To build a mechanical keyboard you will need a few components. These include switches, stabilizers, and a case.
Once all the parts are purchased, you will be ready to begin the assembly process. This process can vary depending on your build.
Switches
A mechanical keyboard is a key feature of any gaming setup, so it’s important to get the right switches and stabilizers for your needs. There are many different types of switches and you will need to choose one that suits your gaming preferences, as well as your overall health.
Switches come in three main types: linear, tactile, and clicky. Each has its own unique feel and characteristics, so it’s best to read reviews before purchasing a new keyboard.
Linear switches are a popular choice for gamers because they offer a smooth typing experience without any force feedback during keypresses. They also allow gamers to type longer without fatigue.
Tactile switches offer a more natural feel with distinct, noticeable feedback when you press down the keys. They can be more expensive than linear or clicky switches, but they’re also more durable.
The downside to tactile switches is that they can wear your fingers out sooner than other switch types. They can also flutter more than linear or clicky switches and may not be ideal for games that require a lot of rapid presses, such as voice chat or competitive games.
It’s not hard to find a great switch for your custom mechanical keyboard, as there are plenty of options available today. In addition to the standard Cherry MX Red and variants, there are also more unusual switches like Topre, designed and manufactured in Japan, which provide an excellent tactile feel that some gamers swear by.
You can test out different switches by using a keyboard tester to determine which ones work for you. The tester will tell you which keys are compatible with your switches, and it will let you hear the clicky sound each switch makes when pressed down.
Once you’ve determined which switches will fit your build, it’s time to get the hardware ready for assembly. First, you’ll need to prepare the case and the PCB.
A good soldering iron is a must, especially if this is your first mechanical keyboard build. Getting the right tool will make the process easier and less expensive.
Stabilizers
Stabilizers are one of the most important parts of your mechanical keyboard. They help keep the keycaps stable when pressed down and also produce a smoother typing experience, sound, and feel. They are an essential part of a mechanical keyboard and can make or break the experience, so it’s very important to choose quality stabilizers!
There are a few different types of stabilizers, each with their own benefits and limitations. For this reason, it’s a good idea to read reviews of stabilizers before purchasing them to ensure they meet your needs and expectations.
Cherry style stabilizers are the most commonly used type of stabilizer on most keyboards, and they come in a variety of mounting styles. These include plate-mounted, snap-in, and screw-in options.
Plate-mounted stabilizers attach to the metal plate on your keyboard, while snap-in and screw-in stabilizers mount to the PCB (printed circuit board). Using PCB mounted stabilizers can improve your typing experience because they offer a more secure experience than plate-mounted stabilizers.
Optical stabilizers are another common type of stabilizer, and they can be found on many keyboards that use optical switches. These stabilizers have a funky design that involves clips that insert into the keycap and then snap onto the stabilizer bar underneath your keyboard’s plate. They are generally rattily, and you’ll want to lubricate them as much as possible to reduce the noise and rattle.
They also offer anti-wire popping hooks, which can be especially helpful on longer keys like the space bar. If you are going to be doing a lot of modding, it’s a good idea to buy a set of stabilizers that can be easily removed and replaced when necessary.
Once you’ve chosen the stabilizers that best fit your needs, it’s time to prep them for installation. This can be a tedious task, but it’s well worth the effort to achieve better results and a more consistent typing experience!
Case
A mechanical keyboard can be made with a variety of different components. The case is one of the most important parts of the build because it protects the switches and PCB from damage. It also helps maintain the aesthetics of a keyboard and gives it a personalized look.
A good case can make a big difference in the feel of your keyboard, so you need to choose carefully. Generally, a good case will be lightweight but sturdy enough to protect your switches and PCB from damage. It will also be easy to clean and have a great aesthetic.
When choosing a case, you want to consider several factors, including the size of your keyboard and how you plan on using it. You can also consider your budget. Typically, you can expect to spend $30-50 on a low-end case, while high-end cases can go for $100 or more.
Case materials vary depending on your needs and budget, but the most common options include plastic and aluminum. If you’re looking for a custom look, wood and acrylic are also popular choices. They’re less expensive than plastic or aluminum, and they’re easier to prepare for customization.
Some people like to use acrylic cases because they’re transparent and show off the lighting better than plastic or metal ones. However, acrylic is also susceptible to scratching and cracking when dropped.
Another option is to use a metal case, which is more durable and rust resistant. This is especially useful if you’re planning to place your keyboard on a desk that’s prone to humidity or moisture.
There are many different styles of cases, and how they attach to the PCB varies from keyboard to keyboard. Some use GASKET mounts (the preferred method), while others use a tray mount.
You’ll want to check the style of your case before buying it, so you know how it will attach to your PCB. It’s also a good idea to read reviews for a particular case so you can get an idea of how it fits other cases and how well it works with your PCB.
PCB
A PCB is a printed circuit board that is connected to switches on each key of a computer keyboard. When a key is pressed, the PCB sends a signal to the computer that tells it which application is open and what letter to type.
The PCB also contains the electrical circuits, resistors, and diodes that convert key presses into signals and send them to the computer. The PCB can also have other components, such as a USB port for charging or transferring data, a volume wheel or knob, and wireless capabilities to transmit keystrokes to a computer.
There are many different types of PCBs that can be used to build a mechanical keyboard. They come in all shapes and sizes, so it is important to choose the one that best fits your needs.
It is also a good idea to choose a PCB that has multiple layers, so it can be more sturdy and durable. Having multiple layers means it will be less likely to break when you accidentally press a key.
The next step is to solder all of the switches to the PCB. This process can be a little tricky if you are new to mechanical keyboard building, so it is important to do this properly.
You can use a soldering iron or a heat gun to get the job done. You can also purchase a soldering kit to make the process easier.
When you are soldering the switches to the PCB, be sure to follow the directions on your switch. If you do not, the switch can easily become damaged.
To solder the switches to the PCB, you can either use a soldering iron or tweezers. This is a time-consuming process, so it is important to do this properly.
Once all of the switches are in place, it is time to test them out. If they aren’t working properly, you should replace them with new ones.
Once you’ve tested everything out, it is time to mount the PCB and switches into a case. You can either buy a pre-made case or build your own from scratch. The case will be the most visible part of your keyboard, so it is a good idea to find one that matches your PCB and looks nice.