On April 16, 2026, US-based Mode Designs announced on its Discord and YouTube channel that pre-orders for the 65% keyboard “Encore 2026” are now open.
Shipping is scheduled to begin in July 2026.
The video mainly introduces new colorways, but here at Greenkeys we think the biggest highlight of this version is the adoption of a new mounting method.
Keyboard Chassis / PCB and Daughterboard / Assembly Tools / Microsuede Bag / Mounting System / Feet / Fastener Pack
Separately required
Keycaps / Switches / Stabilizers
Colorways
Black Sesame / Matcha Cream / Mocha Mushroom / Monterey Dune / Studio Light
Wood Types
Walnut / Maple / White Oak
Release date
SS 2026
Estimated Shipping
Scheduled for July 2026
The Encore 2026 features a 65% layout with dedicated arrow keys.
It connects via wired USB-C and supports QMK / VIA. Two types of PCBs are available—hotswap and solder—and plate materials can be selected from POM, Aluminum, Carbon Fiber, or Copper.
A wireless version has not been confirmed.
Additionally, there are five colorways: Black Sesame, Matcha Cream, Mocha Mushroom, Monterey Dune, and Studio Light.
Materials like Walnut, Maple, and White Oak are used, maintaining the strong, material-focused aesthetic that is characteristic of Mode Designs.
The Highlight: “Crown Mounting System”
The Encore 2026 carries over the classic Encore design elements, such as the thick bezels, Cherry-style chamfered front edge, and natural wood accents.
From the public information, it’s natural to see this as an update that refines the materials and color palette.
However, what we want to focus on is not just the “65% layout” and “Natural hardwoods,” but the new internal structure called the “Crown Mounting System.”
At Greenkeys, we believe the Encore 2026 is not just a visual update, but a significant refresh that includes the design of the typing experience itself.
The Crown Mounting System connects the plate and PCB assembly to the chassis using a combination of wave springs, silicone spools, bushings, and custom shoulder bolts at eight mounting points.
Screenshot
At each of the eight mounting points, the Crown Mounting System connects the plate and PCB assembly to the chassis by layering wave springs, silicone spools, and bushings onto custom shoulder bolts.
Crown Fasteners
These securely fix the entire assembly to the top case, ensuring consistent compression every time. The design is inspired by a watch crown and can be tightened by hand without tools.
Silicone Spools
These support the springs and act as dampers, controlling contact points to reduce vibrations before they reach the case.
Wave Springs
These act as the “springs” in the system, providing a quick return while taking up less vertical space than traditional springs.
Bushings
A low-friction interface between the mount and the plate ensures smooth movement without snagging or rattling.
According to the official description, the Silicone Spools dampen vibrations before they reach the case, the Wave Springs provide responsiveness in a compact space, and the Bushings support smooth movement and suppress noise.
This looks like a further refinement of the “Block Mount System” they previously developed.
It will be exciting to see what kind of typing feel this produces.
New 65% PCB is compatible with previous models
Another point that shouldn’t be overlooked is the compatibility with existing 65% PCB assets.
The Encore 2026 is compatible with the 65% PCBs used in Mode Designs’ previous Envoy and SixtyFive series.
This means you can use the new PCB with your existing cases.
However, because the mounting mechanism depends on the case structure, you’ll need to buy the new Encore 2026 to actually experience the newly adopted design.
Summary | Not just an “Encore Rerelease,” but a “65% Redesign”
That’s all for our news update on the launch of the Encore 2026.
At first glance, the Encore 2026 might be seen simply as a 2026 version of the Encore with new colors.
However, dismissing the announcement that way would be a bit of a waste.
By introducing the new Crown Mounting System while maintaining continuity with existing 65% PCB assets, the Encore 2026 is more interesting when viewed as a model that shows how Mode Designs intends to update and evolve their 65% keyboards.
On the surface, the refreshed colorways stand out, but what we want to focus on this time is what’s inside.
Rather than just a visual refresh, we should see the Encore 2026 as Mode Designs’ own redesign of the 65% experience.
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