It's fun to build your own mechanical keyboard. You can select your switches, keycaps, and layout to build a board that feels ideal for you. Even noobs can do it with the right guide and some tools. You will need a PCB, switches, keycaps, a case, and sometimes a soldering kit. This guide will highlight simple steps to assemble your keyboard, test it, and begin typing on a custom-built keyboard of your own.
What Tools Do You Need To Build A Mechanical Keyboard?
Here’s what you need to make a mechanical keyboard.
1. Keycap Puller and Switch Puller
The keycap puller is a small tool for pulling out and installing keycaps without damaging them. It allows you to clean or replace your keyboard key capscaps easily. If you have a hot-swappable keyboard, a switch puller lets you remove and install switches without damaging them. It protects the switch from damage during installation.
2. Screwdriver and Soldering Kit
A small Phillips or flat screwdriver is required to open the keyboard case and to fix two screws during assembly. It prevents all parts from becoming loose and falling off. Soldering kit required if not hot-swappable. It comes with a soldering iron, solder wire, and a desoldering pump. Enable you to mount switches directly to the PCB.
3. Lubricating Tools and Tweezers
Lubricating switches makes typing feel better and sound softer. Just be prepared – you'll need a little brush and dielectric grease to correctly apply it to each switch individually. They can be handy for inserting small parts such as stabilizers, screws, or LEDs. They speed up assembly and cut down on mistakes.
How Do You Choose Switches For A Custom Mechanical Keyboard?
Switch Picks: Switch decisions are based on your typing style and preferred sound, as well as what feels comfortable to you. The three primary types are clicky, tactile , and linear. Clicky switches produce an audible click, tactile switches give a slight bump when you press them, and linear switches are consistent all the way down with no bumps. You ought to try switches in-process if you can identify the ones that feel best. Also, look at the actuation force, which determines how hard you have to press a key. Choose switches that meet your typing or gaming needs.
Which PCB Should I Buy For My First Mechanical Keyboard Build?
The PCB is the main board that connects all the keys to your computer. For beginners, opt for a hot-swappable PCB that lets you change switches without soldering. Be sure the PCB is compatible with your keyboard layout: 60%, 65%, TKL, or full-size. Some PCBs are also compatible with programming software such as QMK or VIA to modify key functions. Start with a straightforward, user-friendly PCB on your first build.
The auto layout determines the size and location of keys. The 60% layout is compact and portable, but lacks some keys. 65% layout includes arrow keys and is ideal for typing and gaming. TKL layout, which eliminates the number pad while retaining all the primary keys. Full-size layout consists of every key, including the number pad. Select a design that fits comfortably on your desk and use it. Gamers and/or non-number typists may prefer 60% or 65%, and a typist who needs numbers can go for a TKL; even a full-size keyboard will do.
What Are The Best Affordable Kits For Beginners?
For beginners, inexpensive mechanical keyboard kits are fun and easy to build. A kit typically includes the PCB, case, stabilizers, and, sometimes, switches (so you don't have to purchase each part separately). Go with a hot-swappable kit for beginners; you don't have to solder, and switching switches is very convenient.
The quality is good, though they're cheaper kits. The layout (60%, 65%, TKL), the type of switches, and whether it has a USB-C connection are all things to consider when selecting a kit. Also, ensure that the kit has software for key programming if you intend to customize your keys. Inexpensive kits let novices get started without spending big bucks. You can also start with these kits to lube switches, test keycaps, and program the keyboard. You can keep the Meetion legend E75 as a kit if you use a Meetion mechanical keyboard.
A hot-swappable mechanical keyboard is easier to build than a soldered one. Gather Your PCB, Switches, Keycaps, Stabilizers, and Case . Start by getting together your PCB, switches, keycaps, stabilizers, and case. Install the stabilizers in the case where big keys would be: spacebar, enter, etc. Then you set the PCB into the case. Then you can push the switches into the PCB sockets. Switches are installed on hot-swappable sockets, so swapping without soldering is possible.
You should see every switch fully seated, as shown here. If not, it's worth the effort to make them fit so they'll work better once assembled. Add the keycaps on top of all switches after you are done installing. Connect the keyboard to your computer and check all keys for functionality. And if a switch is malfunctioning, you can swap it out easily for another. Hot-swappable keyboards are beginner-friendly because you don't need a soldering iron. This makes construction, alteration,, and repair simple and enjoyable.
How Do You Solder Switches To A Keyboard PCB?
Soldering switches is necessary for keyboards that aren't hot-swappable. Start by bringing your PCB, switches, soldering iron, solder wire, and stabilizers. Add your stabilizers to the case. Place each switch through the holes in the PCB. Make Sure It's Straight. Check to see if it is straight. Heat the soldering iron and press its tip against the metal pin of the switch. Then solder a small amount of solder to the pin and the PCB pad.
Repeat for all switches. After soldering, test each switch by pressing it to ensure it goes down. It takes practice to solder, so beginners may want to take things slowly and carefully. Never leave the soldering iron unattended, and always work safely. Once the PCB is fully soldered, slide it into the case and add the keycaps. This results in a firm, permanent keyboard; however, it's more complicated to fix switches later.
Conclusion
It's gratifying to build a mechanical keyboard. You pick your own switches, keycaps, layout, and case to build a keyboard that feels just right for you. Newbies can pick up hot-swappable kits for solder-free options, while experienced users can solder switches for a more permanent build. You will need some basic tools: a keycap puller, a switch puller, a puller screwdriver, and a Soldering kit (optional). Anyone can build a custom keyboard with careful assembly. A handmade keyboard feels fantastic to type on, looks stunning, and gives you complete control over how you use it.
FAQ’s
1. How Do You Lube Switches And Stabilizers?
To lubricate a switch, open it carefully , and lube both sliders with a minimal amount. Apply to wires and contact points of stabilizers to enjoy the silky-smooth quality they can provide.
2. How Do I Program Keys On A Custom Mechanical Keyboard?
Assign functions to keys using software such as QMK or VIA. You can customize its layouts, shortcuts, and macros on your keyboard.
3. How Much Does It Cost To Build A Mechanical Keyboard?
A homemade keyboard can run between $50 and $200. Price varies based on the PCB, switches, keycaps, case, and tools you choose for your custom build.
4. Is It Hard To Build Your Own Mechanical Keyboard?
A keyboard isn’t all that hard to make. Beginners can use hot-swappable kits. Soldering makes it more difficult, but with patience, it's easy and fun.
