A custom mechanical keyboard typically refers to a DIY-built keyboard where users can swap switches and keycaps. For advanced enthusiasts, it extends to modding kits—adding internal dampening foam, repainting cases, and beyond. Its high customization depth defines the "custom" experience.
A keyboard kit is the foundational chassis of a custom mechanical keyboard, comprising the core components required for assembly (excluding switches and keycaps). Its critical attributes include:
Material: CNC-machined aluminum (premium durability), polycarbonate (resonant acoustics), or brass (weighted stability);
Mounting Structure: Gasket mount (vibration-dampened flex), tray mount (rigid responsiveness), or top mount (balanced consistency);
Layout Compatibility: 60% (ultra-compact), 75% (space-efficient with function keys), TKL (tenkeyless productivity), or full-size (extended utility).
This modular platform enables deep personalization—from foam modding for sound refinement to cerakote finishing for visual impact—transforming functional hardware into bespoke craftsmanship.
Linear and tactile switches are the two primary categories, with each type delivering distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback experiences.
Customize your keyboard's "outfit" with keycaps in varying profiles, finishing techniques, legend styles, and material compositions.
Unlike ordinary keyboards where the internal assembly directly contacts the case, gasket-mounted designs sandwich the plate between dual silicone/Poron gaskets. This engineering mimics advanced running shoe cushioning—reducing fatigue during extended typing while enhancing durability. Inside such kits, you'll typically find a multi-layer acoustic stack: plate, PE foam, IXPE switch pads, sound-dampening mats, and silicone base filler. Premium kits boast generous layering of these materials, resulting in deeper, more refined acoustics and cloud-like typing comfort.
Mechanical keyboard switches fall into two primary categories: Tactile and Linear. Each type delivers distinct sound signatures and tactile feedback:
Tactile switches provide a pronounced bump at the actuation point, delivering strong mechanical feedback during typing.
Linear switches offer smooth, consistent keystrokes with no tactile interruption—ideal for rapid, fluid inputs.
Unsure which to choose? Start with a switch tester to experience them firsthand.
Leading switch manufacturers: TTC, Cherry, Kailh BOX, and Gateron.
Most popular switches in pre-built keyboards:
Clicky (e.g., Cherry MX Blue / Kailh BOX Jade)
Linear (e.g., Cherry MX Red / Gateron Yellow)
Heavy Linear (e.g., Cherry MX Black)
Light Tactile (e.g., Cherry MX Brown)
Must-Have for Switch Swappers: Always choose keyboards with "Full-Key Hot-Swap Sockets"!
Ordinary soldered boards require risky desoldering—a nightmare for beginners.
Avoid friction-fit sockets (Mill-Max style):
Prone to damaging switches during removal
Only compatible with 3-pin switches, NOT universal
Think of keycaps as your keyboard's "outfit"! While hot-swap sockets are essential for changing switches, replacing keycaps has fewer restrictions—any mechanical keyboard with MX-style cross stems can swap them.
Keycaps come in various profiles (heights). The most popular include:
Cherry Profile: Balanced height for comfortable typing (original equipment style)
DSA/XDA Profile: Uniform low height ("flat-chested" design), minimalist but may increase mistypes
SA Profile: Tall, spherical caps with retro charm—though some find them "roly-poly" cute!
Profile preference is subjective—try them to discover your perfect fit!
Materials
ABS: Smooth texture, prone to developing shine/oiliness
PBT: Higher hardness, matte textured finish, resistant to shine
Manufacturing Techniques
Laser-etching: Low cost, legends may wear off
Double-shot molding: Higher cost, legends fused into keycap (permanent)
Dye-sublimation: Higher cost, durable legends, supports custom designs, non-translucent
In simple terms, keyboard layout refers to the number of keys and their physical arrangement.
Common layouts include 61-key, 68-key, 75-key, 87-key (TKL), 98-key, and 104-key (full-size).
The standard 100% layout (104 keys) divides keys into four distinct sections—select your ideal layout based on personal needs.
Mechanical keyboards offer three connectivity modes:
Wired-only (Single-mode): USB direct connection
Dual-mode (Rare): Wired + 2.4GHz wireless
Tri-mode: Wired + 2.4GHz + Bluetooth
Choose based on your needs:
For stationary setups: Wired-only delivers zero latency at lower cost.
For portability: Tri-mode eliminates cable clutter with a sleeker look, but Bluetooth may suffer occasional disconnections.
(Note: Dual-mode keyboards are uncommon—most brands offer either single or tri-mode.)
