Building Your Dream Mechanical Keyboard: A DIY Guide

How to build your own mechanical keyboard

Assembling a mechanical keyboard from scratch allows you to create a personalized typing experience tailored to your preferences. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of building your own custom mechanical keyboard.

1. Gather the necessary components:

   To build your mechanical keyboard, you'll need the following components:

   • Keyboard Case: Choose a case that suits your desired size and aesthetic. Amazon link
   • PCB (Printed Circuit Board): This is the heart of your keyboard, responsible for registering keypresses. Amazon link
   • Plate (optional): A plate provides added stability and can influence the typing feel. Amazon link
   • Mechanical Switches: Select switches based on your preferred actuation force, sound, and tactile feedback. Amazon link
   • Keycaps: Choose keycaps that match your desired color scheme and material. Amazon link
   • Stabilizers: These ensure that larger keys like the spacebar and enter key remain stable during use. Amazon link
   • USB Cable: This connects your keyboard to your computer. Amazon link
   • Tools: You'll need a soldering iron and solder (unless using a hot-swappable PCB), screwdriver, tweezers or switch puller, and a keycap puller. Soldering kit Amazon link, Switch puller Amazon link, Keycap puller Amazon link

2. Stabilizer preparation:

   Trim any excess plastic from the stabilizers and apply lubricant to reduce friction and noise.

3. Stabilizer installation:

   Position the stabilizers in the appropriate locations on the PCB or plate, depending on your keyboard design.

4. PCB testing:

   Connect the PCB to your computer and use software like Switch Hitter or VIA to verify that each switch contact point is functioning properly.

5. Switch preparation:

   Apply lubricant to the switches, if desired, and inspect for bent pins. Straighten any bent pins before proceeding.

6. Affix the switches to the plate and PCB:

   Insert the switches into the plate (if using one) and align the switch pins with the corresponding holes on the PCB.

7. Solder or insert the switches:

   For a standard PCB, solder each switch in place. For a hot-swappable PCB, simply press the switches into the board.

8. Test the assembled keyboard:

   Reconnect the PCB to your computer and verify that each switch is working correctly.

9. Case assembly:

   Position the PCB and plate (if used) in the keyboard case and secure them with screws.

10. Keycap installation:

    Attach the keycaps to their respective switches using a keycap puller.

11. Final testing and adjustments:

    Perform a final test of your assembled keyboard and make any necessary adjustments.