Custom mechanical keyboards are a popular DIY project, and many people are getting involved. However, it can be daunting if you’re new to the hobby. The first step is to pick out the components you need. Then, you can start building. It is a bit more time-consuming than you may think, but it will give you an excellent result!
Select the Switches
There are many different options for switches on a mechanical keyboard, so choosing the right ones is essential. This will significantly impact your experience, so be sure to spend some time researching before you buy. Linear switches are incredibly smooth and have no bumpiness on each keystroke. They are perfect for gaming and will give you a good response time.
Tactile: These are a bit louder than linear switches, but they also offer a bump when pressed, which helps improve input accuracy and limit mistakes. Standard tactile switches include blue and brown.
Clicky: These are a little louder than linear switches, but they’re still relatively quiet and offer a firm bumps when pressed. They’re perfect for gaming and are also great for limiting mistakes.
Optical: These are the best for gamers, as they offer a better in-game response time than mechanical keys. They’re also faster than tactile switches and have zero debounce delay.
N-Key rollover: This is very important, as it lets you press multiple keys simultaneously. Many budget keyboards don’t have this feature, so it’s crucial to get one that does.
Fast polling rate (1000+): This will speed up your response time. This is especially important for gamers who have to quickly switch between keys in the game. After selecting your switches, you can assemble the rest of your keyboard. The process is lengthy, so make sure you plan and don’t leave it to the last minute.
Select the Plate
A custom mechanical keyboard is a great way to customize everything from how you type to the style of the switches, the case material, and even the keycaps. But there are a few things you’ll need to consider before beginning your build. You’ll need to decide which plate style will work best for you. There are several options to choose from, including sandwich mount, tray mount, and integrated plate. Tray mount retains an overall stiff typing feel but allows different plate materials and a relatively simple assembly process by having a separate plate that attaches to standoffs in the case; the KBDFans Tofu and Drop Carina are excellent examples.
Another option is to use a plate made of brass, which is a great way to add style to your keyboard and make it more durable. Unlike polycarbonate plates, brass plates are a bit heavier and can help stabilize your keyboard if you’re worried about it sliding across your desk during intense gaming sessions. Finally, a plate made of brass can also give your board a premium look that many gamers and enthusiasts are fond of. In addition, brass is an excellent option for tinkerers and hobbyists as it allows you to easily change your switches or PCB without disassembling your board.
Select the PCB
Choosing the right PCB can make a difference in how your mechanical keyboard looks and performs. It’s the heart of your keyboard and provides many customization options that most pre-built keyboards lack. Often, keyboards built on pre-built boards are made by companies that don’t allow you to pick the layout or size of the board. This can be a massive drawback to purchasing a custom keyboard, but you can overcome it if you’re willing to do the work. When selecting your PCB, choose one that suits your needs and the materials you will use in your keyboard. Aluminum, brass, and polycarbonate are common choices, and all offer different aesthetics and sound qualities that can influence the overall feel of your keyboard.
You’ll want to choose a PCB compatible with the switches you plan to install, allowing for switch placements consistent with your keyboard’s layout. For example, if you’re planning on using a 60% layout, it’s essential to choose a board that can modify your switches’ layout so they can function the same. Once you’ve found the perfect PCB for your keyboard, it’s time to begin assembling it. First, you’ll need to choose a plate that will hold your switches. This is essential because it will determine how well your switches will work on your keyboard.
Select the Case
There are many different types of mechanical keyboards on the market. They vary in terms of look, feel, and sound. Whether you’re into gaming or just looking for a good typing experience, you can find something to suit your needs. One of the most significant differences between a standard keyboard and a custom mechanical one is that you can personalize it. You can change the keycaps, remap the keys, and even adjust their functions. Another significant difference is the switches themselves. The switches on a mechanical keyboard are small so that they can be incredibly responsive. This makes them especially useful in games where fast reaction times are vital, as they can help you hit enemies before they can get to you.
In addition, you can customize your switches by adjusting their polling rate, which is how often they report back to the computer. The higher the value, the faster your keyboard will respond to input. You can also choose to have a keyboard with RGB lighting. This is a great way to show off your keyboard’s features and improve the look of your build. There are many different parts to a mechanical keyboard, but the case is where you’ll want to start. You’ll need a case that fits your switches and PCB well.
Conclusion
Depending on your preferences, you can also use a different colour for keycaps. You can do this via pad printing, laser etching, or dye sublimation. You can customize the key switches on a mechanical keyboard to give it a unique feel and sound. You can replace the stock keys with a tactile switch, similar to what you’d find on a game controller, or a clicky switch, which provides audio feedback when you press the button. Another option is to change the layout of your keys, which can increase your productivity. This can be a learning curve and take some time to get used to, but it’s well worth the effort.
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