Custom Keyboards – Find Your Perfect Keyboard for a Unique Setup

What is a Custom Keyboard?

A custom keyboard is a personalized keyboard assembled with individually selected components like switches, keycaps, and cases, tailored to the user's preferences for aesthetics, functionality, and typing experience.

Why build a custom keyboard?

Building a custom keyboard allows for:

• Tailored typing experience
• Unique aesthetics
• Improved ergonomics
• Satisfaction of creating something unique
• Enhanced typing speed and comfort

The Joy of Owning a Custom Keyboard

Imagine the first keystroke on your meticulously crafted custom keyboard. Each keypress offers a unique tactile feedback, finely tuned to your preferences. The sound is a symphony of precision, whether it’s the subtle click of a tactile switch or the smooth silence of a linear one.

The aesthetics are unmatched, a perfect blend of form and function, reflecting your personal style with bespoke keycaps and a sleek, handpicked case. This isn't just a keyboard; it's a statement, a testament to your individuality and craftsmanship. Owning a custom keyboard transforms everyday typing into a luxurious, personalized experience, making every interaction with your computer a pleasure.

Feel the difference, see the beauty, and experience the unparalleled satisfaction of owning something uniquely yours. A custom keyboard isn’t just a tool; it’s an extension of you.

Parts of a Custom Keyboard

Switches

Mechanical switches are a key component in custom keyboards, known for their durability and tactile feedback. Each switch contains a physical mechanism that registers keystrokes, providing a distinct feel and sound. Mechanical switches come in various types, such as linear, tactile, and clicky, catering to different typing preferences.

What makes mechanical switches great:

• Durability: Mechanical switches can last for tens of millions of keystrokes.
• Customization: Wide variety of switches to choose from, allowing for personalized typing experiences.
• Feedback: Tactile and audible feedback enhances typing accuracy and satisfaction.
• Repairability: Individual switches can be replaced or modified without discarding the entire keyboard.

What are the different types of switches?

Switches come in three main types:

• Linear: Smooth and consistent keystrokes without tactile feedback
• Tactile: Provide a bump to indicate when a key press is registered
• Clicky: Produce a click sound in addition to tactile feedback

PCB (Printed Circuit Board)

The PCB is the mainboard that connects all the switches to the computer. It can be designed for soldered or hot-swappable switches. Some PCBs also feature RGB lighting.

3-Pin and 5-Pin PCB

Type	Description
3-Pin PCB	Accommodates switches with three pins (two for the circuit and one for stability). Common in hot-swappable keyboards.
5-Pin PCB	Supports switches with five pins (two extra plastic pins for added stability). More common in custom builds and provides a more secure fit for the switches.

Stabilizers

Stabilizers prevent larger keys (like the spacebar, shift, enter, and backspace) from wobbling. They ensure a consistent and stable keypress across the entire key.

Switch Plate

The switch plate, also known as the mounting plate, holds the switches in place and provides structural support. It can be made from materials like aluminium, brass, or polycarbonate, each offering different levels of rigidity and sound characteristics.

Keycaps

Keycaps are the covers for the switches that users press. They come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, such as ABS or PBT. Different profiles (e.g., Cherry, OEM, SA) offer unique typing experiences and aesthetics.

Dampening Foam and Rubber

Dampening foam and rubber are used to reduce noise and vibrations within the keyboard. They are placed between components like the PCB and case or between the plate and PCB to enhance typing feel and acoustics.

Case Material and Function

The case encloses all the keyboard components. It can be made from plastic, aluminium, or other materials, affecting the keyboard's weight, durability, and sound. Heavier materials like aluminium provide a solid, premium feel, while plastic is lighter and more affordable.

Gasket Mounting

Gasket mounting is a method where gaskets (rubber or foam) are placed between the plate and the case. This creates a cushioned typing experience and reduces noise by allowing the plate to flex slightly when keys are pressed.

