RGB zones.67 vs 83
  • 5.77x less popular
    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 is less popular than the average keyboard (1.00 vs 5.772).
    What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the keyboard.
    When it matters: When you prefer a keyboard that has already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.
    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 is less popular than the average keyboard (1.00 vs 5.772).1 vs 5.77
  • 13.2% higher weight
    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 weighs more than the average keyboard (1,105 g vs 976 g). The average keyboard weighs 976 g.
    What it is: Measures the total mass of the keyboard.
    When it matters: When you care whether the keyboard feels easy to carry or heavy enough to stay planted on the desk.

    Importance: HIGH

    Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 weighs more than the average keyboard (1,105 g vs 976 g). The average keyboard weighs 976 g.1105 g vs 976 g

Graphic comparison of Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 and

Attribute category
Attribute
No results found

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65?

  • Rewarding 'build-it-yourself' experience that is fun for hobbyists and newcomers alike.
  • Highly customizable with multiple plate options (POM, FR4), gasket materials, and foams included in the kit.
  • Premium build quality featuring a heavy CNC aluminum frame and carbon fiber bottom plate.
  • Excellent typing experience described as soft, quiet, and satisfyingly tactile.
  • Supports QMK/VIA for extensive open-source firmware customization without needing proprietary software.
  • South-facing RGB LEDs ensure better compatibility with various high-end keycap profiles.
  • Includes a comprehensive set of extras such as a luxurious carrying case, assembly tools, and lube.

What customers dislike about Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65?

  • High price point, especially considering switches and keycaps are often not included in the base kit.
  • Potential for minor build quality inconsistencies, such as panel misalignment or sharp aluminum edges.
  • The assembly process can be finicky, with tiny screws and washers that may be difficult to handle.
  • Manual lacks depth, missing explanations on how different materials (plates/gaskets) affect sound and feel.
  • Limited gaming-specific features compared to competitors, lacking Hall Effect or Rapid Trigger functionality.
  • Wired-only connectivity with no wireless (Bluetooth/2.4GHz) options available.
  • Restricted layout options that do not support 7U spacebars or stepped caps lock.

Expert reviews

P
pcgamer.com
01/12/2023

The Ducky ProjectD Outlaw65 is a compact, 65% gasket-mount mechanical keyboard kit that offers a highly satisfying DIY assembly experience for hardware enthusiasts. The standard $299 kit includes premium, heavy sandblasted aluminum casing parts, a PCB, hot-swappable sockets, sound-dampening foam, and a choice between two distinct top plates (FR4 and POM). Builders must provide their...Read more

M
mmorpg.com
22/09/2023

The Ducky ProjectD Outlaw65, reviewed by MMORPG.com, is a premium, enthusiast-grade 65% DIY keyboard kit featuring a unique, racecar-inspired design with a robust multi-piece frame and carbon fiber backplate. The kit is praised for its highly satisfying assembly process, including flexible gasket mounting options for superior typing feel, and comes with high-end extras like lubed...Read more

P
prosettings.net
06/11/2023

The Ducky ProjectD 65 Outlaw is a premium, 65% barebones DIY mechanical keyboard kit priced at $299 that requires complete assembly from scratch, including the aluminum case, stabilizers, and PCB. It provides a rewarding, Lego-like building experience and features high-end materials like thick aluminum case elements and a carbon fiber bottom plate, resulting in a heavy,...Read more

T
techpowerup.com
06/11/2023

The Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 review on TechPowerUp highlights Ducky’s entry into the high-end enthusiast market with an all-aluminum, gasket-mounted 65% DIY kit that features exceptional assembly instructions and paired with Cherry’s new MX2A Red RGB switches. The kit is praised for its excellent unboxing experience, which includes a high-quality carrying case, necessary assembly...Read more

Z
zeit.de
03/06/2024

The Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 is a premium, €350 do-it-yourself (DIY) mechanical keyboard kit designed for serious hobbyists who want to assemble their hardware entirely from scratch. Delivered as a box of individual parts rather than a pre-built unit, it offers an engaging "Ikea-effect" project that allows users to deeply appreciate the final product. Its core pros include high-end...Read more

C
computerbase.de
30/04/2024

The Ducky Project D Outlaw 65 marks the manufacturer's first ambitious entry into the custom DIY mechanical keyboard market, featuring a 65% layout with 68 keys that drops the F-row and numpad for a compact design. Built on a gasket-mount construction that ensures a soft and flexible typing experience, the kit stands out by integrating open-source QMK/VIA firmware support for deep...Read more

M
mmorpg.com
22/09/2023

The MMORPG.com review of the Ducky ProjectD Outlaw65 highlights an advanced DIY keyboard kit offering a compact 65% layout and customizable gasket mounting with options for PORON or silicone support. It boasts high-quality PBT keycaps and full QMK/VIA open-source firmware compatibility for advanced customization. However, the review notes the included Cherry switches have a scratchy...Read more

T
techpowerup.com
06/11/2023

The TechPowerUp review of the Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 details a premium, 65% DIY mechanical keyboard kit featuring a flat-packed, user-assembled CNC-machined aluminum chassis with extensive customization options, including QMK/VIA support and multiple dampening foams. Pros include an exceptional unboxing experience, high-quality documentation, and unique structural additions like...Read more

P
prosettings.net
06/11/2023

The Ducky ProjectD 65 Outlaw is a premium, enthusiast-grade 65% mechanical keyboard kit that flips the script on Ducky’s traditional pre-built lineup by requiring users to assemble absolutely everything from scratch, down to the case, stabilizers, and gaskets. Targetted at intermediate keyboard hobbyists, the DIY building process takes roughly an hour and is highly engaging,...Read more

P
pcgamer.com
01/12/2023

The Ducky ProjectD Outlaw65 is a 65% compact mechanical keyboard kit designed for DIY enthusiasts who enjoy assembling hardware from scratch. The build process takes roughly 2.5 hours and rewards users with an exceptionally sturdy, 1.3kg sandblasted aluminium chassis that offers outstanding tactile typing feedback. The hot-swappable kit stands out for its high-quality components,...Read more

T
techpowerup.com
06/11/2023

The TechPowerUp review of the Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 explores the brand's first DIY, 65% barebones kit, requiring users to assemble the thick CNC-machined aluminum chassis for a rewarding, custom experience. Key pros highlighted include an exceptional unboxing experience, clear, detailed instructions, high-quality hardware with south-facing hot-swap sockets, full QMK/VIA support,...Read more

M
mmorpg.com
22/09/2023

The MMORPG.com review of the Ducky ProjectD Outlaw65 highlights a successful entry into the enthusiast keyboard market, featuring a compact 65% layout, exceptional build quality with an aluminum case and carbon fiber backplate, and an incredibly soft, flexible typing experience. The kit offers extensive customization, including multiple sound-dampening layers (PORON and IXPE foam)...Read more

P
prosettings.net
06/11/2023

Ducky ProjectD 65 Outlaw The Ducky ProjectD 65 Outlaw is a premium, $299 barebones 65% mechanical keyboard kit designed like a "LEGO set for keyboard geeks". It requires total assembly from scratch, including building the case from thick aluminum chunks, assembling the carbon fiber bottom plate, and lubing the stabilizers. While it lacks Hall effect or optical switch...Read more

Video reviews

Compare Ducky ProjectD Outlaw 65 with

VS
VS

Compare