Additional Custom Keyboard Parts

Keyboard USB Cable

A detachable or integrated cable connects the keyboard to the computer. Some custom keyboards offer USB-C connections for improved durability and compatibility.

Coiled keyboard cables are a popular trend for their aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. They add a retro look to the setup and help manage desk space by preventing tangling and clutter. The coil also provides flexibility, allowing the cable to stretch without pulling on the keyboard, reducing strain on the connections. These cables often come in various colors and materials, enabling further customization of the keyboard setup.

Firmware and Software

Custom keyboards often come with configurable firmware like QMK or VIA, allowing users to program macros, remap keys, and customize RGB lighting.

By including these components, you can achieve a fully customised and optimised typing experience.

What components are needed to build a custom keyboard?

Key components include:

• Switches: Determine the feel and sound of key presses
• Keycaps: The tops of the keys, customizable for different looks and feels
• PCB (Printed Circuit Board): The main board connecting all components
• Case: The outer shell that holds everything together
• Stabilizers: Prevent wobbling for larger keys

How do I choose the right keycaps?

Choosing the right keycaps involves considering several factors to ensure they meet your preferences and needs. Here are some key aspects to consider:

Material

• ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): Known for its smooth texture and bright colors, but can become shiny over time.
• PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate): More durable and resistant to wear, with a matte finish that maintains its texture longer.

Profile

Keycap profiles refer to the shape and height of the keycaps. Some popular profiles include:

• Cherry: Lower profile with a sculpted shape, preferred by many for its comfort.
• OEM: Standard profile, commonly found on most keyboards.
• SA: Tall and spherical, offering a vintage feel.
• DSA: Uniform height across all rows, with a flat, spherical shape.

Design

Keycaps come in various designs, colors, and legends (the characters on the keys). Consider the following:

• Color Scheme: Choose a color scheme that matches your keyboard and setup.
• Legends: Look for keycaps with clear, durable legends. Doubleshot or dye-sublimated legends are more resistant to wear.
• Custom Keycaps: Custom keycaps or artisan keycaps can add a unique touch to your keyboard.

Compatibility

Ensure the keycaps are compatible with your keyboard's layout and switch type. Check for:

• Layout: Confirm that the keycap set includes keys for your specific layout (e.g., ANSI, ISO).
• Stem Type: Most mechanical keyboards use Cherry MX-style stems, but verify compatibility if you have different switches.

ANSI vs. ISO Layout

The two most common keyboard layouts are ANSI (American National Standards Institute) and ISO (International Organization for Standardization). Key differences include:

• Enter Key: ANSI has a rectangular Enter key, while ISO has an upside-down L-shaped Enter key.
• Left Shift Key: ANSI has a longer left Shift key, whereas ISO has a shorter left Shift key with an additional key next to it.
• Extra Key: ISO layout includes an extra key next to the left Shift key and an additional key next to the Enter key.

By considering these factors, you can choose the right keycaps to enhance the look, feel, and performance of your keyboard.

What tools do I need to assemble a custom keyboard?

Basic tools include:

• Soldering iron (if using a soldered PCB)
• Screwdrivers
• Keycap puller
• Switch puller
• Lubricants
• Switch Opener
• Brushes
• Stem holder or Tweezers
• Work mat
• Cleaning Supplies

Are there pre-built custom keyboards?

Yes, there are pre-built options available for those who prefer not to assemble their own. These often allow for some customization like switch and keycap selection.

Where can I find resources and communities for custom keyboards?

Online forums, Reddit communities, and YouTube channels are great resources for guides, tutorials, and community support. Websites like Geekhack, r/MechanicalKeyboards, and Deskthority are popular among enthusiasts.

How do I maintain a custom keyboard?

Regular maintenance includes:

• Cleaning the keycaps and switches
• Lubricating switches if necessary
• Occasionally replacing keycaps or switches to maintain the desired feel and performance